Iowa Fun

Last Sunday, I traveled to Des Moines, IA for a bit of R&R time with my pal, Lynne Hagmeier of Kansas Troubles.  As you know, Lynne lives in Kansas, and I live in Illinois, and Des Moines is the half way point between us.  As often as time allows, we try to meet for that oh-so-valuable girlfriend time.

One of our favorite things to do is to go antiquing.  We spent a few hours scouring thru booths to see what treasures awaited. 

We were successful, both finding antique quilts for design inspiration, and along the way,  we also came upon two really neat sewing related antiques I thought you'd enjoy as well.

This spool cabinet was a merchant display for Corticelli threads, a brand I'd never heard

of before.  It was in wonderful shape!

The front threads stood vertically making for a very attractive display behind the glass while the thread inventory lay horizontally in all those little divots.  So cool!!

Neither of us had ever seen a Clarks spool cabinet like this one!  How awesome is this?

The threads were inserted in the top of the display and rolled down those channels, much like a soda vending machine.

At the bottom, you slide the little roll-top-style doors upward to choose your thread.  How great is that?!!  The workmanship on these spool cabinets is unbelieveable!!  We thought both of these spool cabinets would make the best end tables......and we were very tempted......until we saw the price tags.  $2,195 each.  OK....we can admire them and be happy!

Antiquing isn't the only thing we did while visiting Iowa.  Besides staying up late gabbing, and enjoying great food, we did log some serious sewing time.  I worked on a magazine submission project, and Lynne literally whipped up a lap-sized quilt in less than a day.  Really!  I was a first-hand witness to this marvel.  She made it from her new Flannel Days collection. 

This flannel is oh-so-soft and wonderful!  If only the photo could convey just how luscious this feels!

Well, you'll have to take my word for it.  Anyway......

Lynne cut and pieced this quilt, called Puzzled, in just a few hours!  If you need a quick quilt for any reason, this is just what you're looking for!  And here's the best part.....for a very limited time, the pattern is free with the purchase of a kit ($50)!  To find out all of the details, click here.

I returned home full of creative inspiration, renewed energy, and a deep sense of well being in large part because of Lynne.  She is an awesome friend.... a kindred spirit - which is so rare.  I am blessed with a wonderful family.  Twice blessed with the best friends a girl could ask for!  We're already working to make plans to get together again soon.  

Hope you have the chance to spend time with the great people in your life, too!  Pam