Photo by Gregory Case Photography

Episode 604: "Doodle Magic" with Linda Taylor
Join us for Episode 604, as master longarm quilter, Linda Taylor, demonstrates how to create stunning quilted feathers using variegated thread and her "doodling" technique. Then, Alex demystifies the process of drafting an eight-pointed star with an easy to follow demo, and Photo Man shares tips on camera shopping.  It's a show you don't want to miss!

The New TQS Player:  It's a Hit!
Here at TQS, we are always looking for ways to improve your quilting--and viewing--experience.  We are thrilled to present this new AND larger Ooyala player for watching shows, viewing lessons, and much, much more. Some of you already have tested the player for us, and the response has been overwhelming.

In order to watch in this new format, you must have the latest version of Adobe Flash.  Please click on the icon below to update your Flash version.  It's fast, safe, and will ensure that you can use the new player successfully.

More Pant Hanger Tips!
After our pant hanger feature last week, our members sent us a number of other clever ways to use these handy closet organizers. A trip to the closet store is definitely on our agenda now!

Use pant hangers to store starched and ironed fabric. (Be aware that in some parts of the country, starched fabrics may attract unwanted little critters!)

Use a multiple pant hanger (pictured at right) to store the larger pieces of fabric in your stash.

Store finished table runners and other small wallhangings on pant hangers to avoid wrinkles and creases.

Use clip-type pant/skirt hangers to sort and hold fabric strips for a WIP (Work in Progress).

Hang large completed blocks (e.g., Baltimore album blocks) so they don't get wrinkled (or lost!) before your quilt top is assembled.

Use pant hangers to display calendars or children's art work.

If you have a great tip you'd like to share, send us an email here.

Small Project:  Seat Belt Cover
Is your neck constantly irritated by the strap of your seat belt? Carol Doak's clever seat belt cover (shown above) resolves the problem AND let's everyone know that you have great taste. Stitch this quick-and-fun seat belt cover following Carol's surefire paper-piecing technique..but watch out: the rest of your family and your friends each might want one, too. To learn more paper-piecing tips, watch Carol in Episode 602. To find this and other quick quilty projects, visit Projects here.

Samples from the Horsing Around fabric line by Red Rooster Fabrics

It's Time to Saddle Up, Cowboy! 
What child wouldn't be thrilled to spend each night under a quilt featuring cowboys and cowgirls riding their trusty steeds along the open range? Horsing Around, a colorful new fabric line by Red Rooster Fabrics, features cowboy boots, lassos, romping puppies, and denim in a delightful collection perfect for all your little cowpokes. Look for this fun collection at your quilt store beginning this month.

For Red Rooster's easy (and free) pattern for the quilt shown above, click here.

Improve Your Longarm Skills
Whether you're an experienced longarm quilter or just dipping your toe in the water, Linda Taylor's book, Longarm Machine Quilting, is the ideal guide to keep you swimming merrily along.  Linda has filled the book with techniques, tips, and other helpful information for anyone wanting to expand his or her skill or knowledge concerning a longarm machine, including what to know when hiring a longarm quilter. To find this other outstanding quilting books, visit the Shoppe here.