I sat quilting for hours a day, and loved it. Then, my father was I’ll, so I moved across the country, to take care of both my parents. My father died 8 months later, and I have been taking care of my mother for 8 years. Everything has been piled in the garage. My sister is now taking her turn with mom. So, the last few days trying to get a sewing corner set up. I’m getting excited. Wish me luck!
A few years ago my friend's mother passed away from Alzheimer's and she had multiple abandoned projects. Her daughters gathered all the randomness and brought it to me. I spent many months organizing and sewing to make memory quilts for the daughters and grandchildren. Then the even more random blocks and pieces became bags, runners and placemats. This was such a rewarding project!
What a great story. I am sure the family so appreciated it. I had a friend with terminal cancer. We were just getting into sewing with each other. When she could not sew she gave me everything. She had some unfinished projects I knew were gifts so I finished them and gave them back. We had such a laugh when she got them back because one was for me! I miss her. But the memories are mine to keep
I love that you are so different than other sewing sites. You highlight subjects that no one else does. The why we do or don't do things helps us to know and understand so we can move past it or address it. It also gives us permission to let go..... Thanks so much and give the new pupper a scratch for us.
Oh Karen, it feels like I have confessed all my quilting sins and you just spoke them out loud. 🤣😂 Thanks again for giving me that reality check and the sweetest of nudges toward that project in the back of my closet. You are truly an amazing person and I so look forward to that little bell that announces another one of your videos. 🥰
It was nice for me to learn that you have attended classes that you did not enjoy either. After I learned that the owner and teacher (of a local quilt shop) did not like me, or anyone in the same class I was in, I bought my last three kits from her and quit visiting her shop. My father taught me that it is very rude to jurk something out of someone hand (which she did to me - then she cut my paid for project up in front of me - without asking my permission to do so). I still don't understand why she did the things she did; but, it worked (I don't go near her shop (or refer anyone to her) anymore. We are very lucky to have other quilt shops around here. I went hunting and found many sewing/quilting teachers who really love to teach. Most of them work for free; because, they want to keep this art form going. Don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for help. You may be helping someone else while doing so. There are a lot of really bad sewing teachers out there whom may upset new students so badly that they give up. If you are not happy with your sewing/quilt skills teacher, shop around. There are many good teachers. Many of them are on-line free. You may watch their videos as often as you need to; and, you may ask questions.
Gosh sounds like the teacher and owner needs a different path I taught a class in Idaho quilt club It was the best day ever and so much fun Taught Also learned Had fun And the food was yum And yep the class was free We did the bulls eye quilt Quilting is supposed to be our happy place keep stitching and smiling
Cut your project up??? I would not have bought Anything from her again, last 3 kits or whatever! I left a papercrafting group because a (now former )friend who had invited me kept taking my project out of my hands to "show me how to do it". Well, it wasn't my project anymore, it became hers. After a few months of that nonsense, I decided I just prefer to craft with my family or alone.
When I retired I finished a wedding quilt in time for my brother’s 20th wedding anniversary! They loved it. And, it was wonderful to remove this from my guilt pile!!!! Thanks Karen!
Finishing a quilt by adding negative space is positively brilliant (punny fun)! Mind blown! Unfinished projects can be repurposed: a baggie of orphan patches from an anonymous donor is becoming three blocks of a “bed skirt” strip for the front of a daybed.
Karen, there are not enough English words to fully describe how brilliant your RUclips Channel is. You have given so much to the quilting community. I really feel like I’m a better person because of you 😊Sending you genuine gratitude 🙏 You are a Canadian Icon that am extremely proud of 🇨🇦
Thank you for your videos. I had fabric from 1990 that I had bought to make my 6 year old daughter a double quilt for her bed and for matching curtains.It had blocks with mama and baby farm animals and coordinating fabric of cream, yellow, peach, blue and sage. (We lived on a farm at the time). Life took us in many directions in the in the past 20 years. During the lock downs I dug this UFO out and made 3 lovely quilts for Quilts for Kids that our quilting group donates to the children cancer patients at the Hospital here in Florida. I also made one larger twin quilt that I recently donated to the Kentucky tornado victims along with 3 other finished quilts. I infuse them with healing energy and a prayer. My goal is to finish up 3 other UFO's so that they will be ready to donate if I decide I don't need to keep them for myself. It is such a good feeling to finish them and know that they are giving comfort to someone.
I used to feel like a failure about the ufo’s that I had no motivation to complete... but hearing you say that I might have matured as a quilter and I might just know that isn’t the type of quilt that I like to make now...makes me feel much better:)
During the beginning of the quarantine, I opened, evaluated and completed a very old UFO, which led me to have the courage and skills to complete another GIANT King UFO. Completing that project lead me to a new crazy quilt project which was my best ever (so far). So happy to have those things out of my closet! Thanks for all your help.
Last summer, during quarantine, I finished all my UFOs. Two of them were over 15 years old! It felt really good to complete them and I learned a lot in the process. I also made several quilt gifts using older fabric from my stash. It made me so happy to use what I had so I can move forward with new projects.
This was exactly what I needed to see, for confirmation. Among my UFO's is a log cabin quilt I started for my " little boy" in 1988. The top was completely done, then life happened and I took a 30 year hiatus from quilting. The calico fabrics and colors are so 80's...cornflower blue, sage green, peach, cream... absolutely not my thing now. I planned on bringing it to my quilt guild meeting for someone to complete as a charity quilt. On a "whim", I set it out yesterday knowing that my son, now 38, was coming over and could see it for the first time. I asked if he wanted me to finish it for him ( I was sure he would not), or donate it. He said he'd love to have it, and would keep it in the hope chest he inherited from my parents, already full of family memorabilia. Who knew? 🤷 Thank you, Karen! You've given me the nudge, and direction, I needed to tackle this and several other pieces of my quilt history!
I have a music player in my sewing room. My rule of thumb is to start a record (album, LP or equivalent) and work on my project at least until the end of the record. Even if it's a tedious task, it's something to do while I listen to a favorite record.
This is great! Mine usually turn into table runners, hot pads, placemats and back of quilt expanders for those quilts I just didn’t have enough backing for. I have learned to make sample blocks before starting quilts to make sure I enjoy the block. I use the same fabric every time and collect them in a pile for a sample quilt to avoid the guilt of starting a project I can’t finish.
We renovated a full gut house over two years and had a baby toward the end. My sewing room is now getting set up (baby is 15 months and another on the way....) So everything is a UFO Talk about overwhelm! I'm addressing a pile of fleece blankets first (they're easy to complete and take up a lot of space) and hopefully that will catapult me to complete the 10k other projects I have lined up
Hi Karen. Sharing with you that my Mom loves watching and being inspired by you. She's 88 and currently is completing way more quilting projects than I!! Thank you!!⚘💙
I follow Jenny, Donna, and you. Those two are my go to sights when I’m looking for quilt ideas. You are the one I come to, to learn the practical side of quilting. Loved your stash buster videos! You always show me something that is very useful. I enjoy that and I enjoy your delivery. Your tone is calming and easy to listen to. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Watch you soon 💜
This gave me the courage to pull out the baby quilt I started when my niece was born...she’s graduating from high school this month! It was 80% done - hand quilted - can’t remember why I stopped. But it’s still so pretty, will finish and give it to her with an explanation and a check
When I was scrambling around as a freelance writer in between retiring for my NY pension, and then being old enough for Social Security, I studied ways to be more productive, more organized, etc. I love the fact that you bring that to quilting. I have more time, and don't need to use a timer or anything now, but you hit the nail on the head with reasons why we do, or don't do, tasks. Most of freelance writing isn't actually writing. It is getting work to do, and then getting paid for your work by sending out invoices, etc. Even with more time, I still do things like have a cup of coffee and browse my stash of magazines, and think, "Hey! I made that Nine Holes in the Barn Door quilt!" And then I have to go find it in a storage tub. Once the weather turns, I'm on a horse, or growing food in the garden.
Bravo Karen. There is quite a bit of psychology in why we do what we do. You bringing light to the roadblocks makes it ok to be where we are on our path. Thank you
I love how you give us “permission” to NOT finish. Growing I was taught not to quit and to “get my money’s worth” but sometimes quitting is the very best option and my time is better used elsewhere.
You are so brilliant and thoughtful, Karen!!! Thank you so much for weaving the emotional triggers through you tutorials! I have been watching you since the very beginning of my quilt making and (I think) the beginning of your RUclips journey! You influence my quilting world SO much... I have masking always at hand, am working on my Mount Scrapmore today and have used your "Ugly" quilt block pattern more times than I'd like to admit! I am a huge fan and appreciate you SO much!
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts About to happen. 3 of us went in together and bought a 25 year old longarm machine (not computerized). We've played on an old sheet & crappy yardage, and want to try something real. Sorting through all my UFOs to find the least favourite for that experiment.
My friend has a small round kitchen table in her vacation home. But we always admire our cute placemats - those 12 inch orphan blocks that she quilts and binds!
Sometimes I like to piece. Sometimes I like to hand quilt. By evaluating my projects, I know what phase it's in. So now I can pull projects by phase and work on the project that is going to give me joy! 💖🌞🌵😷
Good morning everyone. If sewing is part of your weekend, maybe it’s time to start thinking about that old UFO in the back of your closet. It might feel like you are tackling a monster but in the light of day it’s not so scary. Grab your cup of ☕️ and enjoy. 🤗
What great timing. I finished a 15 yo UFO today and while I’m on a roll I put another one up on my design board to start remembering and working through it.
Even though I'm not a quilter I thoroughly enjoy your videos, your way of thinking and acknowledging the variety of struggles we can have. Sometimes it has nothing to do with the project and everything to do with... life. I've found many of your insights and approaches applicable to a variety of creative endeavours.
I noticed that after working on a quilt a while, my eyes get tired of those colors and I need to alternate between two or three quilts of very different colors . Thank you for showing the variant layouts and the use of empty space.
Me, too! If it’s a large project, I do get tired of looking at the colors and have to work on a different or smaller project for awhile. What I have are a lot of finished quilt tops, but my knees refuse to crawl around on the floor to baste them. I’m trying to find better methods to baste them so I can get them done. Maybe I just need to scale down the size of my projects 🙄.
@@kathyeubanks5524 it is so fun to hear from you. I took up quilting two years ago, and moved from trying to lay out a quilt top in my impossibly cluttered house, to wide spacious work tables at my son’s woodworking /auto body shop. So I know how it is! Sometimes I imagine taking silly pictures of myself cutting fabric with a powermatic table saw or Festool compound miter saw! I can make quilts and build a house to put them in and then work on my car. But I only do lap quilts at the most about 55 inches. I don’t even pray on my knees, it hurts!😄
@@Cassandra-..- hahaha! I used to cut thousands of pieces of wood at a 45 degree angle. I showed my son how I assemble a quilt and showed him how we like to have the seams and points line up, and he understood! He liked it. He was very careful when cutting and assembling wood for making custom kitchens and other things.
@@kathyeubanks5524 I created large work surfaces by putting sheets of MDF or plywood on homemade wooden rolling carts that are 4x4’ with a bottom shelf and four corner posts with top rails. The plywood sits right on top of the rails and I threw a couple of screws at it . I can store lots of things inside the carts. I can put them together for bigger projects, and I can separate them so I can walk around them easily. ( My third table is a 4x8 sheet of MDF sitting on a car lift! That was a great idea.) if I had to move back home I would bring the plywood and MDF and a rolling cart and use my back room and some tables.
Love your comments, tricks and tips!! Thanks to listening to you I got my Mojo back after my sister died. It was a very dark time. She was my cheerleader!! Thanks again Cathie
Another idea for blocks that are just calling your name anymore, I use them for the foundation fabric for totes, wallets, purses, etc. It's a great way to use up orphan blocks, too. Plus you end up with a personalized project for someone you love.
Excellent video, Karen! Thank you for discussing both the emotional and practical aspects of completing UFOs along with your practical tips for getting them done. I learned a lot!
Omgosh, truth 💯 I'm working on my UFO this weekend- two lap quilts for a coworker, made out of his deceased Father-in-law's flannel shirts. I hate the projects for several reasons, but I got to "Get it Done" and this is THE weekend. ❤ all your videos, but this one was so specifically timely- thank you!
I have an unknown number of quilt tops. You are inspiring me to get them off the top shelf of my cubbies, where they stare at me every day, and inventory. Part of my problem has been having a five year old grandson around, before and after his three hours of preschool. I have used the preschool freedom to do other chores or exercise, but his mother, the teacher, will be off for the summer May 31st, and then I can iron without fear of him getting burned, and take “his” “dinosaur table” back as a basting surface! I am so glad I found you; I am currently working on a quilt with my rectangular scraps- something I can do while talking to him and watching his dinosaur tv show.
In 2000 I was in Northern Wisconsin visiting my old friends, when I was handed a large tin container that had been found in a barn. There were lots of cut patchwork pieces, part joined and from all different eras. I was thrilled and carried them home to Scotland. Over the years I’ve made some quilts ,passed some pieces on to Quilting friends and sent some projects back to Wisconsin. It always feels a bit like Christmas when you find a treasure trove like that.
This video spoke to me. You are spot on when you described the emotions that go with UFO's. I am inspired to tackle at least one of them and complete it. TFS
This is great advice. I have one UFO that haunts me from the deep recesses of my sewing room. LOL Now as I think about it in light of your advice, I realize it is there because it was a little beyond my skill level at that time and the bias edges frustrated me. But I know my skills have improved and I am going to pull it back out and get it done. Thank you!👍🙂
Karen,huhyuyyuu As always another very timely video. Although not a quilt, I have a sewing project that I have hanging, unluckily , right in my line of sight whilst I sew. It has been my arch nemesis for some time now. I had recently decided now was the time. This summer I’m finishing it. But your idea of a start date just gave me the okay to put off that start to allow me time to clear up on a few other things and 15 June is when I start. Thanks for all your wonderful input! Love from Ohio 👍😎
What I like about unboxing an UFO is that I often find special tools (rulers or a favorite seem ripper or pack of needles) that I can use on other projects. So open up that box and you might find that white chalk pencil you've been looking for! 💖🌞🌵🙂
I had one quilt that I started for a present after the wedding. I was hoping to finish it by their first anniversary. Well, it was going well then got put aside because of our separation. I didn’t touch it for about 2 years after I had moved but always knew that I wanted to finish it as the main part of the top was almost done. It is now finished and waiting for my ex to come pick it up as the couple are still friends of his but no longer talk to me. Covid has delayed his coming so it is still sitting and waiting for him, along with a long bed cushion I covered with a piece of fabric that I had the guests at the wedding sign.
I’ve just re-evaluated ALL my UFOs from multiple crafts, it was a hell of a shock I can tell you! My oldest was a cross stitch project from 1993! I’ve got a plan for all the ones I want to finish, and also put together kits to get other projects started as I finish something else. As a : Embroiderer, Quilter, Dress and Corsetry maker, Knitter, Spinner, Dyer, Cross Stitcher, Cartonnage and 3D Paper model maker I think my list will take a while to get through!
I had a UFO that I started almost 4 years ago, as a result of having rectangular scraps, and a need for leaders and enders. It was about 40 x 50, and I just could not put any more blocks on it due to design difficulties. I took it to church Monday morning and asked the ladies there for their opinions. One woman and I picked out 3 fabrics and figured out how to make some big borders for it. The top is DONE NOW!
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts , yep. And, this gal isn't even a quilter really. I was given two shoe boxes of scraps from someone's mother 4 years ago, along with the words, "You quilt. You'll know what to do with these!" It was a sweet, marvelous gift when her mother had to move to a nursing home. I have made this quilt top, another Xs and Os top, and I'm making the "after quilt" for the back of this quilt. I'm determined to make these scraps disappear by the end of summer at the latest! It's amazing how much fabric can fit in a shoe box!
In the beginning I started projects that I didn't have the skills to finish. I started to open and finish them. So far I still love them. A lot more time than I thought! Not to mention moving into garden season and I grow and preserve most of my food during this time period. Oops. I have one on my design wall right now.
I recently found an old quilt project in the farthest, darkest corner of my sewing room. It was a bag containing the quilt I was going to make for my son's "big boy" bed. He's now 26 years old..... Clearly no longer the project I originally envisioned! I really like the fabrics, so I have decided to make several baby quilts out of the blocks and donate them to our children's hospital. Great video! Thanks, Karen.
I had a partially completed quilt made using a technique I didn't enjoy. I made place mats out of the done pieces and donated the rest of the fabric. We are enjoying them.
Thanks so much for your channel, Karen! This video got me pulling out my old UFO's and helped me decide what I want to keep, think about, gift, or ditch completely :-)
I miss karen well i dont quilt i dont sew but i do have a sewing michen lol but i do crochet but watching you organization and talk about your projects its helps me with my crochet project and organization thanks girl your awsome and sweet puppy i know you miss you old dog i thought you be doing your intro by walking your dog like your other one lol have fun enjoy and be safe .
You always show us a common sense approach to everything quilting! You hit on everything I go through when I look at my UFO's! Thanks for sharing your tips & tricks - again!
Exactly how I have felt. Moved house a couple of times and found the UFOs in the process. Very scary little trick I must say! Biggest lesson I have learnt when putting project away/aside - put the pattern with it. Ooops. 18 years went by apparently and now I really don’t know what it was supposed to be. But you have given me the push to get on with it from your great videos. Thank you
Karen, this came at a great time for me. I spent time today sorting all my projects, some started and some not. I’m frustrated about losing control but you have helped me see ways that I can get control back. I related to what you said about the emotional reasons I may have abandoned projects. Maybe I should be kinder to myself. I thought through projects today and pinned a note to each one stating what the next step should be. Since I typically have worked more than one project at a time, this is helpful. Maybe doing more than one project at a time isn’t serving me so well. I’m going to try a few of your suggestions. Thank you, thank you!
Thank you for always creating interesting videos. I started quilting at 15 when there was not too much information and certainly no you tube videos. Believe it or not it took me 40 years to actually finish it even though I made many , many quilts inbetween. A bit crazy...but better late than never. I still enjoy watching videos , especially from people like you. Keep up the great work. You have reached people throughout the world. Chana, Israel
Thanks for all your illustrations. Such work I know. Can't wait for the scissors talk. I always look forward to getting a pop up notification from you!
Covid has caused me to look at all my UFOs. I have finished 2 quilts & almost thru w/ 3rd, disassembled 1 and rethinking best way to finish last 1. I ordered a quilting foot & templates & looking forward to curved quilting.
Hi Karen, I’ve got two ufos which are not quilting but need doing . One is an Aran jumper I knitted 3/4’s of when my son was 18 months. He’s now 24, and I no longer like the colour, it will no longer fit me and it’s going to a charity shop unfinished. The other is a blanket I made for my niece, all the pieces are complete but I asked a friend who had a sewing machine to line it with a fleece for me. She made a mess of it and I was so upset I hid it away. This one I’m going to finish, then it will go to a charity shop. My niece is a little old for such a baby blanket, and I don’t want to see it again! I’ve started a bigger project, my first full sized quilt. I find after completing a stage, if I take a short break to make something else, a bag, a toy, a pair of oven gloves, I feel refreshed enough to go on. Your advice has been so helpful to me. Keep up the good work! ⭐️
Thank you for the great tips! Unfortunately, I have to wait for winter to get back on my sewing machine because I just have too much going on in my life right now. I also want to buy a new machine before then. Wish me luck! ☺️👍
Why did I stop making the project? I was tired of making the same wonky star over and over again and I wasn't even halfway through SO - I just made a smaller quilt!
I can't wait to see how you make a quilt coat!! That is a project I would love to try. I would also love to try making a "pouf" out of quilting cotton. They look really fun. Thank you for your tutorials!
I’ve only been quilting for 2 years and have a few that caught my eye but more than my skills are at this time. It’s good to know I’m not the only one this happens to though! Thank you for your video!
I re-discovered a bag of trims that I had sewn into hst a year ago from my first quilt. Many are wonky, but I put them up on the design wall in pillow blocks just to give some direction so I can do one at a time.
Thanks again for another great video. I have a UFO that is about 6 yrs old. It was my 2nd quilt to make. There are so many mistakes, mostly blocks not fitting correctly with the others. Now I know it's from not cutting straight. Anyway, it was suppose to fit my moms bed, but after your video, I'm going to take it down to throw size. Since Mom is always cold, this will be perfect! Thank you again Karen
I have a 15 year old U F O...my hands will not allow me to finish hand-quilting the project. As you were talking, I thought of cutting off the part that is not quilted and make a lap-size quilt instead. Anything is better than leaving the UFO under my bed in a box.
I sat quilting for hours a day, and loved it. Then, my father was I’ll, so I moved across the country, to take care of both my parents. My father died 8 months later, and I have been taking care of my mother for 8 years. Everything has been piled in the garage. My sister is now taking her turn with mom. So, the last few days trying to get a sewing corner set up. I’m getting excited. Wish me luck!
A few years ago my friend's mother passed away from Alzheimer's and she had multiple abandoned projects. Her daughters gathered all the randomness and brought it to me. I spent many months organizing and sewing to make memory quilts for the daughters and grandchildren. Then the even more random blocks and pieces became bags, runners and placemats. This was such a rewarding project!
Nice
God bless you for taking on this project. So glad the family didn't just chuck it all.
What a great story. I am sure the family so appreciated it. I had a friend with terminal cancer. We were just getting into sewing with each other. When she could not sew she gave me everything. She had some unfinished projects I knew were gifts so I finished them and gave them back. We had such a laugh when she got them back because one was for me! I miss her. But the memories are mine to keep
@@sabrinabuoniconti5008 what a lovely story! You are a good friend.
Quite adventurist, I'm positive your friend and family Loved your dedication to getting all those projects to the wanting group.
Just finished a 20 year old UFO and it feels so good to have it done!
We really should hand out 🏅
Congratulations💃💃💃
Mine was only 14 years old, but it's done now and on my bed making me smile!
@@katharinemacey2400 Yeah❗❗❗
That is awesome! Congrats!
I love that you are so different than other sewing sites. You highlight subjects that no one else does. The why we do or don't do things helps us to know and understand so we can move past it or address it. It also gives us permission to let go.....
Thanks so much and give the new pupper a scratch for us.
Thank you
I heartily agree! Karen is deep.
Oh Karen, it feels like I have confessed all my quilting sins and you just spoke them out loud. 🤣😂 Thanks again for giving me that reality check and the sweetest of nudges toward that project in the back of my closet. You are truly an amazing person and I so look forward to that little bell that announces another one of your videos. 🥰
🤗
Same! It's like you read my thoughts before I did!
It was nice for me to learn that you have attended classes that you did not enjoy either.
After I learned that the owner and teacher (of a local quilt shop) did not like me, or anyone in the same class I was in, I bought my last three kits from her and quit visiting her shop. My father taught me that it is very rude to jurk something out of someone hand (which she did to me - then she cut my paid for project up in front of me - without asking my permission to do so). I still don't understand why she did the things she did; but, it worked (I don't go near her shop (or refer anyone to her) anymore.
We are very lucky to have other quilt shops around here. I went hunting and found many sewing/quilting teachers who really love to teach. Most of them work for free; because, they want to keep this art form going. Don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for help. You may be helping someone else while doing so.
There are a lot of really bad sewing teachers out there whom may upset new students so badly that they give up. If you are not happy with your sewing/quilt skills teacher, shop around. There are many good teachers. Many of them are on-line free. You may watch their videos as often as you need to; and, you may ask questions.
Gosh sounds like the teacher and owner needs a different path
I taught a class in Idaho quilt club
It was the best day ever and so much fun
Taught
Also learned
Had fun
And the food was yum
And yep the class was free
We did the bulls eye quilt
Quilting is supposed to be our happy place keep stitching and smiling
Cut your project up??? I would not have bought Anything from her again, last 3 kits or whatever!
I left a papercrafting group because a (now former )friend who had invited me kept taking my project out of my hands to "show me how to do it". Well, it wasn't my project anymore, it became hers. After a few months of that nonsense, I decided I just prefer to craft with my family or alone.
When I retired I finished a wedding quilt in time for my brother’s 20th wedding anniversary! They loved it. And, it was wonderful to remove this from my guilt pile!!!! Thanks Karen!
Hi Anne
Finishing a quilt by adding negative space is positively brilliant (punny fun)! Mind blown! Unfinished projects can be repurposed: a baggie of orphan patches from an anonymous donor is becoming three blocks of a “bed skirt” strip for the front of a daybed.
Karen, there are not enough English words to fully describe how brilliant your RUclips Channel is. You have given so much to the quilting community. I really feel like I’m a better person because of you 😊Sending you genuine gratitude 🙏
You are a Canadian Icon that am extremely proud of 🇨🇦
Thank you
Thank you for your videos. I had fabric from 1990 that I had bought to make my 6 year old daughter a double quilt for her bed and for matching curtains.It had blocks with mama and baby farm animals and coordinating fabric of cream, yellow, peach, blue and sage. (We lived on a farm at the time). Life took us in many directions in the in the past 20 years. During the lock downs I dug this UFO out and made 3 lovely quilts for Quilts for Kids that our quilting group donates to the children cancer patients at the Hospital here in Florida. I also made one larger twin quilt that I recently donated to the Kentucky tornado victims along with 3 other finished quilts. I infuse them with healing energy and a prayer. My goal is to finish up 3 other UFO's so that they will be ready to donate if I decide I don't need to keep them for myself. It is such a good feeling to finish them and know that they are giving comfort to someone.
I used to feel like a failure about the ufo’s that I had no motivation to complete... but hearing you say that I might have matured as a quilter and I might just know that isn’t the type of quilt that I like to make now...makes me feel much better:)
During the beginning of the quarantine, I opened, evaluated and completed a very old UFO, which led me to have the courage and skills to complete another GIANT King UFO. Completing that project lead me to a new crazy quilt project which was my best ever (so far). So happy to have those things out of my closet! Thanks for all your help.
Hi Nancy
Last summer, during quarantine, I finished all my UFOs. Two of them were over 15 years old! It felt really good to complete them and I learned a lot in the process. I also made several quilt gifts using older fabric from my stash. It made me so happy to use what I had so I can move forward with new projects.
Hi Angela
This was exactly what I needed to see, for confirmation. Among my UFO's is a log cabin quilt I started for my " little boy" in 1988. The top was completely done, then life happened and I took a 30 year hiatus from quilting. The calico fabrics and colors are so 80's...cornflower blue, sage green, peach, cream... absolutely not my thing now. I planned on bringing it to my quilt guild meeting for someone to complete as a charity quilt. On a "whim", I set it out yesterday knowing that my son, now 38, was coming over and could see it for the first time. I asked if he wanted me to finish it for him ( I was sure he would not), or donate it. He said he'd love to have it, and would keep it in the hope chest he inherited from my parents, already full of family memorabilia. Who knew? 🤷
Thank you, Karen! You've given me the nudge, and direction, I needed to tackle this and several other pieces of my quilt history!
I can’t wait to see it
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts I will be sure to send you a photo! Thanks again. You're THE BEST! ❤️
Elizabeth, from sunny Southern California!
I have a music player in my sewing room. My rule of thumb is to start a record (album, LP or equivalent) and work on my project at least until the end of the record. Even if it's a tedious task, it's something to do while I listen to a favorite record.
Hello Jennifer
Awesome idea!
My ears perked up when you mentioned, " Quilt Coat " !
Can't wait to see that ... hurry!
This is great! Mine usually turn into table runners, hot pads, placemats and back of quilt expanders for those quilts I just didn’t have enough backing for. I have learned to make sample blocks before starting quilts to make sure I enjoy the block. I use the same fabric every time and collect them in a pile for a sample quilt to avoid the guilt of starting a project I can’t finish.
Very smart!
We renovated a full gut house over two years and had a baby toward the end.
My sewing room is now getting set up (baby is 15 months and another on the way....)
So everything is a UFO
Talk about overwhelm!
I'm addressing a pile of fleece blankets first (they're easy to complete and take up a lot of space) and hopefully that will catapult me to complete the 10k other projects I have lined up
Hi Karen. Sharing with you that my Mom loves watching and being inspired by you. She's 88 and currently is completing way more quilting projects than I!! Thank you!!⚘💙
I follow Jenny, Donna, and you. Those two are my go to sights when I’m looking for quilt ideas. You are the one I come to, to learn the practical side of quilting. Loved your stash buster videos! You always show me something that is very useful. I enjoy that and I enjoy your delivery. Your tone is calming and easy to listen to. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Watch you soon 💜
Check out Becky at power tools with thread...
This gave me the courage to pull out the baby quilt I started when my niece was born...she’s graduating from high school this month! It was 80% done - hand quilted - can’t remember why I stopped. But it’s still so pretty, will finish and give it to her with an explanation and a check
Perfect for her ‘hope chest’!
Hello Mary
When I was scrambling around as a freelance writer in between retiring for my NY pension, and then being old enough for Social Security, I studied ways to be more productive, more organized, etc. I love the fact that you bring that to quilting. I have more time, and don't need to use a timer or anything now, but you hit the nail on the head with reasons why we do, or don't do, tasks. Most of freelance writing isn't actually writing. It is getting work to do, and then getting paid for your work by sending out invoices, etc. Even with more time, I still do things like have a cup of coffee and browse my stash of magazines, and think, "Hey! I made that Nine Holes in the Barn Door quilt!" And then I have to go find it in a storage tub. Once the weather turns, I'm on a horse, or growing food in the garden.
I have learned that I work better on complex projects while at home, and simple, non-thinking projects at a group sewing day.
Hello Elaine
Bravo Karen. There is quite a bit of psychology in why we do what we do. You bringing light to the roadblocks makes it ok to be where we are on our path. Thank you
Hi Donna
I love how you give us “permission” to NOT finish. Growing I was taught not to quit and to “get my money’s worth” but sometimes quitting is the very best option and my time is better used elsewhere.
You are so brilliant and thoughtful, Karen!!! Thank you so much for weaving the emotional triggers through you tutorials! I have been watching you since the very beginning of my quilt making and (I think) the beginning of your RUclips journey! You influence my quilting world SO much... I have masking always at hand, am working on my Mount Scrapmore today and have used your "Ugly" quilt block pattern more times than I'd like to admit! I am a huge fan and appreciate you SO much!
🤗
I have so many unfinished projects - from table runners to wall hangings to queen size - that I think I'd need a trampoline to jump start them.
Bite off one at a time.
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts About to happen. 3 of us went in together and bought a 25 year old longarm machine (not computerized). We've played on an old sheet & crappy yardage, and want to try something real. Sorting through all my UFOs to find the least favourite for that experiment.
My friend has a small round kitchen table in her vacation home. But we always admire our cute placemats - those 12 inch orphan blocks that she quilts and binds!
Hello how are you doing my friend
Sometimes I like to piece. Sometimes I like to hand quilt. By evaluating my projects, I know what phase it's in. So now I can pull projects by phase and work on the project that is going to give me joy! 💖🌞🌵😷
Good morning everyone. If sewing is part of your weekend, maybe it’s time to start thinking about that old UFO in the back of your closet. It might feel like you are tackling a monster but in the light of day it’s not so scary. Grab your cup of ☕️ and enjoy. 🤗
What great timing. I finished a 15 yo UFO today and while I’m on a roll I put another one up on my design board to start remembering and working through it.
Two days ago I finished a quilt project from 1984! Felt great to finish. Why did I wait sooooo long.... forgot about it! 😂
Even though I'm not a quilter I thoroughly enjoy your videos, your way of thinking and acknowledging the variety of struggles we can have. Sometimes it has nothing to do with the project and everything to do with... life. I've found many of your insights and approaches applicable to a variety of creative endeavours.
I can't wait to see you do the coat.
I noticed that after working on a quilt a while, my eyes get tired of those colors and I need to alternate between two or three quilts of very different colors . Thank you for showing the variant layouts and the use of empty space.
Me, too! If it’s a large project, I do get tired of looking at the colors and have to work on a different or smaller project for awhile. What I have are a lot of finished quilt tops, but my knees refuse to crawl around on the floor to baste them. I’m trying to find better methods to baste them so I can get them done. Maybe I just need to scale down the size of my projects 🙄.
@@kathyeubanks5524 it is so fun to hear from you. I took up quilting two years ago, and moved from trying to lay out a quilt top in my impossibly cluttered house, to wide spacious work tables at my son’s woodworking /auto body shop. So I know how it is! Sometimes I imagine taking silly pictures of myself cutting fabric with a powermatic table saw or Festool compound miter saw! I can make quilts and build a house to put them in and then work on my car. But I only do lap quilts at the most about 55 inches. I don’t even pray on my knees, it hurts!😄
@Patty Sherwood Those would be fantastic photos! Easier to get good mitered corners on your borders!
@@Cassandra-..- hahaha! I used to cut thousands of pieces of wood at a 45 degree angle. I showed my son how I assemble a quilt and showed him how we like to have the seams and points line up, and he understood! He liked it. He was very careful when cutting and assembling wood for making custom kitchens and other things.
@@kathyeubanks5524 I created large work surfaces by putting sheets of MDF or plywood on homemade wooden rolling carts that are 4x4’ with a bottom shelf and four corner posts with top rails. The plywood sits right on top of the rails and I threw a couple of screws at it . I can store lots of things inside the carts. I can put them together for bigger projects, and I can separate them so I can walk around them easily. ( My third table is a 4x8 sheet of MDF sitting on a car lift! That was a great idea.) if I had to move back home I would bring the plywood and MDF and a rolling cart and use my back room and some tables.
Love your comments, tricks and tips!! Thanks to listening to you I got my Mojo back after my sister died. It was a very dark time. She was my cheerleader!! Thanks again Cathie
🤗🤗🤗
Really enjoy your videos! Very organized and concise without a lot of airtime talk.
Hi
Another idea for blocks that are just calling your name anymore, I use them for the foundation fabric for totes, wallets, purses, etc. It's a great way to use up orphan blocks, too. Plus you end up with a personalized project for someone you love.
Good idea
I love this!
Karen, you look fresh and distressed, and rested. I am looking forward to this show.
Hi how are you doing my friend
That plum colored jacket looks really GREAT on you! I also like your hair cut and color in this video! Lookin' good girl!
Excellent video, Karen! Thank you for discussing both the emotional and practical
aspects of completing UFOs along with your practical tips for getting them done. I learned a lot!
Omgosh, truth 💯 I'm working on my UFO this weekend- two lap quilts for a coworker, made out of his deceased Father-in-law's flannel shirts. I hate the projects for several reasons, but I got to "Get it Done" and this is THE weekend. ❤ all your videos, but this one was so specifically timely- thank you!
Hi Patti
I have an unknown number of quilt tops. You are inspiring me to get them off the top shelf of my cubbies, where they stare at me every day, and inventory. Part of my problem has been having a five year old grandson around, before and after his three hours of preschool. I have used the preschool freedom to do other chores or exercise, but his mother, the teacher, will be off for the summer May 31st, and then I can iron without fear of him getting burned, and take “his” “dinosaur table” back as a basting surface! I am so glad I found you; I am currently working on a quilt with my rectangular scraps- something I can do while talking to him and watching his dinosaur tv show.
🤗 good work arounds
In 2000 I was in Northern Wisconsin visiting my old friends, when I was handed a large tin container that had been found in a barn. There were lots of cut patchwork pieces, part joined and from all different eras. I was thrilled and carried them home to Scotland. Over the years I’ve made some quilts ,passed some pieces on to Quilting friends and sent some projects back to Wisconsin. It always feels a bit like Christmas when you find a treasure trove like that.
I know exactly what you mean…I’m even jealous of your treasure
Oh how I wish it were just ONE project 🤣🤣 Let’s hope for some rainy days so I can assess, work on and complete some 👍👍
It's never just one project
This video spoke to me. You are spot on when you described the emotions that go with UFO's. I am inspired to tackle at least one of them and complete it. TFS
Excellent video. Thank you. 🇨🇦
This is great advice. I have one UFO that haunts me from the deep recesses of my sewing room. LOL Now as I think about it in light of your advice, I realize it is there because it was a little beyond my skill level at that time and the bias edges frustrated me. But I know my skills have improved and I am going to pull it back out and get it done. Thank you!👍🙂
Karen,huhyuyyuu
As always another very timely video. Although not a quilt, I have a sewing project that I have hanging, unluckily , right in my line of sight whilst I sew. It has been my arch nemesis for some time now. I had recently decided now was the time. This summer I’m finishing it. But your idea of a start date just gave me the okay to put off that start to allow me time to clear up on a few other things and 15 June is when I start.
Thanks for all your wonderful input!
Love from Ohio 👍😎
Hi Beth
What I like about unboxing an UFO is that I often find special tools (rulers or a favorite seem ripper or pack of needles) that I can use on other projects. So open up that box and you might find that white chalk pencil you've been looking for! 💖🌞🌵🙂
So true
I had one quilt that I started for a present after the wedding. I was hoping to finish it by their first anniversary. Well, it was going well then got put aside because of our separation. I didn’t touch it for about 2 years after I had moved but always knew that I wanted to finish it as the main part of the top was almost done. It is now finished and waiting for my ex to come pick it up as the couple are still friends of his but no longer talk to me. Covid has delayed his coming so it is still sitting and waiting for him, along with a long bed cushion I covered with a piece of fabric that I had the guests at the wedding sign.
Hi Liza
I needed this video this morning to help get back my sewing mojo. Thank you Karen!
Hi Rachel
I’ve just re-evaluated ALL my UFOs from multiple crafts, it was a hell of a shock I can tell you! My oldest was a cross stitch project from 1993! I’ve got a plan for all the ones I want to finish, and also put together kits to get other projects started as I finish something else. As a : Embroiderer, Quilter, Dress and Corsetry maker, Knitter, Spinner, Dyer, Cross Stitcher, Cartonnage and 3D Paper model maker I think my list will take a while to get through!
Strangely enough, starting a couple of new projects has helped me restart a couple of old ones. Karen, your advice is so spot on!
Wow, a quilted coat can’t wait to watch those videos, thanks so much for your time invested videos.👍❤️😊
I had a UFO that I started almost 4 years ago, as a result of having rectangular scraps, and a need for leaders and enders. It was about 40 x 50, and I just could not put any more blocks on it due to design difficulties. I took it to church Monday morning and asked the ladies there for their opinions. One woman and I picked out 3 fabrics and figured out how to make some big borders for it. The top is DONE NOW!
Sometimes other quilters can see what you can’t
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts , yep. And, this gal isn't even a quilter really. I was given two shoe boxes of scraps from someone's mother 4 years ago, along with the words, "You quilt. You'll know what to do with these!" It was a sweet, marvelous gift when her mother had to move to a nursing home. I have made this quilt top, another Xs and Os top, and I'm making the "after quilt" for the back of this quilt. I'm determined to make these scraps disappear by the end of summer at the latest!
It's amazing how much fabric can fit in a shoe box!
In the beginning I started projects that I didn't have the skills to finish. I started to open and finish them. So far I still love them. A lot more time than I thought! Not to mention moving into garden season and I grow and preserve most of my food during this time period. Oops. I have one on my design wall right now.
I recently found an old quilt project in the farthest, darkest corner of my sewing room. It was a bag containing the quilt I was going to make for my son's "big boy" bed.
He's now 26 years old.....
Clearly no longer the project I originally envisioned! I really like the fabrics, so I have decided to make several baby quilts out of the blocks and donate them to our children's hospital. Great video! Thanks, Karen.
UFO's. yes we have some hide. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY
Good video. Thank you for the encouragement!
Hi Mary
I had a partially completed quilt made using a technique I didn't enjoy. I made place mats out of the done pieces and donated the rest of the fabric. We are enjoying them.
Thanks so much for your channel, Karen! This video got me pulling out my old UFO's and helped me decide what I want to keep, think about, gift, or ditch completely :-)
I miss karen well i dont quilt i dont sew but i do have a sewing michen lol but i do crochet but watching you organization and talk about your projects its helps me with my crochet project and organization thanks girl your awsome and sweet puppy i know you miss you old dog i thought you be doing your intro by walking your dog like your other one lol have fun enjoy and be safe .
I do learn a lot from you
You always show us a common sense approach to everything quilting! You hit on everything I go through when I look at my UFO's! Thanks for sharing your tips & tricks - again!
Hello Mary
Still waiting to see this quilt coat
Thanks for sharing. I will get one out right now! Decisions, decisions.
Hello how are you doing my friend
Perfect timing .... I pulled out an UFO yesterday and took a block to the fabric store to figure out how to finish it.
You gave me the boost I needed..thank you 😁
Hi Carolyn
I need that fabric with the horses.
I also always keep your very good ironing method in mind... even if i don't always have the patience :-)
Exactly how I have felt. Moved house a couple of times and found the UFOs in the process. Very scary little trick I must say! Biggest lesson I have learnt when putting project away/aside - put the pattern with it. Ooops. 18 years went by apparently and now I really don’t know what it was supposed to be. But you have given me the push to get on with it from your great videos. Thank you
I'll have to go back and watch the ending again because once you said QUILT COAT my brain was spinning. I'm so excited to see what you come up with!
LOL
When is your quilt coat coming!?!?!? I really want to make one and I’d love to know what pattern you are using!
Karen, this came at a great time for me. I spent time today sorting all my projects, some started and some not. I’m frustrated about losing control but you have helped me see ways that I can get control back. I related to what you said about the emotional reasons I may have abandoned projects. Maybe I should be kinder to myself. I thought through projects today and pinned a note to each one stating what the next step should be. Since I typically have worked more than one project at a time, this is helpful. Maybe doing more than one project at a time isn’t serving me so well. I’m going to try a few of your suggestions. Thank you, thank you!
Hi Julia
Hope you are safe from the virus?
Thank you for always creating interesting videos. I started quilting at 15 when there was not too much information and certainly no you tube videos. Believe it or not it took me 40 years to actually finish it even though I made many , many quilts inbetween. A bit crazy...but better late than never. I still enjoy watching videos , especially from people like you. Keep up the great work. You have reached people throughout the world.
Chana, Israel
Thank you
I am excited about the quilt block coat! I just bought a pattern🥰
Hello how are you doing my friend
Thanks for all your illustrations. Such work I know. Can't wait for the scissors talk. I always look forward to getting a pop up notification from you!
Hi
Covid has caused me to look at all my UFOs. I have finished 2 quilts & almost thru w/ 3rd, disassembled 1 and rethinking best way to finish last 1. I ordered a quilting foot & templates & looking forward to curved quilting.
Yes, one of the upsides of isolation
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts Wish I could send you the picture of my cat bathing as I'm working on my quilt
Great advice again. Time is my biggest problem. I plan to do my projects, then I get asked to do sewing jobs for someone else.👍🇦🇺
Just what I needed to hear! Small steps will get UFOs completed.
Hello how are you doing my friend
Oh great the puppy
Hi Karen, I’ve got two ufos which are not quilting but need doing . One is an Aran jumper I knitted 3/4’s of when my son was 18 months. He’s now 24, and I no longer like the colour, it will no longer fit me and it’s going to a charity shop unfinished. The other is a blanket I made for my niece, all the pieces are complete but I asked a friend who had a sewing machine to line it with a fleece for me. She made a mess of it and I was so upset I hid it away. This one I’m going to finish, then it will go to a charity shop. My niece is a little old for such a baby blanket, and I don’t want to see it again! I’ve started a bigger project, my first full sized quilt. I find after completing a stage, if I take a short break to make something else, a bag, a toy, a pair of oven gloves, I feel refreshed enough to go on. Your advice has been so helpful to me. Keep up the good work! ⭐️
You always have great advice and I learn something every time I watch your videos. Love all the Tula Pink fabric too!
Hello Donna
Thank you for the great tips! Unfortunately, I have to wait for winter to get back on my sewing machine because I just have too much going on in my life right now. I also want to buy a new machine before then. Wish me luck! ☺️👍
You have a quilting season...cool
Why did I stop making the project? I was tired of making the same wonky star over and over again and I wasn't even halfway through SO - I just made a smaller quilt!
Inspiring. Thank you, Karen 🌸
I can't wait to see how you make a quilt coat!! That is a project I would love to try. I would also love to try making a "pouf" out of quilting cotton. They look really fun. Thank you for your tutorials!
Hi Laurie
I have two quilts where the blocks are finished so now to put them together thanks for the video
Perfect timing for this video! Thank you!
mine are not abandoned, just in time out! They need to decide to behave!
I have 5 UFO which I love.
Hi Maureen
Omg, a quilt promised and never finished, I’ve been so gulity
Hello Cheryl
I’ve only been quilting for 2 years and have a few that caught my eye but more than my skills are at this time. It’s good to know I’m not the only one this happens to though! Thank you for your video!
Thank you for this! Sometimes with these old projects the only way out is through...
I re-discovered a bag of trims that I had sewn into hst a year ago from my first quilt. Many are wonky, but I put them up on the design wall in pillow blocks just to give some direction so I can do one at a time.
Hello
Thanks again for another great video. I have a UFO that is about 6 yrs old. It was my 2nd quilt to make. There are so many mistakes, mostly blocks not fitting correctly with the others. Now I know it's from not cutting straight. Anyway, it was suppose to fit my moms bed, but after your video, I'm going to take it down to throw size. Since Mom is always cold, this will be perfect! Thank you again Karen
Great solution
@@JustGetitDoneQuilts Thank you, it was your suggestion. I had one of those "duh" moments when you said it, lol.
Waiting for quilted coat video! ♥️♥️
I finished Dear Jane during lockdown. One down many to go. Sigh!
I’ll take it and finish it! I love the orange and purple combinations.
Thanks for the tips!
I have a 15 year old U F O...my hands will not allow me to finish hand-quilting the project. As you were talking, I thought of cutting off the part that is not quilted and make a lap-size quilt instead. Anything is better than leaving the UFO under my bed in a box.