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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Consider The Postage Stamp!


I love this quote! I’m a quote junky, but this one applies to me so much and helps me push things through even when I might be feeling a bit bored, and am getting antsy to move on to the next thing.

A recent discussion revealed that many quilters have "so many" projects in various stages, yet can't seem to make progress on any of them.

When asked how I get so much done, I realize I limit myself and mostly stick to one main piecing project at a time --unless it is something that is a leader/ender project like the cheddar bow-ties or little sampler blocks that are released only a couple times a month.

I like to see big amounts of progress and stay mainly focused on ONE THING in the machine piecing department---and of course having deadlines helps with that. I don’t have time to dawdle or be distracted!

I have ONE hand travel project --- the hexagons.

I had one machine travel project -- the Florabunda blocks --simply because I finished the Midnight Flight quilt last week and haven't cut anything else out yet. ;cD

I have two hand quilting projects that are basted and have some hand quilting in them, but am only pushing through on one of them until it’s done – the pink and brown Jane Stickle variation. I’m not switching back and forth. The other one will simply be “next” in line.

I have two quilts needing the binding stitched down – That’s for TV watching time as well.

So there are a few quilt projects in different stages that are perfect to grab and stitch no matter what I’m doing, but it is not so overwhelming that I feel buried or paralyzed by a list of 100 UFOs.

Just what is it that takes a project from the front line, and puts it back on the shelf for you?

What makes us give up and run after the next new shiny thing instead of persevering in completing that project?

Sometimes life requires that we stop and do something else, whether it’s a baby quilt for a new arrival, a wedding quilt for someone special, a comfort quilt for a friend in need – I know these kinds of things can stop us in our tracks and make us shift gears to make a specific project in a limited amount of time ---but what else happens that makes us such distracted quilters?

I was told about a lady who had 87 KITS purchased and on shelves in her quilting room closet. Complete kits! Was she sewing any of them up? Nope. Just kits. For some day. That would feel like a life sentence to me! LOL!

I think if I had a list of 92 UFOs on a spreadsheet I’d go NUTS! It would feel like I couldn't ever get to the end of it. And I know for some people, it helps to list them all out ---but how do you stop yourself from starting new things and getting more and more side tracked with a list that long?

At home I have a white board on the wall in my basement studio. I list a few projects, including those for up coming deadlines --- and now that Midnight Flight is pieced and quilted ((That’s one of the ones waiting for binding to be sewn down now)) I’ll be picking one of those ideas off the list and working it through until the piecing is done and it moves to the next stage. I’m working on the quilts for book 5. I have about 1.5 years to get them done. And I know I work best one at a time.

And there is enough variety for me to be happy when you throw in the leaders & Enders, the hand quilting, the binding, and of course, those traveling hexagons. I am NEVER bored with these projects!

Are you buried in UFOs? Do you find that you are happy with that many, or are you panicky when you consider all it will take to complete them ---start a discussion in the comments section! I have a lot of airport time today, help keep me entertained, won't you? :cD

Just random thoughts from a road weary quilter as I make my long Sunday journey home to NC ---

95 comments:

  1. I gathered up and listed all my UFOs, gulp. Then I gathered up my kits (not purchased that way, but fabrics pulled and put with a pattern). Another gulp. So I decided which ones I really, really, really, wanted to make. New list, much more do-able. And joining up with Judy Laquidara's (PatchworkTimes.com) UFO Challenge made me focus on getting one done before starting another. I've completed several, and feel like I have permission to start something new in between finishing UFOs if I want to! No more stress :-D

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  2. I have a list of 9 UFOs that accumulated last year because the "oh, look... a butterfly" effect happened... and then my sewing machine needed to spend 1.5 months getting new gears.

    I'm tempted to start a new project but created the list (posted on my blog) and am going to try to finish them all up before starting a new project.

    Granted some of them are in the binding needed stage, and one needs the backing pieced, and another just needs to go visit the LAQ (too large a quilt to do on my domestic machine)...

    I have one flimsy and two quilts in the "blocks are finished" stage. One's on my design wall now. The other needs sashings and borders.

    I never wanted to have this many quilts in the works but... stuff happens. I did finish a number of quilts last year... so it's not like I'm starting stuff and never finishing.

    I've already crossed one of the 9 UFOs off the list... and am determined to get 'em all finished this year!

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  3. I am an immediate gratification type of girl. I don't have a problem finishing when I start. It's the starting that's the problem. I don't like to start unless I can finish, that means I need a chunk of time. Right now I don't have 'chunks' of time due to work. Frustrating!

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  4. Funny you mention this! For the new year I had 3 quilts to get quilted and bound for my guild's show. The only way I could that and take care of my family was to focus. It felt really good!!

    How did I get so many projects (21)? It's fun to play with color and it's fun to begin a project but I get a little bogged down in the middle. So, I put away the second machine that I use for piecing and concentrated on my FMQ, which I enjoyed and came away with more confidence.

    I am now cutting my second piecing project which I plan to use as a leader/ender when I sew with quilty friends. When at home, I will try to focus on quilting and finishing some more projects. Last year my resolution was not to start a project until one is finished and it works well, keeps me on track.

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  5. Anonymous1:20 PM EST

    The rulers you mentioned in your last post, do you sell them? Are they a certain brand?
    Love reading your blog. Safe trip home.

    Darlis
    darlisj@kinex.net

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  6. I made a list of all my UFOs at the beginning of the year and was shocked to see that I had accumulated 15! in just over a year of quilting. So far this year, I have resisted started any new quilts and finished 3. Hopefully, I will have a fourth finished by Wednesday. Then I promised my girls I would finish their bed quilts. After that, I may allow myself to start a new project. Or possibly 2. :)

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  7. Funny...when I first started quilting, I didn't understand why everyone had a bunch of UFO's - as I always started a project and completely finished it. Boy, have times changed! I have projects in various stages of completion. One was put away because my daughter decided she didn't like blue anymore (after I bought enough blue for a queen size bed). One or two were put away when we built our house. Some put away when I got too busy with my business. A BOM put away when there was a fabric I disliked in the kit. And on, and on! Seems that life just happens! I am working to finish some of these up and a few might just go in Yard Sale Saturday!

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  8. I made a resolution last year to work the UFO list down, and it is really happening. It helps that I have also decided NOT to buy any new fabric and NOT to start anything new. There is so much out there that is tempting--gorgeous new fabric lines and wonderful patterns. But they are just going to have to go on without me. :)

    I'm also working on paring down my stash. Have cut a ton of 2 1/2" strips and am making your Scrappy Trips Around the World pattern with them. It feels great to lighten the load!

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  9. Appreciated this blog. This winter i have been working through my WIPs. I acquired a better machine last June for FMQ is one of the reasons. But i think just as important, i started to realize that i had money and time tied up in quilt tops or some in stages of cut and pieced. It seemed i was starting more than i was finishing. It was the thrill of the "new" project. I have finished four or five WIPs since Jan. and have discovered a new thrill, finishing! I have kind of got things in different stages too which helps. But i am loving the FMQ and can work three or four days or more to finish. I am determined to make my pile smaller.
    I have started a couple of new projects but am trying to utilize my stash and then add to if i need something. I have a couple of quilts to make for gifts so there should be enough "spice" to keep me interested. Will see how it goes! For me I want to enjoy the process and have the freedom to create but want to be responsible.
    Keep us updated.I find reading how others are doing encouraging. Good to know others have similar challenges and joys!

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  10. Sigh..... this is what's happening all the time: when I see something beautiful, I jump in. And another ufo is born. This month I am rather proud of myself: finished binding on two quilts. And then: the other 43 ones (something like that, counting them makes me feel unhappy, finishing is another game) are still waiting, and sometimes one of them groans from underneath the pile that it wants some attention. I hang it over a hook, it gets a little air, and I feel guilty again. Started to pull out JUST ONE! and FINISH it. Maybe that is the better choice for me 8^{. So: orca bay bag, rrcb bag, smith mountain morning bag, eventually I plan to empty them and have the whole thing qiulted on the bed. Or presented to a dear friend. Wanted that attitude last year, didn't stick. I'll postage stamp this time.
    Thank you for all your kindness giving us that many projects we want to start, I'll get the envelope with the postage stamp out to remind me!
    Love from an already dark Amsterdam, Irene

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  11. My UFO collection got out of hand a couple of years ago-we moved twice in 3 years with long transit times so I bought new stuff and started new quilts while waiting for the old stuff. Then there were guild projects, a couple of BOMs, plain old impulse buys...Last year I put all the pieces to everything in project packs and made a list of what needed to be done-finish blocks, assembly, borders, binding, etc. I'm working my way through them--I still have about 4 big things to finish and a couple of small things. DH and I have always had a 30-day "cooling off" period before buying big ticket items. I have now imposed a 7-day cooling off period when I feel the urge to start something new. It's helping. The piles are smaller and I can find stuff more easily now...

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  12. I have quite a few UFOs. I love going to retreats and taking class, so my UFOs are a result of all of those... plus the things we start in our quilt guild workshops that I have yet to finish. I am going to try to finish some of them now that I have my quilt studio finished!

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  13. I'm a spreadsheet type gal. I have three lists -- the projects I'm still piecing and/or doing as a quilt-as-you-go project; completed tops waiting to be quilted and a list of kits. Let's just say that the #s I have on my list would smoother some folks and make them give up quilting forever, but on the other hand there are some quilters out there that would love to have their #s down to mine (31, 37 & 11.)

    Quilts have gotten set aside because I've run into a stumbling block and haven't figured out what to do next, or it's a collection of blocks from a swap/lotto or BOM which I've still got to figure out the setting. Maybe the center is done, but I haven't found the border fabric yet and since it doesn't have destination it's not a priority. Or I've gotten to the applique blocks....

    Last year I played along with Judy's UFO Challenge and although I didn't finish everything I listed, I did finish 20 UFOs -- some tops, some I was still piecing. I've taken a different approach this year and picked a single quilt to finish up the blocks on by the end of they year -- many with applique.

    I'm doing my best to not start anything new unless I know I can/will finish it without setting it aside. Until the Just Take 2 project, I've not taken on any new BOMs for several years.

    Right now I'm focused on my Ocean Wave quilt which I hope to get to flimsy in the next couple of weeks so I can quilt it. It's a graduation gift. After that I think I'll return my focus to Orca Bay - although I'm planning to work on a Scrappy Irish Chain at my quilt retreat in April.

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  14. Honestly the only thing that has really helped me start to get my OFO's moving forward is the current price of new fabric. I still have trouble not starting something new when I find fabric at a reasonable price of $6.00 a yard, but when it is over $10.00 a yard it gets much easier. Also since I am almost retirement age, I think of my large amount of unfinished projects as a kind of retirement account. When I am on a fixed income I won't have to buy very much and will enjoy working on the projects. I may even have time to teach new quilters and have the bonus of starting their stash. Who knows what the future will be. But one thing is for sure I will have plenty of fabric in reserve to continue to enjoy creating quilts.

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    Replies
    1. Marj I may have to borrow that thought...it isn't a stash it is a fabric retirement account....

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    2. Anonymous3:57 PM EST

      Marj ~ that's a great thought. I am retiring in a few short months and we're transitioning between two homes, the newest one having a great quilt studio for me. Sort of a fabric 401(k) ...

      Flatlander (Linda)

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    3. I retired last summer and have started and completed 9 quilts and working on #10 (all but one are gifts and have deadlines). Some were made using miscellaneous fabrics I've had for about 30 years! Now I know what to call that stash. 8^)

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    4. Love this - it's not my stash, it's my retirement savings!

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    5. At $10 dollars, that is £6.31 in Britain. We pay at least £10 yard for new fabrics. You have fabric cheap compared to here, and it is even more in the Norse countries. On the other hand, we have a National Health Service, but probably not for much longer.
      I have got my WIP list down from about 20 to 3 and have only bought fabric to finish a quilt with .

      Delete
  15. I'm a one-project-a-time kind of gal myself. Once I get started on a project, I just cannot wait to see it finished ... so I don't have a problem staying focused on the project at hand until it's pieced, quilted, bound, washed and ready to be used. ;-)

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  16. Anonymous2:18 PM EST

    I have to say last year I took those UFO's I knew I would never finish and I gifted them to someone who wanted them. Along with the fabric and partially finished tops I gave the pattern or book it came from. It made me feel so much better not to have that pile staring me in the face. It was only 3 projects but I knew I would never complete the.

    I am a flimsy collector. I love the sewing of the tops but can't afford a long armer and suck at machine quilting. This year when I finished Orca Bay I told myself I couldn't start another project until I had 3 tops finished. They are finished and off to new homes.

    I have 3 projects going at a time this year. Two are BOM's that I'm doing one pieced and one applique. The other is a charity quilt that will be two more lap robes for the adopt a grandparent program.

    I have another 2 projects I would like to start but not unti one is finished.
    SueW
    Upstate NY

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  17. I think I am a start it-finish it type of person (for the most part); I, too, have a hexagon hand project going, one "don't know how to finish it" Grandmother's Flower Garden mish-mash, one spider-web quilt I just did since Jan. and sewed borders on yesterday, and my "leader-ender (your fabulous idea) in the works: BUT: I surf and see all these terrific projects, BOM's, "Quilt-a-longs" etc, not to mention new fabrics AND I get waylaid.....Whaaaah...I want to make them ALL. Like today, I saw a Mosaic and had to try it out--3 hours later (talk about labor intensive--but fun!!) one block done that I love....should I make a whole quilt like this or just use this on the back of the spider....see????and yadda-yadda so it goes...Julierose

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  18. I used to have this same problem of starting but never finishing lots of projects. Then I decided one year, many years ago, that I would not start any new projects until I had caught up. I realized what I had been missing all those years by never finishing anything. That feeling of accomplishment and pride in my work that you can only get by finishing what you start. it's amazing! So now I generally have one big sewing machine project, a few waiting for something projects (like waiting for use of the long arm), and always one knit or crochet project for when I sit and relax in the evenings. This way, projects always get finished and the excitement of starting a new project is not ruined by that heavy feeling of too many unfinished projects.

    MGM

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  19. Anonymous2:24 PM EST

    I have 5 or 6 UFO quilts. One is a memory quilt. The cat, named Chloe, chewed a block that had this metallic cording. I'm scared to take it out again, let alone display it. Another is a Christmas top. Hard to feel Christmasy right now, but will be doneby this Christmas.. The one I'm working on now I started November/December 2008 when my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and she passed away May 2009. Last summer was the first time I was able to take it out to work on it, and not cry . That has taken top priority. Once it is done, I'll have a hoop to start quilting Orca Bay.

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  20. I also work this way. And I have had numerous comments on how much I get done. But there are times when my hand projects also include crocheting. Right now I am making DD#1 a crocheted vest. It is SOOOO CUTE!!! I want one too! But then she is teeny tiny and can wear something like this with ease.
    I love to watch Nascar races and these are perfect for hand sewing projects. I prefer DVD's when I am machine sewing. No commercials so I can really turn the volumne up. I know most of these movies by heart anyway, and I still cry!
    Hope you are home by now and can relax a bit!
    XOXOXOXO Subee
    http://www.subeesews.com

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  21. Last year we were encouraged in our guild to list our UFO's and do as many as possible within the year. When I made the list, I found 26! I made it a goal to get most of them done, and I completed most. It does feel overwhelming to me to have so many in progress, so I have made a promise to myself to work on one project at a time (within limits). Makes it feel less burdensome. Also, I don't buy fabric anymore just b/c I like it. It has to be used in what I am doing now.
    xoxo Have fun this week.

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  22. I'm a start to finish girl. I start something new when the last one is finished. I make the binding and the back when the top is finished and I hang them together in the "quilting" closet where they marinate till I'm struck by the long arm quilting urge - and then I'll finish all the quilts in the closet, sew on the bindings (and machine finish if they're Linus quilts - which most of them are), then put on all the labels and they're completed finished and ready to go. I also keep track of each quilt in a spiral notebook (I'm a list writer) - quilt name, start date, end date, size of top, size of back, # of strips for binding, and date quilted (got a little OCD going here). It makes me feel a little more like I've accomplished something. I also use the notebook to figure out how much fabric I've used for the year for my donation quilts - it comes out to several thousands a year in charitable donations which keeps my husband happy. Obviously I'm a totally compulsive person but it keeps me organized and surging ahead!

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  23. something interesting i read about UFO'S. after i am gone, anyone can pick up any of my UFO'S and finish them. but they don't know my WHIMM'S....works hidden in my mind. they don't know my idea for that special fabric that i haven't started yet. but they could finish if i have it started.
    i don't know who will be finishing my things. my daughter has no interest and there are no grands yet. it may be members of my guild or a stranger sometime in the future. i have several UFO'S i do want to finish. it is just that new fabric that looks like so much fun to start......... or that great pattern i HAVE to try.......i can always do MY qulits, but deadlines push back those. i really need to get some of MINE done so I can enjoy them. stichnRN@aol.com

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  24. I come from a long line of 'Unfinishers', I have WIP from my Grandmother, Mother and mother-in-law. I have fabric that is older than I am and I am asking my family and friends to cast their dust collecting piles my way. ;-}

    I added up my WIP at the start of the year and I am approaching 20. My goal is to finish one a month, minimum, and so far I am right on track. But, I hit a snag Friday, my only sewing machine went in for emergency servicing so the Baby quilts (2) I needed to finish this week are on hold. Now I am reorganizing and cleaning the sewing room and concentrating on finishing the hand work on my 'Drunkerd's Path Christmas Quilt', trying to use my time wisely.

    I find I pick up and set things down by how much time I have to work on them, before my 3 kids interrupt me. I have a few WIP I just don't know what I am going to do on my next step (ie - quilting pattern). Sometimes I switch depending on what my machine is set up for (ie FMQ).

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  25. I have a few projects on the go usually but I try to keep them under 10- I have one long standing project that I got stuck in the making and a few kits that are still in kit form but for the most part I work on less than 5 projects at a time and complete them before I start something else. I have two sets of blocks/piecing projects and two quilts ready to be quilted. I just get overwhelmed when I get too many in an unfinished state. Sometimes I think it would be nice if I had more unfinished tops ready to be quilted for the next person on my list to give away.
    We all work in different ways- whatever way works that keeps one creating is the most important thing. Interesting to see all the different ways that people quilt.
    Regards,
    Anna

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  26. I don't have any UFO's at the moment, I try to finish one project before starting another. Right now I am hand quilting a larger size quilt and I just cut out and prepped some applique for another. One keeps me busy during the day and the other I work on in front of the TV in the evening. Since the first of the year I finished another large quilt and four doll sized quilts, so now I am all caught up. But in my head I have plans for a graduation quilt and a wedding quilt needed before the end of this year. I have way more ideas than time to work on them! ! !

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  27. If I really want to get it done, it goes up on whiteboard in my sewing studio; one whiteboard is for personal projects; another whiteboard is for business commitments. The business whiteboard takes precedence. The personal whiteboard gets cleaned or rewritten as projects get completed. If I buy any new fabric, I've decided that I need to buy enough to make a complete quilt (like the Moda Summerbreeze II for a summer quilt for our king-sized bed), or I will work a pattern I like from my stash. Trying to instill order into my workdays. It helps....and I've been staying away from those 8 fat quarters that I used to buy because they "called" to me....I can usually find something later........

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  28. You know me when it comes to quilting I have the attention span of a 6 month old puppy...I am doing better this year even if it only means giving away projects I know I'll never get back to!

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    Replies
    1. You're one productive quilter, friend. Come rain or shine. ;)

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  29. Anonymous3:31 PM EST

    I ended up with lots of UFO's when we moved here as I was lonely and didn't have access to classes where I lived before!
    I put all my UFO's in a book and discovered I had over 3 pages of them! well over 50! from that point I didn't allow myself to take a class unless it was a "technique" class, so I really didn't have a new UFO. I have since let myself do one project a year and I'm getting those done! but I did get the majority of large quilts finished, so what's left is smaller projects. (wall hangings, table runners etc). I found the book listing much easier to handle stress wise...I also have a white board but if I look at it too often it gets overwhelming.The hobby got a bit out of hand re: too much fabric and so many projects but I've made progress but it's probably taken me at least 5 years! I sorted scraps in December/January and then decided to make some blocks...so am working on a wonky log cabin...now to decide if I want to just donate the blocks for a charity project or finish it for a gift.
    I haven't bought fabric for some time, so sometime the piles will go down?!! I do find the blog and others comments has stimulated me into working on projects! Thanks Elaine in Fairview, AB stenbraaten athotmaildotcom

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  30. WOW....I seem to be a lot like you when it comes to UFO's. I don't have a lot of them. When I read your message, I kept saying to myself.....yep, that's me.....yep, that's me.....yep....
    Two things keep me from checking into the Panic Room in UFOville. MONEY and VARIETY. Money...because I don't have unlimited funds to spend on my hobby and I would feel guilty if I spent it on a pile of UFO's, and variety...because that IS what gets me to the finish line. Like you, I keep several projects going at once. Usually a larger more complicated/time consuming quilt, a smaller/easier quilt, and some travel projects. Right now my travel projects are yo-yo's for an ongoing yo-yo quilt (kinda reminds me of your hexie quilt), a wool penny rug, and some hand applique basket blocks. I feel like I have different projects for different moods and that's what works for me.

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  31. Just got back into the workforce. Before I did, I made sure I finished my ufo's and made them flimsy's. I knew I would get them quilted, but as parts, they loose their luster and it is hard to get back into piecing them. I give quilts to my children for Christmas, all adults, and I like to have the tops done now. I feel ahead of the game. I'm planning my next project or two as I sort and control the scraps I have collected.

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  32. Deadlines are the best incentive for me to finish my projects. My guild is having a show in a few weeks, so I have finished 2 UFOs just this week. I know why it is so hard for me to stick with one at a time, there are just too many that I want to do! Also, I enjoy piecing more than quilting and can't afford to send everything out to get quilted. I figure the tops will become quilts when they are needed, so I consider those to be 'temporarily finished'. I started to count my WIPs one time and stopped when the number started to grow too much. I suppose as long as I'm having fun and not spending the grocery money for fabric, I won't worry about it too much.

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  33. I just finished my longest standing UFO. I can not tell you what a weight has been lifted. My mother had embroidered a full-sized bed quilt top for me more than a dozen years ago. Sometimes I worked on the hand-quilting and sometimes it sat, untouched for years! But, it was always where I could see it daily. Ugh! Tomorrow I will stitch on the binding. It is so exciting to have it completed. Next week I will be visiting my mom at her assisted living and get photos of us and the quilt. I can't wait!

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  34. Today my hubs came to my sewing room and said the computer router was having a hard time connecting us to the internet. It is set up on one of my shelves in the room. My large shopping bag filled with 2.5 strips was cutting off it's air supply..... :) So today I moved it (the shopping bag) into it's own large rubbermade container.There is even some room for more in there. The router is thanking me for giving it some breathing room!

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  35. Hi Bonnie, I get stuck on getting the quilt basted, and quilted...It seems with quite a few large projects, its difficult to get them basted with the lack of space to spread out, then I get stuck with making enough room to get things quilted on my home sewing machine. Since I've started following your blog last August...You have inspired me to push forward and make things happen...change, often comes slowly, but I am making changes to "MAKE" room, "MAKE" space, and look outside my home for spaces to utilize for basting and quilting. Small changes yet, I'm seeing things happen!! And it will get better. I'll report back in 1 year! ~smiles~ Yo - Tacoma, WA - Quilter's Dream Retreats

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  36. Anonymous4:10 PM EST

    Procrastination is my first, middle and last name!! I have so many UFOs that I wouldn't even know where to begin listing them and talk about fabric stash ... Oh, my word!! We're in the process of moving to our retirement home and when I was loading bin after bin after bin of fabric into the trailer it suddenly made me keenly aware of how much fabric I actually had stashed, how many projects were in progress and how much MONEY I had tied up in my "addiction". I have stopped going to quilt stores because I just HAD to have "some" of the latest line or would get entranced with a new class or technique being offered. I still meet my quilty friends for coffee/tea and we have show 'n tells but until I manage to see a dent in all that I already have I'm restricting myself to what is on hand now. Good topic, Bonnie ... thanks for sharing!

    Linnie

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  37. I read this post as I was taking a break from sorting through some of my sewing stuff. I am COMPLETELY over-whelmed!!! I do get a lot of quilts finished because I have my own mid-arm machine to quilt them. But, the number of UFO's and "kits" (both store bought and self-made) have nearly paralyzed me from sewing at all the last several months.

    I still love them all, but I guess not enough to see them through to completetion. Most are Thimbleberries kits from when I first started quilting quite a few years ago. I lost interest in making a quilt that was exactly like the one on the pattern as I got more experienced. I have too much money invested in them to get rid of any and sometimes wish a hurricane would just come swoop them away because of the guilt they bring on. :(

    Not sure what to do to turn things around and get these skeletons out of my closet?
    Patricia

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    Replies
    1. How about eBay, Etsy, or Bonnie's yard sale day?

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    2. Anonymous6:33 PM EST

      Hi. I am a member of American Sewing Guild and we have a group of woman that sew charity quilts for a local battered woman's shelter. We make both adult quilts and children quilts. We are always looking for donations. If you would like to see you kits finished and going to a good cause, we will do them and send you a picture when done. Just a thought.. Or if you have a loca charity sewing group, they might be interested. Contact me if interested. adiamond625@aol.com

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  38. Good blog post! I am embarrassed to admit that I have three Quiltville Mystery Quilts still in progress and one for which I've set aside the fabric but haven't started cutting the fabric yet. What can I say? I'm a very slow worker and when a new Mystery is presented I'm all excited about starting it. But I haven't finished before the next Mystery starts, so it gets pushed aside so I can start the new one.

    Well, this year I tried to confine myself to vicarious thrills by only reading about Orca Bay.

    My other problem is that I'm much more of a "process" person rather than a "project" person. I enjoy the journey so much that sometimes it doesn't matter to me if I ever reach the destination. However, since I'll be turning 60 this year, I've decided that I need to start finishing some stuff and making a serious dent on my stash.

    --C.B.

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  39. Bonnie, I resolve in front of everyone here to work on getting UFO's done this year. Start a new habit instead of adding kits, patterns,etc. to my stash and not getting things done. The past 3 years has been bad health-wise for me (just broke an ankle and having surgery tomorrow) so it's going to take a bit to get back down the stairs TO the studio, but I can work like crazy when I get there. 8 weeks (hopefully at the most) and I can spend 2 -3 hours a day there. Ahhhh my idea of heaven. Thank you!

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  40. Anonymous4:43 PM EST

    I refuse to call anything a ufo until I'm dead! I have a few wips in the closet, some just need to stew longer than others.

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  41. I really don't understand what the big deal is about having UFOs. I have a bunch - and don't care if I EVER finish them. They give me something to do - and keep me out of bars at night. ;))

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    1. I agree completely! I'm the same. I like my WIPS and UFOs. I work on them when I get inspired. Quilting is my hobby, not my job!

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  42. I don't have many UFOs just a lot of WIPS mostly because they are at the point that I need sashing or border fabric which requires a trip to a fabric store and/or I can't find just the right fabric. I have a huge bin full of tops that need to be quilted. That is my downfall, making the tops but never getting them quilted.

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  43. HI Bonnie
    Great discussion on this post. I am definently a member of the UFO club. Sometimes a project lands in the category because I have gotten stuck or the project is not working out as I had thought. Last year, I made a resolution to only buy fabric to complete existing projects and while not 100% successful, I did have some finishes and better awareness of what I have. I just utilized your bias binding tutorial - THANK YOU - I have great candy striped binding!

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  44. I never had a problem with UFOs until I started blogging in November. I find so many wonderful ideas I have to try that I'm finding I have accumulated several UFOs already, all in different stages. Some have to get done for special events but I don't get frantic over getting the others done before I start something new. I always have something to do and they will eventually get done. Life is good in Retirement Land.

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  45. Anonymous5:53 PM EST

    I have alot of UFO's and unstarted kits, I haven't counted (would take too long!) but I imagine it would be around the 50 projects mark. And you know what? I *LOVE* it!! I love being able to pull out whatever project I feel like working on that day, then putting it away and being able to choose again the next day! Sometimes I feel like something easy, sometimes something challenging, sometimes something bright, sometimes something a bit more subdued, but I know that whatever my mood I will always have something that I will really love working on!! I love the actual process of the cutting and sewing, if I get a finished quilt out of it then that is an added bonus!!

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  46. I have UFO's (very few) and projects of interest (a lot) that go on my annual list each year and usually more than 12 listed - I complete one a month for sure and also allow myself the opportunity to work in a new project I just want to do... big or small. By participating in a UFO challenge I have completed 28 quilts/projects in two years. Keeps me on point and to the point of accomplishment. Good conversation. Judy C

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  47. My sewing friends consider me the queen of UFO's and at the same time are amazed at the number of quilts I do finish. I love the challenge of a new block, technique or method and just have to try it. I do have a large box of orphan blocks that just didn't make the cut. As for all those WIP's I'll either get to them or I won't it's not a race or going into my permanent record or is it?

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  48. Thank you for this post! Since the first of the year I've been giving a lot of thought as to why I don't finish projects. I know I hate to do borders which other quilters remind me means the quilt is near the end. I don't like cutting out the fabric (shoulder problems add to that) but I love using my sewing machines! And I'm often stuck on a decision, best layout? Which color? Width of border? Blog writers can ask their readers for their advise on a quilt but us non-blog writers are stuck with our opinion only. I find quilting friends to be too cautious in giving their opinion even when asked.

    This past year I found that only I know the different ideas I considered before making a decision and the finished project looks good to everyone else no matter what I decided. I found taking one project and working through to completion to give me great satisfaction and am trying to keep that in mind more this year. I'm also trying to sew with other quilters more this year for encouragement and inspiration.

    On the other hand as one quilter said, she plans to finish all her UFOs after she retires and can't afford fabric anymore! And as another one said, by having UFOs she always has a gift nearly finished!

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  49. I also signed up for Judy L''s UFO Challenge again this year. I made my list and checked it twice- I only had to list 12 UFO projects to work on this year, one a month. After a few years I hope to whittle down my UFO list. The ones that don't get finished in the month assigned hopefully at least got worked on - maybe to the Flimsy or Top stage. I have hope to get those tops done and have a TO-Be-Quilted list now. Last year I started and finished 17 quilts plus 5 of the 12 UFO's. I can always hope that I can finish more UFO's than New Projects this year. Many of my UFO's are like the SBS and Farmer's wife that could be two-three year projects.

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  50. I listed my UFO's a couple of years ago which was quite scary, then last year I pulled them all out and gave away some I was no longer interested in to a charity group and the weight lifted was great. As someone prev mentioned I had kits I no longer liked and realized I didn't have to use the fabric for those kits so i pulled the fabric out and took the patterns to the garage sale at our annual retreat. I am now using the fabrics for scrap quilts, pieces backings etc...totally guilt free. Working my way throught finishing the ones I like.. Thanks for this discussion. Safe trip Home.

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  51. Bonnie this is such a great discussion. I've enjoyed everyone's personal thoughts and tips. Thanks for staring this one! It's given me some food for thought but…

    I'm still just a go with the flow kinda girl and really, I finish stuff but I love my long term projects and mostly I don't think about it. And by gosh I'll dive into ANYTHING at ANYTIME if it calls to me. That's how I got going on the Cheddar Bow Ties. No rules! *karendianne. (ps: UFO's galore here!)

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  52. I made a resolution last year to finish a UFO each month. It did not happen. I got 2 BOM's, 3 quilt tops to ready for sandwiching but got stuck on the pin basting. I finished longstanding UFO for grandson #5 and 2 kids quilt to donate. Took on a commission for a clergy stole which I finished just under the wire. I only purchased fabric designated projects. But I started a OBW and a BOM quilt along from stash fabric, so total UFO's actually increased. OUCH.

    So far this year I started a clergy stole for myself for Easter and took on 2 more commissions both due by the end of April. Have pieced multiple tops for mission quilts for my church. I need to take the plunge and just do the machine quilting the best that I can and turn my tops into quilts

    Great topic. Sure enjoyed your comments, Bonnie

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  53. I'm a teacher, and a few summers ago I finished 13 quilt tops. It cost a fortune to get them all quilted...then they sat for a couple years until my mom helped me get the binding done. Some of them still need labels now. I will say that I'm much better now because I would rather spread out the cost. Several years ago, I purchased some yard for a stack-and-whack. Last month, I cut it up for an I Spy swap. I think at some point, you have to be honest with yourself. Just because fabric is purchased for a particular project doesn't mean it has to be used for that. Just because you buy a kit, doesn't mean you have to make it. The fabric can be used to make something different. Tastes and styles change.

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  54. Anonymous6:30 PM EST

    I'm a start to finish type of gal myself as well. I do have to admit that sometimes my eye does start wondering over to my fabric stash and my minds starts to think of all of the endless possibilities just waiting for me in there while I'm chain piecing endless pieces together. For the most part I do stay on task and do not start another project until the one at the machine is in the top stage. I will finish the project at hand even if I'm less than thrilled with the outcome. Then, atlas, since I can't free motion quilt (tried it and quickly found it wasn't for me) and I don't have unlimited quilting funds, I have to wait and save the funds for the long arm quilter. My Orca Bay quilt will be going the the quilter tomorrow! I think what may keep me on one project at a time is I'm kind of lazy. I don't want to take the time to put away everything I already have out to start something else...LOL.

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    1. Anonymous8:31 PM EST

      put away?? what's wrong with just pushing it over or stacking it on top of the previous projects??? usually sewing on 2 machines and 4 quilts at a time! just pulled over 150 yards from stash to give to daughter for pillowcases for Conkerr Cancer! made a small dent in the stash! kwiltpharm@aol.com

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  55. I like working on lots of things...that way I can match my mood to the type of sewing, and even the color of the quilt - and whether I need a TV-watching project or not! But I like to see my projects after they reach flimsy stage - so I stack them all up - some just a top, others ready to quilt, others ready to bind. I take one from the stack (not necessarily the top) depending on what type of work I want to do... and then after that stage is done, it goes back in the stack - eventually leaving the stack when it is finished... to me, that's great fun!!! The challenge is to keep the stack from getting taller and taller..... safe travels, Bonnie

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  56. I won't list my UFOs because it would surprise even me. I too, am a process quilter and enjoy new techniques and am easily inspired with new ideas and color combinations. I don't feel that I will finish all that I've started but if I can say I've learned something than I'm not concerned that it remains unfinished. I do gift some UFO to others who are eager to take them off my hands especially if it does not 'call to me' anymore. That I call a win, win situation. I also teach, so some of my unfinished projects are teaching samples and examples. I have a couple of early quilts that really are what Ami Sims calls 'worlds worst quilts'. But these quilts are great to show new quilters to let them know that it is OK to make mistakes but mistakes show that you're not afraid to try.
    So, my mantra is, go forth and quilt lots and no guilt allowed!
    gail in Virginia (supreme starter and not so great finisher)

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  57. Anonymous6:41 PM EST

    Hi Bonnie,
    I have about 10 UFO's and I hate the fact that I have them. I got them because I was taking different classes and then put them aside. Also starting your mystery quilt (I'm still on Step 5) 4 weeks late became a UFO although I am working on it. Last year I gave myself permission to do a new quilt after I finished a UFO and I did pretty good. I finished 3 UFO's and completed 3 new quilts. This year I'm not doing as well as I haven't finished anything but also haven't started any new projects. I'm hoping to get my UFO's completed and then I'm planning on doing 1 quilt at a time. You're a big inspiration!! Sandi in NY sandi1100@yahoo.com

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  58. Anonymous7:00 PM EST

    I just get so many ideas from tv, magazines, this blog, etc, and want to do them all! I need a system to keep track of them so that when I am ready to start something new, I can remember that idea. I've started a bound notebook, so we'll see if that helps.

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    1. Anonymous8:10 PM EST

      Like you, I see a pattern or article in a book or magazine and wanted to develop a system that would help me organize them so I could find them when I was ready to make one. At first I would tear out the patterns from the magazines I bought and I put them in to plastic sleeves and then into a binder. I had a spreadsheet on my computer and I would "tag" the quilt (traditional/patchy/green & pink border) so I might more easily recognize it when I was looking for it. Then I started to scan them into my computer just for my personal reference/use. I found that much easier and when I want to make the quilt I simply print out a color copy of it. Scanning in also allows me to make notes on any changes I make or if I discover an error or make a change.

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  59. Hi - My first time to post and want to say that I really like your site and projects. I did all the blocks for the Orca quilt, but I did not finish my top like yours, I made two quilt tops, one wall size and one good size lap quilt. However - they now are UFO's. I love to make the tops, put colors and patterns together. I used to be able to afford fabric, and so have a good size stash, which is all I use now. But I no longer can afford the fabric for backings, and the battings, let alone the cost of getting them quilted. I have done some tops for a local Prayers and Squares group, so I am able to sew and give them away unfinished. That group finishes them, and gives them away. That is gratifing. I would like to finish mine at some time, I keep an eye out for good sales, and have abondened the idea that backs have to be all one fabric - that must be a step in the right direction? Thanks.

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  60. It is so helpful when you write like this about handling this wonderful hobby. Your insight has helped me many times. Thanks so much.

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  61. I haven't read through all the other replies to this post, but...I want to say I can understand the 'kit collection' to some extent. I have a few kits (not as many as the person you cited!)...and an extensive stash of fabric, yarn (I knit) and embroidery kits (yes, I do that too)...not to mention fleece and roving (yes, I spin). I am a widow approaching 60 and 'semi-retired'. Now that I am on a fixed income I cannot afford to buy new, so now is the time for me to dive into my stash(es) and enjoy them to the full. They are the material side of my retirement plan (no pun intended). I rarely buy fabric now. My quilting purchases are focused on batting and thread, because I have all the fabric I need. I never buy yarn unless it's with Other People's Money (i.e. I have a commission to create). It's a delightful experience and I recommend it highly -- so don't judge another's collection too harshly. She may be saving it up for 'retirement'. :-)

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  62. I've got 8 - 40 gallon totes in my storage unit full of UFO's in my storage unit. My UFO's also include patterns and fabric that I've chosen to go together that have not been started. I never understood why I couldn't finish things until I was diagnosed with adult ADHD. It appears that I've had this my entire life (which explains a lot of things!!). I'm hoping that once I can get to those totes, that I will be able to determine which ones I want to complete and which ones will be gifted to new homes or will become things that I repurpose and make something new.

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    1. Anonymous8:38 PM EST

      Big bummer when that diagnosis hits you between the eyes! But, was a relief to realize something actually explained my behavior! Am having an easier time managing it now that I know what it is! Bev (kwiltpharm@aol.com)

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  63. When I started quilting four years ago, I did a lot of reading and searching for my first pattern. Along the way, I read about how easily UFOs could appear, so I promised myself to only have one project going at a time. It's worked out pretty well. I'm naturally a "let's see the finished product" kinda person, so I keep moving forward to see what the quilt will really look like. I may start something new while one is at the LAQ, but completing a project always gives me such a thrill, I can't wait to finish! When I start slowing down, I remember reading one of Bonnie's posts that basically said, "Stop reading about quilting and quilt!" It's the best quilting advice I've ever gotten!

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  64. I too have several projects started that are not finished. But as you say things like baby quilts and wedding quilts have jumped in the way. I am slowly wading through these and am getting them done. Of course, 2 nieces that I had given quilt coupons for tshirt quilts a few years ago, finally decided to give up their shirts - one was her HS basketball shirts and the other her sorority shirts. They both delivered large boxes of shirts to me the same week and I thought they had decided they didn't want quilts.LOL So those and a wedding quilt (another coupon) are next on my list to do. I was allowing myself to do a row a month on a calendar row quilt until I got behind on that....Oh well, I am having fun without lists. Just organized the projects in bins and tote bags like kits. My weakness is probably magazines and looking online. My reason is that seeing new things keeps me motivated. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

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  65. Look at all those comments - great conversation starter! I never aimed to get a stash going, but when I started quilting (1993)I bought anything that "looked nice". And I just couldn't wait to try a million different things. So I ended up with a lot of UFOs - but I also finished a lot too. In the process I've played with a wide range of colour palettes and have tried a myriad of techniques and styles. So it's been wonderful for my education. I few years ago I got to the point where I just did what I really wanted to (rather than feeling I "ought to" because "real" quilters did such and such). Over the past 2 years I have gradually and relentlessly whittled down my stash and have a bunch of kitted up projects that I grab and take to retreats. I am in a very happy place. I have things around me that I love to do, and am truly not tempted by anything new (except for filling in gaps when I run out of fabric for a project). I have made so many quilts over the years I have sold a few dozen and have at least that many more to sell, and am going to give quite a few away. The doing is done, I've had fun...and plenty more to come (after all, new fabrics and patterns keep turning up in quilt shops lol).

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  66. As Lynn wrote, I prefer to think of my unfinished projects as WIPs. I am collecting blocks for SIX projects and have FIVE flimsys and ONE hand quilting project waiting for my attention. (Four projects are Bonnie Hunter patterns) For flimsys, I'm taking a machine quilting course and need to pick up batting and backings, then will be ready to finish these. For the hand quilting, well, you just have to be in the mood. For the blocks, I'm still collecting fabrics and working through my stash. With a full-time job, an active teenager and keeping up my skills as a private pilot, free time is at a premium.

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  67. Anonymous11:35 PM EST

    Bonnie, thanks so much for sharing your way of getting so much done!

    I do have several UFOs, nothing pressing. But honestly one of the hardest parts for me is/was getting them quilted. I prefer hand quilting, and only just let myself start getting a few machine quilted. Found not only a terrific long arm quilter, but a great and now dear friend. Thing is lololol - I am not personally made of money. And yes, long arm quilting does require payment! DRATS lol!

    2 of my UFOs are in the hand quilting stage. Ater finishing them, I will try to do one hand quilted one per year, and have the rest machine quilted. SO many ideas etc. we'll see how this works. One of my hand quilted's is a white on white wholecloth for our daughter. She has wanted one since forever ... now is the time.

    Blessedly I found this lady - Bonnie K Hunter:), and her scrap method. What a freeing feeling! So much more relaxed than patterns or kits. Thanks again for all you share.

    Smiles
    JulieinTN

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  68. I start new projects all the time because I dont want to get bored with the ones I am working on. Because if I get bored, I may never finish it. So I have a long list of WIPs and UFOs too. I am getting them done little at a time now since returning to my sewing room after being gone for 8 years. The end is near. I have them all on a list with where they are in the process, and it keeps me going in the right direction.

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  69. Sometimes I purchased beautiful fabric that I didn't want to cut it up! I sign up for classes and worry about not doing 'it' right and thinking it was a waste of time and money. So for the past 2 years or more, all i've done is buy fabric and patterns. Then I started reading your blog, Bonnie, and realized what quilt I choose to make doesn't have to be the same block with the same fabrics. I'm starting to venture forth and see what blue and purple looks like side by side, I'm starting to cut those pieces up into strips and cut into 16" and join 6 together, all the same family range or all "are you sure you want to do that?" and I like it. So, yes I have quite a bit of fabric and lots and lots of patterns and all the magazines that jump out at me at the shops, that may not be used for the purpose I bought them for but that is ok. I know that now. Soon I will have more time to quilt and I feel more comfortable not doing exactly what someone else has done. It may be from one of your scrappy patterns but it will never be the same. I feel like what UFO's I have are now starting over with a new vision. do you know what I mean? Let the fun begin!

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  70. Oh Bonnie,
    Thank you so much Oh fearless leader of the Quilt-Churner (similar to a Butter Churner). It is nice to hear how you tackle and stick to your projects. I have seen your love of the Scraps and how it must sometimes tempt you to draw you towards a new project. But I have noticed how you do seem to thrive of completion.
    I yearn to be more dedicated. I was very dedicated at the beginning of this year doing my little houses quilt. THis quilt was supposed to be one house a day for a year. Im a couple of weeks behind. Lately I've been doing some community service quilts at the church and local guild and it seems like this project seems to steal my time. We are trying to organize the stash and put the sashings together for the donated orphan blocks.
    In Dealing with my own UFO's I have noticed that many of my projects seem to come to a point where they loose their original charm or they become flat like a flat tire almost. Others just got pushed aside because I allowed the newest thing to be the best or favorite child even though I love the others just the same.
    My other problem is chaos. I'm sure you have a bit of your own but I tend to keep many useful things just because I think I'll use them. For Example, ribbons that are 1" wide and my daughter is no longer school age to wear in her hair. But they might come in handy for something. Like a crazy quilt.
    Magazines that contain a pattern I would like to either start or use as an inspiration. I'm confessing here... I must have 3 banker boxes of them. But it takes time to look through them for a spacific pattern and the mess it causes from this search is well irritating to the spouse. I'd love to give them to someone who needs them, if I could part with them.
    So I just need to find a way to make my current (UFO) project seem like the love of my life. I need to find ways to keep the spark in it and not want to leave it for the next hot young project (stud). This affair quilting is leading me nowhere.
    Thanks for the inspiration and letting us vent how we deal with our addiction.

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    1. Tanya - magazines - I have too many myself, and have sorted the problem of finding a project like this - take a photograph of the project you like, record the magazine name and page, and open a folder on your computer labelled Quilts, Lap Quilt, Bags, Embroideries, etc. and just add it, and whenever you are looking to do a particular project - it's easy to access. Just half an hour a day of going through each and every magazine you have, you'll soon get sorted.

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  71. I DO have UFO's - but not too many, I think, as I have no list, and ignore the containers they are stored in !
    PERHAPS I ought to make one and work my way through it, and clear my conscience and get them done! And then - there's a new term I came across that I love, and that makes one not feel too uneasy about starting something new without having finished off the old - NewFO ! Great, is it not?
    I DO have a STASH - and keep adding to it, and never using the "special" fabrics I bought for a purpose never started.
    PERHAPS I ought to just dive in there and get them cut and sewn and done.
    I DO have a long list of PROJECTS I still want to do.
    PERHAPS I have to plan my time better and get them started and done.
    Especially as - I have more fabric and ideas that I can get through in a lifetime (at 68 how many more years can I hope for!
    So, Bonnie - thanks for your thoughts - I'd best get started - and wherever I start - I'm bound to get something finished, be it a UFO, and NewFO, or a New Project, or even some more Stash !!!

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  72. I have maybe a dozen UFOs in varying stages - from almost done with the quilting to only part of the pieces cut out. I think what stops me from finishing is deadlines on other projects for other people. Oh and also hitting a snag as in "I don't know how to fix this problem that has just cropped up"
    But I do watch it so I don't get too many - it just boggles my mind if I get more than about a dozen and that very thing will also be a snag.
    As long as I'm up here in my studio sewing on something, I feel good!!

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  73. I once listened to an interview with Mark Lipinski and he talked about how in the the years he worked in a quilt shop he realized that quilters don't buy a project for the finished quilt, they buy "the dream" of the making of it and the joy we expect to get from the process. Unfortunately for many of us, when the dream turns to reality (and especially if it is not as smooth or pleasant as we expected), we sometimes don't feel as motivated to move quickly to the finish of it.

    My quilt word this year is "Focus" and I realize that for me to get projects done, I have to put it on the front burner and power through (because of determination, a deadline or a desire for the finished product). I am very inspired by the finishes I do accomplish and only need to go fondle one to encourage me when I get stuck on a current project.

    I know that my stopping point is usually the quilting part (picking out what to quilt more than the actual stitching). I have enough UFOs to be involved in *two* UFO challenges. But two recent finishes (the result of a deadline and a promise to keep) made me realize that my skills may have finally "matured" enough that I am ready to seriously deal with getting more of my projects done ASAP. Quilting is a journey and sometimes we have to be realistic about where we are on that journey but also reassess periodically about how far we have come and adjust our process or address the road blocks accordingly.

    "If you don't change direction, you may end up where you are heading" ---Lao Tzu

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  74. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  75. Having kits made up for some future time would be a threat, not a promise. This weekend I opened a box that held 6" brown-and-pink blocks (from a 2008? swap) and an assortment of brown and pink fabric collected to make more blocks. I put the blocks in the orphan block box and refiled the fabric. Presto! An empty box.

    Having many (or just several) works-in-progress makes me very uncomfortable. I generally work until a flimsy (unquilted top) is completed. I can then live with the flimsy for a long, long time. In response to Nancie V's personal "finish it" challenge (on Stashbusters), in December I opened the two 56-qt boxes filled to the top with flimsies. I counted 31 of them, and resolved to get 'em done. Since December I have quilted seven myself (with the 8th nearly done) and taken five to the long-armer. Since then I've added two flimsies -- so that's 31 minus 13 plus 2 = 20!

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  76. Anonymous11:10 AM EST

    I have a rule, I never have more than two piecing projects going on at one time. One major then a second only if I need to work in that special, baby, comfort or wedding gift. I do have three tops ready to go on the frame but sometimes I don't want to quilt I just want to piece then vice versa so that doesn't bother me.

    I do have a friend who has 37 kits sitting on shelves. some of those she bought as kits but most she found a pattern she liked and bought the fabric to make that quilt in her preferred colors. Her reasoning, they are retiring in four years and will be traveling. She wants to have a lot of kits together so she can just grab one and go with her featherweight and carryall of sewing supplies. There won't be as much time in their travels to frequent quilt shops so she wants to be prepared.

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  77. I too am so happy you brought this subject up to all of us. I have many way to many kits to even begin to inventory. I also can't resist buy beautiful fabrics when I see them. But I have to stop. A number of years ago when I first began I taught quilting at our local quilt shop so then I had a discount and I bought a lot because some day when I retired I would be on a limited budget and etc...Now that magic moment is here and still I can't seem to attack the inventory which continues to grow. Some friends and I just attended Carolina's One Stop Quilt Shop Hop in Lancaster SC and trust me we made some of the those vendors time well invested! I think my problem is where oh where to start? I have a few UFOs but less than 10. I am taking a Double Wedding Ring class starting in March. I am hoping to complete each step as assigned. I really like your stash busting techniques and I have read all of your information and even invested in an Accuquilt Go cutting system to aid in the cutting. I have organized and organized the inventory that is something I do very well.
    Open to any suggestions,
    Denise

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  78. I am one of those quilters that have several "kits" waiting for some day to arrive, while purchasing new fabrics for projects that are on a "whim". I am a longarm quilter and I tend to be persuaded by the quilts that come in or as I call them the flavor of the month, lol I get alot of inspiration from my customers quilts and of course from blogs like yours. What is a quilter to do if she has ADD? ;0) Yes some days I feel overwhelm by the thought of my UFO's and the long lists of projects I want to finish in my life time, as of now I will need several life times to complete all. I sure hope that God will provide us quilters a place in heaven to complete all of these projects of ours that we can't complete here on earth ;0)

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  79. Maria in Tucson4:07 PM EST

    Is it considered a UFO if it is just a stack of fabric? I think not really, not even if it has a pattern and a name -- it is an FFO! Future Finished Project!!!! If I have started to cut, then it is a WOP.

    I am seduced by fabric.....

    I started out in garments, and I know I can put my hands on fabric that I bought in JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL to make "something" to wear -- I still LOVE the fabric and still have no idea what to make with it. It may end up in a quilt yet!

    I have made the resolution that unless I need a particular fabric to complete a "kit" or a project, I am not buying. That works until I find a whole project at one time! Most recent example: a baby due in August and some incredible butterfly fabric that was flying out of the store....but I have everything I need, AND a deadline so that will be done quickly.

    I am ok with not knowing how many FFO and WOP I have going.....I don't think my math skills are up to the challenge of adding them up! But I KNOW that my space to store them all is NOT adequate, so I have to stop "investing" (I LOVE that!!!) and start creating working to the payoff....

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  80. So that's how you do it Bonnie! I marvel at all you get done considering your travel schedule. I figured you didn't sleep. But now we know...you just focus!! Atta girl!

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  81. I am one of those quilters with a closet full of kits for someday. As I am re-organizing my studios I am beginning to think it is time for a yardsale! I also have quite a few UFO's... barely started projects or not quite finished projects. My problem is I get distracted by something new that I must make and forget to get back to what I was working on and start something else new. I began to get organized last year and as part of that I worked only on UFOs and must have immediately projects. I did shorten my UFO list by 10... hardly a dent, but it's progress. So far this year I have finished one UFO... and almost done with a second... so I'm still making progress. I'll be adding three more UFOs with your classes in August! My handwork is the cheddar bowties.
    hm

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