Thank You

by | Nov 5, 2012 | Art News, Field Trip, Quilting & Fabric

A sincere thank you to Christy Starr, the proprietor at Helen’s Hen House quilt shop in Florissant Missouri. Christy was kind enough to invite me to share my fabric designs with customers at the shop’s annual open house event.

This was my first visit to the historic Meyers House & Barn where I spent a delightful afternoon. Upon my arrival, my mouth agape with surprise, I quickly realized it was going to be a FULL (Hen) house! Although filled with nervous excitement, my eyes attempted to take in all of the charming details of the building, grounds and goodies inside as I prepared to set up. The creaking wide planked floor boards added that much more to the authenticity and ambiance of the 1860’s building.Christy and her staff had several projects made from three of my new fabric lines that were featured throughout the shop.

“Bakers Dozen” snowmen apron and table topper.“Creepers Peepers” and “Sewing Seeds” in a welcoming room (prepared especially for me)!

This is where I enjoyed visiting with a wonderful group of creative and kindred patrons. Among them, I was surprised to learn, an art teacher, card designer, ceramic artisan, thread artist and quilt/sewing enthusiasts of course. For an added treat I became re-acquainted with a couple who have been collectors (former customers) of my hand painted Christmas ornaments made long before I broke into art licensing.

Stories of projects using my Hungry Animal Alphabet (& other former children’s collections) for grands were shared. One gram brought in a particularly special project for me to sign. I was honored, And grateful.It was a privilege to be a part of such a warm group and inviting shop.

Congrats Christy! Additional Hen House Quilt Shop photos on Facebook.

To Market, To Market

by | Oct 21, 2012 | Art News, Quilting & Fabric

Once again ~

It’s off to the International Quilt Market in Houston this week,

with Quilting Treasures – Booth 1056

Presenting to the trade October 27-29 are “McGregor’s Market”;

A combination of two former, farm favorites that include some of my fondest & earliest images.

Also, a classic Christmas collection that I’ll share on Facebook during the show. Both fabric groups will be available in quilt shops, 2013.

Visit us at booth 1056
International Quilt Market
October 27-29, 2012
Houston, TX

Whooo Wants to Play?

by | Oct 15, 2012 | Art News, Quilting & Fabric

Jeepers – It’s a “Creepers Peepers” fabric giveaway! Quilting Treasures and I have teamed up with this offer – Win two festive fat quarter bundles (four fabric selections) and one (large patch) 24″ x 44″ pillow panel. Just in time for tricks & treats!
The “Creepers Peepers” fabrics from this vintage inspired 2012 Halloween collection feature jolly jac-o-lanterns, hooting owls and a variety of piercing peepers. The scary part . . . ONLY TWO DAYS TO ENTER! The winning name will be drawn on Oct. 17

Three simple steps to enter:

• Go to the Quilting Treasures Facebook page & click the ‘Like’ button next to ‘Subscribe’ (above the posts)

• Leave a comment there as instructed, telling how you plan to use the fabric on the specified (Monday’s) post

• Click the Tidings of Great Joy, LLC ‘Like’ button next to ‘Subscribe’ (above the posts)


That’s it. Thanks for playing!


Just like a kid, I always enjoy drawing the fun & funny Halloween icons especially this time of year. The color for the owls began with Derwent Watercolor pencils. As water was applied to blend, a touch of Windsor Watercolors were added, here and there.

The “Creepers Peepers” collection is available in quilt shops now.

Presented by Quilting Treasures. 

Happy Hallowe’en sewing & painting!

Fun Forms

by | Aug 20, 2012 | Studio

Another subject research (for a new collection) turned up this wonderful 1930’s dress form on Ebay and was listed, ‘in mint condition.’ And in my size! And just so happened, to be located a mere 30 minutes away to boot. So, in my true to low sales resistance form, I thought . . .  just because, this big sister would fit right in at the Joy Studio. Yep, I think so, right? Only thing missing, the finial on top.

Typically I (try to) stay away from such tempting treasures however, the on line research tool usually gets me as did this, one previously owned, dress form. She may have to make herself useful around the place, although I’m not quite sure just how yet. Perhaps as the artist’s model? Hmmmn, wonder if she does ironing.BTW – My thought to be size, in the 1930’s does not seem to coinside with my new friend!

Research is over, back to the drawing board. 😉

Cleaning Up My Act

by | Jun 25, 2012 | Quilting & Fabric, Studio

Yes, STILL!

So much life seems to get in the way of a full on, clean sweep of the entire studio clutter (all at the same time) that is ever accumulating. I simply cannot keep up however, I remain hopeful. Our second annual ‘Mini Art’ campers arrive today so, last week I made another sincere effort to move/organize debris & supplies. Here are the office and fabric wall (accumulated in just 3 years) results. S – l – o – w – l – y, it is getting there!

The ‘Princess in the Pea’ bed (John’s retired junior) now holds the many quilts from some of our past collections.

See the (Oct. 2010 ‘Can Of Worms’ post) compare on Facebook!

The beautiful fabrics available at www.quiltingtreasures.com