Buttermilk Basin Design Studio

Oliver

2012-01-14T22:57:00.000-06:00

...Happy New!

I am so sorry this year did not start out with a bang on the blog! However, inside the studio, and everywhere else here at BB, we have been rockin! I have never had a year get off to such a great start! We even have a speaking engagement and two trunk shows under our belt with many more to come! I will get back to that shortly as well as showing you a sneak peek of some new designs this next week! ...So excited to share exciting new and designs with all of you! I have truly missed you!

Anyhoooo.... I have have to show you my latest love of my life.... Oliver.

Oliver was given to me for Christmas by my husband... and honestly, he is just amazing and the sweetest thing ever! He won me over ten times fold! Ever since we brought Oli home, he had sever diarrhea (which we have been working diligently with our vet to get rid of). Other than his stools not improving, Oli was enjoying his new & active life at our home. Then, all of the sudden, last Saturday, he took an unexpected turn for the worst. We ended up taking him to the Vet ER. After many tests (with no answers), we learned that his white blood cells were extremely high and that he was indeed suffering from neurological disorders. (These were awful to watch and see him not be able to get rid of - my heart broke!) After more vet visits and little or no improvement, we ended up signing our rights back to the owner/breeder. Since Tuesday I have been just sick... However, after visiting him twice a day (hoping my love will help him!) at the pet shop... I see a spark inside of him lit up again for the first time since Saturday. I have never lost the faith, but I had exhausted my options and had to "let go" and pray that he would get better and receive the intense care he was in need of. Although he has a long way to go and we have no answers - (other than a rare, but possible, side effect caused by one of the meds) as to what is causing the neurological disorders... I am hoping one day we will be able to bring little Oli back to our home and give him all the love he needs! So - if you get a chance... a little pray for our little guy Oli would be greatly appreciated! Stay tuned.... :)

All I want for Christmas....

2011-11-30T21:26:00.000-06:00

For those of you who do not already know... I am blessed with two darling daughters. My oldest, Hannah is 12 and Grace is 9. Now, to say they are completely opposite is very true.

So the other night I noticed this revised list from Grace (which once was much smaller and on my IPhone). Now, where is it hanging - on my bedroom wall, mind you! Front and center to be sure it is seen!!! Check out her Christmas list, it only has a thing or two on it! LOL... We think it is just too darn cute! And it is prioritized by stars with another "real" kitty (preferably orange and white, her own!) having the most stars!

(Note: we already have two!)

And as for my sweet Hannah... well, her list has just a few things on it and she is always happy with whatever she receives!.... (Luv her!)

Little do they know, we always spend the same on both - list or no list!!!

Oh, to be young again!

Grace's ever growing Christmas list 2011!

Baking Reminds me of Grandma!

2011-11-28T23:06:00.000-06:00

Wow - this makes it 4 days in a row for posting... I'm impressing myself!!! LOL!

Ok - so this morning I brought the invites to the shop and snapped a quick photo for you before I stuffed the envelopes with them. It is rather simple this year - but simple is good every now and then. I love the old recipe I included in the bottom left. There is something magical about old recipes. I love coming across an old recipe box filled with someones recipes that have been special to them or passed on from generations. I still have a few of my great grandmother Lily's old recipes that she had written. Seeing her hand writing warms my heart! She was one of those who never really used a recipe - yet anything she would make or bake turned out amazing.

Speaking of amazing... I am the only one who has her recipe for svensakaka. It is kinda like a flatbread/soft round bread like... It is rolled out and baked one side at a time in the oven. It is best when it comes out of the oven hot and fresh and the butter melts on it when you put it on!! (Heaven)! It is also tasty with butter and homemade strawberry jam! What I wouldn't give for one more round of baking with my great grandma Lily!! Those were some of my best memories...

Baking was a huge part of my life. Every since I can remember, once or twice a week I would rush over to her house in the morning (we lived in the same yard) and we would bake cakes, cookies and breads etc... She was so patient and we giggled all morning long! It was just the best. The crazy part is that you know how crazy flour can be - well, try cleaning up everything with no running water. Yes - she never did accept our gift of plumbing. I would carry pails of water (heavy - big pails!!) everyday! And in the winter... I would haul them over in my sled. Thinking back... It was a normal thing to do. It is hard to imagine those "good olde days". However, even though the days are but a memory, her legacy lives on through my baking... as I am blessed to have her rolling pins and sticks (hand widdled) for making lefsa and svensakaka, along with her recipes.

I miss you & love you soo much Grandma! XOXOXO

Birthday Celebration~

2011-11-27T13:11:00.019-06:00

I don't know about you... but I have always loved celebrating my birthday throughout the years!

This year, was no exception!

It started out with a gathering of my closest girlfriends meeting up downtown Minneapolis at our hotel room last Saturday. (We rented a suite -Heaven!) Once we were all looking fine... we headed over to The Melting Pot. The fondue was just delish! It felt so good to be surrounded by so many amazing girlfriends. After dinner, we headed out for an evening out on the town! (Way too much fun!) After we lost our "grooves".... we headed back to our hotel suite and the gals sang Happy Birthday to me and we cut into the most heavenly cake I have ever tasted around 4AM. I can not tell you the last time I stayed up that late and enjoying time with my gf's.... Remember...You are NEVER too OLD to enjoy YOUR day in my books! Here is a pic of my awesome shoes I wore that evening from Nordstrom and the BEAUTIFUL & soo delicious cake the girls surprised me with!

Birthday Cake 2011

New Shoes from Nordstrom

The next days leading up to my bday were followed my many delightful texts, cards, birthday wishes, bday suppers (and lunches - can you say "spoiled")... and of course... some sweet bday gifts! I thought I would share a few below of the ones you would enjoy most! (I absolutely LOVE them all!!!) Thanks to each and EVERYONE of you who made my birthday amazing! Love ya!

Handmade goods from a special friend! Simple GORGEOUS!

Handmade earrings out of an old quilt.

Find your joy Handmade copper necklace

Annual Cookie Swap

2011-11-26T17:38:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year again... time to get the Holidays in motion with one of my fav events that I host for my girlfriends! My annual Holiday Cookie Swap.

The last couple of days I have been tweaking my invite and am pleased to say they will be going out in the mail on Monday to all my swappers! My swap is always held on the second weekend (typically on Saturday) of December. This give the gals plenty of time to nibble on cookies with any guests they have prior to the Holidays or freeze them to use during the Holidays.

Since it has been rather busy around here - I have not taken the time to research my cookie for this year. I typically have numerous qualifications that it has to meet (I'm pretty picky)! LOL! It needs to taste delish, bake up nicely and especially look pretty packaged etc.. Since I also cook a full meal from apps to desserts... it also has to be doable. I don't mind a little challenge - but I have to be able to bake them on Friday with "no fear of fail"!

For some reason... I have jumped right from designing the invite to thinking about my packaging. (Ya - I'm crazy!) Anyway, I think that is the funnest part! I LOVE creative packaging! So - if any of you have a yummy cookie recipe you would love to share or a cool packaging idea... Pop it to me! I would be happy to share it on here with others who might enjoy it as well!

Back to cookie swap planning!

2011-11-25T22:40:00.001-06:00

Greetings Everyone!

I hope this note finds you thankful for all your blessings and excited for the Holiday Season that is all to fast approaching!

I would like to start by thanking each of you so very much for being patient (and still having faith in me -) that some day I would get back in to the "blogging" world! Well, tonight is the night! (I know, can you believe it! Lol! ;)

For the most part, I have been busier than ever (which is good) and as of last Saturday have filled all my shows and teaching/speaking commitments for the year. It feels good - REALLY good! I am one of those gals who does not like to be over committed... and this year, I felt I was. Hence, lot leaving much room open for being creative and holding any exciting events at the shop. However, I feel VERY fortunate and would not trade in any of my experiences from this past year (ok, maybe just one...LOL!) I am a very lucky gal living my creative life that I have always DREAMED of doing! I love what I do and get to be surrounded by so many passionate people who inspire me!

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your emails, calls, cards & notes (you spoil me!) and also for your patience as I get the last of my "ducks in a row together" before I start of another exciting year! MUCH to be thankful for! I am truly BLESSED!

35 NEW PATTERNS

2011-09-07T00:22:00.000-05:00

35 NEW PATTERNS

IN WOOL,

STITCH,

QUILT & PUNCH

(HERE IS A LITTLE SNEAK PEAK!)

NOW AVAILABLE

ON OUR

WEBSITE

WWW.BUTTERMILKBASIN.COM

HOPE YOU LIKE THEM!

And the Winner is..

2011-07-27T08:37:00.000-05:00

First of all we would like to thank everyone for sharing their wonderful memories of summers past with Buttermilk Basin! It was so much fun to read what things people did in the summer and what sticks out in their minds!!

Now, the winner is ........ Gayle (post number 13) Congrats!!! Just drop us an email with your personals and we will get your order rolling! As for the rest of the followers, this is not the first or last give away...keep following for more......surprises, give- aways and treats! As always , many thanks for the support!

Lola

Summer Loving....

2011-07-23T10:14:00.000-05:00

Hey Girlfriends......

Hopefully your summer is full of loving, sun and fun! Stacy is in her hometown of Roseau with the family and friends living up the good 'ole times. County fairs, lemonade, chatting on the farm and enjoying the charm of growing up in a small town are being passed down to her lovely daughters with each passing day!

As for the Basin..we have been hard at work revamping, brainstorming and stepping up our stitching game! We have some new fun things in the works, including new workshops, club of the month and an HUGE event announcement in September (please watch blog for more details)!

Now we have something fun.......

Stacy and I reminisce a great deal about the differences of growing up in a small town (Stacy) and growing up in the city (Lola) and what memories mean the most to us!

Here's what we are doing...

Briefly share with us your favorite summer memory. We will randomly pick one memory on 7/25 and the winner will receive a $50.00 online credit to Buttermilk Basin. Remember you need to be a follower to be eligible. We will announce the winner Tuesday 7/26!

Here's to sharing the summer loving.....

Lola

Sad News...

2011-07-15T01:09:00.000-05:00

.....I should be snuggled in bed drifting of into a nice dream...

However, today we got some sad news and I just can't sleep.

Our oldest cat Winsten, who is 16, was diagnosed with cancer this morning. He has a very large mass in his intestines and it is not curable or removable at this point. For the most part, I was really caught off guard and unprepared for the news to say the least... especially since I brought my two girls with to the (what I thought would be a "typical") appointment. They were devastated and heart broken when we heard the news. The thought of them having to say good bye to the "Big Boy" just breaks my heart.... Gonna go snuggle again with him and see if he will eat a little for me...

Love you, Winsten XOXO!

Winsten our on way to the vet this morning...

Signs of Summer!

2011-07-06T21:36:00.000-05:00

Hey... Well, the good sign is after a lot of tlc and waiting patiently...

I picked our first cute batch of raspberries from our little patch!

Not too shabby for some city slickers! (:

Raspberries...fresh from the patch!

Then, the bad sign is realizing that even though we have a lawn guy and True Green take care of our lawn... they can not fix dead grass created by a left out slip-n-slide!!!! (Special thanks to my two darling girls for making that beautiful piece of art in the back yard - I still love u.. MOM!) {Grin!}

Slip-n-slide Happens!

Hope you all are enjoying these gorgeous summer days! Make some memories and try not to make a dead grass streak on your nicely manicured lawn!!! (:

4th & Party Planning!

2011-07-05T00:51:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends!

I hope each of you are doing well and starting to re-coop from the Holiday Weekend!

For the first time in quite sometime, we did not take in any festivities or gatherings over the 4th. It was a very quiet (can I say, long?) weekend for us at the West household. My youngest daughter came down with a fever early Saturday morning which has had her pretty much confined to the couch for most of the weekend. In between taking her temps and keeping her hydrated, we did manage to sneak out today and pick up a load of "legal MN fireworks" to shoot off tonight! It is the best we could do under the circumstances.... We gathered the neighbors, lit the sparklers and watched a simple, but beautiful array of fireworks in the dark sky!
Sometimes, it is the "little things in life" that matter the most!

My two girls and the neighbors with their sparklers! :-)

Now... With that being said... I really did miss celebrating with family and friends. So, I have decided it is time start planning a summer party! For those of you who don't know (although I totally LOVE what I do) my DREAM job, would be to be a kick ass PARTY PLANNER! Typically, I host several "themed' parties a year. However, since BB has grown over the last few years, my "play" time has decreased (soo not fair!) As I say that - I also have to say I have never miss giving the girls a cool themed birthday party of their choice. Birthday parties are sooo special in my books!!! As a little girl, I would get showered with birthday parties (I lived between two sets of grandparents!!! Lucky me!) But the best part was going to Great Grandma Lily's and getting my favorite homemade three layer cake - it was white with white frosting and coconut! It was the best ever! (You know it was good when I am really a chocolate girl!!) That reminds me... I should through myself a "29"party this year!!!

OK - back to my party... I am thinking of a Vintage Backyard BBQ? What do you think? I am thinking of basing it around red gingham. I have the the best blue and red old metal trays, a ton of Mason jars.... etc! I think it could be really cool! Here is my inspiration..... I thought you would enjoy the pics too! If you have any other cool ideas - let me know!

Photo Credit: Celebrating Moments by Marcie

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Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July from the Basin!

Antiques, friends and stitching..Oh my!

2011-06-27T21:59:00.000-05:00

Hey there Friends!

Good times were had by Stacy and Lola in Lee's Summit Missouri! We met the most amazing women who were students and teachers.......talented, kind and a ton of fun. The food we ate was good..... maybe not good for us......but what are vacations for right? This part of the country has outstanding antiques, friendly faces and a bit of all I can say is "southern charm". The classes Stacy taught were with women who were keen on learning and motivated to stitch ......an awesome combination for a class! We will never forget the kindness given, the stories shared and the memories made...and of course all the laughing! Thanks gals you are the best!! And now, some photos for you to enjoy..........

xo Lola

How True!

A fabulous example of punch needle

Beautiful examples of rug hooking

Everyone's dream house

Remember these sweet, simple bikes?

The Barrelmaker and his wife

The cutest sundae maker in Missouri!!

Peanut butter hot fudge sundae..WOW!

Those great students we were talking about

New friends Barb and Nancy

Another wonderful student

Sweet, talented, kind teacher Lynda


How we want all you friends to feel!

More News..More Goodies....

2011-06-21T22:29:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

Before we go to the new posts just an FYI......

No orders will be shipped for the rest of this week due to traveling to Primitives of the Midwest. Please email any questions, concerns or orders and we will respond after June 26th.

We handed out the following information at the MN Quilt Show and thought it only fair to spread the word on the blog about some new changes......so at the risk of repeating ourselves.....

Enjoy! We will be checking in as we travel to Missouri... might be a giveaway somewhere along the road!

Done with one off to Another!

2011-06-20T16:11:00.001-05:00

Dear Friends,

We must give a huge shout out to all the gals who stopped by our booth at the Minnesota Quilt Show this past weekend! We had a blast laughing and chatting with our old friends, new friends and all the wonderful vendors. The feedback we received about the booth, samples and patterns was overwhelmingly kind. Thanks for all the support and encouragement you continue to shower on the Basin!

Now that we are done with the MN Quilt Show it is off to Primitives of the Midwest in Missouri for 4 days of teaching. Ought to be a fun car ride stopping at quilt and antique shops along the way. Then home for July and trying to do some catching up in the studio, designing and hanging out with family!

Here are a few photos from the MN Quilt Show I wanted to share (more to come). We will try to keep you posted as we make our way to Primitives and we might even have a little hint about what's coming up in the next several months at the Basin!

Lola

P.S. Will introduce myself later this month :)

So happy to be watching all the people!

My cup of tea

Some of the Basin's yummy wool

Lisa and I having a grand 'ole time!

New friend

Gals from JJ Stitches

Beautiful quilt on display

Quote of the day!

2011-06-17T07:36:00.000-05:00

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for".

~Epicurus

P.S. Still at MN Quilt Show..come see us at Excel Energy Center..Booth 520! Two more days!!

Minnesota Quilt Show in 4 days!

2011-06-12T22:00:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends,

..Start spreading the news....the party is about to start rocking in about 4 days!! We descend onto the St Paul Excel Energy Center on Tuesday to set up for the Minnesota Quilt Show......ready to meet, greet and introduce new Buttermilk Basin designs at 9am Thursday!

It will be wonderful to see what's new, share good times with old friends and make memories with new friends.

Be sure to stop by booth 520 to view our new goods and say "hello"... promise you will not be disappointed!!!

Quote

2011-05-25T19:32:00.000-05:00

Came across this quote (LOVED it) & thought I would share it with each of you!

"Why do we close our eyes when cry?

When we dream?

Or when we kiss?

Because we know that the

most beautiful things in life

are not seen, but felt by the heart."

The little things...

2011-03-30T22:44:00.001-05:00

Hey-

I am in the process of getting a post ready for all of you regarding my amazing weekend at the Fergus Falls Quilt Show (Flippin AWESOME!). However - I am also enjoying the little things in my life:

1. American Idol (Who do you vote off?)

2. Mom being in town! (Good times!... Lots of laughs!)

3. A studio that I can work in day in and out! (Even if I make messes in it!)

4. Being able to see the grass... (FINALLY!- winter was toooooo long!)

5. Amazing FRIENDS.. (You know who you are!)

6. Of course, some of the best CUSTOMERS ever!!! (ALL of you!)

7. Opportunities that come my way! (I hate keeping in secrets!)

8. ROB THOMAS! (He ROCKS my world!)

9. Being able to breathe and smell! WOW! (It is a whole new feeling!)

10. Good days... Good times!

I hope you all can take a moment to embrace all the simple things in life that in the end... are the things that really matter!

Hope you have a great day!

See you tomorrow with my FUN blog post!

Breaking in the Gathering

2011-03-07T09:26:00.003-06:00

Last month I started a post and never did finish it... So here it goes!

Last month I took a trip to WI to visit Lisa & Nick (Primitive Gatherings).... It was so cool because Lisa and I were the first to "break" in The Gathering! Let me tell you gals... You all need to take a trip there - you won't want to come home! The "Gathering" is amazing... so amazing, I wanted to move in!!

Upon arrival you will enjoy the most delicious home cooked meals by Lisa's mom, get great night's sleep in super comfy beds with homemade quilts and matching pillow cases... have access to a great sewing environment complete with sewing machines you can rent... And...( my fav part) enjoy relaxing by the fireplace with a glass of bubbly.... You and your girlfriends are not only going to relax, but, create some amazing memories over needle and thread!

Here are just a few picks... Please visit Primitive Gatherings for more info.

A BIG thank you to Lisa for her great hospitality! Thanks for a GREAT weekend... and for taking the time to share your sewing tricks of the trade with me! I had a BLAST! You must need me to come again soon?? :-)

I enjoyed learning how to make homemade noodles with Lisa's mom!

The noodles were amazing... so was the Chicken Noodle Soup she made!

Gals working away at the warehouse!

The boss (LB) placing her order for an upcoming teaching/trunk show.

Homemade French Onion soup!

Cool dishes...

I got to share the weekend with some great gals who work at Primitive Gatherings... !!!

New Patterns!

2011-03-05T21:25:00.000-06:00

Hey-
Just showing you a sneak peek of the patterns that we should be getting on the website in the next day or so... Our new series is called Penny Mats thru the Year. Our small penny mats are such a hit, we decided to give you one for each month. As you can tell by the pictures below, I had great assistance in the making of these mats!!!

Wilma sneaking in my thread bag!

Wima relaxing in my box with Bella behind in the thread box!

Mom, please let me play with the thread balls??!!!

Pretty PLEASE!

I'll just sit on your projects if you don't let me play with them!

They're done!

Got WOOL?

2011-02-28T14:02:00.000-06:00

Got WOOL??? We do!!... and COOL floss to go with it!

Here are some pics of some of the new YUMMY wool we have in the studio... We are getting new wool in every week! Remember, some wool is limited and we are unable to get more once it is gone! So stop in now and get the good stuff!

Fat Quarters

Fat Eigths

Lisa's (Primitive Gatherings) New Colors

We have tons of wool for thsoe cute sheep!

New Spring colors

New Floss to match new wools!

We also carry Week's Dyeworks floss and more1

2011-02-18T23:07:00.001-06:00

This post goes out to all you mom's out there who can relate! Let me tell you... It doesn't get any better than this does it? :-)

Top 10 Things this MOM had to overcome on Valentine's Week!!!

#10 Trading in a nice romantic Valentine's day for a sick husband, 2 $6.00 heart shaped pizzas, a liter of soda & a smores dessert pizza to celebrate with your daughters instead!

#9.  Sleeping upstairs in your daughter's twin bed because your husband is still sick and you don't want to get sick... because after all... someone has to keep the household running!

#8. Dropping everything & cancelling plans... because the school nurse calls and tells you your daughter is not feeling well and you should come and get her ~ NOW!

#7.  Buying cool colored Popsicles, orange juice in bulk and listening to your daughter say she hates being sick for three days... (and your heart breaks because you can't make her feel better...)

#6.  Worrying for 6 hours while your other daughter goes on a school ski trip . Keep in mind, she has never skied before! (Did I mention last year's trip resulted in 6 kids with broken bones?)

#5.  Wondering if germs really ever go away between loads of sanitizing the dishes and washing the clothes.... hmmm?

#4.  Being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel... then your other daughter gets sick and it begins to feel like ground hogs day all over again!

#3.  Having the opportunity to miss a day of work to stay home with your daughter because your husband has the "REAL" job and you are the flexible one!

#2. Knowing the day is coming to close... you've cooked, cleaned and even managed get some work done and you are about to call it a night and guess what.... your washing machine drain hose flies off and floods your whole backroom all while you are multi tasking and finally posting on your blog about your Junkin trip! (Did I mention we just got new carpet?)

#1.  Realizing you made it through a typical week... you've cleaned the back room and mopped up the water so you turn the fan on to dry the rest of the carpet... grab a diet soda & a box of Tag-a-longs.... then you set your alarm clock (because you know your daughter will need medicine pretty soon) and pray you aren't next to get sick!

Life is good...Isn't it!?? :-)

Junkin

2011-02-18T19:23:00.001-06:00

Hey!

On Thursday, a friend and I headed out across the Twin Cities to go and check out an occasional sale. Although we did not make many purchases this round... it was still fun to check out! I did get a couple of cool small oil cans and a small black old metal display rack for my smaller patterns.... BUT...My fav part of our journey was finally meeting Biscotti Barb! She is so sweet and makes the best biscotti ever! (Hi Barb! :-) Her flavors change each month! YUM!

I resisted - but LOVE them!

OH.. I wanted to bring her home and mend her...

How cool are these?

I am always a sucker for typewriter keys!

Oh the finds....

and more finds...

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Can you say cork board?

Thinking about spring!

Biscotti Barb!!!

Why do these look so cool?

Too coll....

For all you Pack Fans!

2011-02-07T15:48:00.001-06:00

So I am on my way to Jodi's husband's car to pick up a few things for the shop.... and look what welcomed me as I pulled into the driveway where her husband Pete works!!!!
WOW! My pics do not do this piece of art justice! It is sooo much COOLER in person!

Now - who made this, you ask? Well, let's just say... it was some die hard WI fans that spent the night sculpting! It was Pete and a few buddies who work with him. From what I gathered while talking briefly to Jodi this morning... She said that the guys left the house around 10 pm with their shovels, a handful of tools and headed to where they work and started carving out the helmet in a HUGE snowbank right as you pull in to the parking lot for all to see as they drove into work this morning!

Regardless if you are a Packer fan or not - You have to appreciate the time and energy that went into creating this cool snow sculpture!

Who says you have to be a kid to play in the snow!
Can you imagine how much fun those guys had last night? :-)
I am sure it was a night the guys will remember for years to come!

This is the side you see when you drive in to the lot!

Backside!

Shop Open!

2011-02-07T02:33:00.000-06:00

The shop is back open for the new year! Elaine and I have been busy re-doing the shop. We still have a little work to do but it is coming along! The Christmas is packed away and we have started to put some goods on sale! We need to make room for many new products, patterns... and the new models I have almost finished up! I know you are all going to love them! There are 12 new designs!

Here are the new hours for February and March....

OPEN:

Every Monday 10-4

***Plus one weekend each month:

February 17-19 * A Penny for your Thoughts

March 17-19 * Spring has Sprung!

& Indoor Sidewalk Sale

Thursday 12-7 * Friday 10-5 * Saturday 10-4

We will also be open one BIG weekend a month. These weekends will be called WORKSHOP WEEKENDS and will consist of classes, make it take it and of course, we will have a theme for each weekend and will have new product that goes with our theme for the month!

You won't want to miss out on all the fun!!!

Homemade Pasties~!

2011-01-30T22:01:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone! I am behind on posts so I am trying diligently to catch up this week!

For those of you who have never made or tasted a homemade pasty - You really should come over for supper at the West household! I make some kick ass pasties! My husband's dad taught me how to make them years ago and they are still one of our favs! Let me tell you ~ they are HUGE and Delicous! I even make the pie crust from scratch - that is the best part in my books! Some people eat it with Ketchup - but I prefer to eat it with beef gravy! Here are some pics of my process! Next time I have some friends over for pasties... You all should stop by!!!

Pie crust being made!

Rolling out the crust with Great Grandma's rolling pin!

We cut up a tob of carrots, potatoes and onions and still needed more!

Layering the goods!

Folding over the crust and praying it will all fit in!

Lookin good!

Pasties are served!!!!

Come See us at the Artist Cove

2011-01-19T11:36:00.000-06:00

Hey Gals!

We will be vending at our first function of the new year tonight at The Artist Cove! Stop by and see us! The first 50 gals who come receive a complimentary goodie bag! Here is the scoop...

I've Missed you!

2011-01-16T01:58:00.000-06:00

Dear blog readers... Oh, how I have missed our time together!

I am so pumped to be on the mend... I can't wait to make 2011 a great year! I need to make up for lost time... so I am going to jump right in to my first post of the New Year (I know, better late than never)! However, I can tell you there will be ~~many~~ a ton of more posts to follow! I promise! I have way tooo many things to share with you already!

Here we go...
Each year some of my friends pick a word (two or three) to set the tone or be a guide for them to focus on throughout the year. I have never done this, but know it would be good for me to do this year.

Sometime ago, I had talked about this with Karen, from Farmhouse Woolens and we tossed a couple words back and forth. I don't don't if either one of us could narrow our "word" or "words" down at that point. I think we were still overwhelmed with how our year went in general. The year itself was neither bad nor good for me, it was just trying. I know I struggled with finding a balance in this crazy creative world of mine between work and family... not to mention being a people pleaser and trying to make everyone happy along the way. However, after MUCH thought... I have decided on 2 words for me this year. One word will be for me "personally" and the other word will be for me "professionally".

My first word is "ACCEPTANCE". That is my "personal" word just for ME to reflect on each day as I move forward in 2011.

To me, before I am a talented designer, I am first and for most, an amazing mother of two beautiful girls, a loving wife to the sweetest guy ever and a damn good friend to many! For the most part, I am blessed with an amazing life (of course, with flaws!!) and I always seem to worry & struggle with "ACCEPTANCE". In a nut shell, this quote below from Stacey Charter sums up it for me.... (Maybe it is a "Stacy" thing!!!)

“There comes a time when you have to stand up and shout:

This is me damn it!

I look the way I look, think the way I think, feel the way I feel, love the way I love!

I am a whole complex package. Take me... or leave me.

Accept me - or walk away!

Do not try to make me feel like less of a person, just because I don't fit your idea of who I should be and don't try to change me to fit your mold.

If I need to change, I alone will make that decision.

When you are strong enough to love yourself 100%, good and bad - you will be amazed at the opportunities that life presents you.”

(I LOVE reading this quote each day!!!)

The second word for my professional life is "CHANGE". This is a BIG word for me! I think the first step toward change is awareness (I am pretty confident last year brought awareness that "CHANGE" is needed)! The second step to "CHANGE" could be my word "ACCEPTANCE" above. My BEST friend Paula has this quote everywhere and mentions this to me time and time again... "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." -Reindhold Niebuhr

I love that quote and have these two in view each day as well....

If you don't like something, change it.

If you can't change it, change your attitude.

Maya Angelou

"Life is change.

Growth is optional.

Choose Wisely!"

I hope this year is off to a great start for each of you! If any of you have "choose" a word or "words" for the year... I would love to hear about it in the comment section of this post! I am excited to see how these two words play out in my personal and professional life this year! Let's make it a great year friends!

Drum Roll Please....

2010-12-13T21:20:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone!

THANK YOU * THANK YOU * THANK YOU

for touching my heart with all your kind words.. YOU are all so INSPIRING!

Your comments were ALL amazing!

So amazing.... that there was no way to choose...

so here are the random winners!!!!

{NO worries, there will be many more opportunities to win

as we hope to make giveaways a VERY FREQUENT thing on the blog!}

The 19 WINNERS are:

Quilt n Queen

Gayle

Chantal

Lynda

Debra @ Life is a Stitch

the woolen cellar

Liesbeth Wessels

Gwen

~Kathleen

jackiero

Karen

Quilter Kim
Ellen S
paulette
Kathy B.
terryatwood
Bridgidk
Beckyjean
Trish

To each of the winners... Please email me at swest@buttermilkbasin.com your physical mailing address so I can mail out your darling little wool kits! In the TITLE please put SNOWMAN KIT to help make it a little easier for me as we get a ton of emails and I don't want to overlook any of you!

Kits will be sent off later this week as I am taking a few days off to recover from my illness - in hopes to get better in time to spend Christmas with friends and family! Maybe I'll post a little more since I will be laying low!!! :-)

Merry Christmas to ALL!! Stacy

2010 Cookie Swap

2010-12-12T21:57:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone!

Since we are all in the Holiday Spirit from our Blog Hop... I thought I would share with you some pictures of my annual cookie swap that was held today... It was suppose to be yesterday but the 17 inches of snow (which caused our Metrodome to collapse) made things a little interesting...

Each year I gather some of my most dear friends and have them over to my home (this year) or we gather at the studio. Each gal rsvp's her recipe to avoid dups. Then we each bring 6 cookies for each person that attends. We each bring one extra set to donate to someone close who is going through a trying time. This year our set will be heading all the way out to CA! I can not wait to hear the response, as it is always a BIG surprise for the receiver!

I didn't get photos of everything (didn't even get of my amazing display of yummy food!) but this should give you a little bit of an idea of what we do... See if you can guess the winner of the Most Creative Packaging? (Oh yes - Prizes are a MUST!!) Enjoy!

Centerpiece for the Tablescape of Food

Centerpiece of Table

Flowers in Vase for Bathroom

Little bowl of Candy everywhere...

Paula Dean's Line of Holiday Paperware for this year!

One of the Desserts...

Center of Dessert...

One of the MANY trays of cookies for sampling!

First Packed cookies... more below!

More Free Kits!

2010-12-10T22:35:00.000-06:00

Hey Everyone!

The response so far has been overwhelming from our blog hop wrap up...For those of you who have not read the final post from today, please scroll down as it is right after this little add on!

Thank you ALL so much...

I am going to offer more kits available in the drawing as 13 is no where near enough for all these amazing comments! I will wait to see how many comment and add what I feel is needed to help make your Holidays a little Merrier!

You GALS are just the BEST!!! :-)

PS* Stay tuned... I will be posting pictures of my Annual COOKIE SWAP that will be held this weekend! Maybe if you are lucky ~ I will post a couple more de~lish cookie recipes from the cookie swap!

Stacy

2010-12-10T00:34:00.002-06:00

Welcome Everyone to the Final Day of our

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

HO HO HO! I am super excited to be wrapping up the hop today! However, it is sad to see the hop come to and end. But before I wrap it up... I'm going to share with each of you my project and Kid tested, mommy approved yummy cookie recipe and share some Holiday Cheer with each of you!

Our Twelfth Designer is

Stacy West

Hometown * Mounds View, MN

Welcome to the final day of the Home for the Holidays Quilt Designer Blog Hop! On behalf of the other amazing designers and myself, we would like to thank you so much for taking time out of your days to stop by and visit each of our blogs. Your comments, support and enthusiasm has been simply amazing! We truly have the best customers & readers! You all make our days MERRY & BRIGHT!

Before I begin, I would also like to personally thank each of the designers for making this happen. Your posts, projects & cookie recipes were perfect! It has been a great ride and it has been a great honor to have worked with each of you!

On to my post....

Happy Holidays
from Buttermilk Basin!

This is by far my fav cookie recipe! Everyone will love them!

Christmas is one of my most favorite times of the year! I love everything about it! I love the holly, the mistletoe and especially the memories of Christmas' past. Growing up with generations of family in the same yard was an amazing experience ~ one I will always treasure and never forget! No gift can compare to the memories that were created with family & friends when hanging the tinsel on the tree, baking cookies or helping grandma bake svensakaka!

As a little girl, I would go and visit Santa at the hockey arena (Can you tell I grew up in Hockey Town - Roseau? :-) and then head on over to see a free movie at the "show hall". The whole town would be hustling and bustling in Holiday Joy! Shortly to follow, came the annual Sunday School Christmas program at church where we would put on a the traditional play and sing joyous carols. I always remember receiving a red apple after the program. Then Christmas Eve brought my mom's side of the family gathering at our home. We had traditional turkey dinner with all the works including lefsa, flat bread, svensakaka, herring, and of course, Knox blocks in Holiday colors! After we were stuffed and dishes were washed (& hand dried) we would open presents! That was just the best besides waking up to the array of presents that Santa would bring on his sleigh! I will never forget the sleigh and reindeer tracks that I seen one Christmas Day... Oh, the wonder.... Then it was off to grandma and grandpa's on Christmas Day to spend with the cousins. Grandpa Fred would always fill plain brown bags up with nuts, an apple, and those yummy chocolate drops! I still remember how the salt would blend into the chocolate drop... Those days were good days filled with lots of joy and laughter and memories that linger still today!

Now, we are enjoying creating new memories and establishing new traditions with our two little girls... Hannah and Grace and their grandparents! We hope that one day, they will look back and be filled with the same Holiday Joy that we once experienced as a child growing up with Christmas all Around!!!
Merry Christmas Everyone!

Love any Vintage Ice Skates!

Could not pass this up... Only $10

My new Santa... The older they get the orang-er the coat!

Vintage music sheets are so fun!

As our GIFT to you
for following our hop ~
We will be giving away
a "bakers dozen" of kits
for our Snowman Mitten pattern below.
Please leave a comment and we will pick 13 lucky winners to send a kit to you just in time for the Holidays! Post now through Sunday Midnight.

Simply click the design and it will go to the original size for you to print off!

Snowman Mitten by Buttermilk Basin

Make this snowman mitten into a gift by simply filling it with a packet of hot cocoa and a candy cane stirring stick! Or make it for a party favor for your holiday guests! It will be hard to make just one!

Supplies Needed:

Fat 1/8th of red textured wool * Scraps of green, gold, cream and black wools

Coordinating floss to match wool selection

2 large black seed beads

1 small red sequin & 1 large red seed bead

(2) 1/4 inch brown buttons

(1) 1/2 inch tan button

Fusible webbing * (I prefer Lite Steam a Seam)

Instructions:

*Please note pattern is reversed for ease in using the fusible webbing!

1. Trace each design piece (except for the mittens) onto fusible web.

You will not need to trace the mittens - simply cut a front and a back mitten out of red textured wool.

2. Remove paper and place fusible pieces onto corresponding wools. Cut each piece out. Remove paper, & position all pieces in place on front of mitten only. Next, iron applique' shapes onto front of mitten using the template as your guide.

3. Blanket stitch all appliqués using 2 strands of coordinating floss.

4. Sew two black seed beads on for eyes * sequin and red seed bead on for holly * two brown buttons on body of snowman

5. Use 3 strands of cream floss to make french knots for snow

6. Use 3 strands of black floss to make french knots for mouth on snowman

7. Place the front and the backside of mitten together and blanket stitch together using 3 strands of coordinating floss. * Remember to leave the top open to stuff mitten full of goodies!

8. Sew hanger on by attaching a button to secure. Enjoy!

Thanks again and please check back often as we have many new and exciting things planned for the New Year!

2010-12-07T00:24:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 11 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

We are down to the final two... It is hard to believe Friday is the last "hop" day! I will try to make it a good post! But in the meantime - I need to introduce to you our next hopper!!! I'm a little under the weather when I write this, so please bear with me!

Our eleventh Designer is

Debbie Busby from

Wooden Spool Designs
Hometown * Troutdale, Oregon

Day eleven brings us to the most beautiful warm hearted gal you will ever meet... Debbie Busby. Debbie was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. She currently lives in Troutdale Oregon just at the start of the Columbia River Gorge. She is hands down the kindest gal I have ever been fortunate to meet. Never once have I seen her without a warm welcome and a big smile on her face. She truly is a blessing and an inspiration to us all!

I will never forget the first time I had a booth next to Debbie. We were in MN and our booths were back to back. I am a little bit of a "rocker" girl so I had the Ipod on (respectfully) and we were setting up our booth and the next thing I knew... is that Debbie's husband came around the corner or peaked through the curtains and asked if I had any Faith Hill or country on that play list! I didn't know whether I had upset him or... what? Needless to say, that was him being funny! I wonder if Debbie even remembers that now that I am writing this!?!

Debbie has also been designing for many years. Over the course of her amazing career, she has created numerous darling 3 dimensional patterns, dabbled in stitching & fell in love with wool! Not only does she love to design in wool, she also hand dyes some pretty cool wool. Her wool has been quite a hit! So much that she can hardly keep it in stock. You will have to go check out her website for her yummy wool!

I think it's also so neat how many of us, like I mentioned in another post - find inspiration from our ancestors. It's like we all are kindred spirits... Two years ago her great aunt passed away on December 3rd at 101 years of age. My great grandmother Lily, also lived to be almost 101. They both were amazing women. Here is a little tidbit from her blog... You will have to head on over there to read the rest of it! Don't forget to check out her project and recipe! :-)

My first memories of seeing a quilt came from visits to my Aunt Kaddie's house. She was always working on a quilt and when she wasn't there was always one hanging up at the ceiling on a large wooden frame connected to large hooks with rope. I am blessed to have a quilt that she made for me when I was a little girl. A pink and purple hand appliqued butterfly quilt.

Debbie's Great Aunt, Kathleen Mendenhall Yeoman

I remember her hands in great detail!! She had large hands....they were rough due to the amount of work she had done in her lifetime. She was a single woman who worked, gardened, raised more than her share of kids, canned and did anything else that needed to be done. She rented out rooms in her large old house to single men and did their cooking and laundry for them. I remember she always had tape on her fingers..........from all the quilting.....she wore the tape in place of thimbles. She loved God and singing hymns. * From Debbie's Blog...

2010-12-03T00:01:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 10 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

It can not be day 10 of the hop already... I am so sad it is coming to an end!! (Must mean we need to plan another hop after the Holidays, huh? :-) Did you all go and print off Jan's adorable project?!? She had such a fun post too! You gals better start a booklet of all these amazing projects - I better too!!! We are still waiting on Lisa's revise recipe card, no worries.. it will be posted! So thanks for your patience!!!

Our tenth Designer is

Tara Lynn Darr from

Sew Unique Creations
Hometown * Joliet, Illinois

Today is Tara's BIG day! I have been fortunate to have a sneak peek of the project! It is soo cute and will be prefect to keep out all winter long!

Tara started her company, Sew Unique Creations, in 1997 after the birth of her son. Since then, she has created many lovely quilt patterns, published 3 books and has lots of new fun things coming up in the New Year! (Can't wait!!)

Not only is Tara a pattern designer and quilter - she is a HUGE fabric lover and has a great eye for color! (Wouldn't you love to see her stash???) I have seen how much this girl brings to the shows - it's almost scary!!! It has really been exciting to watch her grow over the years as a designer of small craft projects, to becoming a nationally known quilt designer! Now this girl can't get enough of quilting! Not only does she machine piece and quilt, she also hand pieces and hand quilts (Amazing!!) and enjoys dabbling in hand applique! It's hard to imagine she learned to quilt on her own through trial and error. Luckily, she had inspiration and determination! Just like me, she was inspired by her grandma and aunt. I hope they have enjoyed watching her pastime turn into a successful career!

Tara, like Tracy and I, manage to do all this while raising our family. Tara has two children and has been married to an amazing & supportive guy for 13 years! She also has one dog and two cats!! And to top it all off... Tara ROCKS and somehow finds time to design while managing to run her business completely by herself! And yes, that means traveling solo across the states to bring you some of the most amazing designs and fabrics available! So each time you see her at a show (and others) keep in mind how much it takes of a person to actually vend at a show. Tara not only gives 110% into her company, she pours her heart and soul into making it the best it can be for each of of us! So head on over, check out her project and check out all the yummy fabrics and patterns she has!

You won't be disappointed!

2010-11-30T00:01:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 9 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

I can not believe it is already day 9 of the hop! It is flying by! A big Thank you to Lynda for the adorable snowman project. It was so cute! All the projects have been amazing! AND - the recipes have already been tested my some blog followers! I have heard "good feedback" from the recipes ~ so get out those baking pans and whip up a batch just in time for the Holidays! Also - there will be a "revised" cookie recipe for Lisa's cookies. One key ingredient got overlooked... It is missing 1/4 cup dark molasses. So keep your eye out for the "revised" recipe card shortly!

Our ninth Designer is

Jan Patek from

Jan Patek

Hometown * Cameron, MO

Her quilt designs will warm your heart.... as well as your home!

I'm so excited to introduce to you our next designer. I know you all know her ~ but she still deserves much recognition as she has paved the way for many of us quilt designers! Her name is Jan Patek and she just "ROCKS"!
For more than 20 years, Jan Patek has been sharing her talents with each of us. She has also been providing us with the most unique primitive folk art quilt designs in book and pattern form. And if those quilt designs weren't enough for us - we are so fortunate to be able to purchase those amazing fabrics that she uses through her line of fabric(s) from Moda!!! Sweet! Her fabric lines are always stunning! You sure can tell that her designs & fabric lines are inspired by her country, home and her beautiful family!
Jan has a passion for creating and loves sharing her creativity with others. She creates some of the most amazing block of the month quilts and hand appliqued designs around. Each of quilts she creates are a story of her life, her experiences, and her soul. Her quilt designs will truly warm your heart and touch your soul! I remember reading somewhere that she doesn't like to make quilts and put them in a closet. So ~ for those of you who have made a quilt of hers... You better showcase it up on the wall or even better, snuggle up with it while checking out her fun website! ~ It is overflowing with creative outlets... You could join one of her fantastic quilt clubs, browse through her book collection... snatch up a cool quilt kit (with her line of fabrics) or just simply be inspired by her work!
Thanks Jan for all that you have done & shared with us over the years! We can't get enough of it! We look forward to many more amazing years of your fab*u*lous designs!!! Off to her blog....!!!!

2010-11-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 8 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

I hope you all are enjoying the last 7 projects and yummy recipes! Lisa's project is just perfect for giving a special someone on your list a batch of any one (or even better... a mixture) of these 12 recipes! How clever was that? I can't wait to see the next four projects! It's been such a blast! And - how cool is it that you can sign in from anywhere and create a blog post! Simply amazing!!!

Our eighth Designer is

Lynda Hall from

www.primitivepiecesbylynda.blogspot.com

Hometown * Apopka, FL

Lynda is truly a kindred spirit!

Do you ever wonder what it would be like to live close to Mickey Mouse's house... Well, just ask Lynda when you are stopping her blog, as she lives about an hour away from Walt Disney World! (My girls would sooo love to live there!!!) Her location is to die for as she also lives about an hour away from both the East and the West coasts of Florida. Too cool! It's hard to believe that this gal (who lives in such a warm weather climate) comes up with some of the most amazing primitive, warm & inviting designs. I feel like she should be a Minnesotan!
Lynda is A*W*E*S*O*M*E! She is kind, loving and a bundle of energy & inspiration! That girl is just exciting to be around! You can feel her energy & tell she loves what she does! I have admired her work for years and love having her a part of this blog hop!
I find it so neat how many of us, including Lynda, come from generations of quilt makers. Ever since I seen this quite some time ago on her website, I knew we were "kindred spirits"...

How cute is Minnie? Thanks Lynda for the sharing this with us!

Quilting has been in our family for a very long time. My Gramma, Minnie Jeanette Cameron, shown in this picture, belonged to quilt group known as the Mission Quilters Society. My Aunt Roma, also a member, has told me of the times they would make quilts to be sent overseas during World War II.

It's so rewarding to know that quilts have played a very big part in our heritage ~ Lynda Hall

So grab a piece of leftover pumpkin pie and head on over to Lynda's blog.... and be sure to go to her website (it is so prim and vintage) you will need hours to look through it all!!! From the Homeplace... to the Pantry she has something for everyone!

Ho Ho Ho!! Santa's on his way....

2010-11-25T23:24:00.000-06:00

We would like to wish you all

a Happy Thanksgiving!

We hope you all were able to find time to relax

& enjoy this joyous time with friends & family as we did today!

2010-11-22T23:12:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 7 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

Tracy, Tracy, Tracy... Stinkin' cute project! Thanks for being so sweet and sharing the awesome project with each of us! Hope you all are having a great time collecting the recipes (please note ALL of them are available to print out), enjoying the projects and learning a little bit about each of the gals behind the designs you all enjoy so much!!! Off to more fun.....

Our seventh Designer is

Lisa Bongean

http://lisabongean.wordpress.com

Hometown * Menasha, WI

OMG! Today is Lisa's day!!!!

I don't really know if I need to introduce this gal to any of you or not! But.... just in case you have not been at any one of the dozen plus shows she has vended at each year or have not had the opportunity to be a student of hers at the numerous quilt shops/guilds she teaches at... our next designer is Lisa Bongean (LB) from Primitive Gatherings. I personally have not seen any one work harder in this business than her. Since the moment she quit her job, and started this career, she has never looked back and it has been nothin' but full steam ahead for this girl!

Not only is Lisa a well rounded designer, she is a Top 10 Quilt Shop owner and now a fabric designer for... none other than - Moda! Sometimes (ok-most of the time) I have no clue how she does it all! Heck, most days... she has put in about 5 hours before I even start work (but it must count for something that I am a late night owl!!) Either way, from shop owner to fabric designer, it's been fun to see her achieve much success!

Alright... So I also know that some of you know that we "hang" together... so I thought I would share some "dirt" with you about her since she is always giving me grief!!!!! Ha! Just kidding! She is just GREAT, so stinkin' FUN to be around & perfect to share a good dessert with! And - it would be pretty darn hard for me to say anything bad about her (and Nick) when they take care of me, bring kits to me at shows, save my tush with curtains at the WI show (AND, I would also like to thank all you fans of hers... you were all VERY funny stopping by & mentioning that to me :-)... I'm just hoping there won't be a hanging chicken in my booth next show!!!

Have fun gals! Enjoy the upcoming Holidays with friends and Family and don't forget to head on over and check out her post... AND if you are in her area, be sure to get to her shop's Christmas Open House this weekend! It's going to be AWESOME!

2010-11-18T23:59:00.000-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 6 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

Thanks Renee for your sweet project and cookie recipe!!!!

Thanks also to all of you who are following the blog hop! It is amazing to have so many people from all over the world following us! We are thrilled you are taking the time to join us on our venture!

Our sixth Designer is

Tracy from

www.plumcutedesigns.typepad.com

Hometown * Sacramento, California

Tracy and I started designing around the same time. It has been so fun to see both our companies grow into more than we ever dreamed they would become (thanks to each of you)! I can't remember the exact show we met at (tooo many years ago!) - but I do remember how stinking sweet this gal was (and still is!!)! As many of you know, Tracy and I both are stay at home moms... Not a trade show goes by that she doesn't miss her little ones! Although there are days it may be hard to find a balance, I know we both wouldn't trade being able to do something we both love while watching our little ones grow up! Before you know it, they will be helping us out at the shows!!!!

Tracy is an amazing gal with a big heart. She is a joy to be around and I always look forward to seeing her big smile and creative energy! Let's give her a warm welcome as I am sure the project and post was done between many "mommy" interruptions!!!

(Here is a little story I snatched from her website ~ Thanks Tracy!)

A Plumcute Story...

What began as a way to stay at home with my kid-lets has blossomed into a ten-plus year adventure. Plumcute Designs has been offering original stitchery, quilt, & applique patterns since 1999. And I am humbled as I continue through 2010 by your generosity, support, and friendship.
I learned to embroider way back when I was a 6th grader and have been doodling for as long as I can remember. Plumcute Designs has been the natural outgrowth of those two pieces of me.
At Plumcute Designs I am devoted to inspiring creativity. I strive to provide quality projects with clear and easy to follow instructions. Above all else, it is my intention to offer outstanding customer service and a wonderful stitching experience.
Plumcute Designs patterns are carried throughout the United States and Internationally. I have had work featured in American Patchwork and Quilting and most recently in Australian Homespun Magazine.

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!

Debbie Fields Cookie Recipe from the blog hop....

2010-11-17T08:51:00.000-06:00

Here is the recipe from Debbie Fields for those of you who are collecting the recipes and printing them out. For some reason... we could not get her's uploaded for her blog hop day!

Hope you all are having a great day...

Heading off to the studio for the open house...

Come visit us!

Secretariat ~ Gotta See It!

2010-11-17T00:23:00.002-06:00

www.secretariat.com

Tonight while my husband was at a dinner/work function... I declared it a "GIRLS" night with my daughters since they had no homework & I'm at the shop the rest of the week for the Holiday Open House. So, after supper & shopping, I took the girls to see this new movie! All I can say is that is was simply AMAZING! We ALL loved it! I think it is the best movie ever!!!

This movie is for both young and old... Even though I knew the outcome, I was on the edge of my seat... and my youngest daughter and I both had our "finger's crossed" to make sure Big Red would come through and win the race(s)! It is also a tear jerker ~ so be prepared!!!

Penny, Big Red's owner is also just darling and I find her very inspiring! I would love to have the opportunity to meet her one day! She is a very strong and courageous woman and one I relate very well too as it seems I am always trying to find the perfect balance (if there is one!) between my family & following my passion! I hope you all take time to relax and enjoy this delightful movie! You won't be disappointed!

My thoughts on inspiration from the movie:

*Believe in Yourself*

*Have Faith*

*Follow Your Dreams*

*The Impossible is POSSIBLE*

(Now just to put these words into action! :-)

2010-11-16T00:03:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 5 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

How fun was Kathy's banner project? I would love to make some of those for teacher gifts! Too cute! Wonder what Renee has up her sleeve.... I heard three options so I can't wait to see which one she went for!

Our fifth Designer is

Renee Plains

www.libertystar.typepad.com

Hometown * Scottsdale, AZ

Renee is a just a doll!

So where do I start with Renee? Well, first of all, I don't think you will ever meet a more genuine, kind hearted gal than Renee. She is such a doll! She is just the sweetest thing! I have been inspired by her and treasured her friendship for many years.... I can hardly wait for market to come each spring so we can catch up and chat! Not to mention her designs are pure, sweet & fabulous!

The neat thing about Renee is that she is so multi talented. She is a very diverse artist who loves to explore various mediums. I know I could sit for hours and venture the day away with her! She loves taking workshops to learn new techniques or spark new ideas to use in future artwork/designs. Renee also loves quilting, jewelry making, collecting (don't we all!!), mixed media artwork, taking trips and teaching workshops! You all need to go and take the time to read her blog, catch a workshop or hers or just enjoy some of her inspiring pieces of work!

Renee's Fav Books:
The Secret Life of Bees
Anything by Mary Higgins Clark

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!

2010-11-12T00:01:00.001-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 4 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

Thanks so much to Cheri for the darling little quilt and for sharing her favorite sugar cookie recipe with us! We had a mishap with the recipe, so please note it is shown below if you are collecting them to print out!

Our fourth Designer is

Kathy Schmitz

http://kathyschmitzstudio.blogspot.com

Hometown * Portland, OR

For day four of the blog hop, I would like to introduce you to yet another very talented gal & amazing artist, Kathy Schmitz. Kathy lives in Portland, Oregon with her hubby of 26 years and my two cats, Molly & Zippy. She also has two darling grown boys. She says... There is something about a blank piece of paper that whispers and taunts, "draw on me". I have to oblige.

Kathy started her embroidery pattern business in 2007, but gained nationally recognition as a fabric designer for Moda quite some time ago. Her fabric lines are just the coolest! Her latest line just debuted at fall market and is called Full Circle. She has designed some amazing projects from this line that were inspired by her love for embroidery, monograms & life's blessings. You can read all about her new line and new patterns on her blog. And ~ I must mention that she has the coolest "chalkboard doodles" that she posts on her blog on a regular basis! It's time to go see what she has came up with for all of us! I'm sure it will be just delightful!

Kathy LOVES...

Spring & Fall

The Oregon Coast

A really good cup of coffee!

& Good Bristol paper.

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!

Cheri's Sugar Cookie Recipe

2010-11-11T17:46:00.000-06:00

Hello! Here is Cheri's Sugar Cookie Recipe for you to print out!

Up tomorrow is Kathy! It should be another fun post!

Trunk Show at Gruber's Quilt Shop

2010-11-10T22:34:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone! Gruber's has Decked the Halls for the Holidays!

I think you all should head on over to Gruber's Quilt Shop for the

MN Wild West Shop Hop!

www.grubersquiltshop.com

We are thrilled to be a part of this grand event with our trunk show at their shop! Whether you are local or not, you should go and visit her shop/website.... This shop is to die for!!! It has everything you will ever need and is by far the largest quilt shop I have ever been in. I am so blessed to have it a little over an hour away from me. If there is anything you need - Sue and the gals are more than happy to meet your needs!

So have fun gals and hope you locals get a chance to go and check out the trunk show! As always, they did a fantastic job with the display!

2010-11-08T22:39:00.000-06:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 3 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

Thanks to Debbie for a great Northwoods project and delicious recipe! I can't wait to whip up some of those cookies! Better yet.... I hope they come delivered right to my door!! Hint Hint!!! :-)

Our third Designer is

Cheri Saffiote-Payne

www.quiltsbycheri.blogspot.com

Hometown * Poway, CA

This gal is "over the top" talented!

Back in the day, I remember flying out to CA with my husband (who had to attend a conference for work). I could hardly wait to get off the plane and drive up North to Cheri's shop. Let me tell you girls ~ even the flat tire on the rental car did not stop me from getting there!!! Needless to say, I was floored and overwhelmed.... the shop was over the top and filled with the most amazing wood and handwork designs I have ever seen! She had the most beautiful displays nestled in the most unique vintage props one could find. AND - if you were lucky you could even spot a cat snuggled up within a display! Everywhere you looked ~ you were inspired by her work! It was a shop I was thrilled to visit before she took her company into a new direction and closed her brick and mortar store.

Although the shop is no longer here, Cheri's talent and creativity are as strong as ever. She continues to offer us some of the most unique primitive designs around! From stitcheries to quilts, she offers something for everyone. So gals head on over to her blog and check out some of her NEW designs! You won't be disappointed!

Cheri's Fav quotes from

ALBERT EINSTEIN

" Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new"

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!

Day 2 * Introducing Debbie from Granola Girl

2010-11-05T00:01:00.004-05:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 2 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

How sweet was Brenda's post and project! I can't wait to punch up that little guy! The cookie recipe sounds delicious! How pretty would those cookies be on a tray for the Holidays!?!

Our second Designer is

Debbie Field from

www.granolagirldesigns.blogspot.com

Hometown * Rice Lake, WI

This past year I have had the opportunity to travel out of state, do a few retail shows and meet some amazing gals! Debbie just happens to be one of them! From the moment I met her, I knew she was a super cool gal!

Debbie is a veteran in our industry and has been designing patterns, fabrics and books long before some of us even entered the industry. Over the years, she has designed numerous lines of fabric, as well as some amazing books for Laundauer Corporation. This past month, she and her publisher Kitty were kind enough to give us a tour of the publishing company while down in Des Moines! {Thanks!} It was a neat experience!

Debbie is very inspiring and genuine. She is also a very active person who loves the outdoors and loves to capture the essence of the outdoors in her work! Nature is her palette... She uses it in her artwork, her color scheme and texture. She also loves taking photos of her family, her beautiful grand kids, and of the great outdoors. These photos become not only pictures... but memories captured in time.

Debbie's signature saying:

“Take time for quilting and enjoy the outdoors. Life is full of memories.

Make sure you have a nice place to keep them. Quilt it!”

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!

Day 1 * Introducing Brenda from Country Stitches

2010-11-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome Everyone to Day 1 of the

Quilt Designer Holiday Blog Hop!

Today is the first day in our blog hop!

I am so excited to get things underway...

Let's just jump right into it as I know

WE ALL have been patiently awaiting this Holiday hop!

Our first Designer is

Brenda Gervais from

www.withthyneedleandthread.blogspot.com

Hometown * Storm Lake, Iowa

This girl is F*U*L*L of talent!

Since starting her pattern company in 1987, Brenda has not only grown from being one of the top diversified designers in our industry, but she has also achieved national recognition in the cross stitch world as well!

With a needle & thread... there is nothing this girl can't do!

Her designs are {SIMPLY} stunning, folksy & feature some of the neatest hand embroidered details around. Not only does Brenda offer patterns for everyday & each of the four seasons, she also has a line of candles, has the coolest jewelry and much, much more!

So girls, head on over to her blog & Enjoy! She is your one stop shop!

Have fun & make sure to thank her for starting us off on the right foot!

One of Brenda's FAV motto's:

"Use the talents you possess - the woods would be silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best." Henry Van Dyke

http://withthyneedleandthread.blogspot.com

PS * Don't forget... to print off your complimentary cookie swap recipe!