Creative Quilt Kits

Fabulous Tablet Covers

2012-01-26T12:57:00.000-05:00

So you along with a million others stepped it up this holiday season with a new fancy Tablet. Now is your chance to take it one step farther with a custom cover that all your friends will be envious of! Here at CQK we knew you would be searching for the perfect way to protect your tablet and we have some extraordinary new gadgets to help you out. Whether you are a lad with a new I-pad, or on the wire with a new Kindle Fire, or maybe trying to cook while reading your new Nook we have the project for you!

The first step is to find the pattern that best meets your needs. HERE are some great ones we sell in the shop or online. Don't forget to check out all the custom tools and protectors while you are shopping for a pattern.

We carry the Trace n Create E-Tablet and Paper Tablet Templates & Instructions with Nancy Zieman by Clover,

The Pre Cut Tablet Shapers are great for creating the perfect e-reader, tablet, or paper tablet case

Fuse n Bind Tape is a no-hassle way to create an accurate bound edge the iron-on tape makes binding easy,

and 1-inch D-Rings in a satin bronze finish by Clover are great for attaching straps for bags, totes, purses, laptop cases and e-readers.

Here are some stylish samples of tablet covers with awesome CQK fabrics!

Don't forget you need to give it that flare of your own personality with some amazing fabrics. Here are a few to get you started! Give it a traditional feel with these Timeless Treasures library books

or check out the Abbey's Garden Collection by Camelot Cottons

your style might better be matched with the Amy Butler Lark line.

Whatever your passions or interests we have a fabric to compliment it at CQK!

Valentine's Day table topper

2012-01-19T08:30:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and what a better way to decorate or create a handmade gift for the holiday! Cards and flowers are a thing of the past, give the gift that can be brought out year after year and add a little love to every ones day. Without getting all mushy and gushy here are CQK we have our absolutely fabulous Valentines Day table topper prominently displayed to bring a lots of love into the shop! We used the Atkinson Designs Happy Holidays Pattern and made it out of the beautiful heart themed Hoffman Batiks.

Maybe you have a sweet tooth for some candy hearts

or you are just a sap for those cute little Hearts O'Plenty that are perfect for any age or relationship!

Whatever is your style get crackin' Valentine's Day is just around the corner!

Tips and Tricks for working with Cuddles and Minkee

2012-01-13T12:11:00.001-05:00

Sewing with these soft, cuddly Cuddles or Minkee fabrics is as simple as one, two, three. Whether you are making that flashy new vest with a matching hat or a snugly blanket for a special person in your life follow a few of these tips and tricks to make your project an even bigger success!

the new Cuddles by Shannon Fabrics

1. You will get 'cuddle dust' when you cut cuddle, the longer the fibers, the more 'dust' you will have. To control this, cut shorter cuddle fabrics with a rotary cutter, remove from cutting surface and place in dryer with damp wash cloth (dryer sheet optional) on low heat for about 10 minutes.

2. For longer fiber cuddle-rose cuddle, shag, frizzy and furs: draw cutting line on backside of fabric and cut through the backing only with scissors. Then pull apart and place in dryer.

3. Always use a walking foot

**Cuddle dust is easily vacuumed up or use a lint roller. After the initial cutting Cuddle fabric does not fray. But honestly whose sewing room doesn't have a little 'neat' pile of threads and scraps that we plan to clean up after the NEXT project :)

Look for CQK classes coming soon for Cuddle and Minkee projects!

Check out some of these fabulous Minkees by Bentartex!

So soft and warm, but fun and bright colors~

Featuring the new Cuddle by Shannon Fabric and Kwik Sew vest pattern

2011-12-30T16:30:00.002-05:00

Welcome the New Year with this Kwik Sew Reversible Vest and Hat! Have you looked at the runway models or shopped the big department stores lately? This is the new style that everyone is going crazy for! Why not create your own custom version for yourself and maybe a friend?

If you have an hour to set aside this week, then this is the perfect project for you. Kwik Sew’s easy to follow patterns and this awesome new Shannon Fabrics Cuddle fabric are sure to add some fashionable variety to your wardrobe. The shop now carries seven new colors and textures of this beautiful Cuddle Fabric along with 16 different Minkee by Benartex . No hemming or turning required. This fabric doesn’t fray or fall apart! Just sandwich your fabric and stitch together. If you haven’t tried using a Kwik Sew pattern before, this is the perfect project to start with. Their name says it all and it is sure to be a ‘quick’ sewing project forall levels.

Featured in this picture are the Olive Paisley and the Camel Rose Cuddles by Shannon Fabrics on the opposite sides of the vest. Add a holiday pin or your own flair and you are ready to step out in style! Stop in the shop now to pick up your Shannon Cuddle fabric and Kwik Sew pattern or order them online HERE. Don’t forget to check out the Vest, Hat & Scarf Pattern by Kwik Sew too!

We would love to see your finished projects. Email pictures to us at contact@creativequiltkits.com. Stop by our Facebook page and ‘Like’ us!

Extended Holiday Hours at Creative Quilt Kits!

2011-11-08T16:51:00.004-05:00

To our local CQK customers, and those of you who are further away and need to call in with questions ... effective November 16, 2011, we are extending our hours through the Holiday Season!

Weekdays 9:00am to 5:00pm daily except Thursdays
Thursdays 9:00am to 8:00pm
Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm to 4:00pm

Now you have more times during which to stop in and visit us and see all the new fabrics coming in almost daily! See you soon!

Don't forget about our Classes!

2011-10-17T11:10:00.000-04:00

Please don't forget about the Fall Classes at Creative Quilt Kits! We have a wonderful Sit N Stitch planned for Thursday, October 20th. Bring those projects that you just can't seem to finish, and with camaraderie and laughter, you just might be able to! This event is FREE!

You can also make our very popular Spicy Spiral Table Runner! We have a class on Wednesday afternoon.

Please call the store to register for any of our classes ... 810 225 2849.

NEW FALL CLASSES at Creative Quilt Kits!

2011-09-01T15:49:00.000-04:00

Classes below will be held at Creative Quilt Kits, located in the Davis Office Center at 8599 W. Grand River, Suite B, Brighton, MI. Please call the store to register...810-225-2849.

Required for all classes - sewing machine and basic sewing supplies (scissors, pins, rotary cutter, matt, etc.) A supply list will be available when you sign up for classes. (Discount 10% for all supplies purchased for a class.) The classes below are structured for adults, ages 16 and over. Please let us know if you are interested in youth classes! Note that all classes fees are nonrefundable but are transferable in the event of a cancellation.

Sit and Stitch

Do you love the art of sewing and quilting, but find it lonely sometimes? Or do you long for a place and time to sew where you can be free of the distractions of home? Do you lack space in your home to work on your sewing projects? Then join us for our Sit and Stitch program where you can bring your projects to our store and work on them unfettered! Join other sewers/quilters in finishing those projects and engage in the camaraderie that only other quilters can provide.

Required Supplies: Sewing machine and sewing supplies, own project

Cost: FREE!

Skill level: Any

Date: Sept. 8, Oct. 20, Nov. 10, & Dec. 8

Time: 5:00pm - 8:00pm

OR
Date: Sept.13, Oct.11, Nov. 8, & Dec. 13

Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

WEEKENDER BAG

This duffel is a "must have" for any traveler and makes a very classy gift for any occasion. There are 7 pockets in all, including a zippered pocket on the inside. It has padded handles, an optional shoulder strap, and a top zipper. This size for the smaller "Sleepover" size can be made in the same class. Class will be taught by the pattern designer, Laura Witt. She will show you the tips and tricks to create this bag in either of two sizes. Everyone finishes their bag!

Required Supplies: all pieces must be cut and fused before class time. Additional instructions will be given at time of registering. Also bring sewing machine and basic sewing supplies.

Taught by: Laura Witt (designer of the bag pattern)

Cost: $50.00

Skill level: Any

Date: Saturdays: September 17 & 24

Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm

T-Shirt Quilt

What a great present for any youth, especially the high school graduate. Take old t-shirts that hold special memories, and put them to good use by creating a t-shirt quilt. We will be using Eleanor Burns T-Shirt pattern, which is available in the store. You will learn how to prepare your T-shirts, embellishing ideas, quick strip piecing methods, along with which fusible to use. Stop in before class day to select fabric. You must have basic knowledge of how to operate your sewing machine.

Taught by: Carol Laske

Cost: $40.00

Skill level: Beginner

Date: September 20, 27 & October 4

Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Date: October 26 & November 2

Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Paper Pieced Wall hanging

Cute, Cute, Cute! Make this simple wall holiday quilt in a day -- and take away the mystery of the paper-piecing technique. You'll learn tips that will make paper-piecing become one of your favorite techniques! With a little background fabric and your red, green, brown and white scraps, you can create this festive wall quilt. Finished size is approx. 12" x 20". Pattern and paper-piecing foundations will be supplied.

Taught by: Kathy Groves

Cost: $35.00 includes pattern

Skill level: Beginner

Date: Wednesday - September 21

Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm - bring a sack lunch

Spicy Spiral Table Runner

With a little preparation before the class, you will leave with a completed table runner top! This project will "Spice-up" any table. Once you make one, you won't be able to stop! You will learn how-to the unique 10 degree ruler for a fun and easy project. Preparation requires cutting fabric and sewing strips together. Supply list will be given at registration. Table runner measures approximately 25" x 42".
Taught by: Carol Laske

Cost: $25.00

Skill level: Confident Beginner

Date: Tuesday - October 6

Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Date: Wed. October 19

Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Beginning Machine Appliqué

Do you love the look of appliqué, but are intimidated by the techniques? Let our award-winning appliqué artist, Judy demystify the art of machine appliqué. The skills you will learn in this class include appropriate thread selection, appropriate fusible selection and proper application of fusible, design transfer, and successful machine appliqué stitching. You will walk away no longer thinking the appliqué is too difficult.

Required Supplies: Sewing machine in good working order, basic sewing supplies

Recommended Supplies: Please contact the store prior to the class for a kit or other supplies.
Taught by: Judy Pustelak

Cost: $35.00

Skill level: Confidient beginner, comfortable with sewing machine.

Date: Saturday - October 8

Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm

Christmas Tree Skirt

Make a beautiful Christmas Tree skirt with the "Quilts without Corners" method. Supply list will be emailed after registration. Please purchase fabrics before the first class. Sample in store. You will need to purchase book and ruler. You will learn techniques to make this tree skirt or table topper fast and easy, along with strip sewing methods and tips on how to use the 10 degree ruler.

Taught by: Carol Laske

Cost: $40.00

Skill level: Confident Beginner

Date: October 11 & 18

Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Date: November 9 & 16

Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

The Verona Bag--Beginning Bag Making

Have you ever wondered if you could make one of those bags that looks like it was purchased at a boutique? Sure you can--with the right skills! The Verona bag is a fresh and stylish bag that will suit many of your needs. It can be a shopping tote, baby bag, or a laptop carrier. Just pick the fabrics that suit your needs.
In this class you will learn basic bag construction including handle assembly, pocket customizing, interfacing usage, and even how to use a decorative accent with piping.

Required Supplies: Sewing machine in good working order, purchased pattern (available at store), thread, straight pins, safety pins, zipper foot, required materials and notions from pattern (available at store), basic sewing supplies

Recommended Supplies: Turning tool (available for order at store), rotary cutter and mat, ruler, pattern tracing paper, fabric marking pen (available for order at store)
Taught by: Andrea Newmeyer

Cost: $35.00

Skill level: Confident Beginner, has completed one or two sewing projects, ages 16 and over

Date: Sunday - October 16

Time: 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Beginning Quilt making

Do you love all of the gorgeous fabrics available, but don't know where to start with a quilt? This beginning class is for you! Let us take the fear out of fabric selection, cutting and basic piecing. The beginner friendly pattern used in this class makes fabric selection easy and piecing fun! The skills you will learn in this class include fabric selection, basic rotary cutting, piecing 1/4 inch seams, and basic quilting terminology. Do you already know how to quilt? This class may give you some new tips and tricks and give you the time and opportunity to work on a beginner friendly quilt.

Required Supplies: Sewing machine in good working order, basic sewing supplies, thread, purchased pattern (available at store), fabrics required on pattern back (available at store)

Recommended Supplies: Rotary cutter and mat, 6" by 24" ruler
Taught by: Andrea Newmeyer

Cost: $55.00

Skill level: Beginner, must know how to operate your own sewing machine, ages 16 and over

Dates: October 22, 29, and November 5

Time: 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Finish It Clinic

If you are like us, you have a project or two that needs finishing. If you've put off completing these projects because you are stuck on a step or are uncomfortable with a technique, bring them in and sew them with our staff. Our knowledgeable staff will be there to hold your hand and give you guidance to help you finish that project with confidence.

Required Supplies: Sewing machine in good working order, sewing supplies and own projects to work on

Taught by: Store Staff

Cost: $15.00

Skill level: Any

Date: November 12

Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Holy Batiks, Batman! (and other tidbits!)

2011-05-15T16:00:00.003-04:00

Just look at those beautiful batiks! Oops!

The quantity of fabric we're getting in may be a little overwhelming! To say we're getting lots of new fabrics in may be a bit of an, ummm, understatement! For those of you who have been to our shop, you may be thinking, "Where on earth are they going to put MORE fabric?" We thought the same thing, too. Rest assured we have come up with a solution, which we will announce in the coming weeks! So come in to see all these gorgeous new batiks and all of the Christmas and Halloween fabrics we're getting in daily. In the mean time, we will try to fit 10 bolts of fabric onto a 1 bolt shelf, or however the saying goes.

As we continue receiving new fabrics, we are also participating in some area quilt shows, and Gaye, our owner is at Quilt Market! I will post about these events soon!

Happy sewing!

Happy May! Are you ready for a challenge?

2011-05-07T17:07:00.010-04:00

Welcome back! As promised, we are receiving new fabric almost daily. One of the newest collections is Southwest Beauties by In the Beginning Fabrics. This fabric was commissioned by the state of Arizona to commemorate its centennial celebration. Along with this new fabric is a challenge. You can view details of the challenge here.

This eyecatching fabric depicts images synonymous with Arizona's history and terrain. What can you make with it? Check out the rules and then visit our website to purchase your materials. Just make sure you send us pictures of your creations! Please be sure to email them to contact@creativequiltkits.com. We can't wait to see what you create!

Well, hello there!

2011-04-26T23:08:00.009-04:00

Welcome to our blog at Creative Quilt Kits! I am Andrea, an employee of Creative Quilt Kits. One of my newest responsibilities is to author our blog and give you, our readers and customers an inside look at our shop. In doing this, I hope to provide you with lots of inspiration while taking you on a vitual tour of our humble fabric store. The owners, Gaye and Steve are wonderful people who truly have a passion for the business and they truly love fabric! My coworkers and I are passionate about our craft and about our jobs here. Over the coming months, we will share our individual perspectives on sewing and quilting.

So, to begin, where the heck are we located? In the city of Brighton, Michigan. We are 20 minutes north of Ann Arbor, which is why we carry lots of these:

We are also 30 minutes east of Lansing, which is why we also have lots of these:

Because we began as a strictly online business, we have set up shop in an unassuming complex on Grand River Avenue. We are sort of hard to find, but quilters are a crafty bunch. It didn't take long for local quilters to find us and ask to be let in. If you're traveling on Grand River toward downtown Brighton, just take a left at the second drive after Taco Bell. We are in a complex called the Davis Office Center. If it ever stops raining here, I will post pics of our shop in order to help guide you.

Well, I think that will do it for today. Please come back to see what's arriving in our shop. It's getting pretty exciting!

Andrea

Peace Quilt for Japan

2011-04-01T00:24:00.000-04:00

Quilters are often blessed with creative and sometimes perhaps divine inspiration. The St. Mary Magdalen Scripture and Stitches Quilting Group of Brighton, Michigan created this Peace Quilt to raise money for the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan recently. According to Japanese folk lore, a wish will come true if you fold 1000 origami cranes. Following the bombing of Hiroshima, young Sadako Sasaki attempted to overcome leukemia from radiation by making origami cranes. She made 644 before her death at 12 years of age. At the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima there is a statue of Sadako holding a crane. At the base it reads: “This is our cry, this is our prayer, peace in the world.”

Inspired by this story, Margaret Rolfe designed the pattern for this quilt (from Martingale Publishers, copyright 2007). It touched the hearts of the quilters of St. Mary Magdalen Church and inspired them to do something to help ease the suffering. We are an inter-connected world community. There are reports of radiation from the reactors near Sendai reaching parts of the United States. Let’s radiate back some love and hope that will reach the islands of Japan.

Would you like to make this????

2011-03-14T11:39:00.001-04:00

Yes ... this is a shameless plug for our McKenna Ryan Applique class! We just had to include a picture so you would just feel the pull to come and take this fun course. Here are the details:

McKenna Ryan Appliqué

We will work on a pattern from the Lake Forest or All Cooped Up collections by McKenna Ryan. Learn to start the construction of a block - how to transfer the design, which fusible web to use and tips for easy fast construction. You will need to purchase pattern and fabric. Skill level: advance beginner.

Day Class
Date: Thursday May 26
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Fee: $35.00

Evening class
Date: Thursday May 26
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fee: $35.00

NEW CLASSES at Creative Quilt Kits!

2011-03-11T14:06:00.000-05:00

Come and make a T-shirt quilt!

Class below will be held at Creative Quilt Kits, located in the Davis Office Center at 8599 W. Grand River, Suite B, Brighton, MI. Everything will be supplied for the kid classes; adult classes will need a sewing machine and basic sewing supplies. A material list will be sent when you register.

Kids Pillow Case

Youth ages 10 and up are invited to come and make a pillow case. They will choose their own fabric from our store, and finish a pillow case. Other sewing tips will be shared, as time allows. A $10.00 materials fee will be collected at class.

Date: Monday, April 4, 2011 OR Monday July 11, 2011

Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Fee: $35.00 - includes materials Fee: $35.00 - includes materials

Kids Journal Cover

Youth ages 10 and up are invited to come and make a unique cover for a notebook or journal. You will choose your fabric from our store. A $10.00 materials fee will be collected at class.

Date: Wednesday, April 6, 2011 OR Wednesday July 13, 2011

Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Fee: $35.00 - includes materials Fee: $35.00 - includes materials

I Want to Make a T-Shirt Quilt

Do you have drawers full of t-shirts commemorating sporting, theater or summertime activities? How about a high school or college graduate? Put those shirts to good use before they’re worn out by creating a wonderful memory t-shirt quilt. Skill level: beginning - must have working knowledge of your sewing machine. You will need to purchase pattern and fabric, and bring your t-shirt collection.

Date: Wednesday April 13, 2011 OR Date: Tuesday May 3, and May 9, 2011

Time: 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Time: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Fee: $35.00 Fee: $35.00

McKenna Ryan Appliqué

Choose: Day or Evening class

Date: Thursday May 26 Date: Thursday May 26

Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Fee: $35.00 Fee: $35.00

Introduction to Quilt Making

If you've never quilted but wanted to know what the fuss was all about, this is the class for you! This class offers 6 hours of instruction over 2 class sessions. Learn tips for fabric selection, how to read a quilt pattern, how to use a rotary cutter and ruler for accurate cutting, and methods to achieve an accurate 1/4 seam allowance. By the end of the class, you will be on your way to having a finished quilt top! Course fee does not include the pattern and material for the class. You must have a basic knowledge of how to operate a sewing machine.

Dates: Saturday, April 30 and May 14 ( two classes)

Time: Noon - 3 p.m.

Fee: $ 35.00

Beginning Quilting Series

Learn all the steps to make a quilt from start to finish. This class offers 12 hours of instruction over 4 class sessions. If you own a sewing machine and basic sewing supplies but have never quilted, this class is for you. You will be taken through all the steps of quiltmaking from fabric selection, pattern reading, cutting, accurate piecing, basic machine quilting, and binding the quilt.

Dates: July 6, 13, 20, 27 (4 classes)

Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Fee: $70.00

Meet Lynn from Fibra Artysta - one of the blogs we follow!

2011-02-22T19:38:00.002-05:00

How exciting! One of the bloggers that we are a fan of filmed two segments of Quilting Arts TV! Take a look at her adventures here! Congratulations, Lynn!

the reason why i dragged half my studio to ohio this week...

I've been sitting on this information for a long time. I've told a few people but mostly I've hoarded the secret. Part out of superstition, part out of nervousness and part because...(click here to see her blog!)

Classes are being offered at Creative Quilt Kits!

2011-02-07T10:46:00.000-05:00

Beginning Quilting Series - 4 classes - 12 hours of instruction

Teacher: Andrea N.

Wednesdays 6:00 - 9:00 PM

February 16, 23, March 2, 9

Cost: $65.00

First Class: Fabric selection, rotary cutting

Second Class: Piecing, 1/4" seam allowance, pressing

Third Class: Batting selection, layering and basting

Fourth Class: Quilting and tying, binding

Prerequisite: Must know how to operate your sewing machine, including threading and bobbin

Supplies needed: sewing machine and manual (if needed)

McKenna Ryan Appliqué

Teacher: Carol Laske

Choose from:

Daytime Class: February 15 from 1:00-4:00 PM, or

Evening Class: February 17 from 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Cost: $20.00

Sewing Level: Advanced Beginner

T-Shirt Quilt

Teacher: Carol Laske

Choose from:

Daytime Class: March 22 and March 29 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM, or

Evening Class: March 10 and March 24 from 7:00 - 9:0 PM

Sewing Level: Beginner

And so much more to look forward to ...

Machine Appliqué

Date to be announced for March.

You asked for it! This is a special opportunity to work with a talented artist who shares her tips and tricks and makes appliqué easy. Project will be a wall hanging or a pillow.

Spread the Word ...

We will be offering Kids Sewing Classes during Spring Break - April 4th & 6th ... Details will be coming ...

Call us today to sign up for a class! We would love to have you join us!

Blogs we follow ...

2011-02-07T10:35:00.000-05:00

Take a look at this fun entry from Esch House Quilts ... and maybe you may want to join in the quilt along as well!

Cherri House is doing a quilt along that starts Feb 1 and I am going to participate. I haven't done a quilt along before so this will be new to me. While a quilt along is not exactly outside my.... to read more, click here.

The Tools We Use

2011-01-24T10:04:00.000-05:00

Take a look at this ancient beauty, and then tell us about the tools that you use to create your projects. Is it that sewing machine that your mother gave you when you were young? A more advanced machine that you can't even create without? Let us know!

I love my machine. It is nearly as old as I am, but it saw me through the horrors of high school, the craziness of college, the loneliness....(click here to read more!)

Process or product?

2011-01-07T09:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a really interesting post from one of the blogs that we follow ... are you a process artist, or a product artist? Anything we create is probably a labor of love, but which part do you love more?? Read more here at Fibra Artysta.

A modern quilter tackles free motion!

2011-01-03T08:27:00.000-05:00

Look at this cool project on one of the blogs we follow, "Hip to Piece Squares." Our web girl wants this quilt when it is done! But it is already spoken for:

"So, I'm not typically someone who makes big lists of resolutions, but this year, I'm determined to tackle a real quilting resolution for myself. I've been making quilts for over 10 years now, but I have yet to really take on machine quilting. This year I want to make learning how to free motion quilt a priority..."

Read the rest at Hip to Piece Squares!

New Year's Resolution?

2010-12-30T09:47:00.004-05:00

Do you have a New Year's resolution? Some people say don't bother, because you won't succeed anyway. I happen to think that if you commit to learning something new, you almost can't lose!

One of the blogs we follow, Esch House Quilts, has a series, "Advice for beginning quilters." The entry begins:

I'm so glad to hear there are a lot of new quilters out there! Quilters like nothing more than sharing their obsession with others :).

So challenge yourself this year! Learn to quilt, or if you already quilt, learn a new technique, try a more intricate pattern, make quilt entirely of tones, design your own! The world is your oyster full of fabric!

Click here to go to Esch House Quilts.

What now????

2010-12-28T14:16:00.000-05:00

How many times have you started a project with a really fun fabric, only to look at it later, and wonder, "What the heck am I going to put with that?"

I got some really fun fabrics from Creative Quilt Kits and was making squares. Now, it is time to do the sashing, and I have looked everywhere, and am having a hard time finding something (apart from a solid) to go with the fabrics. Isn't the fabric crazy fun?

One of the ladies in the shop recommended a more subtle abstract pattern that picks up on the blues in the fabric, since there is sooooo much red. Well, we will see. I bought it, and plan to do the sashing this weekend! Wish me luck!

Do you have any of these projects you can share? That moment of truth when you really don't know what to do next, but you know that you have to push forward? Let us know!

Ready for the Holidays?

2010-12-20T10:11:00.000-05:00

Take a look at this submission from one of our favorite blogs, Esch House Quilts. What a fun addition to your holiday decorating. We know this holiday is close, but we can always plan for next year!

One Holiday Pillow!

I designed a series of holiday pillows and have been working on them. However, as so often happens this time of year, life keeps getting in the way of sewing...click here to see more.

Projects ... from wrong to right????

2010-12-14T11:25:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a project in mind, started it, and then couldn't finish it? Or maybe it turned out way different than you'd imagined? We'd like to find out how often you have abandoned a project because it became too difficult or wasn't turning out like the pattern. Here is an example from one of our readers. she says it turned out ok, but it was a project she had to do quickly and she had envisioned it differently. When it came down to it, a simple 10 inch square design with no sashing and with knots was all she needed to finish the project, and though it is not what she pictured, it was well made and she was happy with the results.

So let us know ... have you abandoned a project? Pictures please!!!!!!!

Introducing a New Category!

2010-12-10T17:33:00.000-05:00

We are so excited to introduce to you our new 20% off category. There are more than 400 fabrics in this category. It really is the "Not-ready-for-clearance-but-needs-to-be-moved-for-new-stock" fabric category, but that wouldn't fit on the button.

It is so easy to shop this group ... just pile the fabrics into your cart, and your 20% comes off after the subtotal in the cart! You don't even need a coupon code. That is how easy we made it!

Enjoy, and thank you so much for shopping at CreativeQuiltKits.com!

Take a look at this entry! warm and snug by Hip to Piece Squares

2010-11-24T13:34:00.001-05:00

"...I am getting ready for some holiday craft shows in the next few weeks though, and it's requiring that I actually finish some work. Most of what I'm working on is standard fare for my shows, but what is new are some patchwork quilted scarves..." Click here to see more!

We are so honored to feature Hip to Piece Squares on our blog roll. There are some fascinating entries. Please take a look!

Don't Forget to Join our Email list!

2010-11-01T08:47:00.000-04:00

Go to our website and join our email list! It is the best way to stay informed on our upcoming sales and fabrics. Make sure you go to Creative Quilt Kits and explore! Our most recent promo, ending today, is 15% off all Christmas fabrics! But you have to be on our email list to get the promo code!!!! (Hook, line and ....)

See you soon at Creative Quilt Kits!

FRIDAY FEATURE!

2010-09-17T14:09:00.002-04:00

Don't forget to stop by our Facebook page to find out what the Friday Feature is. Here's a hint: seashells!

LOOK AT THAT!

2010-09-03T12:43:00.002-04:00

We have a new new logo ... we are so excited!!!!!!

FRIDAY FEATURE!

2010-09-03T11:59:00.003-04:00

Go to our Facebook page to see what our Friday Feature is this week. You will love it! Click on this sentence: Find me the Friday Feature!

Want a piece of pie?

2010-08-24T15:44:00.001-04:00

The action never stops at Creative Quilt Kits! Take a look at our August Pie Day offer on the site, sponsored by FabShop. From August 21-25 you can get a pie recipe and a free pattern for a pie quilt block! Come take a look!

Check out our Clearance Sale

2010-08-12T15:31:00.000-04:00

Guess what??? We want to buy more fabric but we need to free up some space! Help us out by going to CreativeQuiltKits.com and taking advantage of the awesomely low prices. We just lowered our clearance another 10%!!!!! Use this deal before we change our minds!

Now ... let’s talk about selvage.

2010-08-05T16:20:00.001-04:00

Selvage is that little bitty piece on the edge of your fabric that has the name of the manufacturer, and maybe some sort of color wheel on it. It also has a finished edge to it. The name, selvage, actually comes from “self-edge” (not to be confused with selfish), but “selvage” has been used since the 16th century. Most of us just razor that part right off and keep on sewing. Some seamstresses use that “self edge” to give more weight to a hem, and to avoid having to fold it under twice to finish the hem.

But...did you know that there are actually some very interesting quilt patterns for your selvage? This is the ultimate for green quilters! (No, not sick ones! Environmentally conscious ones!) Think about how you can make a colorful and interesting quilt with these strips of fabric! How creative can you get?

There are many places on the web to get patterns for selvage quilts ... we even have some done by our local celebrity, Marsha Anderson, of High Street Quilt Designs. Take a look!

We are looking for ideas and pictures! What do you do with your selvage? Please send it to us, and we will send you a coupon code good for $3 off a $15 purchase at creativequiltkits.com!

What an awesome heirloom this will become!

2010-08-05T13:08:00.000-04:00

Look at this incredible quilt made by Chris D. of Milan, MI. This is a Bar Mitzvah quilt: the guests were to sign the quilt leaves with special messages. Chris, thank you so much for sharing your work with us!

Don't forget ... we want you to share your work with us too! Upload your images of your projects to our Show N Tell page on our site! We look forward to hearing from you!

FAT??? Fat is where it's at!

2010-07-21T14:22:00.000-04:00

FAT QUARTER BUNDLES NOW at Creative Quilt Kits!
http://www.creativequiltkits.com/quilt-kits/fat-quarter-bundles.html

Yay for quarters that are FAT!!!!!!!!

2010-07-20T16:19:00.000-04:00

Guess what we have added? FAT QUARTER BUNDLES!!!!! Just what you have been waiting for. Take a look at our dynamic collections! They are fun! Just think of the creations you could make! http://www.creativequiltkits.com/quilt-kits/fat-quarter-bundles.html

Artist Spotlight / What's New: Julie Paschkis

2010-07-16T15:02:00.000-04:00

If you like Laurel Burch, you will love Julie Paschkis! You can just feel the water moving over your skin and see the rhythm of the sea when reviewing the Oceanica Collection presented by In the Beginning and children's book illustrator Julie Paschkis.

Paschkis' designs are so intricate you will find something new every time you look at them. And the Oceanica Collection ... the blue and teal hues of this collection make you want to go scuba diving. Paschkis has supplied us with kelp, ocean blooms, water swirls and mermaids. This collection is available now (just arrived) at Creative Quilt Kits!

Sewing Room Salvage ... What Do You Do With Yours?

2010-07-16T14:49:00.000-04:00

Anyone who sews a lot knows that a by-product of sewing is ... waste. Lots of it! What do you do with all those little scraps? Perhaps they are too big to toss, and too small to make anything significant. Plus, if you are a quilter who likes to follow patterns and uses specific collections of fabrics for your quilts, what do you do with those odd pieces that don't go with anything else?

Here are a few ideas:

Make all the pieces into one big, crazy quilt! Why not? It doesn't matter if the fabrics coordinate! Just start sewing edges together to see what you get! Use an inexpensive batting and backing fabric to finish the quilt, and keep it in your car as an impromptu picnic blanket, or to throw down on the floor when the baby comes over. Or donate the crazy quilt to a local organization like the Red Cross. They are always happy to get handmade blankets for emergencies.

If you have a lot of scraps, bag them up and donate them to your local preschool, elementary school, church program or scout troop. These organizations are always looking for donations to help round out their art supplies. Just start asking around ....through the grapevine, we are sure you will find plenty of interested parties.

Use them to teach others your craft! Many of us learned to sew from our mothers and grandmothers ... but how many kids today know how to sew? You may be surprised to find out who is interested in learning how to sew. One of our local customers tells us that she did a sewing badge with a local Girl Scout troop. They machine-sewed salvage squares together to make a quilt and donated it to a local church for relief efforts. The girls keep asking when they can sew again! 4th graders!

Some of the scraps can make very interesting gift wrapping! Tie it up with a bow, or piece of string or raffia, and it looks like a kiss ready to open!

Please send us YOUR ideas, and what YOU do with YOUR salvage! We would love to have more ideas. Go to our Facebook page and leave a comment! We look forward to hearing from you! Get a $2 off coupon for giving us more ideas!

Come to the Porch Sale!

2010-06-03T08:52:00.002-04:00

THIS FRIDAY, stop by Creative Quilt Kits for our PORCH SALE. 10-30% off retail prices store wide!! Additional 10% off clearance fabric!! This sale runs ...Friday, June 4 from 10 AM to 6 PM and Saturday, June 5 from 10 AM to 5 PM (in store only). We will look for you there!

New Offers from Creative Quilt Kits!!!!!

2010-05-17T12:28:00.008-04:00

Thank you so much for being a customer of Creative Quilt Kits!
We want to let you know of some specials that are currently on our site!

Make a project for that special guy in your life! Select fabrics from our Men's Page and make something special for Father's Day! All fabrics on the Men's Page are 10% off!

It is time to think of projects for the 4th of July. Our Americana sale, 10% off patriotic fabrics, can be the inspiration for a wonderful red, white and blue creation!

Dinosaurs, dinosaurs, dinosaurs. Check out some fun new dinosaur fabric...perfect for the little adventurer in your life! These terrestrial reptilian fabrics will delight any future explorer! 10% off dinosaur fabrics helps make a quilt creation that will send the little dreamer into an exotic prehistoric fantasy land!

Visit us at creativequiltkits.com today! We would love to help you with your next project!

Have you heard? Van Gogh may not have cut off his own ear.

2009-11-16T17:33:00.002-05:00

The story has been repeated for years. Vincent van Gogh, an aspiring but unheralded artist, severed his own left ear lobe following a volatile quarrel with colleague Paul Gauguin. Gauguin terminated his collaboration with van Gogh, causing van Gogh to commit himself to an asylum in
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There he created his famous Starry Night masterpiece, inspired by the view from his cell window. Within months of leaving the asylum in 1890, he committed suicide, having sold one painting and considering himself a complete failure. Within a couple of years after his death, his genius was recognized.

It turns out, however, that the legend may not be true. German academics Hans Kaufmann and Rita Wildegans maintain that the accepted version is based largely on Gauguin's accounts, that it contains inconsistencies and that both artists hinted that the truth was more complex. The art historians, who have spent 10 years reviewing the police investigations, witness accounts and the artists' letters, argue that Gauguin, a fencing ace, most likely sliced off the ear with his sword during a fight, and the two artists agreed to hush up the truth. Van Gogh may have hinted at this in letters to his brother, Theo, once commenting : "Luckily Gauguin ... is not yet armed
with machine guns and other dangerous war weapons."

The art of van Gogh is celebrated in the new quilt fabric collection by Exclusively Quilters, “Tribute to Vincent”, available at www.creativequiltkits.com.

Christmas Quilt Fabric Sale Extended!

2009-11-10T10:27:00.000-05:00

We have just extended our fabulous sale on Christmas themed quilt fabric for 8 more days. Now is the time to save 10% off our already low prices on fabric, panels, quilt kits and more. Stock up now and save on everything in our Christmas department. Hurry, this sale positively ends on November 18th, 2009.

Improved Navigation Just Released

2009-11-05T17:02:00.000-05:00

Today, we are pleased to announce a major upgrade to the navigation on our website: CreativeQuiltKits.com. Now, in the left column, you can choose from any of our vast selection of categories of quilt fabrics, quilt kits, gift ideas for quilters, notions and more.

The changes come based on feedback we have received from a number of customers having trouble with the hover-over based top navigation on the new site. We are happy to report that we've listened to our customers and created a whole new way to browse the site.

We hope you enjoy the new features and welcome your feedback.

Until next time,
Your friends at CreativeQuiltKits.com

Creative Quilt Kits

Fabulous Tablet Covers

Valentine's Day table topper

Tips and Tricks for working with Cuddles and Minkee

Featuring the new Cuddle by Shannon Fabric and Kwik Sew vest pattern

Extended Holiday Hours at Creative Quilt Kits!

To our local CQK customers, and those of you who are further away and need to call in with questions ... effective November 16, 2011, we are extending our hours through the Holiday Season!

Now you have more times during which to stop in and visit us and see all the new fabrics coming in almost daily! See you soon!

Don't forget about our Classes!

NEW FALL CLASSES at Creative Quilt Kits!

Sit and Stitch

WEEKENDER BAG

T-Shirt Quilt

Paper Pieced Wall hanging

Spicy Spiral Table Runner

Beginning Machine Appliqué

Christmas Tree Skirt

The Verona Bag--Beginning Bag Making

Beginning Quilt making

Finish It Clinic

Holy Batiks, Batman! (and other tidbits!)

Happy May! Are you ready for a challenge?

Well, hello there!

Peace Quilt for Japan

Would you like to make this????

McKenna Ryan Appliqué

NEW CLASSES at Creative Quilt Kits!

Meet Lynn from Fibra Artysta - one of the blogs we follow!

the reason why i dragged half my studio to ohio this week...

Classes are being offered at Creative Quilt Kits!

Beginning Quilting Series - 4 classes - 12 hours of instruction

McKenna Ryan Appliqué

T-Shirt Quilt

And so much more to look forward to ...

Machine Appliqué

Spread the Word ...

Blogs we follow ...

The Tools We Use

Process or product?

A modern quilter tackles free motion!

New Year's Resolution?

What now????

Ready for the Holidays?

One Holiday Pillow!

I designed a series of holiday pillows and have been working on them. However, as so often happens this time of year, life keeps getting in the way of sewing...click here to see more.

Projects ... from wrong to right????

Introducing a New Category!

Take a look at this entry! warm and snug by Hip to Piece Squares

"...I am getting ready for some holiday craft shows in the next few weeks though, and it's requiring that I actually finish some work. Most of what I'm working on is standard fare for my shows, but what is new are some patchwork quilted scarves..." Click here to see more!

We are so honored to feature Hip to Piece Squares on our blog roll. There are some fascinating entries. Please take a look!

Don't Forget to Join our Email list!

FRIDAY FEATURE!

LOOK AT THAT!

FRIDAY FEATURE!

Want a piece of pie?

The action never stops at Creative Quilt Kits! Take a look at our August Pie Day offer on the site, sponsored by FabShop. From August 21-25 you can get a pie recipe and a free pattern for a pie quilt block! Come take a look!

Check out our Clearance Sale

Now ... let’s talk about selvage.

What an awesome heirloom this will become!

FAT??? Fat is where it's at!

FAT QUARTER BUNDLES NOW at Creative Quilt Kits! http://www.creativequiltkits.com/quilt-kits/fat-quarter-bundles.html

Yay for quarters that are FAT!!!!!!!!

Guess what we have added? FAT QUARTER BUNDLES!!!!! Just what you have been waiting for. Take a look at our dynamic collections! They are fun! Just think of the creations you could make! http://www.creativequiltkits.com/quilt-kits/fat-quarter-bundles.html

Artist Spotlight / What's New: Julie Paschkis

Sewing Room Salvage ... What Do You Do With Yours?

Come to the Porch Sale!

New Offers from Creative Quilt Kits!!!!!

Have you heard? Van Gogh may not have cut off his own ear.

Christmas Quilt Fabric Sale Extended!

Improved Navigation Just Released

FAT QUARTER BUNDLES NOW at Creative Quilt Kits!
http://www.creativequiltkits.com/quilt-kits/fat-quarter-bundles.html