HeartStrings Quilt Project

We've moved!

2009-08-20T01:53:00.004-05:00

We're in the process of updating our website and have combined our blog and the website into one.

All our posts from this blog can now be found there so update your bookmarks and come visit us at

Happy Blocks

2009-08-14T00:53:00.004-05:00

Do you remember the Happy Block project we started back in January and February? Well we're still making and finishing quilts in fact I put the last stitch in the binding of one tonight and I was excited to read the email from Sue about her group. She wrote:

When I saw this site with the happy block quilts, I linked it to the leader of our Sarasota KIDZ Quilts group and we have been making dozens of them for 2 months now!! We donate all of them to the NICU of the Sarasota hospital...and they are so appreciated.

She sent along some photos and I chose a few to share here.

Northwest Sew-in photos

2009-08-04T00:07:00.003-05:00

I'm late getting these photos posted from the last HeartStrings Sew-in which was held on the 26th of June in the Seattle area. Doesn't it look like fun? The next one will be held in Roberts, WI so plan to join us!

More donations

2009-07-15T16:39:00.002-05:00

Nine HeartStrings tops arrived today from Sue and her Oroville/Chico California group which has been meeting once a month since January. They'll be quilted and donated by me and other HeartStrings volunteers in the coming months.

I'm constantly amazed at the generosity of quilters who have participated in HeartStrings over the last 2 and a half years and I love the grassroots effect of the project with quilters working on their own within their communities and groups to make these quilts for those in need.

An upcoming sew-in ---- Roberts, WI

2009-07-07T15:12:00.002-05:00

The Roberts Sew-in is August 22, a Saturday, from 8:30 until about 3 (we stop a little early so we can visit a local quilt shop on the way home!)

We'll do the usual potluck lunch. Bring your sewing equipment and we'll make blocks and quilts and have a great time. There is a database set-up on our Yahoo list so we can see what others are bringing for food and sewing equipment - you don't need to belong to that group to attend -- just email Kathy to let her know what you'll be bringing and for directions.

We'll be at the Warren Town Hall just outside the village of Roberts.

Mark your calendars and come to the wonderful Wisconsin countryside to see some HeartStrings friends and have a great sewing day.

Email Kathy (kwmiller@pressenter.com) privately for directions. It's easy to find.

A soldier quilt by JoAnne

2009-06-29T13:35:00.002-05:00

Here's a gorgeous QAYG HeartStrings quilt made by JoAnne.

To learn how to make one of your own, take a look at Jan Mac's tutorials.

Making Quilt as you Go blocks

Assembling Quilt as you Go blocks into a quilt

Visit JoAnne's blog.

String Quilt Inspiration

2009-06-21T17:11:00.028-05:00

In addition to our typical HeartStrings quilt, many patterns can be adapted for use with strings. I've compiled a list of inspirational links from HeartStrings members and readers of my blog to share with you.

Don't forget to take a look at the HeartStrings Photo Albums for even more inspiration!

String Pinwheels from Kathie's blog
Fruit Striped Gum string quilt from Cherri
Pink & Purple Candy Stripes by Helen
Chinese Coins variation from One Mother of a Blog
Green Strings by Wanda
Heart Quilt by Wanda
Easter Quilt by Wanda
String X by Bonnie
String Quilt Primer by Bonnie
Virginia Bound by Bonnie
Diamonds in a Square by Bonnie
Cinnamon Jumble by Nancy
Strip mine quilts (scroll down the page to see several versions)
Red Zinger quilt from the Selvage Blog
Framed Butterflies from Kathie's Blog
Bouillabais from Pie in the Sky Quilts
Rainy Day Quilt by Ann-Marie
Quilt Bug Gallery -- all made with 2.5 inch strips but could be adapted to strings.
Pam's M Quilt
Pam's Star Quilt
Pam's St. Patrick's Day Quilt
Pam's version of our HeartStrings logo quilt designed by Forest Jane
String Pinwheels by Knitnoid
Ruthie's String Fish Aquarium
String Pieced Spools from the book Spectacular String Pieced Quilts
Dianne's quilt for Katie Rose
A string quilt by Belle Quilts - notice she doesn't have a particular color center string like our HeartStrings blocks but it still looks great
A HeartStrings Quilt by Spicy Shots in a GREAT colorway
A String quilt by Film in the Fridge in black/white/green
A String Rail Fence by Olearia1968
String quilts from Hanne
String Rain by Arizona Quilts
Sara's String Stars
String Quilt Gallery
Endless Chain
Patriotic String quilts by Gypsy Quilter
Rainbow Strings by Cheri
Another Rainbow by Cheri
Blue & Orange Strings by Cheri
String Stars from Julie in the Barn
Mountains of Crumbs from Julie in the Barn
Ami Simms String Quilt Gallery
Fan Quilt from the Selvage Blog
Maple Island Quilts - some contemporary string quilt patterns.
String quilt from Victoriana

I got a lot of Flickr links emailed to me and rather than listing them all here, I'll link to a Flickr search for String Quilts -- check it out there's lots of good inspiration there.

And finally, some links from my own quilts. These quilts have instructions sheets posted on my website in case you want to give them a try.

String Tumblers
Amish Stripes and Strings
Chinese Coins with Coins border
Chinese Coins - Easy version
Chinese Coins - Easy version #2
Chinese Coins ~ Uneven Version
Strings ~ Half Square Strings
Strings ~ Patriotic Star
Strings ~ Purple Project Quilt #1
Strings ~ Purple Project Quilt #2
Strings ~ Rectangle Strings
Strips and Strings Log Cabin
Strings ~ Hearts

This Coins quilt doesn't have instructions but it's based on a quilt by Karla Alexander on the cover of this book.

Here's my String Courthouse Steps quilt based on one by Sandy Bonsib on the cover of this book.

This is my HeartStrings quilt with green centers -- instructions are available here and here's my Pink version. As you can see, our typical HeartStrings quilts can be adapted to just about any color scheme and still look great!

Creative Quilters - AZ

2009-05-30T15:00:00.005-05:00

I received an email from Mary today sharing this gorgeous HeartStrings group made by her group. She wrote:

I just wanted you to know how much good the heartstrings pattern has done. The picture included in this e-mail is of a quilt that our group did earlier this year. We live in a retirement community and our visitor’s center need to raise some funds, so we decided to make this quilt and let them raffle it off. It was such a delightful project. All the ladies made the blocks, one lady sewed the blocks together, I quilted it, and another lady did the binding. It was really a group effort.

Thank you for all you do.

Mary Holland

Creative Quilters

Sun City, AZ

You can find instructions for making your own HeartStrings quilt at this link.

Tying a HeartStrings Quilt

2009-05-05T14:13:00.002-05:00

At our Nebraska sew-in, Jay shared how he learned to tie a quilt from his grandmother. I'd been interested in posting instructions on tying HeartStrings quilts so I took the opportunity to take photos and create a tutorial.

How to Tie a HeartStrings Quilt

Julia and Sheree pose with the finished quilt.

Sew-ins

2009-05-04T10:50:00.003-05:00

We had back to back sew-ins in MN and NE and worked on assembling the Happy Blocks sent in from all over during our January and February project. Eight tops were assembled and sent home with quilters and even more block sets were taken home with members to be assembled, quilted, and donated.

Thank you so much for participating -- there will be many very cute quilts for kids finished in the coming months as a result of your generosity.

Click on the links below to:

See photos from the MN sew-in on April 25th

See photos from the NE sew-in on May 2nd

Look at our completed quilts for 2009 to see finished happy blocks as well as other quilts finished so far this year.

QAYG

2009-04-19T10:16:00.005-05:00

From Kathie's blog

We've been making Quilt as you Go blocks to send to Australia but it's a great technique if you want to try it yourself.

Jan Mac created a tutoria l for making the blocks and a Part 2 for assembling them.

Hanne's been busy

2009-04-19T01:14:00.003-05:00

Check her blog to see her recent progress.

Chinese Coins variations

2009-04-17T21:15:00.002-05:00

Becky's working with RWB coins donated by HeartStrings members and is trying a new setting. Chinese Coins quilts are great because you can use up those short strings.

Becky also has a tutorial for another great coins quilt and there are instructions for several quilts at my MaryQuilts.com site.

Quilts for Hospice

2009-04-04T14:28:00.003-05:00

Kathie recently shared this bright, happy HeartStrings quilt on her blog. Visit her to read about the project she's working on to make quilts for her local hospice.

In memory of Marilyn Gossen

2009-04-04T14:14:00.003-05:00

A donation was made by Linda in memory of her friend Marilyn. It was a thoughtful way to remember a quilter by helping to provide quilts to those in need.

For those that would like to participate in HeartStrings, visit our website to see how you can help.

QAYG project for AUS

2009-03-18T17:47:00.002-05:00

Are you making QAYG blocks to send to Australia for those effected by the bushfires? If so, you might be interested in this blog that shares the quilts being made, collected, and donated.

Oz Comfort Quilts

If you'd like to help - join us in making QAYG blocks in March and April. We'll collect them and mail them to Jan Mac, a HeartStrings member who will asssemble them.

This week

2009-03-16T01:26:00.001-05:00

March 21st -- Las Vegas -- The Las Vegas Quilters will be working on some HeartStrings projects during their sew-in and welcome other quilters.

They will be sewing for St. Judes Ranch new group home for unwed mothers -- contact Tonie at TONIEGK@aol.com

QAYG blocks

2009-03-05T14:04:00.001-06:00

Although we'll be sending the QAYG blocks to Jan Mac unassembled, Maxine shared this tutorial from Keryn Emmerson showing how to assemble these blocks by machine.

For those of you making these and donating them locally, I hope the link is helpful.

Keryn's tutorial

A special project for March & April

2009-03-01T12:45:00.004-06:00

Now that we've finished up our Happy Block project, if you're interested in making some Quilt as you Go blocks to send to Australia for quilts for those affected by the bushfires, you can find the information here:

Jan Mac's QAYG tutorial

Tutorial for assembling blocks into a quilt

Sue will be collecting and sending these together to save some postage costs so if you make them, email me for the mailing address at mmcjohnson@gmail.com .

As always, we accept blocks made according to the guidelines all through the year so feel free to make up a batch of these too!

Alycia's QOV Goal - 400 Quilts

2009-02-15T17:47:00.003-06:00

Are you following Alycia's quest to donate 400 Quilts of Valor in May 2009? She works with students to make these quilts and with this ambitious goal this year has been getting help from HeartStrings members and many other quilters.

She recently spoke to a group and her project was mentioned in the local paper.

Australia - helping out

2009-02-11T17:02:00.004-06:00

There are plenty of ways to help those affected by the bush fires in Victoria but we're quilters right? So lets make some blocks.

Jan Mac is a HeartStrings member who will be collecting quilt as you go string blocks for assembling and donating. She's posted a tutorial on her site if you'd like to help her out and send some blocks.

I've got strings -- I've got batting leftovers -- I'm going to make some to send.

You can contact Jan Mac at janmac@mcmedia.com.au

Do you want to attend a Sew-in?

2009-02-10T16:11:00.006-06:00

The MN/WI group has been getting together since our first year and now more groups are starting to coordinate Sew-ins in their area. Here are the current ones scheduled. For more information email the contact person or Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com.

March 21st -- Las Vegas -- The Las Vegas Quilters will be working on some HeartStrings projects during their sew-in and welcome other members. They will be sewing for St. Judes Ranch new group home for unwed mothers -- contact Tonie at TONIEGK@aol.com

April 25th - Virginia is hosting at Hope Christian Church in Shoreview, MN.

May 2nd - Jay and Julia are hosting in Fremont, Nebraska. Contact Jay at gap_number_02@yahoo.com

June 27 - Cindy & Mary H are coordinating in Seattle, Washington. Contact Mary H at maryhopkins39@yahoo.com

August 22 - Kathy & Rhonda are hosting in Roberts, WI

SF Bay Area (Date TBA) - contact Cynthia H. at QuiltTechEd@comcast.net if you'd like to participate

Dawn's scrap quilting class

2009-01-30T10:27:00.002-06:00

Earlier this week Dawn gave a talk about scrap quilting at a free community Library Quilt Show in Shelley, Idaho.During her talk, she also shared information about HeartStrings. Here is what she wrote to us:

They LOVED the heartstrings quilts. I gave them the link to join us,on my handout and told them about all of you. I told them all the great and easy ways that they could be a part of Heartstrings. Sue sent me three completely different quilts with different looks so that I could teach and quilt them for charity - they were really impressed with how wonderful the quilts looked.)

Dawn is a member of HeartStrings and a longarm quilter; she has an excellent quilting DVD (yes, you can quilt her designs on your domestic machine too) and I have used her designs on many of the HeartStrings quilts I've finished in the last year.

Thanks to Julia for sending me the photo and you can see a couple of Julia's recent string quilts on her blog.

Make a Blanket Day

2009-01-27T11:50:00.002-06:00

Project Linus National Make a Blanket Day, February 21, 2009 is almost here! Just a reminder that this is the day that Project Linus chapter volunteers and blanketeers across the country celebrate Project Linus with special blanketmaking events.

Please check with you local chapter to see if an event is being planned in your area,
or set a goal to make a blanket to be donated to your local chapter by February 21. Project Linus is very flexible -- whatever works for you and your schedule. Keep in mind that depending on weather and local circumstances, the local chapters may have an alternate day of celebration in your area.

We hope that you will honor this day by making a blanket for Project Linus or by helping at a blanketmaking event in your area.

To find a Project Linus Chapter near you, check out
http://www.projectlinus.org.

Thank you!

Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Happy Blocks

Quick Strippie

String Quilt

Twisted Happy Blocks

Dragonflies

Fish

Roman Stripes

Happy Block Quilts

2009-01-23T16:24:00.004-06:00

Here are two Happy Block quilts by Mary Hopkins - finished and ready to donate. She added borders to hers but they look equally good without.

Happy Blocks - are you making them?

2009-01-18T14:12:00.004-06:00

We're continuing to work on our Happy Blocks and Happy Block Quilts through the end of February and I've heard people comment that they either don't have a variety of novelty fabrics or don't have a variety of framing fabrics so here are a couple ideas.

Jessica used the same fabric for all her centers. (photo linked from her site)

LauraJean used just two fabrics for framing her blocks.

So you can see, even with limited fabric choices, these quilts can be really successful.

Happy Block Instructions

Martin Luther King Day

2009-01-13T03:02:00.001-06:00

Looking for something to do on MLK Day (January 19th)?? Go visit Cheri's blog and read her suggestion.

Darlene's first HeartStrings quilt

2009-01-08T03:38:00.002-06:00

Made with red centers, Darlene recently posted her first HeartStrings quilt that will be donated to an orphanage in Tanzania.

Instructions for making a HeartStrings quilt.

The beginning of a new year!

2009-01-05T16:54:00.004-06:00

We started out our 3rd year of service making Happy Blocks. They're a departure from our usual string blocks but every now and then we like a new challenge.

If you'd like to join in, we'll be collecting blocks for use in group quilts through February and you can find the guidelines are the link below.

Happy Blocks for HeartStrings

Take a look below at some of the blocks and tops being made by HeartStrings members.

This set has all cat prints.

I love the graphic black and white of this top.

Here's a *manly* set from Lori.

And a twisted version.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-28T11:05:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone had a great holiday! We're getting ready for our New Year's Party making Happy Blocks for kids quilts. We'll continue making blocks through the end of February.

You can find instructions for the Happy Blocks we'll be making at this link:
Happy Block Instructions

And a twisted version here:
Twisted Happy Blocks

Join us on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day!

The giving season

2008-12-18T12:35:00.003-06:00

At HeartStrings, we work on making and giving string quilts all year around but as I wandered through the HeartStrings blog ring today, I found several posts that I'd thought you'd enjoy reading.

Judy finished four comfort quilts for a family who lost 2 children in a fire.

Ruthie's guild made holiday placemats for Meals on Wheels.

Deb's been collecting hats and scarves for kids in Kosovo.

Nann made a donated a quilt for a fundraiser AND made one for a little boy being adopted.

Hanne finished a string star quilt that was mailed off to be donated to children with long term diseases.

Alycia showed off some of the pillowcases that have arrived from our Pillowcase Party over Thanksgiving weekend. They'll hold the Quilts of Valor that will be donated in May 2009.

JJ continues to make quilts to send to East Timor.

Pat made a Yellow Brick Road quilt that will be donated to a crisis center.

And I took 2 quilts with me on my trip to Virginia for the Angel Tree at Mom's church.

We're planning another party!

2008-12-10T16:37:00.002-06:00

Mark your calendar now for a HeartStrings Party - New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, we'll be making Happy Blocks to start off our special project for January and February. (You didn't think we ONLY did string quilts did you?)

We're going to be making quilts for kids so pull out your novelty fabrics and some brights to go along with them!

Instructions for the blocks can be found at the link below:
Happy Blocks Instructions.

If you're a little twisted like me, there's a twisted version of the block too BUT you'll need to make a full set of 48 blocks or piece the entire top to send these in. If you just want to make a few blocks use the instructions above.
TWisted Happy Blocks Instructions.

Email me at mmcjohnson@gmail.com with questions or for the mailing address to send in blocks.

A new quilt by Hanne

2008-12-07T09:42:00.004-06:00

Hanne recently finished another string quilt that will be donated to children with longterm diseases in Norway.

You can see other quilts by Hanne by clicking the link below:
Hanne's HeartStrings Quilts

HeartStrings Quilts by Connie

2008-12-04T14:14:00.003-06:00

I spent some time today updating our online photo albums. Have you seen these two quilts by Connie? I love both of them.

A successful party!

2008-12-01T16:24:00.003-06:00

Pillowcases by Barbara in FL

Although they're a departure from our usual HeartStrings quilts, we worked on making pillowcases this weekend.

Initially our thought was to make and send some pillowcases to Alycia for her 2009 Quilts of Valor project but that idea was expanded into a 2 day *virtual* sewing party with 266+ pillowcases being made for Quilts of Valor, ConKerr Cancer, Operation Support for Deployed Military and other local charitable organizations.

Thanks to everyone who participated!

HeartStrings and Quilts of Valor

2008-11-27T00:44:00.004-06:00

Becky has been working with RWB Chinese Coins sections donated this summer by HeartStrings members and has several quilts ready to ship off to Alycia to be donated as Quilts of Valor for wounded soldiers. You can see the others at Becky's blog.

We're also making pillowcases this weekend to send to Alycia - the Quilts of Valor are placed in pillowcases and with a goal of 400 QOV for 2009, she'll need some help. You can use any pattern you like - I was shown how to make them by Ethel who sews them for Operation Support for Deployed Military and since I learn best with lots of photos, I took step by step photos to share as I made my first ones earlier this week.

Fabric?

2008-11-09T20:31:00.003-06:00

Wondering what fabric to use for making pillowcases during our Pillowcase Party on Thanksgiving weekend??

Alycia wrote today:

I tell you what - Anything goes!! I have some mickey mouse pillowcases and western ones and - oh my - they are just so cool! I have been making sure that the floral/feminine pillowcases go with girly quilts - so maybe think more generic - that I could put any quilt it there?? Male or Female?

I'm going to head for my Blue stash first and go from there!

Save these dates

2008-11-06T00:01:00.003-06:00

November 29 & 30

We're having a Pillowcase Party to make pillowcases in patriotic colors for Alycia's Quilt of Valor Project. The pillowcases are used to present the quilts to the wounded soldiers - you don't have to have patriotic fabrics....just use Red/White (or beige)/ Blue in any combinations.

Pillowcase instructions (no exposed seams - I like that!) from the website Operation Support for Deployed Military.

I made a few practice ones and took lots of photos so if the directions still seem fuzzy, take a look at the step by step photos and see if it's any easier.

As always, if you have a local charity feel free to work alongside us and donate your pillowcases to any organization you choose.

There will be door prizes so make sure you email me during the Party weekend to tell me you're sewing with us and I'll send you Alycia's mailing address.
Email Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

Green for Guys

2008-11-04T14:36:00.002-06:00

Our project for September/October is ended. If you've made any Green centered blocks, please try to mail them this week. They'll be combined with other donations into quilts and donated.

Betty is shown below with a full set of green centered blocks she made, this top was assembled at the sew-in and is waiting for quilting.

Email me if you need the mailing address to send in your green centered blocks at mmcjohnson@gmail.com.

Stay tuned for information about our Pillowcase Party to be held Thanksgiving weekend.

Inspired by HeartStrings

2008-10-29T13:48:00.005-05:00

Linda shared these photos of her "Autumn Splendor" quilt inspired in part by our HeartStrings quilts. I love the sashing and border choices she made in this quilt and the Baptist Fan quilting looks great too.

Project Pink

2008-10-27T14:09:00.000-05:00

Jennifer continues to make progress on the Project Pink quilts, she just posted this photo of the 10th quilt she's finished (from donated blocks and tops) on her blog.

Rochester Sew-in

2008-10-26T13:03:00.007-05:00

Sorry, not the best photos here but we had such a good time at our Sew-in yesterday and I wanted to share the photos with you.

In this first one, Sue is standing with the pile of blocks she bought with her. Since the inventory was almost completely depleted before our Block Party a few weeks ago - these are all recent donations - and Sue has already sent some of them out and there are more coming so you can imagine how many blocks there were made during the Block Party.

In addition to sewing more blocks - we assembled 7 tops yesterday - unfortunately I don't have photos of most of them - not sure how we managed to miss taking photos of them all but Sue did share some tops that were assembled by her and her Mom that are in the link at the end of this post.

We also learned how to make pillowcases with the "sausage roll" method - no exposed seams from Ethel. We're planning a pillowcase Virtual Sew-in next month and I hope you will all join us.
The rest of the photos can be seen in the MN/WI October 2008 Sew-in album.

Green for Guys

2008-10-24T11:28:00.003-05:00

Just one week left in our Sept/Oct project to make green centered blocks and quilts for guys. Here's a top already completed by Laura, it's heading to Jay in NE where it will be quilted and donated.

For the mailing address to send blocks - email me at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

HeartStrings and Quilts of Valor

2008-10-17T19:07:00.002-05:00

Do you remember the story of June, a HeartStrings member, and Al? Take a look at this previous post and then click on the YouTube link to see Al's video.

June and Al - HeartStrings quilts for Quilts of Valor

Al's video

Also, don't forget that HeartStrings members are helping Alycia meet of her of 400 Quilts of Valor.

Alycia's Blog

Don't forget the MI/WI area Sew-in

2008-10-15T10:46:00.004-05:00

Where: Rochester, MN

When: October 25, 2008

Time: 9:00 - 4:00 PM

Email Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com or Sheree at estes@kmtel.com for details.

Sometimes it's fun to pick and choose

2008-10-13T11:49:00.007-05:00

I'm a big fan of string quilts that have a little of everything tossed in but I also love ones that have a bit of a plan too. Take a look at the following quilts and be inspired to create your own.

By Peggy

Peggy, a new HeartStrings member shared a link to photos of string quilts she's made and donated including this black/white & red one.

Peggy's String Quilts

Here are a few other HeartStrings quilts with a coordinated look.

RWB by Fran & Lynn

Pink and Green by Marianne & Jennifer

Yellow and Red by Hanne

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-10-03T16:18:00.003-05:00

Last year we did a special project using pink strings and made a number of quilts that have been donated to Breast Cancer patients.

Thanks to the great response we had, Jennifer continues to work with the blocks received to assemble, quilt and donate additional quilts.

If you'd like to make and donate a HeartStrings quilt for a breast cancer patient, you can find lots of inspiration in our online Pink Strings album.

More on Tying Quilts

2008-09-30T14:28:00.002-05:00

(Photo used with permission)

Tanya posted about her group at church tying a Prayers and Squares quilt for one of their members.

In addition to being a quicker way to finish quilts, tying a quilt can be a way to incorporate prayers for an individual into the actual gifting of the quilt.

Tying a HeartStrings Quilt

2008-09-28T22:31:00.000-05:00

While most of our HeartStrings quilts are quilted by volunteers there's another way to finish these quilts. Tying was a traditional way to finish string quilts and is still a wonderful way to finish HeartStrings quilts.

Bonnie Hunter posted photo's of her Charity Bee tying a HeartStrings top that was pieced and donated by Laura (the photos are shown here with Bonnie's permission).

More information can be found at the links below.
Tying a quilt
Quilt Tying Tips from Quiltmaker Magazine

What happens to the HeartStrings Blocks you donate?

2008-09-28T15:40:00.008-05:00

In addition to all the HeartStrings quilts made from start to finish by individual members of our group, many of us work on assembling, quilting, binding, and donating quilts from the blocks sent in for group quilts.

I wanted to give you just a small sampling of the numerous quilts that have been made from blocks YOU have sent in and thank you all for participating in our Block Party this weekend that will result in even more quilts that will be donated to those in need.

Block Party Weekend

2008-09-27T14:57:00.002-05:00

We're sewing up HeartStrings blocks this weekend to replace our depleted inventory. Please join in and make a few blocks with us.

Blocks should be made according the the guidelines but you can use RED, GREEN, or BLUE centers this weekend.

Block Guidelines

Email me for the address to send in blocks and to let me know that you've participated and how many blocks you made (1 or 100 - it's all good!)

Email Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

MN/WI area Sew-in October 25

2008-09-25T13:46:00.004-05:00

Mark your calendars and join us for a sew-in in Rochester, MN

Date: October 25
Where: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, off Elton Hills Dr
Hours: 9am - 4pm

What to bring:

Sewing machine
Strips and Strings
Pot Luck contribution if staying for lunch

Please contact us for additional details or to let us know you'll be attending by emailing Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

We're having a Block Party

2008-09-22T15:17:00.003-05:00

Sue tells me that her block inventory is getting low so we're going to have a Block Party next weekend - September 27-28.

We'll sew on Saturday and/or Sunday and you can make 1 block or 100 to mail in to Sue (or Stephanie if in AUS).

You can choose to make GREEN centered blocks for our Sept/Oct project or BLUE or RED centered HeartStrings blocks. (RED for AUS)

Please use the guidelines for making the blocks:
http://heartstringsquiltproject.com/guidelines.html

Anyone participating will be eligible for some door prizes - again, the number of blocks you make doesn't matter - participation does!

If you're unable to participate on the weekend - you can sew up a few blocks this week and still be eligible for the door prizes.

Will anyone join me?

Green for Guys

2008-09-22T00:32:00.002-05:00

Are you making HeartStrings blocks with green centers for our September/October project? I'm leaving out the pinks, purples, and large florals and tossing in a bit of everything else for my blocks.

Please consider making some blocks and sending them in to be combined with other donations into quilts for guys. Email me for the mailing address at mmcjohnson@gmail.com.

Checking in with Alycia's QOV project

2008-09-17T15:08:00.000-05:00

The current count on Alycia's blog is 136 tops and quilts, of these 90 are quilted. She's well on her way to meeting her goal of 400 Quilts of Valor for 2009.

Pictured below is the most recent HeartStrings top, sent by Laura.

Happy Quilt

2008-09-16T18:19:00.001-05:00

Annie is a HeartStrings quilter who had made a ton of HeartStrings blocks and tops. She recently posted this Happy Quilt on her blog and talked about where this one is being donate.

One reason this caught my eye is that I just sent a HeartStrings quilt to Tristan, another little boy with Leukemia. I hope the quilts bring these two boys some warmth and comfort as they face the challenges ahead.

Rainbows

2008-09-15T13:13:00.002-05:00

Inspired by the blocks below pieced by Cheri, Helen decided to make her own Rainbow string quilt. Click on their names below visit both their blogs for other inspiring quilts.

Cheri works with Project Linus and has used HeartStrings blocks in the past with her group to make and donate quilts.

Helen lives in the UK and makes and donates quilts to a variety of children's charities.

Where do you find inspiration?

2008-08-31T12:02:00.006-05:00

Have you been browsing through the new HeartStrings Blog Ring? Here are some recent quilts posted by members.

From my blog, Half String Hearts. An instruction sheet for making this quilt is available on my MaryQuilts.com site.

On Becky's blog, a Funky Caterpillar quilt from RWB coins donated by HeartStrings members. She also wrote instructions for this quilt and shared them.

Ruthie shared a chinese coins quilt that she dressed up with buttons and yo-yo's.

If you are a HeartStrings quilter and have a blog, you can join our blog ring.

Let's go Green for Guys

2008-08-30T13:58:00.004-05:00

After getting some input from HeartStrings members who attended the WI/MN area sew-in August 2nd, I chose Green for Guys as our special project for September and October 2008.

Think guy quilts as you create HeartStrings blocks using a center green strip. Use the guidelines and remember to replace the center red or blue strip with a 2 inch green strip.

Make one block, a set of 48, or anything in between. Email me for the address to mail blocks.

HeartStrings Blog Ring

2008-08-22T13:16:00.002-05:00

Click on the logo to view the blogs of HeartStrings quilters.

HeartStrings members and bloggers - don't forget to sign up for the new HeartStrings blog ring.

Variations

2008-08-20T15:40:00.000-05:00

Every now and then it's fun to try something different. Here are a couple fun string quilt variations from HeartStrings members.

Melva's quilt uses a block with strings in just half of the block - doesn't the sashing add a lot to this quilt too?

Lori's quilt uses light and dark strings on each side of her center rather than mixing them all up.

I'd heard rumors

2008-08-15T14:32:00.003-05:00

I knew there were string Quilts of Valor in progress but what an amazing photo. Visit the Gypsy Quilter blog to check them out.

Donated tops

2008-08-13T13:25:00.003-05:00

In addition to donations of string blocks made according to our guidelines, HeartStrings accepts completed tops. We quilt, bind, and donate these tops to local charities and I thought I'd share a few that I've finished up this week.

This top was pieced by Sue's Mom from blocks sent in by HeartStrings members.

We also accept non-string pieced tops like this one pieced by Deb in AZ.

This HeartStrings top was pieced by Barbara in FL.

This pretty pink string top was pieced by the quilters at St. Mary's in CT.

If you'd like to donated a completed top or volunteer to quilt and finish tops that have been donated, email me.

Donated strings

2008-08-10T16:19:00.002-05:00

Our HeartStrings members have generously shared their strings with other members for use in HeartStrings quilts. Do you ever wonder where those donated strings go?Barbara, one of our members is currently piecing a String X quilt based on Bonnie Hunter's pattern.

So visit Barbara's blog and then click the HeartStrings link in her sidebar to visit other HeartStrings bloggers.

HeartStrings Blog Ring

2008-08-10T03:35:00.003-05:00

At the request of several members, we now have a HeartStrings blog ring. If you participate in the project and have a blog, click the logo below to join the ring.

Alycia's Quilts of Valor Project

2008-08-08T18:24:00.003-05:00

Alycia, a HeartStrings member, is a supporter and volunteer for Quilts of Valor making quilts for wounded soldiers. Her current goal is to collect 4oo quilts for 2009 to present to the wounded soldiers at Ft. Carson in CO and HeartStrings members are helping her out with blocks, tops, finished quilts, and pillowcases to present them.

This is one of two recent tops pictured on Alycia's blog sent by a Deborah another HeartStrings member. Visit Alycia's blog to read more about her efforts and to see the tops, quilts, and pillowcases being collected.

For information about how you can help email us.

A string heart for HeartStrings

2008-08-06T11:43:00.001-05:00

Michele sent photos today of two of her recent HeartStrings quilts.

She writes "Most of the quilts I make make are just regular patterns (through my quilting group), my string quilting is usually patriotic to send on up to Madigan Army Hospital. I just love string quilting and almost always have one in the pile for the days when it's too hot to think or I'm too tired for any precise cutting and measuring!"

Don't you love seeing all the variations HeartStrings members come up with?

Visit Michele's blog.

Patriotic Quilts

2008-08-05T22:20:00.002-05:00

Interested in creating a Patriotic Quilt to tour the US?

Judy Howard has put out a call for quilts 22 x 22 inches to be included in an exhibition that will tour the US for 3 years to "blanket America in Hugs for our Troops, Stitches of Comfort and to promote love of God and Country".

Click here for details.

RWB Chinese Coins

2008-08-03T22:38:00.000-05:00

For those of you who participated in our RWB project from Memorial Day to July 4th, you might want to see the progress being made with the Chinese Coins you sent in.

Becky volunteered to receive the Chinese Coins sections and turn them into Quilts of Valor and here are the first two quilts in progress.

To keep up with her progress, visit Becky's blog.

WI/MN Sew-in

2008-08-03T12:10:00.003-05:00

Did you join us yesterday and sew along at home?

Fourteen HeartStrings quilters met in Roberts, WI to work and play.

Join us for a Sew-in

2008-07-22T09:11:00.002-05:00

If you're in the MN/WI area and want to join us in person in Roberts, Wisconsin for a HeartStrings sew-in on August 2nd, please contact Kathy at kwmiller@pressenter.com.

Otherwise, consider joining us in spirit and working on a donation quilt or HeartStrings blocks at home that weekend. Make sure to contact us and let us know what you're working on by emailing Mary.

Guidelines for HeartStrings blocks that can be sent in for group quilts.

It's not all strings

2008-06-21T17:25:00.004-05:00

Tresica recently sent me some photos of quilts she made and donated locally. She wrote:

"After seeing the photo of my 365 blocks, a lady at the Skidaway United Methodist Church here in Savannah contacted me and told me about the quilts they were making.

I donated the twin quilt tops to the church to help the orphanage. The United Methodist Women are quilting any twin size quilt top donated to them. After completion they are given to the United Methodist Orphanage in Macon Georgia."

Tresica's photo with her blocks also inspired other HeartStrings members to start their own 365 block challenge.

Quilts for wounded soldiers

2008-05-27T15:07:00.004-05:00

In honor of our Memorial Day, HeartStrings members worked on making blocks and Chinese coins sections that will be assembled into quilts for wounded veterans. We'll continue to make and collect both through July 4th.

If you're interested in joining us, you can find instructions for making RWB HeartStrings blocks by clicking this link.

If you'd rather make Chinese Coins sections, instructions can be found here.

For the mailing address for RWB blocks or RWB Chinese Coins sections, please email Mary at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

Are you getting ready to piece RWB blocks?

2008-05-20T16:10:00.003-05:00

In preparation for making Red/White/Blue blocks on Memorial Day weekend, I've pulled my bins out and cutting foundation blocks will be next.

For guidelines for piecing the blocks check out this post from earlier this week.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-17T15:27:00.005-05:00

Won't you join us sometime during the Memorial Day weekend (May 23 - 26) to work on HeartStrings blocks or quilts that will go to our wounded and returning veterans?

You can either make HeartStrings blocks using just red/white/blue strings to send in for group quilts or work on your own quilt to be donated.

For blocks to be sent in, the following instructions should be used:

HEARTSTRING BLOCKS - to be pieced on a cotton fabric foundation; muslin or any cotton fabric can be used, if using dark or printed fabric foundations they shouldn't be visible through the strings pieced on top of it.

Please start with a foundation that is 10 inches square.

Using only Red/White/Blue strings, use a 2 inch BLUE string for the center and add strings on either side of the center strip until the entire foundation is covered. Refer to the above photo if you have any questions about how the block should look - you can click on the photo to see a larger view.

You may use strips of any width up to 3 inches wide in your blocks; you may use strips all the same width or a variety of different widths in each block. You can even use strips that are not a consistent width down their entire length if you wish.

You can use any 100% cotton Red/White/Blue fabric for your strips once you've got the blue starter strip in the center.

When you've covered the entire foundation, press it and then trim it back to 9 and 1/2 inches square.

Email me for the address to mail your finished block or to tell us what YOU are working on.

Mary Johnson at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

Sit back and enjoy the show

2008-05-04T23:16:00.003-05:00

I've just finished updating our online album of quilts completed in 2008. As you'll note, some of our donation quilts are not string quilts. We have tops that are donated to us for finishing and sometimes group members make and donate non-string quilts themselves.

Adopt a Soldier

2008-04-15T08:34:00.003-05:00

Fran, a HeartStrings member posted this request for help back in January.

A few weeks ago I pulled out the blocks from our summer block swap in anticipation of my son coming home from Iraq I started a quilt for him. The Family Readiness Coordinator from his unit explained that single soldiers come back from deployment to sterile looking rooms in the barracks, therefore upon arrival they like to make the rooms nice for the soldiers and they are allowed to have personal bedding. Most parents will adopt their own soldier and send bedding that will be put on the bed including comforters etc. I am making my son a quilt.

Because not every soldier has family or one that is in a position to provide one I am looking for r/w/b twin quilts for those who don't get adopted. I am expecting to be in Savannah end of March to meet them. These guys have passed the one year mark and it will be 15 months by the time they get back! (This is infantry so all guys)

With help, Fran was able to provide 27 quilts to returning soldiers and wrote:

I wish I had a picture of every soldier that was given a gift but so many so fast! You will see on their faces that it made their day. We gave every soldier that received a quilt a thank you, a quilt and welcome home. The young men who received the quilts did not have anyone there for them personally. It made my day, week, year! I hope all of you feel the same we all did something for someone who risked their lives! Again thanks everyone. Fran

Ladies of the Thread - Port Orchard, WA

2008-03-19T17:05:00.002-05:00

I received the following email and photos from Vicki who is working with her group making and donating quilts. I just love how bright and happy this string quilt is.

Finally, here is a photo of the strip quilt made by our group, Ladies of the Thread, in Port Orchard, WA. We meet at a local church on two Wednesdays per month to make quilts for Project Linus. I've also included pics of other Linus quilts made by group members using the Quick Strippie pattern on your website.

We also make quilts for area coroners. The quilts are carried in their vans and used to pick up babies and children (instead of body bags), such a sad thing. The coroners say it eases the parents just a bit to see their child in a quilt and oftentimes the quilt goes on with the child, so we re-supply them as needed.

Best regards,
Vicki Chang

Instructions for making a HeartStrings quilt.

Instructions for making the Quick Strippie quilts shown below.

We've been busy

2008-03-17T01:13:00.004-05:00

Although the blog has been quiet lately, we've been busy making and donating quilts. Quilts for kids, for soldiers, for women with breast cancer, and quilts for those effected by tornadoes in TN to name a few. These are recent finishes and donations and more can be seen in our online albums.

By Lori for Project Linus
By Ruthie for a returning soldier
By Jennifer from donated blocks for a woman with breast cancer
by Mary from donated coins for Tennessee tornado victims

We've also received thank you notes from Bledsoe Baptist Associate for quilts received. If you'd like to send quilts to Tennessee - they'll make sure they get to those effected by the tornadoes.

Quilts for those affect by recent tornadoes in Tennessee

2008-02-25T12:32:00.004-06:00

As a group, we've wanted to send quilts to these hit by tornadoes earlier this month. Thanks to Sarah and Pam we were able to find a group and contact person willing to accept quilts and see that they get to those affected.

If you like to join us in sending quilts, please mail them to this address and include a note that identifies them as HeartStrings quilts intended for those affected by the recent tornadoes.

Attention: Anne McKnight
Bledsoe Baptist Association
P.O Box 1207145
East Smith St.
Gallatin, TN 37066

If you'd like to use the HeartStrings Print Label/Enclosure (PDF File). Print file, cut in half, and add your return address under HeartStrings. Place one in your package and tape the other to your box as a shipping label.

Please email us and let us know if you are sending quilts. Thank you!

Hearts for Linus

2008-02-20T09:17:00.002-06:00

The Illini Country Stitchers Quilt Guild of Champaign, Illinois made HeartStrings blocks on their Make A Blanket Day for Project Linus. Take a look a the photos from their workday including one of a recent HeartStrings quilt.

Hearts for Linus Blog

Quilts for children's charities

2008-02-19T18:27:00.004-06:00

During the months of January and February, HeartStrings quilters finished and donated 88 quilts to Project Linus and other children's charities and more are still in progress.

Thanks to all of you who made and donated quilts. Whether you pieced and donated blocks, donated tops to be quilted by volunteers like this one pieced by Barbara in FL, quilted tops, or made quilts from start to finish every contribution was appreciated.

Children's quilts and Project Linus

2008-01-31T16:47:00.000-06:00

It's the last day of January, have you joined us this month in making a HeartStrings quilt for Project Linus or another children's charity? If so, please let us know - we'd love to see photos of your quilt.

If not, there's still time to finish one up before Project Linus' National Make a Blanket Day on February 16th. To find information about your local Project Linus chapter, click here.

Here are just a few of the ones made by HeartStrings quilters this month (notice that they're not all string quilts!)

By Lori

By May

By Mary

Remember this group?

2008-01-10T00:37:00.000-06:00

In September, I received a top to quilt from Nancy in CT. At that time, she and the Peace by Piece Quilters at St Mary's Episcopal Church in Manchester, CT had just finished their first HeartString top.

Look what they're up to now!

St Marys Peace by Piece Quilters

Let's make some quilts for kids!

2008-01-05T21:38:00.000-06:00

I mentioned last month that with Project Linus' Make a Blanket Day coming up in February, we want to encourage people to make a quilt in January to donate to their local Project Linus chapter. Of course, if you have a local children's charity you support, feel free to join in and donate the quilt where ever you choose.

These quilts can be string quilts or you may use any pattern you choose. Barb, one of our members and a coordinator here in the Minneapolis area for Project Linus has said that she'll also accept completed tops. If you prefer to only make the top, you can check with the chapter in your area to see if they accept them, send them to Barb, or contact me and we'll see if we can find a HeartStrings volunteer to quilt them.

I've got one quilted and ready for binding....my Lizard quilt and I'm going to cut out and piece another one using my Quick Strippie instructions. These are fun, fast, and cute!

Mary's Quick Strippie

Another fun quilt can be found at Annie's blog. I've been using kids prints for years making donation quilts and have lots of leftover bits and pieces, wouldn't this quilt be great for using them?

Annie's Happy Quilt

A string quilt like we made for our Purple Project last year would be great too....here's an instruction sheet for one I made using just 24 string blocks.

Purple Project Quilt

Whatever pattern you decide to use, please join us in making a quilt for a child in January.

Mary
mmcjohnson@gmail.com

Happy Anniversary

2008-01-02T11:59:00.000-06:00

A year ago, a group of quilters banded together to form the HeartStrings Quilt Project in order to make and donate quilts. Initially, we thought it would be a short term project but the interest was strong and we decided to expand it though the year. Now it's 2008 and the interest and enthusiasm for making quilts for those in need remains steadfast.

As a group, we made and donated 281 quilts and have many more in progress. We worked on these quilts as individuals, as groups, and spread the word through our guilds and the other quilting groups in our lives.

Please take a few minutes and look through the photo albums of quilts made and donated this year by HeartStrings quilters.

HeartStrings Quilt Project Photo Albums.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of those involved in the project. I look forward to seeing the quilts we'll make and donate in 2008.

Mary Johnson

The King's Daughters and Sons Home.

2007-12-30T23:39:00.000-06:00

Jane, a HeartStrings quilter involved her guild in making HeartStrings blocks and quilts earlier this year. She recently wrote me the following update:

I've personally made 3 heartstrings tops, my guild and I have made many more through our block of the month activities. One month we made blue centers, another, we made red centers... some of the blocks were sent to me to combine, other guild members and completed tops of their own. One mother-sister-daughter team made 4 lap sized heartstrings quilts.

In total, we gave 112 quilts to a nursing home in November. Some were scrap quilts from Bonnie's site, some were Chinese coins, many were Heartstrings quilts.

20 of the quilts donated by Jane's guild were HeartStrings quilts. Below, you can read a letter of thanks.

The King’s Daughters & Sons Home
Bartlett, TN

Dear Members of the Uncommon Threads Quilt Guild,
How can we ever thank you enough for the wonderful quilts. Each one was as unique as each of our Residents. Staff and Residents alike are proclaiming the quilt party as the best of all year. Visitors frequently comment on the quilts that we have displayed and volunteers go room to room visiting with Residents
and looking at their quilts. Which of course, the Residents are more than happy to show off.
We are all, (staff, residents, family members, volunteers) extremely appreciative of your hard work and generosity.
Thank you once again.
Sincerely,
Dana Lewis
Activity Director

Quilts for Annie's House

2007-12-27T11:54:00.001-06:00

Cricket has been working throughout the year with other HeartStrings quilters to make quilts for homeless families. After delivering a batch of quilts to Annie's house she wrote this:

I had the most wonderful time tonight. I went to Annie's House, a lovely shelter for homeless women. It is run by Sister Senga, who is the closest thing to a saint I've ever met. The women knew I was coming and were waiting anxiously. I've delivered quilts in other years, so they knew what to expect. They were looking out the door for me (I had called when I was ten minutes away).

They helped bring quilts in and put them on the dining room table. Even before I got my shoes off and got into the dining room, I heard the oohs and ahhs. Women were opening the quilts and just loving them. They were so thrilled. There were many comments about patterns and fabrics and color. In the end, it is the color they choose; they want the colors that speak to them. Pattern and warmth share second place. Size runs a close third. Each found a quilt that spoke to her.

One woman, still had on her olive green coat she was wearing to help me in. Guess which quilt she picked? Do you remember that wonderful top that Darlene made (and Bev quilted) which was sort of an olive green center strips with a light or white on each side of it? That was Darlene's creativity, and Holly loved it. She thanked me, Darlene, Bev, Rebecca, and all of the Heartstringers, as they all did, and I saw her hugging it as she took it to her room.

Another woman, who is to move to her own apartment shortly, picked the wonderful yellow center stripe quilt that Darlene made and Bev quilted. She said there was one window in her room, and this quilt would really brighten it up. She had gray hair but such a young and vibrant spirit.

A younger woman, the youngest of the group, let me feel her muscles – and they were hard and big! She is in training for the construction industry, and I say, more power to her. She's also her GED. The ladies had picked out a quilt they thought she would like, and did she ever! It is the Heartstrings pattern with deep green stripes and a lot of fabrics with pure hues. Everyone was busy looking at race cars and various other things on the fabric. She liked it so much she did not even look at the others.

The ladies picked out a quilt for one woman, who came in later. She loved it so much that she refused to even look at the extra quilts I had brought so people would have choices. It was a scrap quilt with lots of light areas and half square triangles. She asked me how long it took to make it, and I said probably close to 100 hours, all things considered. She came and hugged me and said thank you. I'm not sure if Darlene made that top or if it's one I had in the works already.

One of the ladies picked out a lovely soft green and soft blue nine patch, queen size. I had that one in the works. Everyone had her favorites. Some people took a while to decide which quilt they wanted because they liked several "best". Everyone was thrilled; I can actually say every person was totally enchanted by her quilt.

They were quite interested to know how these were made, and I have a new volunteer, Barbara, who works in the shelter and at Sears. I'm going to teach her how to make quilts and she will help with the homeless quilts. Not a bad deal! She's a lovely person. I may get a second volunteer, an experienced quilter, Maxine.

I left 16 labeled adult-size quilts with these ladies, and got many hugs and many kisses in return. Quite a few said "God bless you" and many wished me a Merry Christmas. I gladly share those hugs, kisses, blessings, and wishes with all of you, because it is our greater group that made this evening possible.

I left our web address with them. In all the years I've been doing this, never have I had this many finished quilts (53 so far) with such great cooperation and such little stress. Thank you very much, my quilting sisters (and brothers,) This group really rocks!

The bottom line is, this is clearly God's work, and I am so happy to be a part of it.

January Sneak Preview

2007-12-18T12:57:00.000-06:00

As you enjoy the holidays with family and friends, here's a peek at what we'll be doing in January.

Since so many of us make and donate quilts to Project Linus, we're encouraging everyone to make a quilt to donate to their local chapter in time for Make a Blanket Day on February 16, 2008.

You can make a string quilt or use any pattern you'd like. I plan to use my favorite donation quilt - a quick strippie pattern. I've already got one pieced and ready for quilting and hope to make a 2nd one in time to donate both of them.

If you don't have a local chapter to donate the quilt to, contact me by email (mmcjohnson@gmail.com) and I'll put you in touch with Barb, one of the coordinators of Project Linus here in the Minneapolis area.

Barb has said that she will also accept finished tops; your local Project Linus Chapter may also accept them unquilted. You may contact me for Barb's address if you'd like to send her a top or finished quilt.

It's been a little quiet

2007-12-16T02:02:00.000-06:00

I know it's been a little quiet here on the blog recently but we're steadily working. If it's been a while since you've visited our photo albums take a look. It's hard to believe that all these quilts have been finished just this year and there are lots more in progress.

http://picasaweb.google.com/HeartStringsQuiltProject

As we celebrate the holidays, I'm sure I won't be the only one squeezing in some quilting time to work on HeartStrings blocks and quilts.

Chinese Coins

2007-11-29T17:04:00.001-06:00

Becky recently posted this quilt she created using coins donated during our Chinese Coins Project earlier this year. She had so many requests for the pattern after doing a similar quilt that she created a tutorial showing how she made it.

Quilts for those affected by the fires in California

2007-11-15T23:21:00.001-06:00

I wanted to bring this back to the top of the blog as I've only had a handful of requests for the mailing address for sending quilts to California.

If you'd like to send a quilt for a child, please read this previous post and contact me for the mailing address.

You can reach me by email at mmcjohnson@gmail.com

Weekend Retreat Update

2007-11-12T18:22:00.000-06:00

Click photo to enlarge!

HeartStrings quilters from around the US, Australia, and the UK worked on various HeartStrings projects that will go to children, homeless families, wounded veterans, breast cancer patients and more.

Darlene traveled to Cricket's home and they worked on quilting and binding this weekend while the rest of us participated *virtually* , updating each other with our progress. The photos in the above collage show some of the projects we worked on.

Cricket was happy to report to the group that she has 75 quilts in various stages of completion + additional blocks waiting to be assembled. 40 of those quilts, made by Cricket, Darlene, Bev, and other HeartStrings members are completed and will be distributed to homeless families in about 10 days.

Retreat weekend

2007-11-09T23:06:00.000-06:00

It all started with a stay at home retreat weekend on the Stashbuster group and Cricket and Darlene getting together in person to finish up a group of quilts to be donated to homeless shelters.

Now 30+ HeartString quilters are participating this weekend in a virtual retreat. Most of us are working on our HeartStrings blocks and quilts and a few are working on other personal projects.

Won't you join us and make some HeartStrings blocks this weekend? If you do, email me (mmcjohnson@gmail.com) for the mailing address to send the blocks in - we'll make sure they're assembled into quilts and donated to charitable causes.

October's Project Pink is ending

2007-10-31T23:16:00.000-05:00

The official end to Project Pink is today but don't worry if you're still working, Jennifer has said she'll continue to accept these blocks for now so we won't set a firm deadline for all the blocks to be received - yet.

However, this is one of our short term project so you'll want to finish up and maybe get back to making some of our red and blue standard blocks before the next special project comes up. The mailing address for pink blocks can be found at this link.

Thanks to everyone who participated. We'll continue to update our online album as more tops and quilts are completed.

Helping those in need - Southern California

2007-10-25T12:35:00.000-05:00

Nann, a HeartStrings member put Debbi Kulick in touch with me. She is requesting quilts for children in Southern California affected by the fires.

She will be working through the Kids Need to be Kids program. Having just finished up our Purple Project, I'm hoping we will be able to help. If you would like to send quilts please email me at mmcjohnson@gmail.com for Debbi's address. Her request is below.

As you know, southern California is under siege with the fires. There are currently 13 fires burning, over 500,000 people have had to evacuate and they expect that number to rise to over 1 million.

At this time, I would like to ask that anyone who would like to donate quilts for the children, I will be glad to accept them and help get them distributed. The children have nothing and need something to help them be kids while Mom and Dad will be dealing with FEMA, insurance companies and everyone else trying to piece their lives back together. I plan to work with Kappa Delta Sorority and work with our Kids Need to be Kids program which began with Katrina.

We will be collecting toys and books for the children too, I would love to have quilts for them along with toys and books.

Kasson, MN Sew-In

2007-10-22T13:20:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful time on Saturday. Sheree was the perfect hostess and she wrote the following summary to share here. You can see all the photos from the sew-in at the slide-show posted on our website.

Saturday, October 20, 2007 was the third meeting for the Minnesota/WI/Upper Midwest HeartStringers. Mary, Sue & Barb, all from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN met Sheree in SE Minnesota for a VERY productive day of quilting pink. Ann, who is part of the HeartString Yahoo Group, and who lives in nearby Byron, MN came by with 50! blocks. Some of Sheree’s friends also stopped by and added to the fun and productivity of the group. And we were international with virtual quilters from Australia and the UK, not to mention others quilting pink throughout the US.

The blocks and tops we worked on will all be donated to breast cancer patients and were created from pink and white fabrics in support of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Our group of fabulous women put together 2 quilt tops from blocks brought to the sew-in, and completed 118 more blocks!

Additionally, the work HeartStrings does will be featured in the local weekly newspaper! All-in-all, it was a Heart warming experience as we spent the day enjoying each other’s company creating instruments of comfort for those who will need a soft place to land and the warmth that a quilt sewn with love can supply.

Will you be joining us?

2007-10-19T02:40:00.000-05:00

Don't forget our MN area sew-in this coming Saturday. Details can be found at this previous post.

For those of you not able to attend in person, consider joining us on a virtual retreat and make HeartStrings blocks at home. You can either sew pink blocks for our October Project Pink or use the guidelines and sew our regular blocks.

Make sure you write in and tell us what you worked on!

Country Crossroads Quilt Guild

2007-10-17T16:37:00.000-05:00

After seeing the 5th HeartStrings quilt (pictured above) from Joanne and her guild I asked her to write a brief note telling us about the HeartStrings quilts they've been making. This is what she wrote:

The Country Crossroads Quilt Guild of Forreston, Illinois does a special charity project every 3 years. (We are a small guild of about 60 members).

This year it was decided to donate quilts to the Rockford Rescue Mission. The RRM requested twin size quilts. I made a string quilt using the Heartstrings Quilt Project guidelines, quilted it on my new longarm (quilting on charity quilts is great practice), and brought it to guild to donate.

I suggested to the members that if they wanted to make the Heartstring blocks, I'd assemble them, quilt and bind them and hopefully bring one back every month. One month I used 50 blocks that were donated to the project and sent to me by Sue, but every other month the guild has managed to make enough for a quilt.

I received October's donation of 90+ blocks and have the first quilt on the longarm now. The extra blocks will be made into a smaller quilt to be donated to one member's husband, who is a county deputy sheriff, to keep in his squad car to comfort a child when needed. The twin size will be the 6th quilt we've made this year for RRM.

Purple Project Update

2007-10-16T13:33:00.000-05:00

Members continue to finish and donate quilts from our recent Purple Project. Here's one finished and posted by Jennifer. She used blocks she pieced and donated blocks to make 4 Purple Project quilts. You can see these and all the purple quilts in our online album.

If you're participating in October's Project Pink and need some inspiration check out these finished tops and quilts. Details for participating in this project can be found in this information sheet.

As always even with a special project going on, we continue to accept red and blue center string blocks made according to the guidelines.