around the world blog hop

When my friend Heidi from Fabric Mutt asked me to be the next stop in the Around the World blog hop that has been making its way around the online quilting world recently, I was happy to say yes. Basically, being part of this hop involves answering a few questions and inviting a few others to join in.
1. What am I working on?
Well, not much sewing has been going on here recently. And by not much, I mean, I have not sewn anything at all for almost a month. Yep - my kids are starting school this week with not one new handmade item to speak of (I know - cue the tiny violins!) But this is a big difference from the past two years.
However, I have been inspired by Anne and her genius QDAD idea and I have been designing plenty of quilts - and maybe, just maybe, I'll actually make one of them one day.

2. How does my work differ from others in its genre?
I always like reading the answers from other bloggers for this question but it really is a difficult one to answer. Since all of our work is an extension of us, then I think that all of our work differs from others, right? But to be more specific to me, I guess I would say that my answer is that I usually prefer to use my own designs (like many others) but that since I prefer not to focus on details like straight lines and matched points, I make quilts where those things really don't matter. I don't know if just sounds like I'm being lazy - I really don't think I am, I just prefer to concentrate on other things. So, I guess everything I make really has that handmade look - intentional or not.

3. Why do I create what I do?
I seriously don't even know how to answer this question. I love being surrounded by handmade things -whether it is a quilt to cuddle under, a scarf to keep me warm, an original piece of art for my wall, or even simply a dress that makes my daughter twirl nonstop. And I like being able to give handmade gifts - which I hope the recipient will enjoy. I also really enjoy learning new skills - whether it involves fabric, thread, paper, or um, chocolate!
4. How does my creative process work?
Basically, I just get an idea in my head and then I just make it up as I go. This is especially true of my quilting process. I don't usually sketch before I start, nor do I try to figure out specific measurements. I just start sewing - making changes as I'm working. Earlier this year, I started using a design wall and that has changed my process a bit by giving me the ability to easily try out different combinations and arrangements before committing to anything.

Now it is my turn to invite three more bloggers to participate in the around the world hop. I've chosen three of my blogging friends that I've known for a while (and who still blog regularly.) All three of them make absolutely gorgeous things and have their own distinct style. They are Erica from kitchen table quilting, Svetlana from S.o.t.a.k Handmade, and Jess from the Elven Garden. Look for their posts next Monday, September 1st.