In the Blink Of an Eye

I’ve been away from social media for several months. This community matters to me and I’m grateful for each of you, which is why I want to take a few moments to fill you in on what has happened and where things stand today.

In early June of 2021, my 82 year old mother fell and sustained a traumatic brain injury. In the blink of an eye, life changed. As a family, we were blindsided and faced a steep learning curve regarding the brain, memory and how best to care for our mom. I quickly made the decision to let go of the remainder of my dye season and put my business on the back burner so that I could help care for my mom.

Today, two years since her fall, our mom is doing fairly well, which is all the more reason to celebrate the silver linings; for example, she and I go out for beautiful drives, and each time we see our home town as if for the first time. She shares stories about her childhood which are all new to me and they help me appreciate her even more. My mom’s daily walk is an inspiring lesson in strength, perseverance and determination. Best of all, each day holds laughter and gratitude.

I’m writing this in September of 2023 and winter will soon be here. Winter will give me space to ask the big questions about what can be next and listen for some answers. While I don’t have a clear picture of how exactly I’m moving forward, know that I’m figuring it out and when I have more to share, you’ll be among the first to hear. Until then, know that I remain grateful for your support, love and compassion.

Singing the Blues, In the Best Way

Long ago, I fell under its spell.

Cyanotypes have captivated me since I was a teenager. I spent summers at my family’s business running blue prints for customers. The process involved a large format blue print machine, large sheets of white paper and ammonia. While the company kept up with the times and eventually did away with the blue print machine, those blue and white prints left a lasting impression.

I recently decided to take a deeper dive into the mysterious world of cyanotypes. I recently devoted myself to exploring the art of the cyanotype and was fascinated by the process all over again. In this post, I’ll describe my process with hopes that anyone who received a September Decadent Textiles box might have an insider’s glimpse at the making of their cyanotype, as well as to share tips and tricks with those of you who might like to try your hand at making them.

Each step in the process of making cyanotypes is a joy, and my favorite moment is watching the images develop. You can’t predict what you’re going to get, which leaves you open to expect the unexpected.

Prepare the Space

The first step was to prepare the work spaces. Deciding to set up shop in our garage, I darkened the windows with flattened cardboard boxes. I also set up a plastic-covered work table for applying the chemical solution, laying out plant cuttings and making the compositions, and then strung cotton clothesline and placed clothes pins on a ladder. Having rubber gloves and pruning shears at the ready proved very helpful. A piece of plexiglass larger than my fabric and paper was handy, and I chose not to use clamps because I was hoping to create more of an ethereal, three dimensional effect. Using clamps would provide even pressure on the objects beneath the plexiglass, and thereby create crisp, well-defined shapes.

Ephemeral shapes floating on an ocean of cyan blue.

Prepare the Fabric or Paper

The next step is to decide what surface you’d like to print on. I chose to cut Fat Quarters of Moda PFD Batik substrate, as well as Stratton watercolor paper (it’s what I had on hand) cut to a variety of sizes suitable for table top frames, book arts, etc..

With the work space set up and fabrics and papers cut to size, it was time to mix the chemical solution. I found a simple, clear set of instructions online here. I purchased Potassium Ferricyanide (red iron salt) and Ferric Ammonium Citrate (light sensitive iron salt), both by Jacquard. Following the online instructions, I mixed the two solutions in individual glass measuring cups, turned off the lights and stirred them together. I made my way in very low light to the garage work table where the stack of fabric was waiting. On the table, I had set up a small cardboard box “cubby” where I could place the cup of light sensitive solution out of the way and further protect it from light while I worked. I applied the solution to the fabric with with a 3” wide sponge brush. In the future, I’ll play around and try a wide brush and other application tools.

The system I created for myself was to stack two pieces of fabric on the plastic-covered table in front of me, dip the brush in the solution, paint the top fabric, lift it off and hang it up on the clothesline to dry, go back and finish painting the second piece (because it absorbed some solution from the top piece), hang it up, and so on. If your fabric or paper are fully covered with solution, please wear rubber gloves to hang them from the clothesline. I left white space on my fabric for easier handling. Every ten pieces I’d need to mix another batch of solution. Doing so worked for me because my clothesline could only accommodate ten pieces.

I let the fabric thoroughly dry in the dark. This meant my husband received a text on the days he needed to park his car in the driveway. He’s such a good sport! Once the fabrics were completely dry, I took them off the line and stored them inside the house in the dark, flat, and completely covered with bath towels to block out any light. Natural light, the hall light, the nearby bathroom light - any and all, or else the solution would begin to be activated and my efforts would be wasted.

Making Prints

On printing days, I’d take a walk in the sweet smelling autumn air and sunshine to the plethora of golden rod, willow, aster, Queen Anne’s lace, tiny daisies, iris seed pods, ferns of all sorts, grasses, and so many more. I was in my glory gathering up the most interesting wild bouquets to bring back to the garage where I’d sort the plants into groups on the table. Pruners were placed on the table to trim stems as needed. These two steps made it easier and more enjoyable to assemble compositions in the dark.

This might be a good place to say that any objects can be used to make cyanotypes. I chose fresh plants that represent the place I’ve called home for my entire life, but pressed plants would be great and would give more defined edges, especially if working on paper. If I had thought about it in time, I’d have used the hawk and turkey feathers collected from previous walks. I did occasionally use a small lace doily sweetly gifted by my dear friend, Marion. I thought it might be a lovely way to share her gift, and the doily could make a great spot for embroidering a loved one’s initials or other lovely marker of time and place.

What a joy to create daily wild bouquets that would be permanently captured and sent out into the world in a such a manner that the recipient could further transform and personalize.

When ready, I’d bring two pieces of coated fabrics to the dark garage, always immediately re-wrapping the remaining stack of prepared fabrics, and lay the fabric on a big enough piece of rigid foam insulation board to fit two fabrics side by side. If you don’t have foam a board, you could use a piece of foam core, masonite or anything else that is lightweight, smooth and easy to carry around. Working in the dark, I took my time making unique compositions. A helpful tip: if working in layers, what ever is laid down first will appear to be in the foreground once the print is developed. Also, experiment with a variety of textures and sizes of objects for added interest. I made most compositions in a spontaneous manner to convey the wild environment in which the plants grew. One neat technique I read about that I enjoyed using was to flick water onto the side of the plexiglass that will make contact with the plants before exposing to sunlight. Once out in the sun, tap or lightly press the plexiglass to cause the water droplets to make contact with the fabric. You can see the effect in the photo just below.

Water droplets making contact with the solution to create another layer of interest.

A Fat Quarter adorned with flowers and leaves topped by plexiglass being exposed under the sun’s rays for ten minutes. No worries, the condensation didn’t transfer to the finished print.

Exposure

Once satisfied with the arrangements, I laid a large piece of plexiglass (sometimes flicked with water droplets) over each fabric, raised a garage door and quickly brought the foam board out to the driveway or the sidewalk (where ever it was most protected from wind). Working on bright sunny days, I waited ten minutes, but this is another opportunity for experimentation. Also, give some thought to the direction of the sun in relation to the orientation of your print.

During those ten minutes, I’d fill a few bins with water from the hose.

Developing

After enough exposure time had passed, I’d put on rubber gloves (very important!) and bring the board to the water bins. The plexiglass and plants were quickly removed from one piece of fabric and the fabric swiftly plunged into a water bin. The print developed in the water as the chemical solution rinsed free. With rubber gloves still on, the fabric was swished around to remove most of the chemical solution, but it was necessary to also rub the fabric on itself all around the edges to make sure the solution was worked out of the fibers. If you’re working at a sink with a sprayer, the sprayer will do this important task. Because I was working outdoors, I’d wring out the fabric in the first bin and then move it to the next one and swish, scrunch and otherwise give it another good rinsing through. Then I’d move it to the third water bin, swoosh it around some more and then let it sit in there while I repeated the process with the other piece of fabric. All the while, I’d marvel at the transformation happening before my eyes, fabric turning from yellow-green and gray-purple to that magical cyan blue and white. Fascinating every time.

Back to work, the wet fabric pieces were hung on the clothesline inside the garage. I’d work in batches, two pieces at a time between the hours of 11:00 and 2:00. If the day was overcast, I’d just add two or three minutes, making it a twelve or thirteen minute exposure. At the end of each session, I’d dispose of the plants in the burn pit where animals couldn’t get at them.

Finishing

Once the fabrics had been allowed to further develop on the clothesline for 24 hours, they were ready to be pressed with a dry hot iron. I read that heat degrades the print so I worked quickly with the iron. As I’ve long said about my eco-bundles and my vat dyed fabrics, I never truly know what’s been captured on the fabric until it’s ironed. When I’m at the ironing table I’m blessed with another wave of ooohh’s and aahhh’s. Please don’t miss the two links at the end of this post, especially the second link, meeting Anna Atkins and her highly renown book of cyanotypes. Extraordinary.

All told, I made over sixty fabric cyanotypes. About half of them were included in the September Decadent Textile boxes leaving the other half to be listed in my shop in early November. I’ve been working behind the scenes to fill the shop with beautiful items in time for the holidays and will send announcement when the listings are live.

A representation of the more than sixty 18” x 22” cyanotypes made for the September Decadent Textile boxes.

If you have a September box, you can quickly iron the folds of your cyanotype with a dry hot iron. If you use yours to make an item that will be washed, use gentle detergent and cold water, air dry if possible.

I couldn’t resist making cyanotype mailing labels for the September boxes. I used a fairly sturdy cotton rag paper and I wrote addresses with a white pencil. I have to say that they looked smart against the brown paper-wrapped packages. A last-minute decision that thankfully worked out well.

Mailing labels with small flower stems ready for exposure to the sun’s rays.

Exposure under way.

Developed labels floating in water. Once completely rinsed, the labels were set out to dry.

Cyanotypes are a safe and wonderful project to do with kids. I invited my nine year old niece for an art date and to see her slow down and look more closely at the flowers and leaves was pretty special. She took note of the varied shapes and textures and learned where best to prune. She followed my every instruction, her hands didn’t touch the chemical solution and she wore rubber gloves when rinsing the fabrics and papers. If you’re working with young people, consider first demonstrating a print or two so they better understand what to expect.

When making her compositions, my niece worked steadily and without stopping, picking up selections and swiftly placing them around on the papers and fabrics. She and I worked differently, yet each of our methods produced excellent results. She was thrilled with her prints, rightly so. Our next art date will be to sew her fabric cyanotypes into a pillow for her bedroom. Seeing her so proud and excited by what she had made was a joy to behold.

If you’ve made something with your September box cyanotype, please share! We’d love to see: @tierneybarden

Two excellent links for further reading:

Brief history of cyanotypes and a how-to: https://blog.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/introduction-cyanotype-process/

Meet Anna Atkins and see images from her renown book, Photographs of British Algae: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/anna-atkins-cyanotypes-the-first-book-of-photographs.html

How Ancient Woad Made Its Way Into My Heart

Woad seeds grown from those sent to me from my dear friend in Germany. These are available in my shop while supplies last.

Dyeing with woad is an ancient craft. For thousands of years, Northern Europeans have been growing woad to obtain a blue that has become the stuff of legends.

Woad is not a commonly grown plant in the US. As an American dyer, working with this plant so steeped in history and lore has unexpectedly proved to be a genuinely moving experience.

Two years ago, a surprise package arrived from Germany. My very dear friend, Sofie, generously sent me a carefully wrapped small glass jar containing precious woad powder. Specifically: Erfurter Blau (Isatis Tinctoria) sold by Rosanna Minelli. Sofie also tucked in a handmade envelope of Waid Samen, translated as woad seed, from the Dürer Haus in Erfurt, Germany.

Woad is a biennial. In the first year, it grows a compact cluster of leaves which contain indican, similar to that produced by indigo. In the second year, woad produces tall stalks of yellow flowers that gradually give way to seeds. The plant puts all of its energy into the production of seeds, leaving the leaves devoid of any blue dye.

Starting in May, the stalks begin what becomes a showy display of bright yellow, sweet smelling flowers. Weeks later, the flowers give way to seeds. Here is my photographic journal of the plants’ progress from mid-May through late July - early August:

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These photos were taken in mid May, and I was stunned by how quickly the stalks shot up out of the ground. You can already see the stalks beginning to flower. Daily watering was needed because of the drought that was under way.

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A few weeks later in early June, the flowers are blooming more fully. Again, just daily watering from the hose, but I’ve read about comfrey tea increasing dye potency. So much to learn!

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Here is the crop at the end of June. The flowers are fragrant and almost at their peak before going to seed.

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The entire experience growing this ancient plant was captivating. Here, in July, you can see the bright green seeds - so many! I found it challenging to capture just how tall these pants grew. They were easily five feet tall!

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The plants bowed under the weight of all of those seeds. My husband and I put sturdy stakes in the ground and strung horizontal rows of cotton string to both hold the stalks upright and attempt to keep free-falling seeds in the bed. Also, staking the plants allowed for increased sunlight and air circulation which prevented mold from forming on the seed clusters. Over the next few weeks the seeds’ color changed from bright green to mahogany, then to purple (below), and finally, a deep rich blue-black.

The dyer in me had to see if the seeds would yield any color, so after bundling some seeds in alum-mordanted silk and steaming for a few hours, I saw that a very little bit of blue was left on the cloth. Apologies for not have a photo to share, but honestly, I wouldn’t do it again because of the need (responsibility) to properly dispose of the seeds. I tossed the spent seeds into our family campfire.

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Harvesting woad seeds. Here, contained on a white bed sheet, the stalks were easily transported to a shady spot where the seeds were removed and allowed to dry before storing in tins, which are available in the shop.

By late July - early August the seeds were falling to the ground, so in order to prevent a woad take-over next year, and as an effort to share these precious seeds with fellow dyers, I harvested the seeds. Tins of woad seed are available in my shop, and each tin comes with growing and dyeing instructions. Woad is a tricky plant to dye with, partly because its blue is much weaker than that of indigo. With the tin of seeds is the vat dip recipe I used; however, there are many ways to go about extracting color from the leaves. A little online research will quickly provide you with a variety of dye methods, fuller knowledge of this plant’s history and useful growing tips. A welcome rabbit hole.

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In early October, I will plant new rows of seeds in a different bed for May growth. Planting this fall will hopefully give me an additional one or two dye vats during next summer’s dye season. I’m already planning what I will dye with this distinct, gentle, exquisite blue.

Of all of the ancient natural dyestuffs I use, woad holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps it’s because of how I received the seeds and the powder, or that I spent two years researching, growing and tending the plants in my own garden. I can say that while dipping fabrics beneath a gorgeous September sky amidst the familiar backdrop of changing leaves, I truly felt a connection to centuries of dyers in far away lands coloring their communities blue.

If growing and dyeing woad interests you, please read the complete listing for seeds here. Send me your questions. I’d love to hear from you!

Ankara Print Sewing Inspiration

A sincere thank you to all adventurous souls who purchased the July Decadent Textiles box!

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Along with my hand dyed fabrics you found three vibrant Ankara Print fabrics. When I first chose these beautiful fabrics, I was unsure how best to use them, and I had intended to include project links in the insert that came with your box. The patterns and texture of these gorgeous fabrics are a little different than our western eyes are typically accustomed to seeing, so below are some links to simple projects that may help you see great ways to use your new fabrics to their best advantage. These project ideas are only the beginning. Soon, your imagination will be off and running!

For key considerations to best show off these incredible prints: https://aknfabrics.com/quilts-made-out-of-african-prints/

For several simple Ankara quilt and pillow ideas: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BUBobbinsUp?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=816275578

This lively quilt incorporates batiks to help balance the active Ankara Prints: https://www.etsy.com/listing/698384367/african-scrap-quilt-made-to-order-scrap?ref=shop_home_active_15&frs=1

How about a quilt of patchwork crosses like the one at the top of this post? The hand quilting is a perfect finishing touch.

These fabrics would be awesome as a headband like the one shown here. Here’s the tutorial: http://www.happytogetherbyjess.com/double-sided-fabric-headband-pattern/

Ankara prints make pretty awesome face masks. Follow washing instructions included on the information page that was tucked into your box. If you need a mask pattern, you can help our local food bank by purchasing my mask pattern for $1.00, here. I donate all proceeds to the Food Bank of CNY.

I’ve long been a fan of Anna Graham’s (Noodlehead) bags and have purchased and made several of her designs over the years. I’m planning to make one of her bags using a small piece of Ankara that I saved from a larger piece that arrived with a big hole in it.

I hope this helps you begin to see exciting ways to use your new fabrics. For even more exploring, try a quick google search for Ankara quilts. There’s plenty of eye candy out there! Leave a comment with any questions you may have about your July box, and thank you again!

Please share what you make! I’d love to see: #tierneybarden

An Excellent Cause and a Folksy Friend

Our last snowfall happened a few short weeks ago, and now I’m excited to announce that my natural dye season is starting! Sort of. With mail service slowed by the pandemic, some dyestuffs are still on their way. Until then, you can still scoop up kits and quilt patterns on sale in the shop, including the newest EPP kit, Prism.

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Since April, I’ve been selling my mask pattern with the commitment to donate all proceeds to our local food bank. Friendly folks who have purchased my sewn masks have also generously donated to the cause. This is a rewarding experience and seeing so many of you step up to help is heart warming, to say the least.

With that, I’m thrilled to say that I’ve just made the first donation to the Food Bank of Central New York. It will put 300 meals on tables across central NY. Thank you to every person who has offered a donation or purchased my mask pattern PDF. I will continue to donate for as long as people are purchasing the mask pattern, which you can find here. Feel free to share on social media - every purchase matters!

Hand appliquéd swallow, part of my new quilt design, Flight Of Hope.

For many months here in the studio a special new quilt design has been in the making. When it’s officially released I’ll share the whole story complete with plenty of eye candy. This is a sneak peek at one of its appliquéd motifs, a folksy sweet swallow.

The name of the quilt is Flight Of Hope, and it’s a play on words. One of the collective nouns for a group of swallows is a flight. Also, swallows symbolize hope, healing and prosperity.

I’m working hard to finish the pattern and make it available because this feels like the right time to share it. Every stitch has been made with hope. I’m wishing the same experience for you, too. Stay tuned for updates about the pattern’s release, and stay well!

Pickled Spruce Tips, a springtime treat!

It’s that time of year when foraging, dyeing and gardening dominate my time and I love it! If you saw the recipe last year for pickled spruce tips in this post but missed collecting spruce tips, this is the time to take a look in your yard! Harvest details and recipe are in the post. Packed with Vitamin C, spruce tips have a lemony flavor and are tasty in egg, chicken and tuna salads, mixed into a garden salad or garnishing baked or grilled meats! Another simple favorite is to steep four to six spruce tips in a mug filled with near-boiling water. Soothing, delicious, nutritious.

Say hello and follow my natural dye and quilt work: @tierneybarden

Introducing Prism, A Brand New EPP Kit

Say hello to Prism, my newest EPP kit created for stitchers of all levels! This lively design is full of movement and flickering light, and is a lot of fun to make! Using just two shapes, you can create your own unique layout and have it stitched up in no time. Visit the shop listing for all of the details.

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Original design using the Prism kit, made by Marion Lutz, Homer, NY, 2020

With all of my kits, I aim to offer functional projects that can be completed in a reasonable amount of time, offer value and are hopefully a pleasure to make. Pillows always seem to fit the bill, however, as with any of my kits, pillows aren’t the only project that can be made. The Tales of Cloth papers are reusable, and you can configure the papers in any arrangement you’d like plus make a larger project or multiple projects!

This stunning pillow shown at right was made by my friend Marion Lutz @fauxsister. She used about half of the papers in the Prism kit and a combined fabrics from her stash with my naturally dyed sateens. Marion’s vision pays homage to the quilters of Gee’s Bend. Aren’t they exceptional?!

Prism under way, Tierney Barden, 2020

A few shop notes:

• All kits and patterns will remain on sale through the month of May.

• Gift cards are now available!

• 100% of the proceeds from my Mask Pattern PDF go to our local food bank. The support continues to be awesome! Let’s keep putting food on tables for those in need.

A final word, with Prism now available in the shop, my efforts return to developing new quilt patterns. These designs have long been in my imagination and it feels amazing to finally be stitching them and soon making them available to you! I’ll share more in an upcoming post, but know for now that new work is emerging, my hands are busy and my heart is full. I’m wishing all the same for you!

New Workshop at Owego Street Makery

New Workshop: Introduction to English Paper Piecing

Learn how to English paper piece with textile artist Tierney Barden in this relaxed two hour workshop at Owego Street Makery. Join the slow stitch movement and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of (portable) hand stitching. You’ll learn the techniques needed to make Tierney’s Bloomin’ Jewels pillow (the top only), or you can rearrange the pieces and make a mug mat, mini quilt, etc.. You will leave with the skills needed to finish your pillow top plus go on to make any EPP project.

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Enjoy the modern rustic atmosphere at Owego Street Makery! (Photo courtesy of OSM)

• A special kit has been assembled, and is included in the workshop fee. The $18.00 kit includes everything you’ll need except fabric, thread and scissors.

• This is a hand sewing class. Complete instructions for making the pillow (including machine sewing the pillow cover together) are provided in your kit.

• If you have them, please bring fabric scissors. Rotary cutter and mat are optional.

• Fabric will be provided from my own stash; however, feel free to bring assorted fabrics and coordinating thread from your stash. Light and dark solids, prints and low volumes are all great! Should you wish to fussy cut your Bloomin’ Jewels, acrylic templates will be available for purchase at the workshop.

• This workshop is appropriate for ages 14 and up.

INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH PAPER PIECING

August 24th, 2019

1:00-3:00 PM

$48.00 (includes kit)

Owego Street Makery, Cortland NY 13045

Coffee and cookies provided

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To see more of my textile life, follow me @tierneybarden

As always, I enjoy hearing from you! Please share comments and questions here, or email me.

Small Milestones, Big Smiles

A long held goal of mine has been to offer you kits. Finally, this milestone is a reality and I’m all smiles! I’ve started small with a few special notions, two kits and a subscription box. More kits are in the works.

Seeking to offer tools and supplies that are every-day-useful and long-lasting, I’ve carefully selected notions for English Paper Piecing, appliqué, hand piecing and hand quilting. I’ve also chosen colors of Aurifil thread that coordinate with my naturally dyed fabrics. These are all supplies that I use every day, so it feels right to make them available to you, too.

I’m delighted to offer Tales of Cloth English paper pieces and acrylic templates! I’m mostly offering them in kits, but I’m also offering a few popular shapes on their own: hexagons and 6 point diamonds. I’ve been using Tales of Cloth recycled papers for over three years and am so pleased with how many times I can reuse the papers, as well as the principals by which Jodi has built her business, products and packaging.

Hexagon Harmony pillow EPP kit, available with or without the book, Wabi-Sabi Sewing by Karen Lewis.

Hexagon Harmony EPP kit combines Tales of Cloth papers with Karen Lewis’s gorgeous book, Wabi-Sabi Sewing. You’ll receive all of the hexagons to complete Karen’s Hexagon Harmony pillow, and instructions are in the book. Learn more about Karen’s jam-packed book here. She has incorporated my fabrics in almost every project in the book! Already own the book? No problem, you can choose the kit without the book.

Bloomin’ Jewels EPP kit includes my naturally dyed fabrics for the jewel flowers, colors may vary.

Bloomin’ Jewels EPP kit features both jewel and hexagon papers. In this kit, you’ll receive all of the papers to finish a pillow, some of my naturally dyed fabrics to use in combination with fabrics from your stash, a Bohin glue pen and one refill stick, a pack of Bohin needles, three spools of coordinating Aurifil thread and instructions.

A look back at the Magnificent Bundles that grew to become the Decadent Textiles Box.

August sign-ups are now open for the Decadent Textiles box! Order now and receive a delivery of sumptuous textile goodies at the end of the month. July’s box was packed with 100% Lithuanian linen fabric (in two colors) and 50 yards of pure linen thread hand wound onto a vintage wooden spool, two FQ’s of my organic cotton sateen naturally dyed in bold pink and rich gold (hot colors for a hot month!), a hand made wooden button and original note card (both made by me) and an exquisite eco-print silk panel. Sharing my favorite textile treasures with you is a lot of fun and I’m well on the way to curating a delicious box for August! Secure your box while supplies last!

Spoiler alert: The woad plants are doing very well here in the garden, which means you’ll likely see woad-dyed fabric in either the August or the September box! Perhaps some lovely French blue silk-cotton floss, too? Fingers crossed!

Is there a project you’d like to have made into a kit? Email me or leave your request in the comments below and I’ll see if it’s something I can create for you!

Follow the dye and studio fun: @tierneybarden

Artist Spotlight: Barbara Eaves

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Barbara Eaves online when she ordered some of my naturally dyed fabric. We’ve continued to follow one another on Instagram, and I’ve since learned that Barbara’s full and interesting life includes traveling, gardening, cycling and precious time with her family. There’s more. Her textile artistry. Seeming to reinvent herself with each new piece, Barbara fearlessly explores possibilities with fabric and thread.

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Raw edge table runner, hand pieced and hand embroidered. Barbara Eaves, 2019.

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Detail, raw edge log cabin tapestry. Destined for the perfect frame.

All of these beautiful photos were taken by Barbara. My heart melted when I read her note that the sweet baby quilt shown in the top photo was made using my naturally dyed fabrics, and that she made it for her family’s fundraiser raffle. I can imagine the care Barbara took as she hand embroidered each blue star punctuated by French knots. And I love her hand pieced, improv style triangle border! In fact, every textile piece I’ve seen of Barbara’s is made more special through her individual use of color, texture and added meaning - stories being told with exquisite attention to every detail.

This raw edge log cabin table runner and log cabin mini tapestry are recent examples of Barbara’s time-intensive techniques. Her work is the epitome of slow stitching, although, I suspect Barbara has been working this way long before it became a trend. Her table runner stretches across an outdoor table beckoning family and friends to sit and stay a while. Such is the power of our hand made textiles.

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Picture perfect, Barbara’s log cabin table runner is ready for company!

“I began sewing in high school and made clothing for myself and for my children when they were small. I began quilting about twenty years ago, and took several classes at local quilt shops and at our community center. I also have a big pile of books on quilting. My love for Japanese fabrics and the wabisabi aesthetic also began in a high school English class when I first read a haiku poem.

Boro and sashiko stitching, Gwen Marston and Gee’s Bend quilters influence many of the quilts I make. I began dyeing my own fabrics three years ago, and have had so much fun experimenting with local plants. I planted a small dye garden this year which includes Japanese indigo, madder, cosmos and pincushion. Concern for the environment has led me to up cycling used garments and textiles, reducing waste, and mending. The friends I have made on Instagram have been a great source of information, and continue to challenge me. What fun this journey has been.” - Barbara Eaves, California

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Detail, raw edge log cabin table runner.

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Raw edge log cabin tapestry, hand pieced and hand stitched. Barbara Eaves, 2019.

Personally, when I look at Barbara’s work I sense a certain freedom, a joie de vivre. I marvel at each tiny stitch, each color alongside its neighbor, each whisper of a story being told. Barbara’s work inspires me to want to save every scrap of cloth and stitch them into tiny charming tales and special, useful every day items. To see more of Barbara’s inspiring work and beautiful feed, follow her: @barbiejo1125

Last week, I announced a shop update and was bowled over by your support! I’m grateful for every purchase, every kind word and every photo showing what you’ve made using my naturally dyed fabrics. These next few weeks will be spent stirring dye pots, and I’ll announce the next shop update as soon as the fabrics are ready. In the mean time, you can pre-order Decadent Textile Boxes in the shop right here!

Follow the dye pots and stitching adventures: @tierneybarden

Announcing the Decadent Textiles Box

The Magnificent Bundles have been so well received that I’ve decided to expand upon them, increasing the amount of fabric, supplies and notions and offer on a monthly basis for the duration of my dye season: July, August and September.

Receive a generous parcel of luxurious, decadent textiles at your doorstep in late July! I’m taking pre-orders to purchase and prepare a fine collection of linen fabrics, naturally dyed organic sateen, eco-dyed silks, flosses of linen and silk-cotton, lovely sewing notions and a surprise treat all meant to indulge. Pre-order now for a late July delivery.

I will gather and assemble a unique, special box each month for the months of July, August and September. A new listing will be posted here at the top of each month, and announcements will be made on IG, on my blog and in my newsletter. Purchase of that month’s box will be available until sold out.

You can expect approximately 1-1/2 yards of specialty fabric with each box, plus the other textile goods and notions. I truly enjoy sharing the fine quality materials and tools that I personally love, and that enrich and enhance any stitching project. I hope you’ll treat yourself to a surprise parcel of extraordinary textile treasures!

The photo above is meant to give an idea of the kinds of textiles that will be in the Decadent Textiles Box. It is not what will be shipped, as July’s box is currently being assembled and products are en route from around the world. Happy dance.

Naturally dyed Linen Pre-Cuts now in the shop!

As of today, new fabrics are in the shop, while supplies last. Naturally dyed linen fabrics are a new addition and I hope you’ll like them as much as I do! I’m also trying out beautiful sets of three sateen Fat Quarters. Having a group of colors that work well together can make starting a project easier. Have a look!

As always, I love hearing from you: @tierneybarden or tierneybarden@gmail.com, or in the comments below!

A Feel-Good Finish and Foraging Fun

Do you have quilt blocks on your must-make list? For years, the Carpenter’s Wheel has been on my list and I’m pleased to say I’ve just completed it. I used English paper piecing and my hand dyed fabrics plus gray batik for a feel-good result!

I really like the difference in textures between the linen and the sateen.

I considered making the Half Square Triangle version of this traditional block, but my affinity for hand stitching made EPP the clear choice in the end. I’m glad I chose paper piecing because I really like the way the individual shapes look with my hand dyed sateen and linen fabrics. This season, I’m adding naturally dyed linen to my product offerings, and I hope you’ll love using it as much as I do! It adds a lovely texture to the finished piece, and it’s a pleasure to stitch. In next week’s post, enjoy an inside look at what my current dye season looks like. Spoiler alert, there’s pretty fabric every where!

For now, I’d love to share how I went about assembling my Carpenter’s Wheel using EPP. If there’s interest in an in-depth EPP tutorial, I’ll gladly put one together. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Back to the Carpenter’s Wheel: starting with the center star made of 45 degree diamonds, I found it helpful to stitch two units of four diamonds (one unit is shown in the photo), and then with right sides together, line up the center meeting point and stitch the two units together. I’ve used both sateen and linen for my star.

Round two in process, adding the indigo squares.

Next, each of the 2” squares wrapped with indigo sateen were stitched to the center star. I saw versions of this block on Pinterest with an alternating light-dark pattern all the way around each of the rings providing a nice dimensional look, but using my scraps meant I simply needed to make do. So, I randomly placed my colors around the design for variety and to keep the eye moving.

The third round, comprised of more 45 degree diamonds, was easily handled by stitching together units of three diamonds and then stitching each unit between two indigo squares. On Instagram, I received comments about how nicely the points meet, and my stock answer is that English paper piecing makes it easy! As with any technique practice makes perfect, but for the most part the papers do the heavy lifting.

My tip is to stitch together sets of three diamonds before attaching them to the squares of the previous round.

The different backgrounds for these photos reveal the numerous places I like to stitch at home!

I chose a gray batik for my outer squares and my hand dyed cotton for the triangles. You can see in the photos the order in which I assembled the squares and then attached the triangles. I’m not sure it would matter whether the triangles were attached before the squares, but this order just felt right to me.

I use Clover mini clips all the time with my EPP. For a long while I resisted using them, but now I consider them an essential tool! For me, they make the process more efficient and a little easier on my hands.

For now, I’m deciding how I’d like to quilt this block, and I think its final form will be a mini quilt. Seeing the shapes and colors come together with each successive round was a thrill, and I’m already considering colors for the next one! If you have a favorite block on your must-make list, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

I stitched two squares at each outside corner before adding the third, forming the block’s corner.

My last step was to attach the triangles, two per side. Those mini-clips sure come in handy!

Plucking Spruce tips for tea and for pickling.

Spring time brings a flood of foraging, planting and preserving. I confess I love it all!

Spruce tips are loaded with Vitamin C, and if you have them growing close by consider reaping the benefits! I often drink tea made by pouring hot water over about six small tips. Let them steep for just a few minutes and then remove before drinking. Add sweetener if desired.

Another way to enjoy Spruce tips is to pickle them, as shown in these photos. Lemony, briney and soft to chew, they’re perfect to chop up and add to potato salad, green salads, deviled eggs, three bean salad, mashed potatoes - the list goes on!

Here’s the recipe for one Half Pint jar:

Collect 2 cups Spruce tips in a clean 1/2 pint mason jar. Really pack them inside the jar up to about one half inch from the top.

Pickled Spruce Tips.

Add six whole black peppercorns

Add one slice of lemon, cut into two haves so they fit better

Add one bay leaf

Add 1/4 tsp. salt

In a sauce pan over medium heat, gently bring to a boil 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1/2 cup water. This will likely be more than needed, but better more than not enough. Once boiling, pour over the Spruce tips and fill the jar to within one half inch from the top. Screw the lid to fingertip-tight. Turn the jar upside down, as this will help seal the jar if you’re not doing a water bath. Let the jar cool to room temperature and then place in a cool dark spot for one month. Once open, refrigerate.

Note: If you’re not doing a water bath, be sure to consume the pickled tips within a month or so after opening. If doing a water bath, the pickled tips should last about six months.

Enjoy trying pickled Spruce tips or Spruce tip tea, and if you have a favorite foraged treat I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

To purchase any of my naturally dyed organic sateens (or linen coming soon), click here.

To catch more of the quilting action and other antics, follow me on Instagram: @tierneybarden

Artist Spotlight: Ann Kreager

“I am piecing natural dyed fabrics into log cabin blocks…. This block represents fabric dyed from Maine, Connecticut, New York and Colorado. My goal is to have this quilt pieced and hand quilt(ed) by the end of 2019. It will have so many great memories stitched into it….” - Ann Kreager

Last June, Ann and I met at Squam Art Workshops. Since then, we’ve kept in touch and I’ve enjoyed seeing this Colorado artist’s gift for all things sewn and knitted on her Instagram feed. What strikes me about Ann’s work is not only her attention to detail, but how she manages to infuse each and every thing she makes with meaning.

Ann made a block a day!

The special quilt featured here is no exception. Ann’s painterly mix of cheerful colors harmonize beautifully, and she has managed to create a quilt that is simultaneously modern and timeless. Ann finished her quilt with big stitch quilting in the ditch. See the photo below for a close up look.

How incredibly satisfying and heart warming it must feel to have created a quilt exclusively using hand dyed fabrics from dyers you know, including your own. As one of the dyers represented in the quilt, I feel Ann has stitched together not only meaningful pieces of fabric, but a powerful sense of community.

Ann inspires me, and I think anyone sleeping under this quilt is guaranteed sweet dreams!

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Detail of Ann’s big stitch hand quilting.

“I love all the sweet friends I have made on this IG community. I am thankful for all the inspiration and support I have received from others. ”

— Ann Kreager

Ann finished her incredibly beautiful, meaningful quilt well before the end of the year!

I’m sending out a big thank you to Ann Kreager for allowing me to use her photos, and to share a peek into her quilting world with all of you. You can follow her on Instagram @hottamale1985.

If you’ve tried natural dyeing, like Ann has, you’ll have a very good idea about the amount of work and time that go into naturally dying fabric. When you share what you’re making with my fabrics, you give me such a sense of satisfaction about my dye work, and it’s what keeps me coming back season after season offering you my very best naturally dyed fabrics. “Artist Spotlight” is one way that I can celebrate YOU, and it will increasingly feature you and what you make using my naturally dyed fabrics, so be sure to share! #tierneybarden

As always, I love hearing from you in the comments below or @tierneybarden.

Artist Spotlight: Pam Delgado

Spur of the moment, Pam used my sateen charms to build onto some of her pretty log cabin blocks.

Recently, two talented women have posted their quilts-in-progress on Instagram, and they’re blowing my mind! Eager to share both of their beautiful stories with you, this week we’ll look over Pam Delgado’s shoulder as she explains the process of how this quilt came to be and her unique way of going about making all of her quilts.

I’ll keep next week’s quilt maker a surprise! Coincidentally, they’re both making log cabin quilts.

Pam Delgado’s quilts are all about pattern, play and loads of irresistible texture! Her log cabin quilt featured here makes me want to drop all of my current projects and start building log cabin blocks with all the scraps! It’s the kind of quilt I always dream of making but never quite get around to.

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“I love it when I play and things happen on their own and I don’t know how it will end up!”

- Pam Delgado

Look at all of those delicious crinkles that could only come from Pam’s hand quilting!

Pam graciously gave permission to share her Instagram story here:

Detail of Pam’s log cabin quilt in progress.

“This quilt began as the center portion only. I wanted a small project to use some scraps I liked and a challenge to make the whole thing with hand stitching only. The piece took on a life of its own, and I knew I wanted to keep going. Next I added the larger log cabin block border, which is quite detailed. Finally, I added the solid strip and the half square triangles using hand dyed cotton sateen by Tierney Barden.

My parameters included using only fabrics I already had, no machine stitching and no batting. The blocks are stitched to a scrap foundation of muslin or linen and the backing is from a cotton sateen duvet cover. When it came time to adding the binding, I was really tempted to use the machine; I didn’t and I’m glad!….

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Detail of Pam’s border that mixes prints with my naturally dyed solids. Inspired by Pam’s tenacity, I’d like to try hand sewing a binding to a small quilt.

This piece represents the way I see my life looking back. Lots of bits and pieces that when added together, make up a life without regrets. There are difficult parts, but mostly parts of beauty and joy. I never start a project knowing the outcome. I begin with an idea, and the piece always guides me to the end; I’m usually surprised with the direction it takes; I always learn something about the process and about myself.”

I wish I could pop by Pam’s house for a cup of tea and just watch her stitch in the sunshine! Thank you, Pam, for allowing me to share your story.

You can follow her feed: @pamdelgado8473

Detail of Pam’s log cabin quilt with her gorgeous hand quilting.

I’m truly touched every time I see something you’ve made using my naturally dyed fabrics. It’s a rewarding feeling, and honestly is what keeps the cycle going, so please tag your photos showing even a scrap of one of my fabrics #tierneybarden. I promise my heart will melt a little.

Say hello: @tierneybarden

A Special Collaboration and Quilts You Won't Believe

This marks my third year collaborating with Mrs. Boysen-Taylor’s eighth grade class at the Palouse Prairie Charter School in Idaho for their Humanities Expedition. The students are off to a great start! Here’s a brief look at our process together and the students’ early progress.

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To practice cutting skills, Mrs. Boysen-Taylor provides her students with a comprehensive worksheet.

Our process together is made up of multiple stages. First, the students read Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream and select a passage that resonates. Together, Ms. Boysen-Taylor and I share instruction and pointers on paper cutting techniques as the students sketch their designs for their selected passages. They share their sketches with me and I offer feedback by way of personal video critiques. Final drawings are made before moving to the actual paper cutting. 

At the end of March, students watched my three videos sharing information and inspiration on what paper cutting can be, as well as a paper cutting demo. Now, a little over one month in to the project and their rough drafts are in my hands for review. I’ll film individual critiques over the weekend so the students have them on Monday. Spoiler alert, their drafts are pretty great! I’m always impressed by their ability to get an idea out of their heads and onto paper.

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Mrs. Boysen-Taylor’s class watching the second of three videos I put together for them.

Students mastering their cutting skills:

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Each year, Mrs. Boysen-Taylor dreams up the coolest ways to reproduce the students’ work. For example, last year the students made book marks, and you can read what they did with their book marks here. Such a fun, creative idea! I won’t give away what she’s dreamed up for this year’s class. Every year, I wish I could be a student in Mrs. Boysen-Taylor’s class. Going through this Expedition with them, even long distance, I can honestly say these are lucky students!

In a few short weeks, with permission granted by Mrs. Boysen-Taylor and the Palouse Prairie Charter School, I’ll share the students’ finished work. Until then, if you have any questions about the Expedition, please leave a comment! Also, if you collaborate on a student project with your local school, I’d love to hear about it!

HAVE YOU SEEN the dazzling carved wood quilts and kimonos by the incredibly talented Fraser Smith? http://www.gofraser.com

Finally, if you’re interested in following me on Instagram, please say hello @tierneybarden AND, to see how my fabrics are being used by talented makers, follow #tierneybarden! Thanks!

Magnificent Earth Day Giveaway!

I’ve got an added spring in my step because April is Earth Month (which originally began as Earth Day), and it also marks the beginning of my dye season!

A Magnificent Bundle containing Essex yarn dyed linen, Brussels linen, vintage feedsack, organic cotton sateen and naturally dyed silk, plus 5 yards of hand dyed variegated silk-cotton floss!

To kick things off, I’m having a gorgeous giveaway for two lucky winners! Freshly curated, “Magnificent Bundles” are now in the shop (have a look here). You can win a bundle for yourself and one for a friend! Click here for giveaway details. All of the bundles contain sumptuous linens, naturally dyed sateens and hand dyed linen or silk-cotton flosses. Some bundles include my hand dyed silk.

I have such fun curating these bundles for your enjoyment! Those of us who love hand stitching appreciate an ample piece of linen. Every “Magnificent Bundle” is chock full of delicious, quality fabrics and they’re all just waiting for you and your needles!

Have a look at these new bundles in the shop here. Each bundle is unique, and once they’re gone, they’re gone! Have a question? Kindly use the submission form on the contact page.

The “Magnificent Bundle” in the top photo contains linen, hand dyed silk and organic cotton sateen charm pack, plus 5 yards of variegated naturally dyed silk-cotton floss. Most of the bundles are wrapped with one yard of rare, vintage French ribbon from Marcia’s basement at Tinsel Trading!

More good news?! Newsletter subscribers receive a limited time 10% discount shop wide! New subscribers will be emailed the discount code. Offer good through midnight Tuesday the 23rd.

These days, having a few pre-portioned soups and casseroles in the freezer is a convenience I depend on. At the end of a busy day, reaching for a delicious and nourishing meal is very satisfying. This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is one of my recent favorites, and I skip the pie crust “crackers”. I’d love to hear your favorite freezer-ready meal in the comments below!

As always, you can follow all the action with our new kitty, Franklin, plus close ups of studio life on Instagram. Say hello!

Quilt Fun Beginning With Paper and Scissors

Saturday March 16th was National Quilting Day, and I was fortunate to have been invited to teach an abbreviated version of my paper cutting workshop to members of the Thumbstall Quilt Guild in Marcellus, NY. Being a member of this guild made sharing my love of paper, scissors and fabric even more special. We had three hours together and these quilters played hard! Let’s have a look over some of the students’ shoulders as the day unfolded:

Denise Bell invited me to teach my workshop, and I have to say that I could make an entire post on solely her paper cuttings and fabric pieces! She took the ball and ran so far with it that she might still be running! Denise recently returned from Mobile, Alabama and used the lush vegetation as her inspiration. Of the many layouts and ideas Denise explored, each and every one of them had such a painterly quality and an undeniable liveliness. For me, her work inspires jubilation and celebration. Keep going, Denise!

Denise Bell smiling through the entire workshop!

Denise made this piece inspired by her recent trip to Mobile, Alabama.

Carol Armstrong used her class time to take one basic motif and apply it to each of the folded papers we reviewed at the top of the class. So industrious, and so inspired! She took a bold step out of the box and began layering her paper cuttings and coming up with compositions for really intriguing pieces. I, for one, will be anxious to see what comes of her paper play!

Carol wisely cut several variations on a theme.

Pam Mueller tracing one of her unique designs.

Pam Mueller (right) had a small mountain of paper cuts to choose from and decided on this one for fabric. During class, she pulled a turquoise watercolor batik from her stash, which will make for spectacular results! I can’t wait to see Pam’s finished piece!

Marion Lutz (below) wowed the room with her gorgeous leaf and stem design! Back at her home studio, Marion continues to make progress. She has big plans for this piece, and all I’ll say is that I already put in my request for a pre-order! It’s going to be so good!! You can find Marion @fauxsister.

Marion Lutz tracing her lovely design.

Marion Lutz’s original design. Stunning!

Camille DiSanza took one of my Flower templates and enlarged it free hand, then cut the original template from the light green fabric and her enlargement from the dark green. She set out to create a shadow effect and nailed it! She’s a shining example of giving oneself permission to play and letting the magic happen!

Camille DiSanza with her fabric panel destined to become a pillow cover.

Sue Hopkins traced and fused my Tulips template onto an asian print before fusing it to her table runner. The original table runner pattern had a different flower appliqué, but Sue decided to venture out on her own! Using only the fabric she brought, she cut a total of seven Tulips. She decided to place four Tulips across one end of the runner and three across the other end. I can’t wait to see your finished table runner, Sue!

Sue’s fabric choice gave added movement to her Tulips!

Sue Hopkins fusing Tulips to one end of her table runner.

Four Tulips down, three to go!

Typically, I offer this workshop as a full day, so I can attest to how hard these women worked in three short hours! When I see the progress and the fun people have, I often feel this should be a multiple day workshop. It would allow for a comprehensive exploration of the process, as well as allow students the space and time to really develop their own ideas and get valuable feeedback from the group.

If your guild or quilt group is interested in this paper cutting and fused appliqué workshop, for one day or two days, please email me. It’s a lot of fun, very inspiring and the results around the room are as unique and beautiful as the people creating them. See more of my work on Instagram @tierneybarden.

I’d like to thank the Thumbstall Quilt Guild and all of the students shown above for their permission to share their unique work with all of you. As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions below in the comments!

Is This the Year Of the WIP?

WIPs on trays for portability and easy access.

Lately, I’ve felt compelled to finish my piles of WIPs before I have a chance to add even one more to their numbers. Today, I’m sharing helpful tools for organizing WIPs, and I’m inviting you to share your best tips for completion in the comments below. I’ve also made a place for us to share our WIPs and cheer each other to the finish line: #finishedwips2019. Join in the fun!

If the sheer number of online quilters posing the challenge to finish their WIPs this year is any indication, this just might be the Year Of the WIP! We all have them, and I’ve seen some excellent organizing and planning tools. For printed pages to document and track your WIP progress, Patchwork Posse offers this free set. Also, there’s the Quilter’s Planner. (I’m not paid for endorsing these products, I just appreciate them and want to share.) You can also make your own chart to suit your needs. While I don’t use one, I have a feeling there’s probably an app for this, too!

Arrowhead quilt blocks, machine pieced

Here are four of my WIPs to tackle this year. I’ve made my own tracking page, and I’ve tacked it to my design wall so that it’s always in plain sight. I store my WIPs on trays, uncovered, on a bench in my studio. The portable trays are stored in the open within easy reach of the sewing machine or to take up to my hand sewing nest. I also store the spool(s) of thread, bobbin(s) and any instructions, notes and templates on each tray. It’s all about removing hurdles that could slow my progress.

Any amount of success is going to depend on finding the right storage and organizing methods for you. For example, I know that if I cover my WIPs or store them under a bed, I’ll forget they even exist, let alone where I put them, so I know I need to see them. It’s the same reason why I tack up my progress chart on my design wall. It can’t get misplaced, and it’s in plain sight to remind me to make the most of my sewing time.

Postage Stamp blocks, individual 1” squares, machine pieced

Antique Stars, hand pieced

My WIPS are a mix of techniques, and these four are my personal quilt projects rather than for my business. They have no deadline, and each was started because I was curious about the technique and the construction process. I like to have a project under way for each sewing method I enjoy, that way, what ever my mood or energy level there’s a project at the ready. I suppose that’s a double-edged sword.

You can see that I have a few methods represented, including machine piecing, hand piecing and English Paper piecing. As far as how each quilt will be quilted, I’ve decided to wait and see what’s best for each as the tops are completed.

My own “Liberty” Stars, English Paper Piecing

My goal for steadily working on these is to try to sew for 30 minutes each morning before my day really gets under way, and then to sew for any amount of time on either Saturdays or Sundays. They say it takes 30 day for a new habit to become routine, so hopefully at the end of the month I’ll have some real progress to share.

Having said that, life happens and I’m not going to beat myself up if any of these are still staring at me from across the room in December; however, in the spirit of the Year Of the WIP, newly organized and with a sewing plan in place, I’m committed to giving it my best shot! How about you?

I’ll share my WIP journey here and on Instagram. Join in: #finishedwips2019! Before you go, in the comments below tell me how many WIPs you have, how you plan to tackle them or what stops you from working on them…after all, there’s safety in numbers!

Winter, Papier Mache and Chocolate

January just outside our door.

Like many of us, I highly anticipate quality time in December and January for reflecting and planning, which is primarily why the blog has been quiet. Good things have been brewing.

This post shares my detailed approach to goal setting and planning, but this year, I discovered something new. Thanks to a special episode of The Radiance Project, a beautiful podcast by Heidi Rose Robbins, I’ve added a new step to my planning process. Following Heidi and Ellen’s suggestion, I wrote a letter to myself as if this entire year had passed and I was looking back at what I had accomplished, what I was most proud of and what I was most excited about.

Two things jumped off the page: my wish to continue making and designing quilts, and my need for community.

Writing this letter helped me to zero in on what matters most and to see what is realistic to achieve in the coming year. As you may be sensing, among other exciting things, I’m planning a few fun quilting adventures for anyone interested in stitching, fabric, color and storytelling. Details will be shared in the coming weeks. For me, this simple writing exercise proved to be a powerful, effective tool. Perhaps you’d like to write a letter to yourself, too.

Along with carving out time to organize and plan, I’m proud to say I carved out time for play.

If you saw this ship on my Instagram feed, @tierneybarden, you may recall that making it was quite possibly the happiest time I’ve had in a while! To work again with papier mâché, bits of worn old quilts, lace, wood and glue brought so much joy and wonder into the studio.

You can find Ann Wood’s well-written pattern on her beautiful website here. Be sure to have a look at the other charming patterns in her shop. There just may be a Mr. Boots in my future….

Sailing through winter winds!

Homemade hot chocolate and marshmallows!

Making homemade hot cocoa and homemade marshmallows is a delicious way to endure our long winter months.

Recently, my homemade vanilla suddenly turned boozy (has that happened to anyone else?), and resulted in boozy marshmallows! In an effort to make another batch of marshmallows without vanilla extract, I experimented and came up with these even better chocolate almond marshmallows!

This chocolate marshmallow recipe from Saveur comes very close, and if you’d like almond flavor simply add a scant teaspoon of almond extract.

I use this hot cocoa mix recipe from Alton Brown and store it in a big glass container. Light the fire in the fireplace and bring on the board games. Enjoy!

If you have a friend who would enjoy my blog, please share it with them! Have a look at the FREE patterns in the right sidebar - something just might spark your creativity! As always, I love to hear from you in the comments below, and you can always find me on Instagram @tierneybarden!

New Quilt Friends, a Winner and a Sale!

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Giveway winner, Mariana Galvagno!

I’m still enjoying the Instagram love being expressed for Karen Lewis’s new book, Wabi-Sabi Sewing! To check out the entire blog hop, visit Karen’s feed here. You’ll see lots of gorgeous items made by each of us on the book hop. On my day, I had a giveaway (photo above) and the lucky winner is: Mariana Galvagno from Spain!! You can check out her fun feed here: @cosertejercrear. Congratulations, Mariana!

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Charlotte’s photo of her Wabi-Sabi Sewing log cabin quilt in progress with matching pedi!

One of my favorite aspects of running this small business is meeting fabric lovers all over the world.

I recently had the pleasure of making a new quilting friend in Denmark, Charlotte @c_flintholm, who is already making great strides with the log cabin quilt from Karen’s book (as seen on the book’s cover, top photo). Learning that Karen used some of my fabrics in her quilt, Charlotte ordered several of my fat quarters (seen in the photo with her matching pedicure!) so that she could create a similar look. I think she’s doing a fantastic job and I’m looking forward to seeing it finished!

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In this photo, Charlotte is sharing her quilting talent, but you also have to check out her incredible crochet work here!

My Harvest quilt pattern with all the fall vibes!

When I began this business a few short years ago I certainly didn’t imagine making quilting friends all over the world.

The majority of my business is forged on Instagram, (another aspect I didn’t foresee,) and I’m grateful to each and every person who makes a purchase or says a kind word about my business, fabrics and patterns. Running a dye business takes a lot of work, and YOU are precisely why I do it! Your happiness matters to me, and is what drives my efforts to provide beautiful fabrics, share my knowledge and create fun opportunities to stitch!

Friends, my annual Holiday Sale is quickly approaching! This year, the sale runs November 16th, 17th and 18th. Mark it on your calendar!

Two-color quilts never go out of style, especially in the wild! (Special thanks to my quilt-holding husband!)

If you’re new to my newsletter, you may not know that I have only two sales a year. I try hard to make it worth your while; to show my appreciation for your support and still honor the amount of work that goes in to producing high quality fabric, designing patterns and stitching up lovely gifts. So once again, prepare to treat yourself or loved ones and mark your calendars: November 16-18! See you then!

As always, I love hearing your questions, comments, suggestions in the comments below or @tierneybarden. Thank you!

Wabi-Sabi Sewing Blog Hop

Have you seen my friend Karen Lewis’s newest book Wabi-Sabi Sewing?

I’m so happy you’re here because today is my day on the fun-filled blog hop celebrating Karen’s gorgeous book! I’m thrilled to be in excellent company, and you can follow along and meet makers from around the globe by using #wabisabisewing or @karenlewistextiles. There are giveaways, insights into the book, reviews, beautiful examples of projects and much more, so don’t miss a day!

Win this awesome bundle!! Enter here: @tierneybarden

To celebrate Karen’s book, I’m having a giveaway! For your chance to win, head over to @tierneybarden and play along - it’s easy!

• A copy of Wabi-Sabi Sewing

• Three Fat Quarters of my naturally dyed organic sateen, just like those used in several of the projects

• One skein of cotton sashiko thread

• Needle keep and a Tulip hand quilting needle

The star of the show, Karen’s own signature from one of her hand printed tulip panels.

Fond of texture, Karen uses a variety of fabrics in her projects, from bark cloth and linen to her own hand printed fabrics, and I’m honored to say, my hand dyed fabrics.

With categories like LIVING, EATING, EXPLORING and SLEEPING, Wabi-Sabi Sewing has something for everyone. Karen includes a wide range of techniques from quilting to embroidery to visible mending. You’ll find projects that use a few scraps and come together quickly, as well as projects that use a bit more fabric, the scrappier the better, and still come together quickly!

The coziest spot in the house, all ready for fairy tales and day dreams.

Every step of making this Hexagon Harmony pillow was fun! I chose big stitch hand quilting, just like Karen did, and it was my first time using sashiko thread and Tulip needles. Wow, they’re sharp needles, but what a difference they made stitching through the layers of fabric and wool batting. Karen’s instructions were straight forward and the entire project moved right along. I used a down pillow insert and am in love with the result!

I’ve just updated my shop with freshly dyed fabrics and OOAK gift items. Have a look!