My Fun New Purchases From Quilt Festival

So, I am still riding my excitement from The Houston International Quilt Festival. 

I met some really great people and bought some fun things. I took the suggestion of blog reader Tina and went to the Qt Studio booth of her friend Wendy. Wendy is a fabric dye artist. She uses various techniques to achieve vibrant colors in her prints.

I loved EVERYTHING in her booth! I was exercising discretion in my spending, but I did hear this overdyed piece calling my name. At first, I thought it was dyed and block printed. It is apparently a floral print fabric that is dyed over to produce this final look. I had my mind blown; what a wonderful way to transform existing fabric.

In the same vein as fabric manipulation, I was really excited to try my hand at block printing. I almost took a class, but it conflicted with my schedule. I went to the Colouricious booth and got an awesome hands-on demo on block printing from Jamie Malden. 

Jamie Malden 

She was a fount of knowledge and was so generous with her time and expertise.

I cannot wait to get stamping! I have lots of fabric paint, but did not want to get started on the wrong foot with printing. I bought this starter paint set from Pro Chem Paints. They are the kind Jamie used and I liked the feel of the paint when dry.  

Next up! I was introduced to Paradiso Designs and the lead designer Cheryl Kuezek, She is so cool! I was drawn to the lovely dresses on display. 

Boho Frock

I was tired and ready to leave the festival before stopping at her booth. When I stopped and chatted, I was immediately invigorated talking with her about her designs! I love her style and vibe and cannot wait to sew up these patterns!  I will blog about these in detail once I get to making so stay tuned. 

Okashi Courier Bag

 On the day "Little Miss" joined me, she chose a pattern for us to work on together. She likes the closed lids of the eyes and the lace.

"Little Miss" has a hard time parting with too small clothes, especially if I made it. I think this pattern may be a good one to use scraps of those garments to make. That way she can hold onto them in a new way. 

Last but not least. I got a little something fun for me! 

I grab one of these sewing themed charms every year I go and could not resist these two this year!

I really stretched myself this Festival. I took classes, sought out new people to meet,  and tried new techniques. All of with was worth it! I am so glad I went. Next year promises to be more wonderful and I cannot wait!

Happy Sewing,
Bianca