Another Random Linky. Oh Joy. But Wait There's More!

Actually, I'm getting lots of comments that you are liking the recent random linkies, so let's do one more. How about this week link up something you aspire to - a technique, an actual project, a style - what's it for you right now?

For me, one thing is really stellar straight-line quilting. On my last project, I did plenty of straight-line, but I had some issues with occasional puckering. I'd really like to get over that. Megan/Canoe Ridge Creations has some helps: Straight-line Quilting: Tips & Techniques. I'll be skimming that piece as well as researching elsewhere to see how I can improve my own technique.


Next up for today, I just gotta tell you I am beyond pleased (read: astonished) to have found my name on this list yesterday: 2013 AQS Modern Quilt Challenge – Award Winners. Excuuuuse me? Wow. What an honor. The quilt is "Common Affection," and you can read my original post about it here. This is the first time the American Quilter's Society has had modern quilt categories, so that's exciting! My quilt won the "Creative Use of Neutral Fabrics Award." I really need to thank the members of the Mid-Century Modern Bee, as they helped me by making blocks and a special thanks to Linda/Flourishing Palms for encouraging me to enter the competition in the first place!

photo by Kim Ogle

There's a certain handbag I want to make and when I realized the handles suggested were oversees, I went looking for a U.S. source. Sara/Sew Sweetness responded to my inquiry with a couple of suggestions: HautMess and TallPoppyCraft. Just an fyi for the rest of you in the U.S. Side note: Purse Palooza is going on now - always lots of purse-goodness there!

After making my Anticipating Autumn quilt I really wanted to try a scrappy little maple . . .

and decided to make myself a fall mug rug. I was inspired by Darcy/Modern Cozy's mini maple quilt. 

click for maple block tutorial

And finally, many of you may know of Kathreen Ricketson, who died tragically in May 2013. I'm sorry to say I did not know of her until that time, but have since read about her and her work. So I was interested to see a blog tour for her newly published book, Brave New Quilts. It looks awesome and inspiring and went straight on my wish list. I thought some of you might be interested too . . .

That's it for this random Thursday. Hope it's a good day for you.

Linking up with Random Thursday.