FABRIC & QUILTING

Sweetie Pie Quilt Along Blog Tour – Blueberry

2 Comments / Posy Garden Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing /

It’s a double blogpost kind of day because I have both sewing and paper on the mind (see new tutorial for SVGS in the post below). Today I get to show you my quilt block from Lori Holt’s Sweetie Pie Quilt!

Riley Blake has teamed up with fellow designer Lori Holt to give you two free video tutorials on this quilt along with all the instructions for free. I had a blast putting together the blueberry block in my Posy Garden™ fabrics.

Because I had a little extra time at church (yes, I was doing the embroidery at church), I filled in the branches in a thick brown thread. I also had to pull the green from my very first line for Riley Blake Dainty Blossoms™.

Have you been making this quilt? What kinds of fabrics are you using?

Happy Sewing!
Carina

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February & March Posy Garden Block of the Month

1 Comment / Carina Gardner TV, Classes, Posy Garden Fabric, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials /

IMG_6939_1instagram

I think I managed to forget to do a post on Block of the Month for February so I’m doing double duty today!

I’m a bit late, but March block of the month is finally up! We had some technically difficulties over the last few days with the website so I’m so happy everything seems to be resolved with our hosting company.

March’s video is a bit long but hopefully helps all of you beginners put together this video. If you can’t tell, I had fun making it (wink, wink). The downloads are all available in the shop for free (as per usual). I use Posy Garden fabric (with minky on the back for Felicity), but you can make it in any fabric you want. Felicity and I also tested a portion of the inside of this quilt with Primrose Garden (I’ll make sure to post a pic soon on Facebook).

Hope you have fun making it!!!!

XOXO- Carina

February 2017 BLOCK VIDEO

Grab the FEBRUARY DOWNLOAD here.

March 2017 BLOCK VIDEO

Grab the MARCH DOWNLOAD here.

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Carina Gardner’s 2017 Block of the Month

Fabric, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials /

I’m so excited to introduce the 2017 Block of the Month Quilt! I’ve posted the introduction to this year’s block of the month below along with the January video! As always, you will be able to access everything on my 2017 BLOCK OF THE MONTH PAGE. That page is updated monthly with all the videos and download links you need! Check out the quilt we will be making!

INTRODUCTION

MATERIALS
This is a scrappy quilt and you can make it from scraps OR purchase a fat quarter pack to cut your blocks. You can start with me in January or anywhere along the way. I am using my line Posy Garden for Riley Blake in this quilt. Download all the cutting and fabric requirements here:

https://carinagardner.com/store/?model_number=2017bomjanuary
INSTAGRAM
Want to become part of my instagram (@carinagardner) community? Sew with me every month and hashtag #carinagardner the photo of your monthly block so I can see what you are making!
January 2017 BLOCK VIDEO

Grab the JANUARY DOWNLOAD here.

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Six Carina Gardner Free Fabric Projects You Might Have Missed

1 Comment / Dainty Blossoms Fabric Line, Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials /

I posted on instagram the other day a picture of Felicity watching my cut out fabric for my 2017 Block of the Month.  It reminded me that I wanted to put together a list of the SIX FREE FABRIC PROJECTS you might have missed.

freedownloads_carinagardner

  1. Double Ringed Pincushion Pattern (also known as the Donut Pattern!)
  2. Partridge Bird Pattern
  3. Pinfeathers Rosetta Wreath Pattern
  4. Dainty Blossoms Camera Strap Pattern
  5. Reversible Blouse & Dress Pattern
  6. Primrose Garden 18 inch Doll Quilt Pattern

 

Hope you get a chance to download all of these!

Happy Sewing!

XOXO- Carina

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Interview on American Patchwork & Quilting Radio – Episode #320

Fabric, Glamper Renovation, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns /

american-patchwork-quilting-pocast-episode-320-carina-gardnerYesterday I was thrilled (aka nervous!) to be on American Patchwork & Quilting Radio with Pat Sloan. I didn’t get to hear the episode until late last night, but if you are the least bit interested in what I have to say about Barbie doll sewing, Posy Garden, how I got into fabric, and my glamper, go check it out here:

http://blog.patsloan.com/radio-shows/

Choose Episode 320:).

XOXO-Carina

 

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Posy Garden Blog Hop & PreSale of Simply Modern Patchwork Quilts

Books, Fabric, Posy Garden Fabric, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Stuff I Love, Tutorials /

PosyGardenSewingProjects_2_stroke_smToday is the start of our wonderful BlogHop with Riley Blake Designs for my new collection Posy Garden! I can’t wait for you to see all the amazing goodness that is about to be unveiled over the next two weeks! It’s going to be awesome!

Along with that! My new (and first!) eBook called Simply Modern Patchwork Quilts goes on presale today! Eeek! I’m so excited! It will release on August 15th in the Kindle Store on Amazon. I’ll add links here as soon as the presale goes live! I know we are doing a HEFTY discount for the presale so keep your eyes open for it!

***NOTE: It’s on PRESALE NOW! Go to Amazon to purchase it here. The presale price is $4.99. which is 50% off the regular price of $9.99 through AUGUST 15th when it becomes available! That’s less than 50 cents per pattern! Make sure and grab it during the presale period!

There are also four contributing pattern designers to the book including Amy Webb, Amanda Neiderhauser, Christine Cook, and Angie Tackett! These ladies did a fabulous job and I can’t wait for you to see what they have done!

As for the Bloghop, here is the list you are going to want to visit everyday! Come back to this post to link over to these ladies blogs!

I’ll also be reposting their projects over the next two weeks on instagram if you want to follow over there.06_gardenpatchquilt

Okay, here’s the amazing line up!

Monday, August 1st: My Sewing Haven with Carla Peicheff

Tuesday, August 2nd Happy Little Cottage with Debbie Homick

Tuesday, August 2nd The Family Hearth with Bridgette McNay

Wednesday, August 3rd Fort Worth Fabric Studio with Lindsey Weight

Wednesday, August 3rd Happy Quilting Melissa with Melissa Corry

Thursday, August 4th Pretty By Hand with Kristyne Czepuryk

Thursday, August 4th Out of the Blue with Sondra Davison

Friday, August 5th Samelia’s Mom with Anorina Morris

Friday, August 5th Free Time Frolics with Adrienne Woods

Monday, August 8th Flamingo Toes with Bev McCullough

Monday, August 8th Silly Mama Quilts with Brooke Sellmann

Tuesday, August 9th Snickerdoodle Stew with Jessica Stewart

Tuesday, August 9th A Little Patchwork with Ange Hamilton

Wednesday, August 10th Ameroonie Designs with Amy Chappell

Thursday, August 11th One Little Pooh with Tina

Thursday, August 11th Jedi Craft Girl with Amanda Neiderhauser

Friday, August 12th Stitching Revival with Christine Cook

I’m so excited to see all their amazing projects! It’s going to keep myself from sewing all week!

Carina

Psst! If you are in Utah, make sure to come visit me at Elaine’s Quilt shop this weekend on August 6th! I’m teaching a free class in the morning and the Clean Star Quilt in the afternoon. My glamper will also be there to tour all day!

 

 

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Join Carina Gardner August 6, 2016 at Elaine’s Quilt Block in Salt Lake City

EVENTS, Fabric, Posy Garden Fabric /

IMG_3070_1_webThat’s right! I’m going to be at Elaine’s Quilt Block! Put Saturday, August 6, 2016 on your calendar because I am pulling in my glamper and teaching classes! Here’s what is happening!

When: SATURDAY, AUGUST 6, 2016
Where: ELAINE’S QUILT BLOCK
6970 S 3000 E
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
What: Classes, Glamper Walk Through, Kits, and Raffles!
Class Times: 10am-12pm Modern Granny Square Pillow or Mini Quilt (Shown below)
1pm-3pm Clean Star Quilt (shown in the pic to the left)

Here’s the deal on classes: There is a Posy Garden Kit you will need to buy from Elaine’s for each of the classes. There is a class cost that I believe will be $24.99. I will have raffles sponsored from Riley Blake and I will be making a grand prize for someone to win at the end of the day. Be sure to check Elaine’s Quilt Block for registration and more information on this!

Raffles will be happening throughout the day. I know there will be some cool things happening to enter into that (more on that on instagram!).

The glamper will be set up like we had it for Quilt Market.

 

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I hope you will come join me because we are going to have a wonderful time! I’m so excited to launch Posy Garden.

See you at Elaine’s!
Carina

 

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2016 Quilt Market Recap in Salt Lake City

Fabric, FABRIC & QUILTING, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilt Market, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns /

IMG_3728 I’m still decompressing a bit from market. In fact, when we finished and pulled the entire double booth down, I looked through my photos on my phone and realized that I had been so busy, I hardly took ANY pictures. WHHHAAAT? Whoops.

In the end, you’ll have to visit the hastag #carinaglamps on instagram to see all the going ons that happened in my booth over the course of the three glorious days at Quilt Market 2016 in Salt Lake City.

First off, a story. My glamper was suppose to go in before all the pipe and drape went up in the convention center.

Ya. They forgot about me. When I called the Tuesday before set up, they realized their mistake. So I pulled it in at 8am Wednesday before everyone else came to set up (important since we didn’t want to drive over anyone else and their booths). One of the dock workers pulled it into the Salt Palace for me since exhibitors were technically not allowed in yet. All good.

A bit later, a DIFFERENT dock worker came and asked me if I wanted the door facing out. I’m not sure what the expression on my face was, but I can tell you I was extremely puzzled and confused. I think I mumbled a, “Um, yes? I mean, I want people to actually go INTO it.” Apparently, they had pulled the glamper in BACKWARDS with the door facing the inside of the booth (as in, no one would be able to actually get into it). I believe I heard the dock worker mumble something along the lines of, “I told those idiots that.” as he ran in to the scene of the crime.

Needless to say, they fixed it. I’m not sure how well my booth would have gone over if no one was able to actually go into it to see all the pretty Posy Garden fabric (heehee!).

Because I didn’t leave my booth much, I only have highlights for you. Maybe the biggest highlight (for me) was that the booth won the Creativity Award. I was SO honored! I hadn’t thought about booth awards and I felt grateful to get one. (Photos below: Left—Creativity Booth Award; Right: Baby Coco visits the glamper)

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(Photo below: Left—I spent a lot of time on the chalkboards for this booth; Right—First day of the show.)

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Most of my double booth was taken up by the glamper (which is about 10′ Wide and 17′ in Length), but we also had a fun section of MiniLou at the front and a section in the back for patterns and block of the month. And that darling sign above (the white one with my logo on it) was made by my sister who has a darling etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SKWoodDesigns. She also made the MiniLou one below. (Photos below: Left—this was taken by @emmalinebags; Right—MiniLou).

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I wish I could take credit for all the wonderful sewing in the glamper, but I can’t. I had some fabulous sewers put together many of the projects in the booth. A big thank you to @stitchingrevival Christine Cook, @quiltstorymeg Megan, @mystitchstory Angie Tackett, @amylouwhosews Amy Webb, @farmwifejournal Cherilyn Dunn, @diaryofaquilter Amy Smart 20.2, @jedicraftgirl Amanda Neiderhauser and @happylittlecottage1 Debbie Homick. They made wonderful minis for the glamper.

(Photos below: Left—Amy Smart shows off her mini; Right—Flying Geese Pillow and Garden Patch Quilt I made using my Posy Garden fabric).

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(Photos below: Amanda Niederhauser and her mini; Christine Cook and her mini).

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Last but not least, my mom came into town and helped with my kids, sewing, and cleaning to get me ready for market. She sewed all the curtains, cushions, and gulp, the piping for all the pillows. Did I mention I HATE doing the piping. Ya, she saved me!

(Photos below: Left—Minilou was all the rage at market!; Right—My mom and me at the Chinese bash we threw after market.—That’s my I-am-happy-it-is-all-over-with smile-wink, wink.).

quiltmarket6

It was so fun to catch up with new and old friends. The photos below include Heather Spurlock who works at Elaine’s Quilt Shop (BTW the glamper will be there with classes in August! Stay tuned!) and Deanna Hartvigsen who used to be with Mormon Handicraft but has since retired. Deanna is a dear friend and recently has gone through several rounds of chemotherapy. I couldn’t have been more glad to see her!

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The photo to the left is of MOST of the Riley Blake designers. A few of the designers were missing in this shot.

The other photo is of Josh and I dressed up for the Riley Blake 80’s party. Anybody want to guess at Josh’s movie reference?

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Any that’s the wrap up! It’s always such a treat to be part of the Riley Blake team and I can’t wait for Posy Garden to hit a store near you! Hopefully, I’ll have the swatch book up for it soon!

XOXO, Carina

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Almost there! Quilt Market Starts tomorrow!

Fabric, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns /

IMG_2081_1_1+webTomorrow is the kick off of Quilt Market. Earlier this week, Felicity and I were part of the runway show at Riley Blake’s Retail Fabric Extravaganza. I also did a drop for Riley Blake’s awesome Fabric is Fun 60 days of giveaways that has been going on.

On Wednesday my team and I installed the glamper into the Salt Palace and finished setting up the booth. (We are in Booth #2031 BTW! Come by if you are here). Today I have a Schoolhouse and I’ll be selling MiniLou at Sample Spree.

It’s been a tough few weeks finishing up our mid year launch of products for MiniLou and finishing everything I needed done before Quilt Market. There’s a lot more that goes into Quilt Market than just the sewing (although that takes up a lot of the time!). Organizing other quilters to make projects, ordering catalogs, designing new business cards, ordering flooring/lighting/walls, and getting babysitting are just a few of the things that were on my to-do list.

IMG_2139_instagramwebSpeaking of babysitting, my mom was in for the save. She showed up last Saturday and has helped me sew, watch kids, cook, and clean this whole week. Such a blessing! That kind of help is priceless and I owe you one, Mom!

Quilt Market Summary will be up sometime soon!

XOXO-Carina

(Photo above is my Perfect Hexagon Quilt Sewing Pattern in my Posy Garden fabric line available in quilt stores July 2016. Photo to the left was made by Megan Jimenez of @quiltstorymeg)

 

 

 

 

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Posy Garden Mini Quilts for the Glamper

Glamper Renovation, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilt Market, Quilts, Riley Blake /

2016-04-28 22.38.56_instagram_webThis little thing called Quilt Market has taken over my life. For the next two weeks, I will be cutting, sewing, tucking, and painting (yes, painting!) to get everything ready for Quilt Market.

For those of you who do not know what Quilt Market is, it is a tradeshow for retailers to purchase the new fabric lines coming out. It is twice a year and this spring, it happens to be in Salt Lake. If you are REALLY curious about what Quilt Market is like, you can check out the video I did of several booths in Portland 2013. Skip through to see the different booths (there are a lot!).

Anyway, I have some sneaky peeks of some of the mini quilts that have been arriving for the glamper.  Because this Quilt Market is in Salt Lake, I have the awesome opportunity to feature the glamper in my booth!

(The photo above is a mini made by Debbie of @HappyLittleCottage1).

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This darling little bike one is made by Cherilyn of @FarmWifeJournal. All the little hand stitching is SO sweet!

Most of these mini’s will be placed on the cabinets of the glamper for the show. We’ll also use them in a glamper stop we are doing at Elaine’s Quilt Shop a little later in the summer when my new fabric line Posy Garden is released (Right now we are using digital prints and strike offs!).

2016-04-28 22.27.31_instagram_web

This one was made by Amy of @AmyLouWhoSews….little twinkling stars! Love!

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The beauty above was made by Angie of @MyStitchStory. Love the little hand sewing of the stems of these flowers.

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This little flower mini was made by Amanda of @JediCraftGirl. I love how well this one features all of the fabrics in the Posy Garden fabric collection!

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How about the sweetness (and awesome machine quilting?) done by Christine of @StitchingRevival.

I have a couple more that we haven’t photographed yet, so you’ll just have to wait on those. But what a fabulous sneak peek, right?

Happy Sewing!

Carina

 

 

 

 

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Perfect Hexagon Quilt

Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, Fabric, Posy Garden Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Tutorials /

IMG_9844_1_instagram_webThis is one of those quilts that started MONTHS back…actually when I was in Dallas at a tradeshow for MiniLou. I accepted to teach at the Sew Simply Stitched Retreat and needed to come up with a couple of projects to teach. I love hexagon quilts, and I ADORE all of those gorgeous English Paper Pieced Hexis so naturally one of my projects turned into this Perfect Hexagon Quilt.

FINALLY, this April I released the pattern in my shop. Y-seams can be a little daunting so after teaching it at the retreat, I decided to make a video tutorial that went along with the pattern. This is the first pattern I have done this for—a private video that comes with the purchase of the pattern. Cool, huh?

I’m hoping people like it so that I can make more of these types of videos! (The video below I originally did for my instagram feed. It was so fun I decided to add it here! This is the Perfect Hexagon Quilt done in my new Posy Garden fabric that should arrive July 2016!)

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I’ve made two versions of this quilt now. I’m really excited about the one I made in my new line Posy Garden that I’ll be showcasing at Spring Quilt Market (that is in the video above).

The other quilt is done in Apricot and Persimmon. It’s been a really versatile fabric line and I’d loved everything I have made with it.

The photo to the left captures a look at what a lot of my afternoons look like. Kids doing homework while mom tries work out how to get the fabric to do what she wants:).

Want to learn more about the Hexi Pattern and video? Check it out below:

Now, I’m off to cello lessons tonight and ready for Friday to kick off the weekend! Lots of Posy Garden sewing for me these next couple of days! I’ll try to sneak in some fun pictures of the progress on the glamper next week!

XOXO-Carina

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Audrey Sewing Pattern Collection Maxi Dress Hack

1 Comment / Fabric, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Stuff I Love /

IMG_1120_1croppedLooking back, I’m not sure I even did a blogpost on the Audrey Sewing Collection that premiered in the shop last month. It’s my first knit collection and includes 4 patterns for Misses and 4 patterns for Girls/Teens. The whole collection makes me pretty happy…easy-to-sew, easy-to-wear clothing.

So here’s my first hack with the collection. First of all, I’m a big fan of a summer dress or tunic (hence those lengths throughout the collection). Second, I’m a huge fan of a Maxi! For those of you who have already bought the sewing patterns, you can see that making a maxi seemed out of the question. There are already SO many pieces for you to tape together to make your pattern.

So here’s your hack. Simply add 28 inches of length to the front and back tunic pieces at the bottom. I’d also purchase an extra yard of fabric. Easy right? I don’t get all crazy about straight lines, ect. You just need the length. Longer is always better since you can hem it down.

IMG_1128_1_instagram

IMG_1151_1_webThe fabric you see pictured is Riley Blake’s new ikat knit in navy. I’ve made the short versions of this pattern before but never the maxi and it took me about an hour and a half to make. I used the Misses Style 3 Pattern and used a gold zipper I got from my local craft store.

We took these pictures near one of my favorite restaurants in Las Vegas (we were there for a toy show for my kids company MiniLou) called Eat. It’s a brunch place and the eggs benedict on the weekends is to die for. Or the cinnamon biscuits. Or the egg truffle sandwich. Or the…well, you get the picture.

You can check out the video where I show you how to put together the Style 3 zipper (It’s easier than it looks!) although I did manage to break 4 stretch needles on the zipper because I wasn’t careful about where I was going.

I like using a stretch interfacing when making this. It holds the zipper and fabric together nicely.

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And that’s it! I plan on making this with several of the other Riley Blake knits. Comfortable summer clothing, here I come!

XOXO, Carina

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Join Me for the Sew Simply Stitched Quilt Retreat in March 2016

1 Comment / Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, Classes, Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing /

IMG_4862_instagram_webSome day in the near future I’m going to give you guys a tour of my offices and maybe a day in my life. To come out with as many products as we do at CGInc and MiniLou, well, it means we make A LOT of stuff EVERYDAY. Case in point, yesterday I designed a MiniLou fabric line and today I am finishing up a Cartabella Halloween line. Seriously, the best part of my creative life. And it isn’t just me. It’s my entire team of doers. I’ll be sure to introduce them as well.

But because of my design schedule and the number of tradeshows I already attend, I am careful about the number of events I am willing to commit to. But when Sherie from Sew Simply Stitched asked if I would teach at their first annual Quilt Retreat, it was a resounding yes! I love teaching in my home state of Utah and LOVE meeting quilters in a retreat environment. I love getting to know other sewing pattern enthusiasts and just being able to HANG OUT with them! Are you coming? I hope to see you there.

For those of you who haven’t heard about it (registration for it only opened a couple of weeks ago), here’s some more info. The retreat is from March 17-19 at the Gracie Event Center in Roosevelt, Utah. I’m teaching two classes on making hexagon quilts and one on these fun sketchbook covers (photo above).

IMG_4880_carinagardner_hexagonclass_web

Here’s the details:

CLASS 1
Perfect Hexagons at any Size with a Straight Ruler
Fabric and pattern designer Carina Gardner shows you how to cut out the perfect hexagon from squares and a straight ruler! No need for fancy rulers or templates! She will demonstrate how to sew a Y seam with your hexagons so that you can build a beautiful baby quilt. 

Supplies
  • 4 packs of 5 inch precut squares (with at least 15 fabrics) 
  • OR cut out fifty-nine 5 inch squares 
  • Pencil
  • Rotary Blade and Mat
  • Straight Ruler

CLASS 2

Pieced Notebook Cover Class
Fabric and pattern designer Carina Gardner helps you sew together a beautiful pieced notebook cover for a gift or your own doodle book! She will demonstrate how to put all the pieces together and give you the dimensions for variations on the notebook cover! This cover coordinates with the Kathy’s Zentangle class notebook.
Choose one cover to make in class:
5.5 x 8.5 Sketchbook (aslo used in Zentangle Class)
Supplies
  • Button
  • Hair tie
  • Rotary Blade and Mat
  • Straight Ruler
For the Eight Pointed Star Cover:
  • Fabric scraps including a 
  • 3 in square for the center of the star
  • 4 in x 9 in scrap for points of the star
  • 1/3 yd white fabric
  • 1/3 yd outside cover fabric (shown in the picture as the black fabric) OR one fat quarter
For Striped Cover:
  • 1 Rolie Poly or several fabric scraps at least 24 inches in length
  • 1/3 yd white fabric

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I can promise you, it’s going to be a good time! I have a slew of raffle prizes we will be doing throughout my class, learning great techniques, listening to fun music, and getting to know each other. We are going to try really hard to finish an entire baby hexagon quilt during my 3 hour class.

You can register at the Sew Simply Website here: http://www.sewsimplystitched.com/events. For all you sewing enthusiasts, we also created a fun (private) facebook group if you want to join in here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/558135217677951/. You can share your projects and ask questions. We add tips, exclusive coupons, and sneak peeks of what’s ahead.

Happy Sewing! See you at the retreat!

Carina

 

 

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February Block of Month 2016

1 Comment / Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, Block of the Month, Carina Gardner TV, Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake /

It’s the month of love, and I have a heart block for you for your Home Sweet Home Quilt! This is my second block for our 2016 Block of the Month. Grab the download in the store and watch the video below to join in! Make sure and follow me on instagram (@carinagardner) to post your blocks for our fabric giveaway every month!

Happy Sewing!
Carina

(PS Check instagram for our Block of the Month Quilt giveaway….that’s right! I’m giving away the full quilt sometime this week! Be sure to check it out!)

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New Audrey Sewing Pattern Collection

1 Comment / Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Stuff I Love, Tutorials /

cg024_audrymiss1cover_instagramWe started working on this collection in December. I’ve never been so ambitious before and tried to release 8 sewing patterns at once! But it was an idea that came from loving and wanting to produce a knit collection that was simple to sew and beautiful to wear. Easy enough of a concept….quite a bit more difficult to execute.

And I couldn’t have done it alone! My pattern production assistant worked tirelessly on this collection and made edit after edit as I pinned, cut, and tried to find the SIMPLIEST way to put these patterns together. I hope you love the results!

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This is the first time I have released MISSES and TEEN sizing! You’ll notice that as my family changes in age, I find myself wanting to make what my own kids are wearing.

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So here’s the run down on these patterns.
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  1. There are 3 styles of knit patterns. ALL are easy to make but Style 1 is the easiest and Style 3 the hardest. As you can guess, Style 2 is right in between the other two.
  2. Style 1 is short in front and longer in the back. Style 2 is an A-line with a gusset in the back. Style 3 features a zipper in a yoke on the front. Each of these variations changes the look and styling of the patterns.
  3. There are two lengths on each of the tunic patterns. There is a “blouse/tunic” version (shorter) and a “dress” version (longer). Here’s the deal: they are both LONG. These tunics are meant to be worn with leggings and if you are anything like me, I won’t wear leggings unless they cover my bottom! In the picture above, Felicity (white) is wearing the TUNIC length Style 3, Siri (yellow) is wearing the DRESS length Style 1, and I (stripes) am wearing the TUNIC length Style 2.
  4. IMG_5047_1_instagramThe sleeves are INTERCHANGABLE. There is a 3/4 length sleeve on Style 1, an elbow length sleeve on Style 2, and a cap sleeve on Style 3.
  5. The patterns come in TWO sizes: Misses AND Girl/Teen. The Misses size include 4,6,8,10, and 12. The Girls sizes include 6,8,10,12,14. If you are a size 2 in Misses, you can easily move down to the 14 in Girls/Teen.

 

Did I mention the final two patterns are a Miss and Girl/Teen legging? Yep! SOOO simple to sew together since there is a single seam. We love using the Riley Blake knits for these!

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cg034_leggingcover_webI know some of you are probably afraid to work with knits, but it is a lot simpler than you would think! I have a few pointers for those of you getting started and made a couple of videos to make the process so much easier! Check them out below.

Here are a couple of “important” things that I always do when I start to work with knits:

  1. Change my needle to a STRETCH needle. These can be bought for ALL brands of sewing machine and is meant for knits. This will make your sewing go SO much smoother!
  2. Use the thread that matches the fabric content. So if I have a 60% Polyester and a 40% Cotton fabric, I use a Polyester thread. The only time I do not follow this rule is when I have a cotton based fabric with a small percentage of stretch (like a 5% spandex like a Riley Blake knit). Then I will use a polyester thread because it has more give then a cotton thread.
  3. Surprisingly, you do NOT have to serge knits. It looks nicer and will last longer, but you shouldn’t fret just because you don’t have a serger. You should take a chance on knits with just your regular sewing machine!

(Here are the two videos: Getting Started with Knits and a Tutorial on Style 3!)

IMG_4920_instagrma_webMake sure and take advantage of the 20% sale going on right now on PDF patterns in the shop in honor of the new collection! Put in code AUDREYNEW20. The sale should last through February 2016. it includes ALL PDF patterns including Kid cottons and quilt patterns!

I’d love to hear what you are doing with knits! Join my Facebook page to tell me or my Private Sewing Group on Facebook! As always, I love getting feedback on the patterns and projects I am working on.

 

IMG_5063_1_instagramFinally, there is a good chance we will have handmade Style 1 in Misses S, M, L available for sale in a couple of weeks. We will have a very limited few since these are being made inhouse. Keep your eyes out for these!

Happy sewing!

Carina

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New Audrey Sewing Pattern Collection Read More »

2016 Block of Month Begins!

3 Comments / Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, Block of the Month, Fabric, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns /

IMG_3912_1_webIt’s my first ever Block of the Month! I’m excited to start this year off with a bang! The sampler quilt we are making is called Home Sweet Home and includes darling houses, a tulip, heart, and more!

Every month a new video will be posted on the 15th with a new tutorial. Be sure to also visit the store to download the free pdf of the block measurements that day as well. Our first video posts today so go check it out here: https://carinagardner.com/2016bom/.

You should also check out all the awesome things we are doing on instagram with this quilt! Follow me at @carinagardner to check it out!

Hope you make this quilt with me! I can’t wait to see what you do with it!

XOXO,
Carina

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2016 Block of Month Begins! Read More »

Anything Goes Quilt and Magic 8 Tutorial

Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, FABRIC & QUILTING, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials /

carinagardner_november232015_2_webFinally finished the pattern, the video, and I’m giving away the Anything Goes Quilt PDF Pattern I made on instagram this weekend (be sure to check this out!). This quilt is so versatile! I use the Magic 8 technique to get a lot of triangles cut and sewn all at once. I named it the Anything Goes pattern because it really can make so many different kinds of quilts—flying geese, hour glass, pinwheels, chevrons, and more!

Hope you have a chance to try it out! You can purchase the pattern for it (and see some great options!) here.

Sew lovely,
Carina

 

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Anything Goes Quilt and Magic 8 Tutorial Read More »

Launch Party! PDF Sewing Patterns Now Available at CarinaGardnerShop.com

Apricot and Persimmon Fabric, Carina Gardner TV, Fabric, Quilts, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials, Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Line /

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I’m so excited for today! I’ve been planning this launch for a few weeks now! The team and I have some cool things planned. What kind of cool things you ask? Well, since you asked…

First off, we are now releasing PDF Patterns! Yes, that’s right. This is the official launch of you being able to purchase my patterns in PDF format. You can still also purchase most of my patterns in their physical form (from our website or from your local quilt shop). Not all of my physical patterns have been converted to PDF. You will see us release all of them in the coming weeks along with new ones.

This is awesome on so many levels for you and me! Since I started MiniLou, we simply have not had the space to house the number of patterns I was carrying for CGInc. So NOW because we can release pdf patterns, you will see MORE kids clothing, kids projects, beginner projects, and for the first time ever QUILTS!

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The timing is right for this launch because not only am I kicking off the PDF Patterns, I am excited to be releasing my newest fabric collection for Riley Blake Designs called Apricot and Persimmon. The colors in this line are so autumn-y and yummy. (I should have the full digi book for this collection out sometime next week).

So what are we doing for this launch? I’ll admit, most of the action will be happening on my instagram feed (@carinagardner). Here’s what’s happening:

  • The PDF shop will be 30% off  october 16-21. Visit the sale>>>
  • We are randomly giving away sewing pattern gift certificates on instagram and facebook all weekend!
  • We are teaming up with Michelle Jensen (my machine quilter) and MiniLou (my kids toy company) to do a DROP on instagram (hints and where it will be can be found on instagram @carinagardner and @miniloukids). This drop will include one of you WINNING a Persimmon Nine Patch Quilt. Yes! The actual quilt!
  • I have consolidated all of our FREE fabric projects into the shop so you can grab them and go!
  • I have two new videos that feature the Persimmon Nine Patch Quilt and the Patchwork Plus Quilt (See below!)! The best part is that I will be doing ALOT more videos featuring difficult parts of the patterns or helpful sewing hints.
  • For this launch I am releasing three brand new PDF Sewing Patterns that have never been released as a physical pattern—Persimmon Nine Patch Quilt, the Patchwork Plus Quilt, and the Apricot MiniQuilt.

Be sure to join us on instagram and facebook for the festivities! Check out the videos below!

Hope you enjoy! Feel free to check out the entire CGTV channel here: https://carinagardner.com/carina-gardner-tv/
Carina
Episode 14: Patchwork Plus Quilt

Episode 15: Persimmon Nine Patch Quilt

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Launch Party! PDF Sewing Patterns Now Available at CarinaGardnerShop.com Read More »

Pineapple Costume Tutorial

Holiday Projects, Sewing, Tutorials /

IMG_8980_webSome years I can convince my kids that going to the store and buying a costume is the way to go. Not this year. Both of my girls wanted homemade costumes. Siri wanted to be iPhone Siri (you can see her costume on my instagram feed @carinagardner) and Felicity asked to be a pineapple.

I know pineapples have been trending recently, but the truth is, in our family the word ‘pineapple’ has been trending for a couple of years. A while back, Siri decided that she loved the way the word ‘pineapple’ sounded and used it as her go-to, everyday word (“Can I get you a drink, Siri?” “Pineapple.” “Are you ready for bed, Siri? “Pinnneapppppllle.”…you get the idea). Does she actually like to EAT pineapples? Of course not! That would make too much sense :).

Ironically, it was Felicity who decided that being a pineapple was a must this year (although I can see Siri trying to steal this costume).

Here’s a little info on how to put this costume together. Your materials may be a little different than mine so feel free to make adjustments on how you make this sublime fruity treat.

PINEAPPLE COSTUME TUTORIAL
Materials

  • Either one very long yellow T-shirt or two T-shirts (Mine is a size 10 and the materials fit this size. Make adjustments for smaller or bigger T-shirts.)
  • 1/2 yard of yellow felt
  • 1/4 yard of green felt
  • headband
  • hot glue
  • 1 1/2 yards of double-sided iron-on adhesive

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1. If you are working with two T-shirts, cut one in half to add to the bottom of the first T-shirt. Match up the RAW edge of the second/cut T-shirt to the bottom of the first T-shirt. That way you do not have to hem the bottom of the outfit. I used a serger with right-sides together of the T-shirts to sew these two pieces together into a long dress.

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2. Once your T-shirt is now a ‘dress’, cut out yellow felt pieces using the pattern provided below. Pin them all the way around the dress as shown here. This will help you determine how many pieces you will need. The pattern can be made smaller or larger to accommodate the size of your outfit.IMG_8877_web

3. Next, use the double-sided adhesive (using the instructions on the adhesive you buy) to adhere the adhesive to the felt pineapple pieces.

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I used Heat and Bond and ironed on the adhesive on one side of the pineapple piece. Then, I pulled off the white protective layer on the felt piece and placed it on the dress. I ironed it directly onto the dress with the adhesive-side down (facing the dress).

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And you are done with the dress! Now for the headband!

4. The headband could be made so many different ways. Use my method or try putting it together anyway you want with the pattern pieces I’ve provided. You can also choose to do all of this with a hot glue gun if you want to avoid sewing!

I cut out 4 each of the three leaf patterns. I folded in half the medium and large leaves and sewed them about half way up. (You could simply hot glue them up instead.)

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5. I then sewed together two of the biggest pieces like the image below.

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6. Then I laid a third piece in the middle of the two sewn together pieces. I sewed it to the front. I then sewed the fourth piece to the back center.

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This will create a little symmetrical bunch.

7. Your next trick is to add the medium sized leaves to this bunch. I sewed mine but in retrospect I should have hot glued it! It was really thick and difficult to get through the machine. Simply, place them evenly around the large leaves.

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8. For the smallest leaves, I used hot glue and spaced evenly around the bunch.

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9. I cut a circle and hot glued it to the center of the bunch. Then I glued up the edges and trimmed them. This is simply to keep the bunch together and add a bit of yellow to the bottom.

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9. Finally, I cut a small round circle and sandwiched a headband between the pineapple top and the felt circle. Hot glue these altogether and you are done!

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Here are the pattern pieces you will need to make this costume:

DOWNLOAD THE PINEAPPLE PATTERN PIECES

There’s a bit of work involved to make this costume but it was completely worth it! Felicity was giddy with the end result! Does your child want to be a pineapple? Download the pattern and get started! Halloween is around the corner!

Happy creating!
Carina

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Pineapple Costume Tutorial Read More »

2015-2016 Carina Gardner and MiniLou Team Calls!

1 Comment / Fabric, Holiday Projects, Sewing /

I’m so excited that we are finally able to open up three calls for a creative team, design team, and style team for MiniLou and Carina Gardner, Inc.! I’ve been wanting to do this for a while now so I’m glad we are getting this in before the holiday season commences.

These are small teams where we send you product in exchange for you coming up with ideas, doing a small write up, and taking photos. All submissions need to be sent to our Marketing Director Jill at marketingdirector@carinagardner.com or marketingdirector@mini-lou.com. Here’s the breakdown:

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For the time being, we are only taking submissions that require physical products from the US. If you are International and want to apply for digital scrapbooking product and/or silhouette files/svg products, we are happy to receive submissions from you!

Have questions? Feel free to email us!

Looking forward to seeing your submissions!

Carina

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

2015-2016 Carina Gardner and MiniLou Team Calls! Read More »

Riley Blake Blog Tour

17 Comments / Quilt Market, Quilts, Riley Blake, Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Line /

Hexiquilt_webI’m finally back from Quilt Market and so excited to be part of the Riley Blake Blog Tour! I have a few pics from Quilt Market in Minneapolis in this post too.

So building Wiltshire Daisy began with color. That doesn’t always happen for me. I generally start with a concept and begin drawing the master fabric from an image in my head. This time I knew I wanted to create a gray and pink colorway. I began drawing the cabbage roses and started adding little drops of orange and yellow into the mix. Yellow and pink are two of my favorite colors together (I call them citrus—lemon and grapefruit). It seemed natural at that point to also throw in the orange (for some extra citrus flavor).

(photo to the left—Baby Hexi Quilt—free pattern coming to the blog in the next two weeks / photo below, right—Me at Quilt Market arranging my booth / photo below, left—my girls sporting Wiltshire Daisy dresses I whipped up one Sunday for church)IMG_9517_web1

Wiltshire Daisy is probably my favorite line to date. It’s very soft and shabby chic. (photo below, right—Little Love Nest Ruffle Dress for the 18 inch doll in the gray master fabric / photo below, left—my Quilt Market booth in the Riley Blake Booth with Emily Taylor)

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If you love this fabric, make sure and take a peek at the free Around the World Quilt pattern here. You can also follow me on instagram to see what else I’m making with this fabric (as well as a sneak peek at my fall line for Riley Blake!).

Happy Sewing!

Carina

PS My new kids company MiniLou has 23 days left in the MiniLou Kickstarter Campaign. Check out our cute video!

CHECK OUT THESE OTHER STOPS ON THE BLOG TOUR!

5/15 – Where Women Cook
5/18 – Becky Marie Designs
8/18 – Pattern Anthology
5/19 – Carina Gardner
5/21 – Lori Holt
5/21 – Tasha Noel
5/22 – Lori Whitlock
5/22 – Cinderberry Stitches
5/23 – Eleanor Dugan
5/26 – Simple Simon
5/26 – The Quilted Fish
5/28 – Melly & Me
5/28 – Elea Lutz
5/29 – Zoe Pearn
5/29 – Doohikey Designs
5/30 –Samantha Walker
5/30 – Kelly Panacci
  Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Riley Blake Blog Tour Read More »

Wiltshire Daisy Around the World Quilt Pattern—Free Pattern Download

1 Comment / Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Stuff I Love, Tutorials, Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Line /

IMG_5413_1_web_blogThe Wiltshire Daisy™ Around the World Quilt has been my Sunday sewing for quite a few weeks now. This is one of those quilts that it didn’t seem to matter how I photographed it, it still looked better in person than through the lens of my camera.

And I am SUPER excited to share with you a really great contest that I’m teaming up with Emily Taylor and Riley Blake for you to do!

First of all, everyone WINS because each of us has a free quilt tutorial for you to download. Mine is the Wiltshire Daisy Around the World Quilt and Block (scroll down to the bottom of the post). Riley Blake’s Tulip Chain Quilt and Emily’s Florabella Fancy Quilt are so adorable! To make it easy for you guys, for a short period of time, you can just go to the PatternJam site (click here) and download all three patterns at once.

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Second, we are throwing an amazing contest so that you can win the FABRIC TO MAKE YOUR QUILT AND $100 VISA GIFT CARD. I know, right?

Here’s what you get to do:

Go to PatternJam.com and customize the Floribella Fancy Quilt, Around the World Quilt, and/or Tulip Chain Quilt using the Emily’s Florabella, my Wiltshire Daisy, and/or Riley Blake’s Solids. It’s seriously so fun to do!  There you will see instructions for making the quilt using the Pattern Jam software  and you can pin it to the contest Pinterest board. The most pins wins the contest so make sure and spread the word and get people to pin your quilt!

Here are a few steps to help you if you want to enter:

1. Be a part of the Pinterest Board—http://love.patternjam.com/design-contest/
2. Go to PatternJam.com and register: https://patternjam.com/ by clicking on GET STARTED NOW.
3. Click on DESIGNER PATTERNS> Choose Either Around the World, Tulip Chain, or Fancy Florabella.
4. Once you have chosen a quilt, then choose FABRICS and choose either the Riley Blake Solids, Wiltshire Daisy, or Florabella fabric (or a mix of them).
5. Once you have designed a quilt, save it to your library. Click on MY ACCOUNT and you can see your library and PIN it from there.
6. Join the contest board here.

If you just want to download my Wiltshire Daisy Around the World Quilt, you can do that below:

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The Pinterest Contest goes until April 24th! So go and make some fabulous quilts!
Carina

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Wiltshire Daisy Around the World Quilt Pattern—Free Pattern Download Read More »

Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Collection

2 Comments / Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Line /

wiltshiretitlepage_webIt has only taken me a month to finally post about my newest collection Wiltshire Daisy for Riley Blake. I’ve already seen so many amazing projects and even have a couple of my own to share soon. If you haven’t seen the collection, I’m posting my digi magazine of it here for you to enjoy. It may take a minute to load on your computer so if you see a blank space below, give it a second:).

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I debut my second 18″ doll panel in this collection. It includes a blouse, capris, headband, and handbag. There are photo instructions on the Riley Blake blog here if you want to see them (the capris are done a little differently then my instructions, but are still so very cute!). AND I have illustrated instructions now available here.

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Hope this makes you sew happy!
Carina

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Wiltshire Daisy Fabric Collection Read More »

RBD Post Quilt Market Designer Blog Tour: Carina Gardner

23 Comments / Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Primrose Garden Fabric Line, Quilts, Riley Blake, Tutorials /

IMG_2977_1_webI’m excited to be the next stop on the Riley Blake Design Blog Tour! I’m suppose to be introducing Primrose Garden, but for those of you who follow my blog, you know that I’ve been posting about this line for the last couple of months. It just barely hit stores so I’m excited to share the inspiration behind this line.

First of all, I designed this line at the same time that I purchased an old 1968 Jet Airway. The stove was original and turquoise (I may have purchased it simply for the stove…heehee). I started thinking about colors and patterns I would want in the trailer, if I were to, um, glamp it up:). I started thinking about making the glamper red, blue, and black (and I did furnish it with a lot of laminates from my Evening Blooms collection). I wanted something that felt fresh, clean, but had a traditional appeal. And that’s how Primrose Garden came into being! You can see that I created wallpaper for the glampGLAMPER_carinagardner_1_web copyer kitchen from the red master colorway from Primrose Garden (see link to Glamper pics below).

This is my first collection with an 18 inch doll panel! You’ll see more of these from me in future lines.

Because I don’t want to bore you with things I’ve already posted, here are some other links that will help you should you be thinking about sewing with Primrose Garden:

Primrose Garden LookBook (all the fabrics and doll panels!)
18 inch Doll Panel Fully Illustrated Instructions (Free Tutorial)
18 inch Doll Panel Quilt and Pillow (Free Download and Tutorial)
Carina Gardner Aurifil Thread (matches Primrose Garden!)

And if you are curious about my Glamper Renovation, you can see all the posts here. If you just want to go straight to the final photos of the glamper, you can see them here.

Thanks for visiting my blog! For more updates on fabric, quilts, and giveaways, be sure to check out my Facebook page and instagram feed!~Carina

<<<See the previous stop on this tour with Lila Tueller
See the next post with Lori Holt>>>>
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Visit the entire Blog Tour!

11/6 – The Quilted Fish
11/7 – Bella Blvd.
11/8 – Deena Rutter
11/10 – Lila Tueller
11/11 – Carina Gardner
11/13 –Bee In My Bonnet
11/14 – Fancy Pants Designs
11/15 – My Mind’s Eye
11/17 – Zoe Pearn
11/18 – Sue Daley
11/20 – Kelly Panacci
11/21 – Marin Sutton
11/22 – Lori Whitlock
11/24 – Melissa Mortenson
11/25 – Melly & Me
11/28 – Scott Jarrard
11/29 – Elea Lutz

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RBD Post Quilt Market Designer Blog Tour: Carina Gardner Read More »

Primrose 18 Inch Doll Panel Instructions

4 Comments / Aurifill, Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Primrose Garden Fabric Line, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Tutorials /

Screen Shot 2014-11-06 at 12.08.33 AMThank you for purchasing the Primrose Garden 18 inch doll panel! While there are instructions on the panel itself, I find that illustrations always help me see how to put something together. Sooooo, I’ve put together some illustrations that coordinate with these doll panels for you! Feel free to download and use as you put together these dresses!

If you are looking for this panel, please check with your local quilt shop first. There are also several online retailers carrying this line

DOWNLOAD THE PRIMROSE GARDEN DOLL PANEL INSTRUCTIONS

If you are feeling extra sewerly today, you can also download the matching quilt and pillow instructions for this line. Or get the matching Auriful Threads.

Happy Sewing!
Carina

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Primrose 18 Inch Doll Panel Instructions Read More »

Primrose Garden 18 inch Doll Quilt and Pillow Pattern—Free Download

9 Comments / Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Primrose Garden Fabric Line, Riley Blake, Sewing, Tutorials /

PrintMy new fabric line Primrose Garden will be hitting your local quilt shop this month! To celebrate my first ever 18 inch doll panels, I have a free 18 inch doll quilt and pillow pattern for you!

This is such a simple, easy project! It doesn’t take a lot of fabric and is such a fun gift for your 18 inch doll lovers (there are three in my house).

DOWNLOAD  THE PRIMROSE GARDEN 18 INCH DOLL QUILT PATTERN HERE.

If the above link doesn’t work for you, please download it via dropbox here:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/bk9xgra9pllbxxw/AAAxk525S_vXVoT14QECRwQja?dl=1

If you get the Riley Blake Newsletter, you may have also noticed a red quilt that I put together. It’s design was based on one of the free patterns available at Riley Blake called Whimsy. I changed a few of my dimensions to make it fit my office wall but it’s basically the same design.

Sneak peek at the quilt below if you don’t get the newsletter:). So many more projects coming with this line!

Happy sewing to me:).
Carina

primrosegardenquilt_carinagardner_web

Silhouette Design Store JOANN Stores

Primrose Garden 18 inch Doll Quilt and Pillow Pattern—Free Download Read More »

Clearance Fabric Sale

Fabric /

All of the inventory for MiniLou has arrived and even though we are leasing out more space for the new company, I’m ready to clear out some more space in the CGI warehouse. Call it an impulsive start-of-the-school-year clean out.

Each of these bits of pieces are the full 42-43″ width and 100% cotton from lines I have designed for Northcott. Once they are gone, they are gone!

Please note: If you decide to buy more than one piece of fabric, we will bundle your order together and you will only pay for shipping once. We will issue a refund in the amount of shipping you “prepay” through Paypal. Go ahead and buy to secure your order.

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BABY SAFARI SCALLOP CIRCLES PURPLE  4 1/4 yards, $2 per yard = $8.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 1

SOLD OUT

 

 

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BABY SAFARI SCALLOP CIRCLES BLUE 4 1/8 yards  $2 per yard = $8.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 2

SOLD OUT

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BABY SAFARI TOSSED GREEN 1 3/4 yards, $2 per yard = $3.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 3

SOLD OUT

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BABY SAFARI SWIRL GREEN 3 3/8 yards, $2 per yard = $6.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 4

SOLD OUT

 

 

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BABY SAFARI SWIRL ORANGE 4 yards, $2 per yard = $8.00+ shipping ($5)

Fabric 5

SOLD OUT

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BABY SAFARI TOSSED PURPLE 3/4 yards, $2 per yard = $1.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 6

SOLD OUT

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COQUETTE LEAFETTE MOSS 1 3/4 yards, $2 per yard = $3.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 7

SOLD OUT

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COQUETTE BLOSSOM 1 1/8 yards, $2 per yard = $2.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 8

SOLD OUT

 

 

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COQUETTE GARDENETTE 3 1/8 yards, $2 per yard = $6.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 9

SOLD OUT

 

 

 

 

 

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 DRESS UP ACCESSORIES 1 1/4 yards, $2 per yard = $2.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 10

SOLD OUT

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RED DOT almost 7/8 yards, $2 per yard = $1.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 11

SOLD OUT

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BABY SAFARI ELEPHANT WALK BLUE 3/8 yards, $2 per yard = $0.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 12

SOLD OUT

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COQUETTE PRIMROSE 1 5/8 yards, $2 per yard = $3.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 13

SOLD OUT

 

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LOVE NEST BIRDIE BLUSH 1 3/8 yards, $2 per yard = $2.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 14

SOLD OUT

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LOVE NEST CALICO HEART RED 4 7/8 yards, $2 per yard = $9.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 15

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS FLYING TURQUOISE 4 5/8 yards, $2 per yard = $9.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 16

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS PARADISE LARGE FLORAL 4 3/8 yards, $2 per yard = $8.75 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 17

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS BLUE TOSSED 1 1/4 yard , $2 per yard = $2.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 18

SOLD OUT

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pinfeathers4PINFEATHERS PINK BIRD ON A WIRE 1 1/4 yards, $2 per yard = $2.50 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 19

SOLD OUT

 

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PINFEATHERS BROWN BIRD ON A WIRE 4 1/2 yards, $2 per yard = $9.00 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 20

SOLD OUT

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pinfeathers6PINFEATHERS PEACOCK BLUE 4 yards, $2 per yard = $8.00 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 21

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS BLUE FEATHERS 3 1/8 yards, $2 per yard = $6.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 22

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS FLYING BLUE 2 yards, $2 per yard = $4.00 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 23

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS BLUE BIRD ON A WIRE 4 5/8 yards, $2 per yard = $9.25+ shipping ($5)

Fabric 24

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS PARADISE PINK STRIPE 1 yards, $2 per yard = $2.00 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 25

SOLD OUT

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PINFEATHERS FLYING YELLOW 4 5/8 yards, $2 per yard = $9.25 + shipping ($5)

Fabric 26

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Carina Gardner Aurifil Thread

1 Comment / Aurifill, Primrose Garden Fabric Line, Riley Blake, Sewing /

IMG_0519_1_webI’m thrilled to announce that you will be able to find a selection of Aurifil Threads from me in quilt shops soon! This is is sort of a “sneak peek” into my Aurifil collection. The collection won’t be available for a little while yet (I’ll keep you posted on this on my Facebook feed). The colors I have chosen are ones that I use time and time again. I always use matching threads to create a finishing touch on my little girl clothing, 18 inch doll clothing, and other sewing projects.

(For quilt shops, I have listed on our wholesale page distributors who will be carrying this product.)

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IMG_0511_1_webYou’ll notice that I have chosen several variations of blue, red, and green. I find that these are my go to colors and the shades help me choose the exact color I need for a project (Photo to the left is the Red 2265 from my collection sewn on the hem of the doll panel for my Primrose Garden fabric collection). A great matching thread really takes a project to a new level! I love it when the sewing lines on a hem line disappear.

I also chosen my favorite two shades of gray, a medium brown, and a yellow. These are colors that tend to show up in my fabric lines often and I find myself reaching for them a lot.

Other than Primrose Garden, which will arrive at your local quilt shop this October, this collection coordinates beautifully will past lines with Riley Blake including Little Ark, Paris and Co, SongBird, Remember, and Dainty Blossoms.

The twelve threads in this set are 50 weight on large spools. I love this weight on both my Bernina and Baby Lock machines for sewing garments and quilts.

(Photo below: Doll panel examples from Primrose Garden with spools that coordinate).

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If you are an Aurifil fan, I think you already know why I love this company and their products. If you haven’t used Aurifil before, I suggest you pick up a spool soon. The colors are so vibrant and easy to work with so many fabrics (not just mine).

Happy Sewing!
Carina

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Primrose Garden Fabric Collection

4 Comments / Aurifill, Fabric, Primrose Garden Fabric Line /

primrosegardentitlepage_web I’m so excited to announce my latest fabric line Primrose Garden! This collection will be hitting your local quilt shop in October (2014). As always, check with your local fabric store to see if they are carrying it. There are also several online options where this line will be available.

The biggest goodie to come along with this line is an 18 inch doll panel. Yep. You heard me! This panel comes in three colorways and there will be a post exclusively dedicated to the panel coming in a couple of weeks. While there are detailed instructions on the fabric itself, I will also have a fully illustrated version to download as well. The outfit includes a 18 inch doll dress, bolero, and apron. Each has several versions so you can mix and match to your heart’s (or your tween’s) desire.

You’ll also notice a hint at the other cool secret I’ve been keeping on the second page of the Primrose Digi Mag (hint—it has to do with thread).

For now, check out the fabrics, the panel, and dream of projects and posts to come!

Visit the Primrose Collection here>>>
Sew on!
Carina

 

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Back Home Again

Carina Gardner Online Shop, Carta Bella Paper, Digital Diecuts, FABRIC & QUILTING, Riley Blake, Silhouette /

miniloujune20 copy After a month and a half of travel, I’m finally back home in Salt Lake. I’m glad to be back home although there hasn’t been much time for a break. Lots of things have happened over the last month. Other than finishing press checks in China, going to a wedding in Tennessee, heading to St. George to enjoy the Tuacahn, and accompanying Siri at harp camp in Logan, some of my new paper and fabric lines have been released.

Over at Carta Bella, check out my newest collections Boy Oh Boy and Spooky as well as Alisha Gordon’s Moment’s & Memories. If you are going to the Summer show, be sure and check them out!

I’m also thrilled to announce my newest fabric line is on pre-sale to quilt shops! For a sneak peek at Primrose Garden, click on this link over at Riley Blake. Scroll down to the bottom to catch a glimpse of my first 18 inch doll panel! I’m so excited for this addition to this fabric line! More pretties on this line coming soon.

At my silhouette shop, I’ve been stocking with a lot of great basics that I have been interested in using for myself. Tons of swirls, overlays, gift bags, and cards to name a few.

And of course, I’ve been working on MiniLou. I’ve been planning out our tradeshows and trying to get everything “just so” for our upcoming fall release and the introduction of our spring release. It’s been a work-in-progress and I’m so proud of what we have accomplished so far. So many more exciting things to come!

As far as getting back on track, I’ve been working on some new home decor items for Deseret Book which should be out this fall/winter. I’ve also been working hard on our end of year releases for Carta Bella. Oh, and I’m hoping to have available two new design classes in the shop later this week.

Thankfully, this summer has not been all work-work, and I’ve been able to enjoy time alone with both of my girls on their respective trips as well as getting in a couple of vacas as a family. But summer is slipping by so very fast…I’m going to squeeze in as much fun as I possibly can!

Happy Summer!
Carina

(PS. Photo is from my Little Bitties Bookmarks for MiniLou).

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Little Ark Quilt by Sassafras Lane Designs

1 Comment / Fabric, Little Ark Fabric Collection, Quilts, Sewing /

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Just checking in to let you know about the Churndash Court Quilt, created by the talented ladies at Sassafras Lane Designs. They featured my most recent line Little Ark in it. I loved how it turned out. I know you can get the pattern in paper or pdf format back clicking on the links above.

I have been loving this Little Ark line so much. I’m wishing I had a little more time to devote to it this summer. Charlie could use a few more things in this line:).

Tomorrow I am headed to my hometown in Tennessee for a friend’s wedding. Taking my Felicity girl with me to give her some one-on-one time. She (and I) are both excited to hang out. Trying to make the most of every age my children are in. It feels like it is all going soo fast. And I suspect it never slows down.

Here’s to a good ole Southern wedding,
Carina

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Glamper Tour—Recap of Pine Needles Quilt Shop

2 Comments / EVENTS, Fabric, Glamper Renovation, Little Ark Fabric Collection /

IMG_8494_rework1Last weekend we were at Pine Needles at Gardner Village. It was a great event and so busy! I was grateful to everyone who came out to do make and takes, hang out with the designers and see Lucy!

So many of my favorite designers came to be part of the event including Deena Rutter and Lori Whitlock (who I get to work with at Carta Bella and Echo Park). Chelsea Andersen came all the way from St. George to be at this event (Thank you, Chelsea!). The fabulous Emily Taylor (photo below), Amanda Herring, Jina Barney (Creative Director for Riley Blake), Alexis Barney, and Cindy Cloward (Owner of Riley Blake) were all there making the festivities so fun!

Our final stop is at Mormon Handicraft/Deseret Book this Saturday (May 10th) from 1-4pm. Details below:

Mormon Handicraft/ Deseret Book
1110 Fort Union Blvd
Midvale, UT 84047
Back Parking Lot
May 10, 2014
1pm-4pm
Glamper, Designers, and Carina’s New Dishware Line

(photo above—Little Ark Fabric line at Pine Needles)

 

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(photo above) Holli (Pine Needles Store Manager), me, and Sandy Workman (Pine Needles Owner and Riley Blake Designer)

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(photo above) Emily Taylor showcasing her new fabric lines.

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(photo above) Just to give you an idea of our set up.

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(photo above, starting left) Lori Whitlock, Carina Gardner, Deena Rutter, Emily Taylor, Amanda Herring, Jina BArney, Sandy Workman, Chelsea Andersen

Hope to see you at our final stop this weekend!
Carina

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Glamper Recap on Quiltique

Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Fabric, Family, Glamper Renovation, Little Ark Fabric Collection, Sewing /

IMG_8229_webI’m a bit behind since I need to recap the last two glamper stops. This has been taking up a lot of my time recently. Feel free to “like” that page because I am going to have A LOT more on that later along with a number of giveaways and beautiful images come time to launch.

So here’s my photo recap of our Glamper Stop at Quiltique.

First off, Little Ark is in shops! (Yaaay!) Quiltique had these darling bundles available for sell. I also spotted some Evening Blooms pre-cuts in their shop. If you are in the Las Vegas area, Quiltique is a must-visit shop. I love the glass windows into the classroom and all the quilts hung above the shop. There were some darling displays and of course, an abundance of fabric.

(photo below) Quiltique is a family-owned business. We happily all posed in front of the glamper in the Las Vegas heat!

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The number one question I get from people who come to see the glamper is, “So do you use it?” The answer is always, “YES! Open a cupboard, and you’ll see all the food still in it from the last trip!” At this stop, this was even more true since I had to get up bright and early to clean the glamper. My family had been living in it for spring break as we traveled down to Nevada from SLC.

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(photo below) Since it was Quiltique’s birthday weekend, I was excited to meet Me and My Sisters Designs (Moda Fabrics) who happen to be teaching in the shop the same day!

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(photo below) This little cutie is one of my college roommate’s daughters who dropped by to see me!

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I had an amazing time at Quiltique and loved seeing their shop! Thank you to all of you who dropped by to see Lucy and me!

XOXO—Carina

 

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Glamper Tour—Stop at Pine Needles Quilt Shop at Gardner Village

EVENTS, Fabric, Glamper Renovation, Riley Blake, Sewing /

glamperdesignersThis Saturday Lucy and I are headed to Pine Needles Quilt Shop at Gardner Village in West Jordan. First off, the quilt shop is AMAZING, and I love going in and grabbing this and that. Sandy Workman’s embroidery patterns alone are worth going in for!

Second, they are having a special sale just for the glamper tour! All Riley Blake pre-cuts will be 30% off! How’s that for fabulous.

Third, if you have never visited Gardner Village, this is an excuse to! I was first introduced to Gardner Village early in my marriage at a family gathering at Archibald’s Restaurant. Josh’s family is related to these Gardner’s so it is always fun for my kids to look at the photos hanging over the booths.

Best yet, you’ll get to meet a lot of fabulous Riley Blake designers at this event. Amanda Herring, Deena Rutter, Chelsea Anderson, Sandy Workman, and Emily Taylor will be there with samples from their new lines. RB Creative Director Jina Barney and Alexis Barney will be there with make and takes. We’ll have a raffle every 30 minutes. And the sale. And Lucy. And treats. Enuff said!

Here’s the info for this Glamper Stop

Pine Needles Quilt Shop
http://www.pineneedlesonline.com
Gardner Village
1100 West 7800 South, #29S
West Jordan, UT  84088
May 3, 2014
11am-2pm
30% Sale on Riley Blake Pre-cuts

I hope to see you there!

Carina

 

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Mommy & Me Apron Tutorial with Jedi Craft Girl

1 Comment / Fabric, Remember Fabric Line, Riley Blake, Tutorials /

I’m back from our glamper trip at Quiltique and getting back on a schedule. Things have been a little hectic as I have been trying to finish out some fabulous things for Carta Bella’s summer lineup, creating some fun cutouts for Silhouette, and working on a new project that I’ll be launching in June. Oh ya, and quilting. That Little Ark fabric line has been sitting on my table beckoning to me, and I finally decided on a quilt to make after Charlie’s afternoon nap yesterday.

Today I have a wonderful tutorial for you from Amanda from the Jedi Girl Craft blog.  This darling apron set is right up my alley—perfect for your little ones who want to be just like mom. Hope you get a chance to try it! Make sure and also check out Amanda’s blog. I spotted some pretty sweet tutorials using Riley Blake fabric that I might have to try out soon.

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The aprons are pretty simple to make.  Here’s what you need:

Supplies:
3/4 yard main fabric
1 yard stripe fabric
1/4 yard pink fabric
1/4 yard pocket fabric
2 yards wide lace
2 yards medium lace
2 yards small lace

For Adult Apron:
Cut main fabric 13.5″ x 36″
Cut stripe fabric 3″ x 36″
Cut pink fabric 4.5″ x 36
For Child Apron:
Cut main fabric 9.5″ x 30″
Cut stripe fabric 2.5″ x 30″
Cut pink fabric 3″ x 30″
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Sew the strip sets together using 1/4″ seams in this order.  Zig zag each seam to prevent fraying.
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Press seams in one direction.
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Fold pink raw edge (hem) under 1/4″ and sew.
Lay the wide lace with right sides together along the hem.  Sew along the edge of the lace about 1/4″
depending on the lace pattern.
Fold under and press.  Top stitch in place.
Next place the medium and small lace along the seams of the fabric strips.  Top stitch in place.
To finish the sides, fold raw edges in 1/4″ and sew, then fold in 1/4″ again.  Back stitch at the
start and stop.  This should also secure the raw edge of the lace and keep it from fraying.
Prepare the pocket…cut:
Adult pocket: 8.5″x 6.5″
Child pocket 6.5″ x 5.5″
Fold the top edge in 1/4″ and sew.
Press sides in 1/4″ and bottom 1/4″.  Fold the top down about 2.5″ or to your liking.
It should look like this:
Pin the pocket into place.  Of course you can sew 2 pockets or change up the shape.  I am
right handed so I put the pocket on the right side of the apron.  Pin in place and topstitch
leaving the top open.
Prepare the sash:
Adult apron cut (2) 5″ x WOF and (1) 5″ x 21″
Child apron cut (2) 4″ x 38″ and (1) 5″ x 18″ – you can adjust the length depending on how
long you want the ties.

The idea is to have a waistband portion (the shorter piece) in the center and two ties

(the longer pieces) on each side.

Sew the waist band pieces end to end with the shortest piece in the center.  Press seams open.

Sew a 1/4″ gathering stitch along the top of the aprons.  Pull up threads to gather.
Lay the gathered piece along the waistband piece like this – making sure to align centers.
Notice right sides are together.
Pin into place.  Sew just this portion sewing over the gathering stitch.
Press the entire waistband under 1/4″ – all the way around, like this:
Fold the waistband over so folded edges align.
Pin into place.  I leave my pins in and turn the apron over and sew using the front of the
waistband as my guide.  That way the front of the apron looks perfect.  The seam catches
the back of the waistband just fine. Continue sewing the entire way around the waistband
with a 1/8″ seam.
Done!!
You can find a printable version of this tutorial here Mommy and Me Apron Tutorial

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Glamper Tour Stop on April 19th at Quiltique in Nevada

1 Comment / Fabric, Family, Glamper Renovation /

GLAMPER_carinagardner_6_webYesterday my family trekked from Salt Lake City to St. George for spring break and for the Quiltique Glamper Stop! St. George is just a side trip to play in the red rock and go to the children’s museum (from which this post is being written).

Currently, my glamper doesn’t look as pristine as you see it in the photo to the right. One night in the glamper turns the small space into kids chaos. I keep telling myself that’s what it’s for!:) You’ll see it in the pristine condition when I see you on Saturday!

If you are on the Quiltique newsletter, then you already know that I am going to be there to help celebrate their 11th birthday! If you are in the Las Vegas/Henderson, Nevada area, this is an event not to be missed! On Friday, you can enter their Easter basket raffle to try a win for the $1100 Quiltique Shopping Spree! I know they are doing lots of other fabulous things so be sure to check their website at www.quiltique.com. And of course, if you come see me (wink, wink), we’ll have treats and a raffle that will happen every 30 minutes!

Here’s what you need to know:

Glamper Tour Stop 2 happens at:
Quiltique
213 N. Stephanie Street, Suite E
Henderson, NV 89074
Saturday, April 19, 2014
11am-2pm

Treats, raffles, and Lucy the Glamper!

Hope to see you all there! If can follow my week down to Las Vegas by following me on instagram @carinagardner.

Carina

PS, you can check out past glamper stops and the renovation of Lucy by going here: https://carinagardner.com/category/glamper-renovation/

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Introducing Little Ark Fabric Collection

1 Comment / Fabric /

IMG_6835_webMy new line Little Ark hits shops this month! It’s my first baby boy line for Riley Blake. It will include 100% cottons and flannels.

I pretty consistently seem to design whatever is relevant in my life at the moment. A year ago, Charlie was 8 months old, and I was happily engaged in my “baby boy” moment. Little Ark was the result of that.

If you want to see this line in action (although it hasn’t hit shops yet!) Kimberly over at the FatQuarterShop does a darling receiving blanket with the line. I’ve embedded both the digital magazine for the line and the fatquartshop.com tutorial for your viewing pleasure! Enjoy!
Carina

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Glamper Tour Recap: My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe

2 Comments / EVENTS, Fabric, Glamper Renovation, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns /

IMG_0662_webHere it is! The Glamper Recap of our day at My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe in Logan, Utah on March 22nd, 2014. Here I am sitting in front of the shop with the owner Kris Thurgood. Her darling shop is three stories tall with classes, a full on hang out room (The Attic), kiddie area, and of course, shopping.

We parked the glamper outside with guests Deena Rutter, Emily Taylor, and Samantha Walker. Riley Blake sent the fabulous mom and daughter duo Jina and Alexis Barney.

I was grateful for the sunshine (you’ll notice we are all squinting in the photos!). When we arrived it was pretty chilly, but by 11am it was perfect. I lucked out for an outside event in Utah in March!

Here’s a peek at our day there:

 

 

 

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Shoppers were entered into a raffle by getting their paper stamped by every designer at the event. Prizes included fabric donated by Riley Blake and large goodie bags made up of stuff from my designs at Carta Bella Paper Co, Deseret Book, and Riley Blake.

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(photo below) You could sit a while in the shade of the glamper and do a make and take. (Thanks for posing for me ladies!)

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(photo below-right) Designer Deena Rutter shows her patterns and beautiful fabric. Did you know that Deena also designs for me over at Carta Bella? I adore working with her!  (photo below-left) My Bella Stash Bag pattern hangs out next to some fabulous football mums.

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(photo above and below) Emily Taylor’s fabric and sewing patterns are so lovely!

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(photo below) Designers Samantha Walker and Deena Rutter hang out with customers. Sam’s family recently bought an RV so we all hung out over the weekend (Sam also designs for me at Carta Bella). Hoping for more of that! (And yes, my family stayed in the glamper before and after the event).

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(photo above-left) Jina Barney is the Creative Director at Riley Blake and her daughter Alexis is her right-hand gal. It’s always a fun day when Riley Blake comes to party! (photos above-right) Kit shows off my Little Playdate Outfit in my Evening Blooms fabric. (photo below-left) Some Carina Gardner patterns hang out next to the daughter-doll duo of Love Next Ruffle Dress and Little Love Nest Ruffle Dress. (photo-below-right) Jolene of Sew Red Glasses and I hung out and determined color value with her cool glasses. A perfect quilting tool! Check her out at http://sewredglasses.com/.

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(photo-above) My biggest misstep for the event was ordering WAY too many cookies. Thank you to everyone who was willing to have more than one:). I took plenty home and donated several to neighbors.

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(photo below) My fabulous assistant Susan made the trek up to help me set up and take many of the photos you see here in this post.

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(photo-below) I don’t have a lot of photos inside the shop, but here are a couple I couldn’t resist posting. The one to the left was the Riley Blake tree from a Quilt Market booth they did in Salt Lake. It is above My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe children’s play area and the perfect accessory to this gated happy place. The second is the awesome trio of chairs hanging from the ceiling in The Attic. There were so many other cool displays! I highly recommend taking a trip and checking it out!

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(photo below) I can’t tell you how hard it was to find a shot where all of us were looking up with our eyes open! (from left to right) Samantha Walker, Kris Thurgood, Jina Barney, Carina Gardner, Deena Rutter, Emily Taylor, and Kim Christopherson.

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(photo above) Kim (Kimberbell Designs), myself, and Kris in front of the glamper. I was thrilled to hang out at their shop and meet so many of you! Probably the most amazing moment was when three ladies from my hometown of Clarksville, Tennessee showed up! It was so incredibly delightful! Thank you Judy, Susie, and Barbara for coming to see me! It made my day!

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Our next stop is in three weeks at Quiltique in Las Vegas, Nevada (April 19th from 11am-2pm). It will be just me, my family, and the glamper for that stop. Those of you in town, I would love to see you!

Happy Glamping and Sewing!

Carina

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