Fabric Swaps

State Block Swap : Hostess Judy

Barbara — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 15:28:29 GMT

this is for the state block swap hosted by Judy T do not sign up until she has posted her guidelines ,thank you Barbara

Batik fabirc swap ,hostess will be Debbie

Barbara — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:26:33 GMT

This is for a Batik Fabric swap to be hosted by Debbie ,Please do not sign up till she gets a chance to post her requirements for this swap . Thank You Barbara

Fabric Swap : Fourth Of July : Hostess Pyllis

Barbara — Fri, 03 May 2013 12:32:04 GMT

this will be a swap for patriotic fabric for the fourth of July , this swap will be hosted by our Phyllis . Please do not sign up until Phyllis get her requirements and information written down . thanks Barbara

postal info,very important

Barbara — Sat, 18 May 2013 14:52:40 GMT

I want you all to please read this information provided by Caryl Anne a few months ago this is very important ,You have to have a label or a stamp form the Post office for your packages if they are over 13 oz. this is a homeland security law. thanks Barbara

Thanks again Caryl Anne for this information .

Good Morning. Another tid bit on postage; kiosk postage is considered to have the 'postal stamp' as well as those printed from your home computer, however, Flat rate boxes and envelopes are accepted in any home shipping or kiosk without the wait in line. For this reason, I preferred to have my swappers send the funds so that I could do the packages' postage.
My printer was offline so in order to post for the swap I went to the kiosk at 8PM, no line.. lol and we are able to print 5 stamps at one time, you are also able to customize the stamps for flat rate.

case in point, two swappers sent in the self stamped envelopes, one sent a flat rate envelope stamped either by the PO clerk or the kiosk, it sent out fine and was received without problems, the second sent a stamped priority mailing envelope, it was returned to me with the message that any stamped package has to be handed to a postal clerk.
As printed in the January 2010 final report from the USPS updates

I never researched the 13 oz rule, so I did after seeing Barbara’s post.. For those who use home office or stamps dot com, & have not read the ‘rule’ you can read it all here

COLOR BOX BLOCK SWAP : Hostess Susie

Barbara — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:43:43 GMT

This swap will be hosted by Susie ,please do not sign up up until she has a chance to post the details . Barbara

Floral swap 10 in layer Cakes

Barbara — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:55:38 GMT

per many request I'm doing a swap of Floral fabric as well ,this one will be 10 in layer cakes .of two different floral fabric for spring. Here are the requirments for this swap .

1. two floral 10 in layer cakes of two different fabrics. make sure it is square and no salvage in the cuts.You will need 2, 1 yard and half of fabric.for this swap (total of 3 yards)

2. swap is open to 20 members

3. close date will be April 30 ,

4. mail fabric to me, I will send you my ;address I will retrun fabic to you the following week .

5 please bundle your layer cakes and place all fabric in one ziplock bag with addy label on your bag.

6.please send a stamped per paid ,and addressed envelope for your return fabric. Fabric should fit in a flat rate envelope if you fold fabric over .

7. pleasee address all guestions to me if you have a problem .

8.I will update the list daily so please check in daily to make sure I've placed you on the list.

thanks and lets get those fabric out and ready for some spring like tops . thanks Barbara

1, Barbara

2,Carol W

3. Erin.

4.Phyllis

5.Debbie from OK.

6.Rhonnie

7. Thistle

8,Amber

SWAP IDEAS

Barbara — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 14:16:03 GMT

This thread is for us to use for ideas about having a swap , don't sign up here this is is not the place . If someone makes a suggestion for a swap ,just let them know if it is a good idea or yeah I think this would be of intrest to the group. Anyone can make a suggestion for a swap ,that does not mean you have to host one,. Lots of you have great ideas, so wirte them down . let us know . Thanks Barbara

Floral Theme Swap ( 1-FQ & 1 Jelly Roll ) ,Hostess Caryl Anne

Barbara — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:21:15 GMT

this swap will be hosted by Caryl Anne , So please give her a chance to get it set up .thanks Barbara

Floral Theme Swap #2 (1 FQ & 1 Jelly roll ) Hostess Caryl Anne

Barbara — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 08:52:13 GMT

by popular demand we are opening a second swap so please wait until Caryl Anne gets the info uploaded before signing up Thanks Barbara

fabric cutting is essential to better swaps and sewing

Barbara — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 02:05:25 GMT

Caryl Anne here you go ,thanks for doing this . Barbara

General discussion #2

Barbara — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:19:52 GMT

due to the size and error messages that have been popping up I'm opening a new thread to use ,the old one is still here and can be used for reference . I have also closed some of the older swaps ,they to are still here and can be used for reference ,You will just need to post your messages here.I am hoping this will cut down some of those error messages. thanks Barbara

FYI POSTAGE INCREASE

Barbara — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 19:39:58 GMT

Reply More

Caryl Anne replied on Mon, Jan 14 2013 12:30 PM

FYI as of January 27 th here are new mailing prices. stamp increase as of May 1st

Flat Rate Envelopes	5.6
Legal Flat Rate Envelope	5.75
Padded Flat Rate Envelope	5.95
Small Flat Rate Box	5.8
Medium Flat Rate Boxes	12.35
Large Flat Rate Boxes	16.85
APO/FPO Lg Flat Rate Box	14.85

this is domestic retail, I am not sure what discount will be available on line.

SAVEY TIP FOR SWAPPERS

Barbara — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 16:26:04 GMT

I thought this might be a good thread for us to pass on some of our great tips that everyone has , This way we have a place to find them ,and they are not spread all over. Hope you all will share yours with us.

Reminder about swap dates

Barbara — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 18:15:57 GMT

I want all of you to know that you are doing a great job with the swaps and we have had no issues to this date that are serious.I would like to remind everyone doing the swaps not to send it your fabric until the close date of each swap . This is important that you try and follow the dates. One reason is sometimes members need to drop out for unexpected life problems and if you send in your fabric early you are really using up fabric that can be used for yourselves. I understand that sometimes you will need to, so check with your swap host. if there is a confllict issue for you . I hope all of you will keep up the great swap ideas and the really good converstations that have made this group fun again. We could not do this without any of you ..thanks Barbara

Information provided by QCA

Barbara — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:54:33 GMT

As there has been some discussion about the new way this group is now being run,I am posted this from QCA on how to set up a group. Unfortunately this group never really had a good set up and was not needed for a long time. Now we have grown to a very large group and has been in need for some new organization. All this has been accomplished to provide a better maintained group and a way for members new and old to know what is expected and how it works . Thanks all of you for being patient with this new format. I know it has been a little difficult and I am hoping to make it much easier and fun for all members .

Please read thru the inforamation below so all of you have a better understanding of how a group works and how they should be wroking .Thanks Barbara

Can I create my own group?

Don't see the group you are looking for? You can request that a new group be created. Before you do, here are a few guidelines to follow to assure it is a success:

1. Ask yourself whether the subject would benefit from having a separate group. See some of the examples below for ideas.
2. Post a thread in the forums and ask if others are interested in your group idea.
3. If the group is project based, decide who will organize the project and moderate the group.
4. If the group is not project based, consider what discussion threads or other activities will create interest and participation in the group.
5. Put in a request to the Admin to get your group set up. Be ready to provide the following information:

Group Name
Short Group Description
Group Avatar Image
Who will post initial content and/or moderate the group
Which group features are needed: Discussions, Media Gallery, Moderator Blog
If a pattern is being used, confirm whether any permissions need to be granted for their use in the group

Here are the most common types of groups:

Project based groups:
Examples: Mystery Quilt Groups, Block of the Month Groups,
These groups are usually based on a specific pattern or project that group members work on at the same time.
These groups generally require a moderator who will manage the ovreall project, initiate the discussion threads and answer member questions.

The rest of these groups typically do not require a moderator, but usually benefit from one or more "champions" to get the group started and keep activity in the group going:
Technique Based groups - Examples: Hand Quilting, Applique, Crazy Quilts, etc.
Product Based Groups - Examples: Janome/7700 Group, EQ Software Group
Other Special Interest Groups - Examples: UFO Group, Charity Quilts, Beginning Quilters

If you have an immediate question, comment or suggestion, please post it in the Report Issue forum here: Report Issue Here

quilts from Fall Charm Swap...

Pat — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 23:42:59 GMT

Where do we look to see everyones quilts or projects they have made.....i cant find them. thanks, everyone

New Member Here

CajunCactus (Pat) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 15:32:06 GMT

Hi Everyone. Just joined your group and am really excited. As my husband says this group is perfect as I am a fabric-holic and am always looking for new material. Living in a small town my options for fabric are somewhat limited, however I do have three great quilt stores within 45 minutes of home and I'm always game for a road trip.

I've read many of the discussions already and understand most if not all of what is expected as a Swapper. But you can be sure I will ask questions if necessary...lol

Just wanted to say Hi and am looking forward to jumping in and swapping with ya'll. I've already picked three that I want to participate in...gonna study the rest and maybe add more.

Pat

From Southeast New Mexico

February 2012 Birthdays

Kris — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:08:17 GMT

Pat and Lisa,

it's that time. Your fabrics need to be mailed by Dec 25.

This is the final month everyone. Please make an effort to finish up those outstanding blocks. Thanks to all.

Thread Count

Barbara — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:25:58 GMT

Here is an article I found on thread count , Maybe this will help answer some of the questions . Barbara

Thread Count

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Simply put, thread count is the number of threads per square inch in the fabric. It determines the quality and weight of the fabric.

Threads are counted for both the length and width of the fabric.

First there are the threads that span the length of the fabric and run parallel to the selvedge. This is the straight grain of the fabric.

Second are the threads that run from selvedge to selvedge. This is the cross grain of the fabric.

Straight grain and cross grain is how the threads of the fabric are woven to create the piece.

The bias runs cross-wise to the straight grain and cross grain.

The straight grain and cross grain have some stretch to them, but they should not stretch much. However, the bias will stretch a fair amount.

Thread count is the number of threads per square inch in the fabric. It determines the quality and weight of the fabric.

Threads are counted for both the length and width of the fabric (i.e., straight grain and cross grain). And often you can find a bolt of fabric with the weave marked on it.

The weave will be shown as two numbers - 68/68 would represent a fabric that has 68 threads per inch in both the straight grain and cross grain. A count of 68/56 would have 68 threads per inch in the straight grain and 56 threads per inch in the cross grain.

If there are the same number of threads in both directions, the fabric is an “even weave.” They are easier to work with as you make a quilt, since the fabric will have the same amount of “give" in both directions, and the fabric will not fray as much as fabrics with uneven thread counts.

If the thread count is uneven, not only will the fabric be more difficult to work with, but it will stretch and shrink at different rates, and you may end up with rectangle patches instead of square patches.

If you have a fabric you love that has an uneven thread count, by placing the the denser side to the side that is less dense, you can even out the shrinkage.

Uneven thread counts will also cause trouble when you are hand quilting or even machine quilting. Because the holes between the thread strands aren't evenly spaced, it will be almost impossible to get short, even hand quilting stitches. And, because the fabric stretches unevenly, as you machine quilt, the fabric will shift around differently as you guide it under the needle of your machine.

Quilting cotton is generally 68 x 68 threads per square inch, higher than average fabrics. Fabrics with lower thread counts, those around 60 x 60 per square inch are too lightweight for quilts. They tend to ravel excessively, they will shrink more, they will be less durable, and batting will come through the weave in your finished quilt.

High thread counts and extremely tight weaves can be difficult to work with, especially if you are hand quilting. Although it is tempting to use a sheet for the backing of a quilt, the finish and thread count may make it very difficult to work with.

I remember one year I was very excited to find some high quality Pima cotton. I bought a bunch of it, in all different colors, and made a beautiful quilt. It was an Amish-type Ocean Waves. Cutting the fabric was a dream. These were the days before rotary cutting, and I was cutting the fabric with scissors. Sewing the fabric on the machine was wonderful. Basting it was great. Then came the quilting.

Hand quilting was not pleasant at all. The thread count was so high, that quilting was almost a nightmare. I tried everything – smaller needles, sharper needles, bigger thimble, whatever I could dream up. But nothing made any difference. I just gutted it out, and finished it, because I loved the feel of the fabric and the design of the quilt.

I love the quilt, but won’t ever use Pima cotton again for a quilt I will hand quilt.

Roxanne International has a handy little tool that will tell you what the thread count is for any fabric. It's called the R.O.S.E. and is available at Roxanne International

Happy Quilting!

Candy's Quilt

MelodyP MO/KS — Wed, 02 May 2012 23:12:03 GMT

I have recieved blocks from the following people: Candis, Barbara, Susan, Yvonne, Tina, Margaret, Jacy, Judy T-Bellingham, Zsofia, Carol W., Gwen, Bonita, Sabrina, and Karla. There are two log cabin blocks that are unsigned so contact me and I'll sign them. I have two more blocks on route so have done fine. All of the blocks are just lovely. I WILL post pictures as soon as I can. WELL DONE MelodyP

Fabric Swaps

State Block Swap : Hostess Judy

Batik fabirc swap ,hostess will be Debbie

Fabric Swap : Fourth Of July : Hostess Pyllis

postal info,very important

COLOR BOX BLOCK SWAP : Hostess Susie

Floral swap 10 in layer Cakes

SWAP IDEAS

Floral Theme Swap ( 1-FQ & 1 Jelly Roll ) ,Hostess Caryl Anne

Floral Theme Swap #2 (1 FQ & 1 Jelly roll ) Hostess Caryl Anne

fabric cutting is essential to better swaps and sewing

General discussion #2

More Postal Info

FYI POSTAGE INCREASE

SAVEY TIP FOR SWAPPERS

Reminder about swap dates

Information provided by QCA

quilts from Fall Charm Swap...

New Member Here

February 2012 Birthdays

Thread Count

Thread Count

Candy's Quilt