Hello my friends! I hope all of you are having a good weekend so far. It's pretty dreary here in the Northeast. It's been snowing all day, but so far, it's not accumulating. I have a few things to share with you today. The first is my new drawing - a bright yellow finch.

Instead of watercolor, I used Caran D'Ache Neocolor II water-soluble crayons for the finch. The rest is the usual pen and ink and graphite pencil on Strathmore Bristol Vellum. It was nice working without the distractions of the last week. I was able to finish him much more quickly than the last drawing.
I also wanted to share some fabric and quilting inspiration. Last month I had purchased the new editions of Sew Somerset and Art Quilting Studio. They always get me to thinking about ways to use my fabric stash and my sewing machine.

There were several beautiful examples of fiber art that really caught my eye.

I love the way the artist combined embroidery and vintage bird graphics into this fabric book.

The combination of lace, sumptuous red fabrics and tassel fringe paired with the vintage photo is so lovely.
I'm sure you know that I'm a pushover for bright colors and bold patterns by now.

In the latest issue of Art Quilting Studio, I found an art quilt that really excites me.

I recently found some fat quarters that I've been wanting to use for art quilts.

The colors and patterns are so bright and energetic.

I found some ideas in the previous issue of Art Quilting Studio that I think these fabrics would be perfect for.

This conversation quilt can be based on any theme.

The colors used together in these quilts are so striking together.

Finally, I loved the way the artist used variegated embroidery thread in her work.

I think I'll take a break from drawing tomorrow and put my studio back in order. It shouldn't take too long this time because I just worked on it two weeks ago. I'm trying to keep up on it because I've found that the more cluttered it is, the less creative I am. I think it just becomes too much of an effort to work in a disorganized environment. After I tidy up, I want to try the darning foot I bought for my machine. It will allow me to do free-motion sewing, which will give me more options for art quilting.
On the horizon, there's a fabric shopping trip to the Old Country Store in Intercourse in the works for Monday. My sister and quilting buddy, Lorrie and I will be having a day of bliss at the fabric sale.
I hope you have a happy and restful Sunday.
Until next time,
