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July 2008 Carol Doak Newsletter
Announcing the next book....
It is finally time to start sharing information about the release of my next book. Easy Reversible Vests - Revised Edition is due to be released at the beginning of September. I proposed doing this updated version of my best-selling book because after this book was released and eventually went out of print, I continued to use the quick and easy methods in this book to make updated versions. I used different types of fabric combinations, different block sizes, block shapes and different block placements and embellishments. I particularly enjoyed using the new fabrics such as batiks and new fabric combinations such as watercolor approaches. All of these new options are presented in this revised edition and more. I describe this book as the best of the original (which sold over 101,000 copies!!!) and much more. Each of the vest patterns is presented in step-by-step fashion and there are two other vests using a similiar technique. I will put this book up in my web store, once I receive the shipment in September. I love making my reversible vests and most of all I enjoy wearing them and receiving compliments. What could be better?
Carol Doak Quilting Group on Yahoo
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The June Block of the Month was popular this month with more than 75 interpretations of this same block. This block on the left was made by Jaymie Perkins. Jaymie's use of color really make this one sparkle. Lots of members are making blocks and posting their interpretation of the block design offering lots of creative eye candy. On Tuesday I will award 60 fat quarters of fabric to one of the members who made and uploaded a picture of her June Block via a random drawing.
We also celebrated our 2 year birthday on June 3. To celebrate our birthday, I designed a Birthday Celebration Wreath for our members. Thus far the interpretations have been gorgeous with lots of members intending to place a special element in the center of the wreath. What one member doesn't think of, another member does. Barb from West Virginia featured a redwork embroidered teapot in the center of her wreath. Barb plans to use this in her kitchen to brighten it. I am sure she will receive lots of compliments.
During June, the final round for the Yours Truly Round Robin was given. This round robin is a bit different from the typical. Each member makes their own quilt using the criteria I gave them for each round. This one was made by Sandy from NJ, however all of the completed Round Robins are just mind blowing and quite varied. The swaps and challenges continue to be popular among our members. With this challenge complete, I am working on the next challenge to upload for our very creative members. If you would like to join in the fun, please do. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CarolDoakQuiltingGroup/
Carol Doak Web Store
http://www.caroldoak.com/store.phpNew Miniature Paper-Pieced Patterns Added
I have continued to add new miniature paper-pieced quilt patterns to the web store from my out of print book, Easy Paper-Pieced Miniatures. There are now 12 different patterns available. The patterns come with all the step-by-step instructions and all the foundations are included to make the miniature quilt. All you need is your fabric and Add-An-Eighth ruler and you are ready to make these little cuties. Don't shy away from miniatures. They are actually really easy when paper pieced. There are now a total of twelve different patterns available with more to come in the coming months.
Surprise Sale Items
I do love surprises so I have continued to offer surprise sale items throughout the month so do stop back often.Book of the Month
The book that I chose this month for the Book of the Month is the 300 Paper-Pieced Quilt Blocks. One of my favorite quilts that I made using one of the block designs in this book in two sizes is the Ring of Spring show on the right. I offered to make this book the book of the month because the Carol Doak Yahoo group is planning to have a tea cup block swap in September using block #81 in this book.Take advantage of the REALLY reduced price this month to add this book to your library.On The Road Again
During the month of July, I will be teaching in Pennsylvania, NH and Montana. You can always track where I will be teaching by visiting my teaching schedule. I hope to meet some of you along the way.I was corresponding with a group in Florida today about a planned trip to the Tampa, FL area in February 2009. It appears that I have a couple of available days in that area around February 24, 25 and 26th. If you know of a group in the area that might be interested in booking a class and/or lecture and joining in on this trip with three other groups, please let me know.
Also, I have heard from Quilting Adventures that my March week is more than half full. I don't typically teach week-long seminars, so if you would like to take advantage of this opportunity, just visit www.quilting-adventures.com to learn more.
All the best,
Carol