Creative Mines by Julie Antinucci

Fresh New Rag Quilt with Matching Lovie!

2011-10-31T21:31:00.005-04:00

I am so happy how this new rag quilt came out! I can't tell you how many of these I've made over the years, but they continue to please...and they are so fun to make. This time, I made a matching smaller version; I'm calling it a "lovie." It was a surprise to my customer. She is my 61st sale on esty, so I decided to make a little something to go with the rag quilt. I do know this customer, and she has told me that the recipient has been looking forward to getting one of these rag quilts once she was pregnant. I thought this would be a nice addition to her quilt, and I'm happy to make something for someone who will really appreciate the handmade work!

A Pre-New Year's Resolution / Nook Pouch

2010-12-13T12:23:00.007-05:00

I generally don't believe in making New Year's resolutions. Here's my reasoning:

1.) Resolutions are usually about giving up things one loves in order to lose a few pounds or "make oneself better." I'm a stay-at-home mom, so I make enough sacrifices every day. If I gave up soda (my one "vice") I--and my kids--would not be happy campers.

2.) They're too unrealistic and we end up being disappointed in ourselves.

3.) I make goal lists every day and do just fine without calling them "RESOLUTIONS."

But one thing I have been lacking and would like to add to my life is more writing on this blog. So, for 2011, I'm going to try to write at least once a week. My last post was in April (that is so sad), and I have made so many things since then. It's a shame that I haven't shared them (although there are plenty of pics on my flickr page).

I was so excited last night when I was making a pouch/zipper bag for one of my niece's that I started thinking, "I really need to put this on my blog." So, here is my zipper bag, which a Nook will fit snuggly into....

The inside of this pouch is lined with flannel. There is a little tag for a key ring or just holding onto, There is an exterior pocket that velcros open and close. The fabric is fun and funky...not too girly or manly. It was so much fun. I'm thinking of putting up a tutorial soon, if there's interest.

So, I'm ahead of the curve on the non-New Year's resolution to write more on my blog. More to come!

Reached a New Level with Sewing

2010-04-22T22:02:00.005-04:00

For months, I've listened to some of my "hand-sewing" friends talk about these "great portable projects." I never jumped on the bandwagon...until now. I've discovered English paper piecing of hexagons, and now I'm addicted. I even caught myself turning over the edges of a hexagon at a stop light!

So all you machine maidens out there...I urge you to hop on the "portable project" bandwagon. Instead of doing something stupid on your iphone while your little ones play on the playground, or while you wait in the drivethru at Chick-fil-A you could be quilting. Maybe English paper piecing isn't for you, but something out there is. I'm so happy I found this quilting project that I can bring with me everywhere!

Open Letter to the Snow

2010-02-04T11:57:00.002-05:00

Dear Gigantic Snow Storm,
Please be gentle to us. My snow pants are uncomfortable. My boots leak. My mittens are wool and don't hold out the moisture. My kids bring you in every time they go out, leaving me following the little puddles of you everywhere. My husband goes crazy in the house when you are here. I'm armed with a 40-lb bag of salt and a shovel and an orange fleece hat. Oh. Be afraid.

New Product in My Etsy Store: Diaper and Wipe Pouch

2010-01-29T15:34:00.006-05:00

So, my rag quilts for babies have sold really well. But it led me to the question: What would be the perfect pairing with that rag quilt for a baby shower? How about a diaper and wipe pouch to keep together those diapers and wipes in the diaper bag...once and for all!!!

You would be the most awesomest, best friend in the whole wide world to give your expecting friend a rag quilt for the new baby, but you would be super cool if you gave them a rag quilt AND a coordinating diaper and wipe pouch.
They seal with velcro but they look like they seal with a button. You get all of the cuteness of a button with all that ....hard work!
Completely customizable!
Love 'em!

January Stash Buster!

2010-01-25T06:53:00.003-05:00

Stash Buster may sounds like a new movie in which moustaches are being wiped off the planet, but if you sew you know that it means going through a lot of fabric in your "stash" and using it in a quilt or other item. I've complied a large-ish stash of Kaffe Fassett fabric and have been dying to use it, so before the year got too busy I dove into it...or cut, rather!

I still have to add two borders to this quilt before I am finished with the top, but I like it so far. Lots of blue and purple stash busting...wouldn't ya know, I had to order more fabric for the border and backing?

If you busted into your stash today, what would be your fabrics? Red and turquoise? Amy Butler's Love? Maybe some red, white and black?

If You Could Have a Servant in Your Studio/Craftroom...

2009-11-15T14:38:00.007-05:00

I've been frantically and furiously sewing and cutting and sewing and cutting for the last few weeks trying to manage an online quilt business and, at the same time, create some handmade gifts for some of my family members. I barely have enough time to come up for air, much less wind more thread on my bobbins.

So, this got me to thinkin': I need help! A servant, perhaps. And, just as many of you would agree, your mind wanders when you sit behind your sewing machine, listen to the hum of the gears and the creative juices are flowin'. What would my servant(s) do?

First of all, I would have a "bobbin bitch." (My sincere apologies to my two feminist mentors from college who would be appalled by this misogynistic term, but it has great alliteration -- yep, English major.) This way, when I run out of a color or don't want to stop my machine, my bobbin bitch would have separate bobbin winder to fill my every need and bobbin.

Second, a bona fide folder. Someone to fold the fabric that I am finished with or decided not to use, so I wouldn't be bothered with the clutter and the annoying task of actually putting things back where they belong!

Third, a MASTER BASTER!! The task a HATE the most when I am quilting is basting a quilt. I know there's all kinds of spray and yadda yadda to make it easier for us these days, but my method of choice is to do the sandwich on the floor with tape and safety pins. I've tried other methods and the results have not been as good for me, so I'll just need a master baster (eh-em) to come help me.

I need to baste this quilt this week. Do you think I could hire a master baster by this Tuesday?

So, what kind of servant would you have in your room????

Do what you love. Love what you do.

2009-10-29T15:20:00.004-04:00

On every "Life is good" t-shirt is a little tag that says, "do what you love. love what you do." I try to live by that motto when I'm sewing. I only create things that make me happy. The fabric I use makes me happy. The things I create make me happy. Giving them to people makes me happy. This month, I've been busy gettin' happy. Check out some of the cheery things I've made:

This quilt top was a collaborative effort from many quilters around the country in a bee called, "Sweet Dreams Quilting Bee." I sent them fabric and they sent back blocks that they made with that fabric. I took the blocks and put them together in this quilt top. I made the pinwheel cornerstones with the same fabrics to bring the whole thing together. I think it came out really nice!

I made these key chains for the women who are on the quilt retreat that I go to each year. Just a little something handmade for them. Using selvidge in projects just makes me happy. It means, "I'm a true fabric lover," when you use selvidge!

The pillows were a custom order for a friend. When I took this photo, I fell in love with the pillows. I love how Joel Dewberry's fabric goes so nicely with nature.

Another one of my rag quilts available on Etsy! I love the colors in this one! It reminds me hydrangeas--which is a nice thing to think about when the leaves are falling and it's getting colder every minute!

Hope these images have brightened your day. Do what you love today too!

Is it Summer?

2009-10-14T16:11:00.004-04:00

Based on the few things that I sewed this week, I think it's summer!

Two bright rag quilts:
And a very sunny block for a member of my online quilting bee:
But, I think I'm doing ok with my make-believe summer, since it's rainy and 50 degrees out right now, with no sun in sight!

I think I'll keep sewin'!

The Wonder Pets Wisdom: What's it gonna take? Team work!

2009-10-01T06:48:00.011-04:00

My daughters love the show, "Wonderpets." (It's one of those new cartoons that, unless your a parent or grandparent of young children, you've probably never heard of.) So, the point of every show is to show that the Wonderpets achieve great things through the wonders of TEAMWORK. And, I got to thinkin'...the teams of which I am a member help me achieve some wonderful things that I probably would not have even started were it not for the inspiration of my teams.

Soooooo, this is a (((((((SHOUT OUT))))))))) to my teams!

First, the Old Red Barn Co. Quilt Along has inspired me (and the teacher, John Adams) has tought me how to create a wonky log cabin block. The result is this quilt:

It's a baby quilt that measures 30" x 30" and has lots of fun quilting details. Check out my etsy page for more pics and details.

My second shout out is to my Sweet Dreams Quilting Bee. There are 12 members, including me, and each month one member sends the other 11 members fabric with which to make blocks. We make the blocks and send them back to that member. Each month, the most amazing blocks are made. They are inspirational. And the fabric that is sent to us really gets our creative juices flowing! This is one of the blocks that I've created as a member of this group:

The third group is actually a swap that I am a member of: A Little Fabric, A Little Chocolate Swap. Each month, I send packages to a designated partner and she sends a package off to me. The guidelines call for each person to send 4 fat quarters of fabric and some chocolate, but these swaps are put together with so much care and attention to detail that you end up receiving the MOST amazing things. This is what I received this month from boutiquenutmegdesigns:The bag was made by my talented partner! The fabrics are beautiful and she also sent lots of other goodies, including that awesome trim that you see on the left.

My fourth team is my Quiltsy Team on Etsy. This is a talented group of quilters who sell quilts on Etsy. They are some of the most amazing and prolific quilters, constantly creating masterpieces to be sold on Etsy. Each week there is a forum, where members share information, tips, new items posted and just about anything. I don't often get to participate in this conversation as much as I would like, but when I read through what's been said it is inspiring! Thank you, Team Quiltsy!

My local sewing bee that I am a member of (Renee's Applique Club, as I call it) also deserves some love. This group consists of about 10 women and is led by two great women, Kelly (who was our teacher) and Renee (who hosts a monthly meeting). These women took me under their wings about 2 years ago. Many of them are retired and sew A LOT...then there's me -- a stay-at-home mom and mother with a crazy life, to say the least. I showed up in their hand applique class, not knowing anything about applique and they just took me along gently and tought be so many cool things. I can't believe the hand applique (and other things) that they produce. AMAZING! We are going on retreat in about 3 weeks and I can't wait to spend a weekend just taking in all of their wisdom! I'm a lucky girl!

Thanks to all of my teams! You've made me a better quilter and person! You've also made me very busy, so I better quit typing and get sewing!

In the words of the Wonderpets, "What's it gonna take? TEAMWORK!"

My New "Favorite Thing"

2009-09-06T10:11:00.004-04:00

SO, as a quilter, I have a lot of scrap fabric hanging around. You know what I mean, if you sew as well. What do you do with all of that fabric? Sure, you can make 50 million scrap quilts and drive yourself nuts! Or maybe you can try this idea....

I've been transferring a lot of my stuff (ie, my flickr page and my etsy page) to show my new logo:

And, I got to thinkin' one night: "why not make fabric business cards to go with my fabric labels that I'm putting on my quilts??" So, I fired up the ol' Adobe Illustrator, simplified my logo to black and white, reversed the image, printed these on iron-transfer paper, iron the images on to some of my favorite scraps and taa-daaa:

I plan on putting these in my packages to customers. It's something a little different from the norm and I think it will make me stand out a little from the traditional business card. What do you think?

Tits on a bull...

2009-08-30T11:51:00.004-04:00

Funny story....
So, my three-year-old daughter, on the right in the photo below, is still figuring out the proper pronunciation for just about everything. The other day she kept saying what sounded like "tits on a bull." "Mom, I unt [want] tits on a bull." I thought about this for a few minutes and said, "Can you show me?"
She brought me over the pantry and point to the bag of SunChips. Ahhhh, "Chips in a bowl?" Yeah, "Tits on a bull. I WUV tits on a bull!"
And, she was right. She does love chips in a bowl!!! So, what kind of funny sayings do you find yourself translating from your kids??? Lets all share!

Heavy Petting in the Sewing Room

2009-08-21T23:49:00.002-04:00

If you love fabric like I do, then you know what I'm talking about: the heavy petting that goes on when you add some really nice fabric to your stash. This is what I did today when I went to a quilt store near my house that was going out of business.
I loaded up on these beautiful fabrics by Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably, American Jane and Martha Negley. I don't have a specific plan for any of these fabrics, but there's always a plan lingering in the back of my mind.

I've always wanted to do a quilt full of periwinkle blue triangles with Kaffe Fassett fabric, so I think I got a good jump on that. I think for now, I just admire it on the shelf and pet it for a while!

No Tomato Sauce Allowed on These Placemats

2009-08-17T16:41:00.004-04:00

Every once in a while, quilters are fortunate to sit down and make something for themselves with all of the beautiful fabric they have amassed. Well, this is my prize to myself:

I've made six unique placemats that feature some of my favorite fabrics and colors. These placemats feature some crazy, freeform quilting...because I've found that I love to do it.
Now my only problem is...I don't know if I want anyone to eat on them...definitely not my kids?!?! But, I guess that's what they are for.

Periwinkle and Pink Rag Quilt--LOVE!

2009-07-29T10:26:00.004-04:00

Just finished this rag quilt featuring fabric by Dena Designs (the Monaco line) and some fabric by the all-mighty Amy Butler. It is a custom order, but I just love it! Thought I would share it with you before I have to send it off!

Also made this cute pincushion (pattern is from the book, Last Minute Patchwork and Quilted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson).

Gave this away too. Looks like I'm gonna have to make something for myself soon!

Blog Carnival: The Great American Hot Dog

2009-07-17T22:05:00.007-04:00

Did you know that July is the National Hot Dog Month? Well, it is, and the Fourth of July is a perfect time to celebrate American traditions like hot dogs, cookouts and parades.
My family goes to Bristol, Rhode Island every year to celebrate, "The Fourth," as they call it "up there" and to have some classic American cuisine (hot dogs included) and traditional New England fare as well, like "stuffies" (stuffed quahogs) and chirizo (sausage). My nephew and two nieces above (all cousins to each other) are happy to get to feast, laugh and "chill" with each other.

My daughter Molly ate her first lobster (she ate the whole thing) and appropriately followed it up with a hot dog. It doesn't get much better than that, does it?So, happy National Hot Dog Month, America. And, as they say in Bristol, Rhode Island, "Happy Fourth!"

Featured Etsyblogger: The Creative and Happy Miesmama

2009-07-14T15:38:00.003-04:00

Miesmama (aka Becky) is one of those crafters on etsy who stands out. She's a cheerleader for everyone, is very active with her etsyblogger group and has a happy blog, flickr page and etsy shop to follow. Her etsy shop is full of creative felt creations like these clips:Congratulations to Miesmama for being the featured etsyblogger of July! This honor is well deserved.

Blog Carnival: Summer with the Kids!

2009-06-21T07:57:00.002-04:00

My plan for this summer is to spend lots of time with my kids and my husband, doing lots of fun things. My husband and I have a tendency to always be working on a project and forget to have a little fun, so our goal is to relax a little more.
We've managed to do this a little more already this summer, as you can see by the picture above. This is Molly and Sara in the Severn River last week. We were shocked that both of them got in, but it was great to see that they were brave enough to do it. I was in the boat with the four-month-old. I eventually got in after he fell asleep. It was so much fun!

So, I guess our plan is to plan a little less! Just have fun.

All People Quilt

2009-06-09T20:11:00.003-04:00

OK, so maybe all people don't quilt, but have you been to the website, allpeoplequilt.com? It's the Better Homes and Garden website for several really good magazines, Quilts and More, American Patchwork and Quilting and Quilt Sampler. The projects in these magazines and on the website are very fresh and happy. I just wanted to share this website with whomever shares that passion that I have for some of those new designer fabrics out there that are bright and happy! There are great projects using designers that we all know and love...Amy, Joel, Heather, Anna Maria, and the list goes on.

This is a project they have on their website, called "Pink Bliss," and is a great use of all of those Amy Butler fabrics you have in your stash.

I sewed through May!

2009-06-03T17:59:00.003-04:00

ohmygoodness. May is over, and it's already June 3rd. I feel like I've finished so many projects this month. Isn't that always a great feeling? I thought I would share a few of the things that I did this month....

This cute little marker holder that I made for my daughters (to share, yeah, right!) is the best use of all of those fabric scraps. I have enough scraps to make about 946 more! The pattern is from a great book called Last Minute Patchwork and Quilted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson. She has a series of high-quality books out with great ideas. There are even a few groups on flickr dedicated to showing off works completed from the inspiration of the book.
I've also been lucky enough to become a member of an on-line quilting bee called Sweet Dreams Quilting Bee. Each month a member sends out a variety of fabric and the other 11 members make her blocks for a quilt. We send back the blocks and she makes the quilt. July is my month! I'm so excited to do this each month. There are a lot of quilting bees on flickr. I encourage anyone to check these out. Whatever your craft may be, there are so many opportunities on flickr to "meet" and interact with people who have similar interests. It's really great. Who needs facebook?

Anyway, I made this pillow with some of the leftover fabric from the first month's swap.

And I tried a new quilting technique that I call, "bubble quilting." It might be my new favorite way to quilt. I love to freeform quilt--no lines to trace, just go with the flow.
This month was also the finish line for a quilt that I've been working on for quite some time. I think that the reason it took so long is because I knew it was for me, and those projects always get pushed to the back burner when you are a quilter. Now my super-colorful quilt is hanging in the hallway where I get to see it everyday.

I also finished this quilt for a customer. I was glad to have this project because it really forced me to think outside of my box. I don't normally use these colors, but I enjoyed getting "back to my roots" and using some of the fabrics that I started out using when I first learned how to quilt. It was also neat to see the person's reaction to the quilt when I gave it to her. Very gratifying!

I hope your may was a great one and that you have lots of projects lined up for June. I've already got a list longer than my arm of things that I have to finish this month. I better get back to the sewing machine....

Sew Cool! I'm featured on Amy Butler's Softwares CD

2009-05-14T10:20:00.006-04:00

Amy Butler has a new gig: softwares! That's a play on words for her new endeavor of providing projects with patterns on CD by Electric Quilt Company (retail is $29.95). And, I'm excited to be one of 31 featured sewers and crafters in her "inspired by amy" gallery on the CD.

I've looked through the CD, and I have to say it meets and exceeds the standards that we have all grown to expect from Amy's products. I can't believe the price either...a steal! You get all of those projects with patterns plus a nice gallery of inspirational photos for just $29.95. Unbelievable!

Awesome Strawberry Avocado Salsa Recipe

2009-05-10T22:16:00.002-04:00

I made this strawberry and avocado salsa recipe today for mother's day. Thought I would share it! (It is from Cooking Light Magazine/May 2009)

1 cup finely chopped strawberries
1/4 cup finely chopped peeled avocado
2 tbsps finely chopped red onion
2 tbsps chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 tspn grated lime rind
2 tbsps fresh lime juice
2 tspns finely chopped seeded jalapeno pepper
1/4 tspn sugar

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and toss gently. Serve immediately with chips (or on top of a roast chicken entree, fish or grilled pork).

Happy Mother's Day!

Blog Carnival: My Dream Craft Room

2009-04-18T21:03:00.003-04:00

As a member of EtsyBloggers, each month we have some common topics to write about on our blog. This month is exciting because it really gets ya thinkin' about your creative space and what would be included in your "dream" craft room/studio. I'm six years into being "a quilter," but I've been creative my whole life, so I've been working on a list for this "dream room" pretty much my whole life.

(this collage is from Nianau's photostream on flickr)

So, here goes:

1.) A vast expanse! My dream craft room would be large! I have a lot of "dream equipment" to fit into it (see the rest of the list) and "dream supplies," so everyone needs a room of one's own, right? Yeah, well, mine is a big room . . . with bright green walls.
2.) Sewing machines! An upgraded Bernina (one that is whisper quiet, with lots of alphabets and lots of bells and whistles), a separate space for my serger, a large long-arm quilting machine (brand TBD) and a cheaper sewing machine for sewing paper and other cool stuff (without ruining my Bernina).
3.) Tables! A separate table for my sewing machine, a cutting table, a gi-normous craft table with nothing on it except the thing I'm working on at that moment, a nice table for my computer, and a few more tables for other things that I'm sure I'll need a table for!
4.) Shelves! Think old-time pharmacy meets modern craft room. I'm thinkin' a cool piece of furniture for storing all kinds of cool things to display but also wall storage for my fabric.
5.) Fabric! I want bolts of fabric separated by collection, color, purpose...every which way one can organize fabric! (This oughtta be enough fabric: http://www.flickr.com/photos/simplysheree/553437425/. Can you believe that stash?)
6.) Walls! Bright, happy ones! With space to display some of my quilts (on the rare occasion that I keep one for myself).
7.) Windows! Overlooking some mountains (like the Blue Ridge Mountains or the Adirondacks -- since this is my dream craft room, it must be in my dream house in the mountains of the East Coast, right?)
8.) Hardwood floors! I want to be able to roll around in my extremely comfortable chair to each of the stations that I have!
9.) Music and TV! A girl's gotta have some good tunes and watch Survivor, Grey's Anatomy and Lost!
10.) A Play Area! Note the word "area." And by area, I mean something with a picket fense around it that I can keep closed and keep the kids in. It would contain their "dream toys" so that they would be occupied and require little supervision. Boy, this is a dream!
11.) Stuff! Since my list is quickly expanding like the walls of this dream craft room, I will end it with just "stuff." I want creative stuff at my fingertips. This includes all of the stuff one would need to create masterpieces on a daily basis: fabric, thread, glue, glitter, a comfortable chair, a sitting area to brainstorm with friends, scrapbook paper, printers, ribbons, pins, a fridge full of nothing but Coke, needles, chocolate, scissors, batting, stamps, ink, markers, colored pencils, notebooks, books, magazines, inspirational websites, an unlimited supply of petty cash to shop with ... oh, and maybe even a #2 pencil or two!

So, what would you have?

Monsters are Hot! Just Ask Etsian TwoZanyZebras

2009-04-18T20:27:00.007-04:00

Monsters are hot! Just look at the latest star-studded, animated movie: Monsters vs Aliens. Kids love monsters -- the friendly, kid versions! So, check out the collection of kid-friendly monsters on onesies, t-shirts and all at kinds of cuddly things at the etsy shop TwoZanyZebras!

The creator behind twozanyzebras.etsy.com and this adorable onesie is a stay-at-home mom from Southern California who loves to create things that are as zany as her two little ones! Her zany-ness carries over to her blog: Two Zany Zebras: Notes from my Zany Life!

If you're a mom looking for a laugh after a rough day, you have to check this site out! It is full of stories from her (Mama Zany's) everyday life that every mom (and dad) can relate to! She updates her site frequently, so there is always something new to read and relate to ... and laugh about! It is good stuff!!

Congratulations to TwoZanyZebras for being selected the featured EtsyBlogger of April!

Featured Etsy Blogger: DesignbyNora

2009-03-11T14:06:00.004-04:00

Nora of DesignbyNora is what some people may call a "jack of all trades!" She loves making cards, jewelry, playing around with polymer clay, reading and geeking around on the computer. Her shop on etsy features some really cute polymer earrings and some purses that would look smashing together. As orange is one of my favorite colors, I was immediately attracted to this cute orange purse and earrings that she has listed separately:

Don't wait to check out Nora's etsy page! She is having a kickin' sale!

Nora's blog has some great information, like her post on March being National Craft Month and her delish recipe for a puff pastry called Napoleon!

Congrats to Nora on being the featured Etsyblogger for March!!

Blog Carnival: What I've Accomplished in '09

2009-03-11T11:47:00.003-04:00

So, it's 3 months in to 2009 (twenty-o-nine if you're Charles Osgood). It's 51 days into Barrack Obama's presidency. It's 3 weeks and 6 days into my son's life! So, what have I accomplished?!?!

As you may have guessed, I had a son! That was a big accomplishment, but one that I worked on mostly in 2008! Well, I guess the real work starts now, huh?

I've managed to fold every piece of fabric in my craft room and get a little more organized in the craft room (Evidence: see photo).

I actually figured out how to thread and use my serger that I got for Christmas! That is a huge accomplishment. If you have serger, you know what I mean! It's a daunting piece of equipment that just stares back at you saying, "Go ahead. Make my day."

And, I sold some quilts on etsy! I also have three custom orders that I'm working on right now, so I'm on a roll! AND, I designed a new logo/avatar that I still have to "go live" with. Let me know what you think:

SALE on Etsy -- The Joey Sale!

2009-02-25T16:36:00.003-05:00

That's right, folks, it's the Joey Sale! My son was born on the 12th of this month, so I'm having a 12% off sale on my etsy page! Check it out. I have some great quilts for sale. If you order a custom order while this promotion is going on, I will honor the 12% discount.
How can you resist that face? Order something today!

Blog Carnival: What I like best about being an Etsy Artisan

2009-02-17T13:23:00.003-05:00

I started my etsy adventure almost a year ago and there are so many things that I love about etsy, but there is one thing that stands out most for me: being able to sell my creative stuff and be home with my kids at the same time. I would NEVER be able to work in a shop and sell my stuff as a stay at home mom. Etsy really enables me to feel like I have an outlet for my creativity while not being held down by fulfilling hour requirements at a shop. I don't make a ton of money on etsy, but it's enough to keep my projects going and have a little extra to spend on all of my craft stuff -- i.e. FABRIC!!!!

My five-year-old has also learned that you can make and sell stuff, which is an interesting concept to introduce to a little person. She is intrigued already by that idea. I can't wait to see what she will be when she grows up, maybe a quilt designer, fabric designer or something of the like because of what she sees going on in "the craft room."

Featured Etsyblogger: Donna Pool Designs

2009-02-17T13:02:00.003-05:00

The great thing about etsy is that there is something for everyone! Donna Pool's etsy shop features several items that can be customized to meet your needs and lots of stuff that is ready to ship -- like custom buttons, magnets, fabric creations, photography and items Donna calls "vintage fun." In other words, there's LOADS of good stuff.

These fun buttons are covered with vintage images from old magazines! The listing is called, "Two girls for every guy," which I thought was appropriate for me this month, since I just gave birth five days ago to a little boy and have two little girls already. Kind of a homage to the new member of the family!

Donna also has a great blog that's packed full of great articles, links and ideas. So, here's my shout out to Donna! Congrats on being the featured etsyblogger of the month! And, hope to see you in Arnold sometime, as we share the same home town!

Scrappy Valentine Project

2009-01-29T14:13:00.003-05:00

Love is in the air! Valentine's Day is coming up, and here is a great project to use up some of those fabric scraps you have in your sewing room (and if you're like me, you have a lot of PINK scraps that are perfect for V-day).

I bought a foam wreath shape from JoAnn's and used lots of strips of my fabric scraps to cover the wreath -- just tie knots at random around the whole wreath until you have the density you want.

I'm pretty pleased with it! Hope this inspires you to make something lovely for Valentine's day too!

Sugar Snap Launch On Ebay!

2009-01-26T21:21:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is an exciting day! There will be a launch of Melissa Averino's fabric (sugar snap) on eBay!! I'm very excited to be one of the participants. Some of my goods (along with some amazing other things by other fabriholics including some unbelievable children's items and crazy-good purses, bags and totes) will be on sale on ebay from January 27th to February 14th. We've been working with the amazing Melissa Averino's on the launch. You don't want to miss this unveiling of items made with her fabric.

Check back here for more details or go to ebay and search for "Sugar Snap Fabric Launch."

Sugar Snap Fabric by Melissa Averinos is HOT!

2009-01-20T09:48:00.004-05:00

This new line of fabric called Sugar Snap is by the fantastically creative Melissa Averino's (whose blog is yummygoods and worth checking out if you haven't already). This shaggy quilt (aka rag quilt, but I hate the connotation) features her fabric exclusively and is available on my etsy page right now. I was just invited to participate in a launching of her fabric on ebay, so watch out for this item and lots of other great items featuring her fabric (made by other artists) from January 27th to February 14th on ebay!
I also have another shaggy quilt in the works. It features fabrics by some of those favorite designers we all love, including Amy Butler, Heather Bailey, Kaffe Fassett, Pamela Mostek and more. It's all in shades of green -- something we are all missing and hoping for as springs starts to creep up on us!

January's Featured Etsybloggers: Roseworks Jewelry!

2009-01-07T07:17:00.003-05:00

As a member of etsybloggers team, I have the privelege of featuring a different artist from our team each month on my blog. This month, we have a talented jeweler. She has two great shops (Roseworks Jewelry and Kindred Spirits Treasures) and a kickin' blog!

One of my favorite pieces from her etsy site is her "Hope" necklace, which features Chinese character for "hope" on a scrabble tile. Check this and lots of other great items out today!!!

Blog Carnival: New Year's Blogolution

2009-01-06T17:09:00.004-05:00

What do I have planned for my blog? Well, by putting a list out there I'm committing myself, which is a good thing in my opinion. So, here goes:
1.) Keep up the bloggin': Sounds easy enough, but goal #1 is just to keep the blog going. We'll have a new baby in the house in a few weeks, so blogging won't be at the top of my list for a while.
2.) Add a list of my favorite blogs: I've compiled a pretty awesome list of favorite blogs by designers and crafty people that I would love to share, I just never seem to get around to it. I'm gonna do it within the next 2 months.
3.) Have some giveaways: I think this is a really great way to show appreciation to your readers and to get traffic to your blog and/or etsy page, so I'm going to give this a try. Not sure what the giveaways will be...maybe something handmade, maybe some fat quarters for my fellow quilters out there, maybe a % off my etsy store items. Don't know, but keep an eye out.

So, those are three main things. I don't want to be self-defeating by trying to list too much. There are lots of other things that I want to accomplish on my etsy page and on my flickr page, so gotta leave room for that.

Thanks for reading and hope you will add me to your list of blogs you watch!

Shredded to Snuggly and Sophisticated Perfection

2008-12-08T21:50:00.003-05:00

I can't wait to make my next version of this quilt. They are so fun to make and look and feel like a million bucks when they are snipped and washed. This one sold in one day, so it looks like I will have to get back to the sewing machine quickly and keep my etsy shop well stocked with these puppies!

And, stay tuned for a smaller "lovie" version, with satin backing!

Featured Etsybloggers: Holy Cow! It's Spotted Cow Soaps

2008-12-08T12:06:00.005-05:00

Holy Cow! The School Food Service Director behind the Etsy shop Spotted Cow Soaps certainly has her act together. She just celebrated her 300th order about a month ago and is hoping to celebrate her 500th order soon too! If that doesn't attest to the quality of her soaps and other body-goodies, the fact that she comes from Vermont should. (It always seems like all good things come from Vermont, doesn't it? Whether it's soap or soapstone, Vermont, apparently has it all!)

She also has a kickin' blog!

Blog Carnival: Spotlight on Fellow Etsyblogger Christmas Item

2008-12-08T11:37:00.005-05:00

Still searching for the perfect Christmas gift? Check out SkyGirlStyle's cute red and green accessories for girls.
This former flight attendant seems to have found her place among etsybloggers great crafters!

Blog Carnival: Favorite Thanksgiving Tradition

2008-11-20T15:48:00.005-05:00

For me, all other traditions pale in comparison to one critical tradition that goes with all holidays: spending time with family. Being married, you learn to "spread the wealth" in terms of your time with each side of the family, but I know that my husband, my children and I value our time with whomever we are going to be with from our families.
This year, we are excited to be spending time with my "little brother" and his wife in South Carolina, along with my mom and dad. We are sad that we won't be able to hang out with my husband's side of the family and the other members of my family that we will be missing in South Carolina, but they will most definitely be in our hearts that day, as they always are.
In this day and age, what more could we come to value but the people in our lives? I could go without the turkey, without the desserts, without even eating in general, but I could no go without spending time with my family! This year, make sure that whomever you are going to be with this year knows that you feel the same way!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Featured Blogger: An Okie Who Haiki's

2008-11-20T07:07:00.005-05:00

Creative people often have lots of interests they like to explore at once, and this featured Etsyblogger is no different. Storybeader (etsy shop and blog) is a writer from Oklahoma who enjoys writing and beading (among other things) and integrates these two talents by writing a haiki for evey necklance she creates. Check out her etsy shop for this beautiful necklace and it's haiki.

My Haiki for Storybeader:

Congratulations,
Storybeader! Go and write--
And me, decorate!

Fluffy, snuggly, shredded quilt!

2008-11-16T07:33:00.005-05:00

I'm so excited about how this quilt came out! I've never made a "rag quilt" before, so I looked up the basic technique on the internet, came up with my own pattern and measurements and "poof" this quilt was born. The fabric was given to me by a friend for my birthday and features girly images like cupcakes, booties, x's and o's, flowers and other cute things.

I made this quilt with eight fat quarters for the front, some random whites for layering and getting that thick "ragged" look, an unbleached batting (cut smaller than the block) and a backing from my scraps. I snipped the heck out of it with ragging scissors (Yes, they actually make those). These scissors are essential to a good rag look and your sanity!

These blocks are 6" x 6", perfect for using up your scraps! I sewed a 5/8" seam allowance to give some ragging room. Then, around the entire quilt I sewed a zig zag stitch to stabilize the edge. After two washings and a few trimming of thread, this was the result!

Blog Carnival: What I'm working on....

2008-11-11T12:35:00.014-05:00

Hey world,

When my blog group (etsybloggers) came up with this month's blog carnival topic, "what are you working on?" I thought, "Hmmm...the easier answer would be what am I not working on." But, to give you a little taste, here are some photos and some details about some projects I have going on...

Project #1: This is my most ambitious quilt pattern yet. It's a star pattern called "Star Flower" by Elsie M. Campbell. I bought the pattern several years ago and finally started. It's taken many hours to get to this point. Click on the image for more information from Elsie Campbell. There is also applique involved. I'm on block 1 or 8 on that part!

Project #2: This is a project that came about in one of my quilt groups. Our leader finds a block for us to do each month and then we can do whatever with the results, so I combined four of the blocks together. I might add some smaller blocks all the way around the outside as another border. Not sure! You can see each of these blocks on there own at my flickr page. Just click on the image.

Project #3: Matching robes for my daughters' American Girl dolls and them. This will be a Christmas present. Gotta get movin' on this. I have done anything!

Other projects:

A rag-edge quilt with Amy Butler fabric (pictures to follow . . . as soon as I start it).

An original quilt pattern that I have to get published.

A myriad of other things....

That's it!

Blog Carnival: Oriental Salad Recipe

2008-10-21T17:50:00.002-04:00

This recipe is the recipe that I have given out more times than any other! I'm actually quite happy to be posting it on my blog so that when certain family members ask for it for the "umpteenth" time, I will no longer have to search for it in some email that I've already sent them. I can just send them to this post. That being said, here is my recipe for the best oriental salad you'll ever try:

1 head Napa cabbage, finely shredded
2 bunches green onions (optional)

Saute in 3 tbsp of butter until golden brown:
1 package of broken up ramen noodles (the flavor packet is used in the dressing)
2 oz. sesame seeds
1/2 cup slivered almonds

Drain and cool on papertowel

TO MAKE THE DRESSING
Bring to a boil:
1/4 cup vinegar
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup vege oil
2 TBSP soy sauce
season pack from oriental flaver pack from ramen noodle package

I like to keep that boiling for a while, until it starts to look a little like it is bubbling up and forming a caramel consistency. That way it won't completely separate after it is cooled. Cool this completely -- in the fridge for at least an hour before serving is best.

Ready to EAT! Don't mix the crunchies and the dressing with the cabbage until you are ready to eat or it will get soggy.

This serves about 8 people depending on the size of the cabbage and how much everyone loves this salad!

Featured Etsyblogger: Baby Friendly Beads

2008-10-21T15:44:00.004-04:00

Like so many stay-at-home moms, the woman behind Etsy shops Baby Friendly Beads and Mama's Magic Studio is an overachiever. Her blog is packed full of information and easily-relatable stories that can help just about anyone get a chuckle or smile about everyday life with kids!

She has lots of useful and innovative products including this bracelet that helps you keep track of your breastfeeding schedule:

She also has necklaces for your baby to play with while breastfeeding or bottlefeeding. What a great idea, huh? Check her out!!

Congratulations, Jen!

Jungle Themed Baby Quilt

2008-10-15T06:59:00.001-04:00

Jungle Themed Baby Quilt
Originally uploaded by Julie Antinucci

I made this bright and happy jungle theme baby quilt over the weekend. Jackie Shapiro's line featured some stencil-looking animal patterns in red, yellow and green and then she has coordinating nature graphics to go with it. If you want to see more photos of this quilt, check out my flicker page (http://www.flickr.com/people/julieantinucci).

Etsybloggers Carnival Topic: Something to do with work

2008-10-10T06:45:00.003-04:00

I've been at my current job since August 8, 2003. Since then I've added another "co-worker" and am currently in the process of creating another that will join the team on or hopefully before February 10th. I am a full time mom! Often called, stay-at-home mom, I can't say that I am home much, so I'm just a full time mom.

What does my job consist of? Making breakfast, lunch, dinner and a gazillion snacks a day for two little girls. Changing diapers ... only for one, and she is being potty-trained. Doing homework with the kindergartner. Going to the park. Going to the library. Doing lots of laundry. Cleaning up. Lot of vacuuming! Finding fun things to do on the weekends and in general laughing!

I love my job! It is tiring...more tiring than any "real job" I had before this. More stressful. More demanding. But also much more rewarding, much more fun and much more interesting! Afterall, just look at my two co-workers!

To find out more about etsybloggers, go to http://etsybloggers.proboards83.com/index.cgi

Tagged: I'm it!

2008-10-07T15:09:00.002-04:00

So, here's the deal. I've been "tagged" by two other members of a group to which I belong (etsybloggers): Human Touch Designs (her rad blog is at http://humantouchdesigns.blogspot.com/2008/10/tagged.html)
and Memories for Life (check out her happy blog at http://memoriesforlifescrapbooks.blogspot.com/).

Soooooo.....now it is my turn to tag five other people and share 6 facts about myself. So here are the links to my five tagged people:
SpiritMama: Etsy and Blog (a shout out to you for blogging about my hair accessories)
Jersey Girl Design: Etsy and Blog (your from the state of one of my best friends and I live 20 minutes from B-more. B'lieve, hon!)
Wondermommy: Etsy and Blog (Love the name!)
Miesmama: Etsy and Blog (Awesome handmade stuff)
Grey Eye Designs: Etsy and Blog (somewhat of a newbie, so give this girl some clickie love!)

Now, five facts about me:
1.) I'm five and half months pregnant and crave two things: beer (which I don't normally drink) and running in the mud (I'm a runner, but not sure why I want to get all dirty about it)
2.) My birthday is today. I turn 33 today, which, in case you were wondering, is the same number as one of my favorite childhood baseball players from the Orioles: Eddie Murry!
3.) I married my highschool sweetheart! We've been married for 9 years. We dated for 10 years before that, so I've been with him more than half of my life. And I like him a lot!
4.) My brother is a pitcher for the San Diego Padres, and baseball has been an important part of my family life for as long as I can remember.
5.) I'm a crappy triathlete and a fair marathoner, but after baby #3 I hope to improve the heck out of my time on the marathon.
6.) I love ice cream with peanut butter and oatmeal in it. I've been making this concoction since I was about 13 years old. I wish Ben and Jerry's would come out with this flavor so I wouldn't have to make it myself. Try it and you will see that it is delish! Add some chocolate syrup and it's good to go!

Happy day!

Lilly Pulitzer Quilt, Etsy Sale and New Items

2008-09-15T14:52:00.008-04:00

My latest etsy offering is this customizable quilt featuring 25 patches of Lilly Pulitzer fabric! For all of those Lilly collectors out there, you could have a quilt that no one else has! And there is a sale right now that could get you free shipping! Check out my etsy page!

Some other new goodies on my etsy page are what I call "uppitydo daisies." Every ponytail needs one of these cuties:

If you have some specific fabric or colors that you want, just let me know and I will be happy to make you a custom order. That goes for anything on my etsy page!

And, as always, check out my other team members' etsy shops. They have lots to offer! We will be hosting a trunk sale soon. More details will be on etsy, my blog and lots of other blogs too!

Very Special Featured Etsyblogger: Joeyandaleethea

2008-09-09T14:45:00.008-04:00

A few months ago, I happened upon a team on etsy called etsybloggers street team, a team for people who "love to blog about their craft, their creative process and other etsians." Well, that sounded like something I would like to join, so I did.

A few months have gone by and I have learned more about the person who started this group and while I've never met her or even spoken to her, I have to say I am extremely impressed by her creativity, her products, her desire to spread the word about her team and her ability to juggle this thing we call being a mom with doing something she loves...etsy!

I strongly encourage you to check out her etsy shop. This little onsie (at right) is one of my favorite items.

She has lots of other great and original products you'll want to "add to your cart"! She uses lots of great fabric and has some really cute appliqued items for babies that make great gifts for expectant mothers!

Her blog has lots of goodies too (not to mention some good tunes streaming while your read)!

Congratulations to Joeyandaleethea for a much-deserved feature!

Blog Carnival: A Childhood Memory I'll Never Forget

2008-08-24T19:46:00.008-04:00

There were a couple of memories that immediately came to my head when I thought about my childhood, like constantly drawing with crayons, playing baseball on an all-boy team (I was the only girl) and going to Orioles games with my dad, BUT one event that impacted my life for several years to come was a particular bike ride when I was seven...
It all started with my sister and I heading up a big hill on our bikes. I asked my nine-year-old sister if we were allowed to go up this hill -- a hill that I might mention was, up to this point, off limits. She said, "Yeah. Mommy said we could." So, I pushed to the top of the hill and was looking forward to the fast and easy ride down.

About halfway down the hill, my handlebars started to wobble and I was going too fast to control my bike. I hit a gravel pit at the bottom of the hill, flew over the handle bars, landed on my face, lost two teeth (one was a front tooth) and got a nasty booboo on my arm. Not good. I was carried home by a complete stanger and handed over to my mom, who was nine months pregnant!

For the next several years, my two front teeth grew in as buck-toothed as one could get. So, I was left a red-headed, freckled, buck-toothed little girl. I got braces later and my teeth are fine now, but that is a memory that my whole family laughs at today. My sister still feels a little guilty about lying and telling me that were allowed to go down the big hill.
Even to this day, I think about that wobbly trip down the hill! I did two triathlons in the last year and I have to admit, there were some hills that brought me back to that infamous hill!

I guess the moral of the story is: never trust your big sister. And if you do, never let her live it down! Right, Jenny!

Amy and Heather and Anna Maria, Oh My!

2008-08-22T17:31:00.002-04:00

I just created this block this afternoon and it ended up featuring some of my FAV designers, Amy Butler, Heather Bailey, Anna Maria and Jennifer Paganelli. Fresh colors and great graphics by each designer make pairing them together easy! I'm not sure what I'm going to do with this block. Something is telling me to make a center medallion quilt out of it -- kind of round robin. We'll see!

Pillow Talk

2008-08-20T10:17:00.002-04:00

For quilters, making a pillow out of a block can be a form of instant gratification that often escapes us during the usual long quilting process. I made a Dresden Plate block a few weeks ago for a long-term quilt project. Not wanting to take away from that project, I made an almost identical block to make into a quilt pillow and put on my etsy page. The pom pom trim really solidifies the look I was going for: happy, colorful, cheerful!

Another pillow that I made is a "tooth fairy pillow." This was made from a vintage apron with a really great pattern on the fabric. I fussy cut the pocket portion of the apron and made that the center of the pillow--a place for all those precious lost teeth. Some frilly trim finished off the look.

Pillow Tip: For both of these pillows and most of the ones I have made this year, I have made a back flap for easy insert and removal of the pillow form. To me, this is a more finished look than hand sewing the two sides together at the end of the process. Take a look at this pic of the purple pillow to see what I mean...

Thanks for tuning in to pillow talk!

What a doll! Matching Dresses!

2008-08-15T21:20:00.001-04:00

Here's an idea for all you crafty people with little girls who love their American Girl dolls or other dolls of choice. Go to your craft store and buy about a yard of the pre-smocked fabric. Measure your daughter's chest size and cut the fabric to that size. Sew a seam up the back, add some straps and repeat for the doll (Cut about 4" out of the smocking for the doll so her dress isn't "all smocked"). Taa-daaa! You have matching doll sundresses for about $14 total and in about 1/2 hour! Love it!

Big Game and Big Sale!

2008-08-13T12:25:00.001-04:00

So, today is the start of the Etsybloggers Team Sale, which last for five days from 8/13 to 8/17 and features many sales from many of the shops that are a member of this cool group. Click on the graphic on the right for a list of all of the shops' sales.

AND, today my little brother, Josh Banks, pitches for the San Diego Padres against the Milwaukee Brewers' CC Sabathia! The game starts at 7:05 p.m. PT. Keep your fingers crossed for my little bro'! Check out the press on Josh if you're a baseball fan!

A Quilt Block as Self Portrait

2008-08-03T14:42:00.000-04:00

If ever there were a quilt block that I could say is "me," my newest one would be it. I used some of my FAVORITE scraps to create this Dresden Plate block:

This block is just like me: organized...and also crazy. I love it for that reason. It's also BRIGHT! Another reason I love it!

I also created this other block within a few days:

It also makes me happy. I've now become addicted to using scraps. Check out more images on my flickR page!

Etsyblogger Carnival: Grilling Recipe

2008-08-03T14:27:00.001-04:00

Hey everybody!
My recipes is for the most awesome grilled potatoes you will ever taste. The recipe comes from a cookbook that is (for some crazy reason) out of print. It's the Vera Bradley cookbook: Cooking with Friends. This is my all-time favorite cookbook. The recipes are tried and true! I've made about 20 recipes in this cookbook (so far) and continually pick a new one to try! So my recipe is called "Chips Grilled Potatoes" and the book states that this was submitted by Stefanie Chevillet.

Ingredients:
6 medium pototoes, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
2 slices of bacon, chopped

1.2 cup oil
2 tablespoons of cornstarch (although I use flour)
rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper to taste.

The directions state: "Prepare the grill. Combine the potatoes, onion, celery and bacon in a medium bowl and toss to mix well. Place on a large piece of foil coated with nonstick spray.

Whisk the oil, cornstarch [or flour], rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper together. Drizzle over the potato mixture. Top with another piece of foil sprayed with nonstick spray. Seal edges to form a packet.

Place on the grill [second rack is what I use]. Grill over hot coals for one hour. The potatoes will cook evenly, so there is no need to turn the packet over."

It's awesome. Try it at your next cookout!

Featured Etsyblogger for August 2008

2008-08-03T14:04:00.000-04:00

I'm a proud member of etsybloggers, an amazing group of artisans and lovers of hand-crafted items who have blogs, in addition to etsy storefronts. This month's featured etsyblogger is talented jewelry designer "TuLips Treasure Box."

TuLips Treasure Box uses nature materials, natural gemstones, crystals, tiny beads, glass and silver to create wonderful handmade pieces like this one:

I hope you will check out this talented artist at her etsy page and her blog!

It's Raining Quilts!

2008-07-27T14:31:00.001-04:00

I shouldn't be on the computer right now, since a huge crash of thunder just shook the craft room, but I've been MIA on this blog for so long that I must carry on! Since I've written last, I've finished four quilts and many other handmade items, like belts, fabric covered buttons and pillows. Check out these at my flickr page.

The first quilt that I am happy to have finished is a scrappy quilt for my niece, Emma. She turned 7, and has always been a crafty little girl. She really appreciated the time and effort that a scrappy quilt takes. I really enjoyed making this quilt. As you may know, when you make a scrappy quilt (a TRUE scrappy quilt) you spend a lot of time going through your scraps and if you are like me, you can remember what piece of fabric went into each quilt. I was able to use fabric that went into many different quilts, including my first quilt, a quilt I made for my first daughter, quilts that I've made for close friends and family and quilts that I actually managed to keep for myself (a rarity). So, Emma's quilt is an important connection to all of these others. I like that!

The second quilt that I made was my first "made for sale" quilt. My sister was my first quilt customer. She asked me to make a quilt for a couple who is getting married, and the only guidelines that she gave me was, "keep it neutral." This quilt is what I came up with.

The other two quilts are tests of a pattern that I've created that I hope to get published in the next month and sell to quilt shops and make available on my etsy page. I hope you will check back for that. It is a fat-quarter friendly quilt pattern that is great for beginners and advanced quilts. I achieved two completely different looks with the same pattern and I'm really excited to see what other people come up with.

Hope you are making lots of "handmade items for everyday use."

Fabric Lines: Do you stay on the straight and narrow?

2008-05-13T13:54:00.000-04:00

I've only been quilting for about five years, but in that five years I've seen the exponential growth of many popular designers. Amy Butler, Heather Bailey, Anna Maria Horner, Valori Wells and Joel Dewberry are some of my favorite designers with unbelievable fabric lines. I've read a few articles here and there that hint at the notion that perhaps these fabric lines are causing us to lose some of the creative process with quilting because we might pick fabrics from all of the same line and create an albeit well-coordinated but "familiar" quilt -- something that looks similar to something someone else has already created. But, what I find to be true for myself is that these fabric lines are so creative and the colors are so carefully chosen that they inspire me to be more creative. In fact, I might buy several pieces of fabric from one designer's line but I like to spread that fabric out in several quilts. I'm interested to hear what everyone else thinks, so please respond to my poll at the right.

Celebrate Earth Day with Brown

2008-04-23T11:52:00.000-04:00

Hi Creative Miners!

Brown is the new black, and this pillow is sooooo cool! In Amy Butler Nigella and Belle fabrics, this pillow would look great in any room. What's that? You want it in your house? Well, you can buy this at the Creative Mines Etsy Page! Get it while its still available! More pillows are in the works! You can never have enough plush pillows to cuddle up with!

Let me push your buttons!

2008-04-13T14:59:00.000-04:00

The Creative Mines have been busy working on some new things that will be coming out over the next few weeks. But, it's always good to take time for a quick project that makes you feel like you've accomplished something. These fabric-covered buttons are so much fun to make. They will eventually be added to some larger projects, but for now here they are--in some of my favorite fabrics by Joel Dewberry, Amy Butler and lots of others. They are available at The Creative Mines Etsy Page

New Quilt Design Coming Soon

2008-04-03T22:30:00.000-04:00

Hi Quilter Friends,
Just wanted to let you know that I am working on a super secret quilt design that is going to knock your socks off (there is a joke there that you will soon find out). So keep watching! I plan on selling the pattern on Etsy and at your local quilt stores. This new pattern is simple, fresh, trendy and fun!
Stay tuned...

Creative Mines with Julie Antinucci and Friends

2008-04-01T09:31:00.000-04:00

Someone once told me, "if you built it, Julie, they will come." I'm taking her advice and the big plunge. I have way too many friends who are either smart, crafty, great trend-spotters or all of the above and I can't wait a minute longer to get their and my products out there. So, stay tuned. April 1st; the first day of the revolution.