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Saturday, November 30, 2013

You Asked For It….Here it is.

cordova_AK2011 151_thumb[1]I want you to know that I have thought long and hard about this post before posting.

You guys know what my #1 rule is about mysteries, don’t you?

NO WHINING!

I have gone out of my way to offer up a gorgeous mystery quilt FREE to you.

I have written it in TWO sizes so you can choose what you want to do.

I have given you FOUR ways to piece these Tri-Rec units –either with the rulers, or with inklingo, or with printed templates, or with foundation paper piecing.

Questions I am getting repeatedly:

HOW MANY STRIPS OF BACKGROUND DO WE NEED TO CUT?!

The answer is simple – as many as it takes to get the job done.  If you want to know how many of YOUR strips you need to cut?  Simply cut one strip – and cut the units from that strip until the strip is gone.  Count your units.  Now you know what you can get from one strip – do some simple math.  Now how may strips do you need to get the number required?  Don’t wait around for someone else to provide you the answer.  You can do it.  I have faith in you! I know you can!  You can learn something new from every quilt you make.  Figuring it out yourself means less work for someone else ---

But the biggest Boo Hoo of all is folks complaining that they don’t like templates, they don’t like rulers, they don’t like paper piecing, and they don’t want to take the time to print on fabric. Please post regular rotary cutting directions ---my inbox is full of these unhappy whinings and requests.

If you want to know WHY there are no rotary cutting instructions for the tri recs units, it’s because the cutting looks like this:

rotarytrirec1

The star points can be cut from 4 1/4” X 2 1/8” rectangles.  This has been rounded up to the nearest 1/8” – I don’t know how accurate it is, but you have some major long dog ears and no way to know how to place this against your base triangle.

And the cutting of the base triangle? How many of you have a 63 degree line on your “regular” rotary cutting ruler? I know I don’t.  I have 60 degrees, but not 63 degrees.

It’s because of this that regular rotary cutting is NOT user-friendly in this instance.  But if you want to print it out, there is a pdf for it HERE.  I’ve added that for you.

What I don’t understand ---is why there is so much complaining on something I am offering up for you as a reader appreciation gift?

If it isn’t complaining about “not liking specialty rulers” or “not liking templates” or “not liking printing on fabric”  or “I really hate paper piecing” It’s complaining about how much printer paper and ink it takes to print each clue.

For a free mystery.

That is given as a gift.

We can be better than this.  We can be kinder than this.  We can be more gracious than this.

And you deserve the right tools on hand to make your quilting a better experience than this, you ARE worth it!

Much love --


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372 comments:

1 – 200 of 372   Newer›   Newest»
Mtntop Quilter said...

I wish I could thank you enough for all the very hard work you do for this mystery to make up for all the people who hassle you. Please don't let the wet rags ruin it. Your time is very valuable and I know there are many of us who really appreciate this wonderful gift you give us. Thank you! Thank you! thank you!

NancyB85374 said...

Bonnie, you are the best. I don't understand all the whining about a free pattern either. I see it on other quilter's blogs too. Amazing. The internet has changed how we relate to each other, and not always for the better. If a person doesn't like a pattern....they don't have to make it. Easy. We make those decisions all the time. Be kind. Stop and think of all the time Bonnie gives us with her free patterns, tips, numerous posts each day and Quilt cam. Send hugs, not complaints to her.

Kathleen said...

ooh ooh, go Bonnie, say it like it is!!! What has happened to us that we are so whiny and demanding?

Thanks for the mystery, Bonnie!
Kathleen

Mary said...

No Whining here. I love my Tri-Recs ruler. And it is great to know how important that little notch cut off is to piecing. Thanks for the tips and Fun we are having with the Mystery already today. Just count how many are making this quilt today and don't think about the whiners!

Faye said...

Oh, Bonnie, there are not enough words to thank you for your generosity, your kindness and your patience with so many people in this world. You always go beyond anything any other teacher would consider, yet there are still people who 'complain about a free meal'???!!! Get real people! Do not become what society expects of you... a herd of sheep who want someone else to do their thinking for them. We are quilters! We take various pieces of fabric, cut them up and stitch them back together again....WE CAN DO THIS without complaint ONE!! Be appreciative of something that has been offered FREE to you with only one request...NO WHINING! How difficult is that?? ** down off the soapbox now**
Faye

Unknown said...

I agree so much!!! I love the rulers and learning something new and everyone should enjoy it.. It's my own fault that I decided on the larger one..Thank You for all you do for us Quilters out here ...We love you..

Sue in Scottsdale, AZ said...

You go Bonnie! I, for one, think your directions and all the choices go above and beyond what should be expected for something given out freely from your heart. I thank you for all you do all year long. Your generosity is greatly appreciated from this quilter.

And by the way, for those who use AccuQuilt dies - the Triangle in a Square 3" finished is what you need to use for the Tri-Recs Ruler.

Deborah said...

Bonnie, I really appreciate all the work you have done on the mystery. This is a free and voluntary project. Nobody is forcing these complaining quilters to do it. A friend And I are doing it together and we have really enjoyed it. we are trading fabrics and having a great time. I have had the tri recs rulers for a long time, but haven't used them much so this is a chance for me to get better at it. Thanks for all you do.

Debbie

Johanna said...

I watched your video on using the Tri Recs rulers and then used the rulers for the first time. I thought it was so easy after seeing you do it step by step. Thank you so much for those wonderful videos!

Vee Rose said...

Gamers use the acronym L2P. It's what you say when someone complains about losing all the time. It means LEARN TO PLAY. Anyone complaining should definitely, L2P.

darlynn said...

you go girl!
really
this is free
we can participate or not
if....if you ask that we use a technique that is not familiar to us, it only makes us grow in our quilting
templates, rules or paper piecing....our choice

God bless you for providing these free patterns
Oh My if it makes us "grow" in our quilting!!!!!!!

Jennifer said...

Well, this is my first Mystery quilt and my first real pieced quilt - did one of those 1600" quilts, but that was not like this. I purchased the VBlock Ruler and how much simpler can it get! You even suggested this tool and WOW - I might be changing my mind and going for the King Size now. I thank you, thank you, thank you for your enthusiasm and it's contagiousness for this newbie quilter (who, by the way, chose different colors of olive green, golds, browns and PERIWINKLE since it is going to be made for Me...haha). We have a group in Virginia Beach, VA meeting at 2 p.m. tomorrow as a Quiltville Mystery Quilt Support Group...will take pics and post. Again - thank you!

Anonymous said...

Bonnie, ignore those that can't appreciate what you are providing us. No one is forcing them to participate. Thanks for giving us this opportunity to learn new tips and methods. Keep up the good work.

Holly said...

I am loving someone showing me how to use the tri recs rulers. I have had all of the specialty rulers you recommend and have never used them, so I thank you very much .I love learning new techniques.
Holly M.

Tami @ Lemon Tree Tales said...

I just bought my tri-recs rulers at JoAnns today ... with my VIP 10% discount card it was only $8 total. Score! Thanks for the mystery quilt directions. It really seems like you did a LOT of work on this to provide many different ways for people to achieve the same result. I'm curious how it'll turn out. It'll be my first time on a mystery quilt. What fun!

Unknown said...

Bonnie ~ Thank you for all you do and teach the rest of us. I am using Inklingo for the mystery. This is my 3 rd time using it and I love it and its precision!! Thanks again and I really love my Easy Street from last year!

LJ said...

Good grief! This is my first mystery quilt and I was a bit surprised about your "No Whining" rule but didn't realize just how many people are 'whinners'. I'm sorry that you are having to deal with them. I just thank you for the chance to enjoy this adventure that's new to me. Bless you.

Myrna said...

Thank you Bonnie for being the generous teacher that you are. You provide excellent instructions. It's not rocket science. If folks can't figure out the number of strips they need to cut or if they have to complain about ink used to print the instructions, maybe they should seriously consider whether they really want to make this mystery quilt. Sheesh!!

Darlene said...

I am so glad you posted this as it was exactly what I was thinking when reading some of the negative comments. For goodness sakes, you have put your own time into creating this mystery for all of us and for free and I am so appreciative of all the effort you have put into this. As part of my paying job, I create technical documentation to go with a system so I know the effort it takes to document. We all have choices and Bonnie has gone above and beyond to provide so many choices. If you don't like it don't do it. It is supposed to be fun and a learning experience.

Bless you Bonnie for everything you do for all of us. You are a blessing.
Darlene

Fran Sancroft said...

Are you serious?
Why are people complaining? This is free and given from the heart! I love you Bonnie.. I wish you were nearer to the Greater Toronto area... I'd give you lots of hugs... The Tri Recs rulers are awesome and I taught myself how to use them with your help and super instructions!.. What these people need is a good shake... Bonnie you are beyond generous! I cut all my strips today and will start sewing on Monday.. Did one trial square, but despite moving my needle over three stops my seams are still too big! I have moved it over as far as it will go to get that 1/4 inch...Heres hoping!...I am happy to be part of this!! And look forward to all the parts!.... Never done a Mystery Quilt before!
Hugs, Fran in Pickering, Ontario ....

Luann said...

My Goodness! That's all I'm saying, other than I'm finished with the first part. Awaiting the next clue. Thank-you Bonnie for all you do for each of us. You're generosity is priceless.

Anonymous said...

I've had my Tri-Recs rulers for several years and love them. They are one of the best investments I ever made. While I don't use them all the time, when they are needed, nothing beats them! Am just so glad I have that ruler set for when I do need it.

mardigrasgirl said...

your kinder than me I would have said if you don't like it don't make it myself I'm having a ball with it. Thanks

quilt^nurse said...

I also want to thank you for this mystery! It is challenging and I am working with rulers I probably would never used. Thank you for your time and effort! I also enjoy reading all your posts and sights! I am very excited on weekly clues!

Phyllis said...

Oh my goodness!! Guess you just can't please everyone but I think this looks like a great quilt and a challenge for me to go scrappy. This will be my first mystery quilt so we shall see if I can keep up. Thanks Bonnie !!!!

Farm Quilter said...

I'm so excited to get to use my new Tri Recs rulers!!! I must admit this is my second time buying the rulers...one half of the first pair got lost, so your mystery quilt was the perfect excuse for me to run to my LQS and get buy a new set! No clue how I lost it because I don't remember ever using it!! Oh well, I now have it and get to use it!!! And I get to use it with the expert guidance of THE Bonnie Hunter!!! Can it get any better than that?? Don't think so :) I don't get the whiners either...you go to a ton of work to gift us with this quilt pattern and step-by-step instructions on how to do it...what the heck??? They need to put on their big girl panties and just do it (or not) but to whine about a free gift...makes me wonder what Christmas morning is like at their house.

Vroomans' Quilts said...

Wow, I thought you went way over-board with all the information and techniques and choices - and then you get whiners!! My only suggestion to them - it is not the quilt for them to make then. If you don't try new techniques, or new tools you just can't grow. So if you don't want to grow, keep making those one block quilts. And obviously they are not scrap quilters, because we will dig out all those odd pieces and use them up.

Lisa in Port Hope said...

Gawd, girl, you are so right! The whole point of scrappiness is to just wing it. I'm still working on easy street and I realized I didn't make enough of the squatting turkeys, back to the scrap box and if I end up using different fabrics (because I have bought more since I started it, tee hee), great!

Connecting Threads has the Tri-Recs and I'm considering whether to get them or just do the paper piecing.

Elizabeth said...

You've said it, you posted the sign, and you deserve MAJOR kudos for offering this incredible project up for free! THANK YOU!!! You've given us more options with complete instructions AND videos than we get with most patterns we purchase. This is a dream come true for any quilter. Looking forward to truly diving into my first mystery after finals wrap up next week.
Liz in Eudora, Kansas

Lisa in Port Hope said...

LOVE your colours!

Lisa said...

Yes, Bonnie, Yes! Thank you for your continued generosity year after year. Each year I am afraid the whiners will make you decide it's no longer worth it to you...but each year you give, and give again. Thank you hardly seems sufficient, but, well, I could send you a box of scraps, Bonnie, to thank you for all you do. Need some scraps?! ☺ Maybe you need a QuiltVilla stash too?

Kim said...

Geese this makes me sad.
What happened to being Thankful.
It is only one day after Thanksgiving folks.
Let's give thanks.
This is one of my favorite Christmas gifts, I have made all of your mysteries Bonnie except last year when I moved and some of them I made two at a time.
Each and every one of the them gave me hours of pleasure, planning, pulling stash, sewing along with the group, talking about it with friends and finishing them up.....pure delight.
Please forgive those ungrateful people and know there are many more of us that do appreciate this gift and enjoy the process as well as the outcome.
It does me sad though that some quilters are so rude and thoughtless to have the nerve to complain.

Happy Sewing

Myra said...

You go Bonnie, I thought the same thing as I was reading the FB group. Why would a quilter want to give away their chance of learning something that will make the quilt they are working on so special.
We have become a society of "please give it to me" I'm from the old school if you want it work for it.
I have cut fabrics for the "Celtic Solstice" that I didn't like and so I put them in my "Make a OOPS quilt" box and move on.
I appreciate all the hard work you do sharing your knowledge with us.
Thanks,
Myra

Allison in Plano said...

Well said, diplomatic and tactful. I appreciate that about you. I'm loving the Tri-Recs rulers. So simple! Line up here, cut here, sew here = MUCH SUCCESS. I have two sets. One for upstairs, one for downstairs. It wasn't intentional. Just the duplicate buying gene I seem to have. Hugs, Allison

Misha said...

Amazing that people can be so ungrateful for all that you do for us, Bonnie! Sorry people have to be so annoying. If they want to do something for free and with the fabrics they have, and with no specialty rulers you have a WHOLE BUNCH of free patterns on your site they can make any day of the week. If they want to participate in THIS QUILT they need to pick a method or a ruler and get with the program. You told us in advance which rulers we'd need and that as an alternate you'd give us a .pdf. You did exactly what you said you'd do.

The good news is that thousands of us are having a grand old time and are looking forward to each new clue. Some of us (myself included) bought the rulers, many went the InkLingo route, and others are paper piecing. Hope the whiners don't ruin it for the rest of us!!!

Unknown said...

I did the math from the moment the clue came out. I wanted a lot of variety and that was how I achieved it. Love what you do. No whiners allowed!

Dorothy Matheson said...

I have not used the Tri Rex ruler as of yet but I will. You make it look so easy.
Thank you very much for the Mystery. I look forward to them.

SubeeSews said...

oh my...poor Bonnie.
You give us so much.
Most of us really do appreciate what you have done and continue to do for the quilting world.
These rulers are great! Use them people...it gets better the more you use them. I was not "in love" with them at first. But the end results made the learning process so worth it!!!
WE LOVE YOU BONNIE!!!
XOXOOX Subee
Bonnie is not getting $$$ for recommending these rulers.
They pay for themselves in accuracy alone!!!!

Heather said...

Bonnie, I am glad you posted this. It's important for you to provide a little perspective to all of us on what counts and what doesn't! This is my first time using specialty rulers and I am enjoying the new method of cutting fabric. I like that your pattern forces us to try something new! I too was wondering how many strips to cut, but you have wisely pointed out that a little math never hurt any of us. Also my method of cutting a few, seeing if I had enough triangles yet, and cutting a few more until I had the right amount worked just fine ;)

SubeeSews said...

also...I made my own chart with the "yield" I can get from a strip and the many rulers I use. I refer to it all the time!!!
XOXOXO Subee

Unknown said...

Dear Bonnie,
Just tell them to f___ off!

Dear Ladies,
Put your big girl panties on and figure it out! You have been given a gift, if you want more gifts, suck it up!



Mary W Quilts said...

Thank you Bonnie. No whining here. Thank you for the you tube to use the rulers. Sew helpful. Looking forward to Quilt Cam on Wednesday. Proper Bostonians will be in Kennebunk on retreat. See you them. Mary in Boston.

Mary Ellen said...

Wow. I am so sad that there are folks like that out there. How did they miss the "no whining" warning? Hey, all of you out there in Quiltland - Bonnie has so much on her plate right now. Her brother's health issues are weighing on her so heavily that frankly, I was surprised when she was right on time with Celtic Solstice. Have any of you ever tried to write directions for a quilt? So, let's lift her up. Send the love. Make her proud and happy that she decided to take on this colossal big job of a mystery quilt for US!

Linda in PA said...

I've had the Tri-Rec rulers for a while now, but haven't used them. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to finally use them. Thank you so much for all the work you do to provide us with these mystery quilts. Perhaps the whiners should sit this one out!

Marcia said...

To all who don't like the mystery instructions for whatever reason.. just don't do it!
No Whining!

Patti said...

Like all of the other quilters who have commented, I a deeply grateful for your generous spirit. I have learned a lot from you over the years. A wise quilting friend told me once that there are two kinds of people: Givers and Takers. And the Takers are a vocal bunch. Hopefully they will learn to be a little more self-sufficient. I am looking forward to seeing how Celtic Solstice plays out. Thank you again for all that you do for the quilting community.

Marionz said...

I am a first mystery quilter, you even provide a detailed video. of course doing things for first time is hard, but the learning curve is a wonderful joyride, great teacher, great company, superb instruction. whoopee thanks thanks

TLC said...

VERY WELL SAID BONNIE! It's why I hit the delete button on the Yahoo digest and don't do FACEBOOK. You contribute so much to the quilt world and don't deserve the whining! Enjoy the rest of your weekend. BTW Phab Diane NYC & I had a great time talking about you at the DJ retreat last weekend. Hope your ears weren't burning. ;o)

northernknitter said...

Wow you just have to shake your head sometimes! Look at it this way Bonnie, for every "whiner" out there, there's 1,000 of us happy campers. Love the videos & the rulers...hope we'll be using the Easy Angle this time too.

Lori said...

Thank you Bonnie for all you do. I have never been in a Bee or a BOM or anything like this (still so new) I am excited to be following along. Woohoo, I get to go buy a new ruler. LOL And I want to try this on PP also. Thank you for all your hard work.

jam said...

I am going to try a little sample quilt since I've never done a quilt via the internet before and I'm very unsure of myself. What I can't understand is where and how you get all your energy, enthusiasm, creativity that just seems to go on and on.
Good for you.

Ann H. said...

Wow!

Christine said...

Very well said indeed!!!! When you put out this mystery I believe most people know your style and what rulers you like to use. And if they took the time to read the Introduction at the very end it said # 1 Rule " No Whining". I am very appreciative of the time you take to do this for your fans and followers. This is the closest I am going to get to you until Nov. 2018. So I am very happy and appreciative of everything you do for us. I am sorry Bonnie for the ones who don't get it and are not appreciative and want to whine.

emcrorie said...

Please know that for every whiner you get an email from there are a thousand happy, grateful quilters quietly working away in some basement or quilt shop or on a kitchen table they have banned the family from for the next 8 weeks :) You are helping them to create something that will bring not only beauty and warmth, but a since of accomplishment and pride. Please don't let the whiners drown out those of us who truly appreciate your hard work and generosity! Cause we think you rock!

Smiley Quilter said...

I would say Faye above said it very well "Do not become what society expects of you... a herd of sheep who want someone else to do their thinking for them. We are quilters! We take various pieces of fabric, cut them up and stitch them back together again....WE CAN DO THIS without complaint!! Be appreciative of something that has been offered FREE to you with only one request...NO WHINING! How difficult is that?? **
Bonnie, you do so much for us all I hope you can ignore the whiners and know most of us are more than appreciative. Hope you have great fun sewing with Lisa and a fabulous trip to Germany. :)

Fran Russell said...

Just wanted to say thanks for all you have given us. You really don't owe us anything, yet have taken the time to provide us with free patterns, encouragement and the opportunity to learn new things. Your blog and your site are FUN! Really enjoy quilt cam too. Don't let the whining of a few detract from the positivity of your fans! Hugs!

BarefootThunder said...

Bonnie, I am sew sorry you are getting whiners!!!! not right at all.

I am SURE there are many more of us out here that LOVE what you are doing for us THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart ♥♥♥

Terje said...

Amen Sister!!!!!!

Millie said...

I can see lots of positive posts on here about all the hard work you do... I know also you go above and beyond to create these mystery quilts... Don't the whiners ruin it for you. My mom used to say "some folks would b---- if you hung them with a new rope" well that is the way this is.. If a person does not want to use templates, you gave them others choices... I am excited about this mystery and I appreciate all of your posting... You are the best....

Anonymous said...

I love your mysteries... I might not make them when everyone else does but I do make them eventually. My local quilt shop would also like to thank you.... On black Friday we had four new customers come in to buy fabric and tri rec rulers to work on your new mystery, They were so excited about it and can't wait for the next clue. Keep up the good work.

Mary Jane said...

BRAVO!!! I have only read the whinning on FB and have already tired of it! Thank you for the mystery! Thank you for expanding my learning and bettering my skills. Thank you for suggesting colors outside my comfort and pleasure zone. The results are well worth my initial grimmace!!! I eagerly await step 2!!! Thank you again for your gift of an annual mystery.

Barbara Sindlinger said...

I'm sorry you are getting all these whiners. I appreciate these mysteries and all the work you do to get these done. Enjoy your trip to Germany.

Ladydukes said...

Do these whiners also expect you to serve cheese to them as well?? You provide all the details times three that any quilter should want or need!! YOU ROCK, GIRL!!!

I was going crazy when I couldn't open the. Pdf files so I spent two days researching the Internet for solutions. I'm NOT a computer guru, but finally got the issue resolved by trying different scenarios. Yea, got 'er done, printed out the instructions and got my strips cut.

It takes perserverence and time...but worth it...

Pamelyn's Postings said...

I had the Tri Rec tools but never tried them... until now! THANK YOU for your excellent instructions and videos! I will not whine but rather will be filled with delight! You are so talented and generous to give us these free patterns. We thankful peeps should share our expressions of gratitude more often.

Sue said...

Thanks for the pattern, Bonnie. I did Easy Street last year, loved it, and will do this one too. Looking forward to seeing you in Michigan again this year.

Wendy said...

Thanks for the pep talk Bonnie, sorry for saying I don't like paper pc, hoping to get my rulers next week. My first mystery and excited about it. I didn't email you only commented on the face book group. Thanks for doing this mystery quilt. Wendy Bradley Ontario , Canada.

Unknown said...

No complaints from me -- I appreciate the free pattern, directions, hints, etc. An additional plus in the color cards we can get from Lowes. I appreciate all you do. Cutting using the Tri Rec Rulers is a piece of cake!

sao said...

Bonnie, you are awesome, talented, generous and ever so patient. I am glad that you stepped up to remind everyone to mind their manners and have fun. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for these mysteries. I look forward to them with such excitement and I always learn new things. I SINCERELY THANK YOU SO MUCH!

sao in Midlothian, VA

Sandy Diehl said...

You will hear NO whining from me! This is the most exciting thing I have done in forever!!!! I can't tell you how appreciative I am!!! Your directions are very precise and I love it! Thanks again!!!!!

pcflamingo said...

Who is whining? I'm not whining! I have all my cutting done and have my sewing station set up on my dining room table and I'm watching a PBS special on Folk Songs of the 1960s and I'm having a HOOTENANY!

It was a LOT of cutting because I have decided to do the king size quilt. No one is making me make the big quilt I just decided to do it. So if I have complaints, I can complain to myself. Fat lot of good that will do! I must have cut everything out OK because it's all going together OK and everything measures 3.5" the way it's supposed to.

All systems GO!

Diana said...

There is a good solution for those that have issues with what has been given to them. DON'T MAKE THE QUILT. Go do whatever other project they want to do and let this one go!!! Heaven forbid that they would be willing to learn from this and every other quilt that they make.

quiltingfrenzy said...

No whining from here. I am Thankful for all the great patterns that you share with us all the time. I have never used the Tri Recs rulers and ordered them a bit late so still waiting on them, but they should arrive next week. I honestly can't wait to try them out. My feeling is, if you don't like the pattern or find it difficult then just sit this one out. Lets not bite the hand of someone so generous to share her talents with everyone.

Feathers in my Nest said...

Well Said Bonnie! I appreciate everything you do for us. How you even find the time to design & write these mysteries every year is beyond me...We love you & value you. You can't please everyone, so don't try. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Love you, Debra in Ma.

Barbara Black said...

Really? People complain about this gift? Crazy! I wish you had a "delete" button for those folks. Thank you for all you give for free. I appreciate it very much.

Ann Davis said...

It amazes me that people think it is ok to treat others the way they do! You do so much for us and I truly appreciate your generosity!

GG said...

As my late father would say "Some folks would complain even if you hung them with a new rope" It is always satisfying to learn something new, and people should appreciate the opportunity. I have 4 different specialty rulers now and it like having a utility belt.

Sue Kovall said...

I too wonder about people who complain about this gift. If you don't like it then just don't do it. It should be fun and perhaps a learning experience, a chance to try something different. A couple years ago I explored Inklingo but couldn't at that time figure out how to use it. Yesterday I decided it was time and with just a little experimentation I was off and running. I'm hooked and will be using it whenever the opportunity presents itself. So thanks to you Bonnie, and this mystery I've learned how to use a new tool.

Juni said...

I've had the tri-rex rulers for years and I'm so happy to learn to use them! Bonnie, you are the greatest teacher! I've learned so much from your mysteries ~ wouldn't dream of complaining!

Sweet Woodruff said...

You are way too nice. I've always thought that. People expect to be spoonfed. If they can't figure it out, then maybe this mystery isn't for them. Gah!!!

Anonymous said...

I bought the Tri-Recs ruler set a couple of years ago and this is my first opportunity to use them. Thank you for getting me to unwrap them and put them to use

Anonymous said...

I want to thank you for all of the work you put into your mysteries. You are so generous to put in so much work, then turn around and offer the information for free. Big hugs from a long time fan!!

Lewjacks said...

FYI to other mystery quilters, I also found a set of rulers by Marti Michell at my local Hancocks for doing the TriRecs thing, they are called Shapes Wonder Triangles and I got them on sale for 1/2 off. Can't ever have too many rulers! I am sure I will give these a work out on this project! And Bonnie, thanks for all you do. I am addicted to your blogs and look forward to this Mystery unfolding..... :)

Yvette said...

I am so thankful to you for not only GIVING us these wonderful patterns but for teaching us how to use those fabulous rulers. I love each and every one and they have made sewing so much easier. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! I look forward to next weekend for the next clue. Looking forward to your next book too! I will be first up on the pre-order list when it is ready.

magnoliasntea said...

Aw, the poor complainin' peeps just need a few math lessons.
Here's the first one. 1 + 1 = 2 ;)

Wyse Acres said...

Amen sista!! This is my first Mystery Quilt ever. So far this has totally exceeded my expectations! Thoroughly enjoying!! Thank you! If you are having difficulties, take some time to read through everything and watch the videos. Buy the tools needed. There are things to be learned by just going through the process.

Debby said...

Bonnie, thank you for all the hard work you put into this mystery. I am almost done with all the units for clue #1. I love the Tri-Rec rulers, something I've never used before. This is my first mystery quilt and I've enjoyed every step of it. You will hear no whining from me.

To the whiners, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.

Bonnie, you are the BEST! Thanks so much!

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I can not believe how quilters act about certain things - I just read on another blog about how people were complaining about something that she was giving for free and whining and complain about things. Quilters wake up and realize that if you want to do this quilt then you appreciate the time Bonnie and Linda have spent getting this together. I am not doing this quilt as I do not like mystery quilts - but I haven't whined and complained and say please let me see a photo of the finished quilt so I can decide if I want to make it! Instead I will watch it come together and print out the clue's and then decide if I want to make it. Be nice and grow up

Bj said...

I'm with these others, who ever is whining, tell'em, just don't do it, it's not like you're twisting their arms, sheesh. I know how great your quilts are and I sat in a room with 12 other people today who were all doing this quilt and not one of us was complaining about it, it wasn't hard to figure out, you gave us the pattern and told us what tools to use and we did and we all had a great time, you just can't please some people, you're Great, your quilts and patterns are Great so tell'em, they obviously are the problem, yes, my opinion is biased ;) always on your side of course :) Thanks for Another Great Start!!! Bj in Arizona

Janet Sowers said...

I only read a few negative posts before I moved on to sewing. I, too, can't believe that people complain about free things. Don't do the mystery if you don't like something about the quilt. Life is too short -- go do something that you enjoy and keep your negative comments to yourself. I would like to express thanks to Bonnie and all of her followers that support her. Frankly, I am grateful for all of the talented people that share their creativity on the web. What a wonderful source that we have coming to our house! Love ya Bonnie and thanks for everything you do!

Kathi Kraftyzales said...

If you are a whinner, don't ruin it for the rest of us.

Pat V. said...

Bonnie, I can't really add much to what has already been said. Please know how appreciative I am of you sharing your talents with all of us -- FOR FREE! Wow! I love sleeping under my Easy Street each night. Every day it makes me smile when I make the bed. Can't wait to begin this one. To the whiners, I say, if it isn't your cup of tea just move on to some other project!

Maggie Szafranski said...

I am doing this mystery because of the TriRecs rulers. No whining here!!!

Teresa in Ojai said...

Dear Bonnie,
I LOVE your mysteries and am so thankful that you give your readers this gift each year, at a time when some of us need them - it sure brightens my holiday season! Brings back the kid in me waiting for Christmas morning. :) I am using my Tri Recs for the first time! I am so sorry that you are bothered by some who don't seem to appreciate what you do for us all. I love your patterns and enthusiasm!

Anonymous said...

I am not surprised at all. On the last mystery I presented there was so much whining that I just posted the last 3 clues at the same time just to be done with it.

Donna Joy said...

I appreciate all you have done to give us a gift. This is my first mystery with you and I know I will have to do some math and that i will be confused about a few things. There are so many thankful people who are joining this mystery that I am confident they will help me if I ask. It is all a learning curve for me. My mom has ordered me my Tri Recs rulers. They won't be here for two weeks. So Bonnie has given two other options for those of use who don't have rulers. So I will thankfully try those methods. I will learn which method I like the best. Really this is like a wonderful Xmas gift. Thank You Bonnie for doing this as it is a wonderful way to learn new quilting skills, and mysteries make it so much more fun.

orchardquilter said...

Good Grief! If you don't like the multitude of extremely well-written directions and variety of ways to make this fun quilt, don't spoil it for the rest of us. If there's a problem--solve it! Stretch your quilting knowledge and abilities and learn a new way to quilt. If you don't want to do that, then solve the problem--find another project that will make you happy. Enough said! Thanks, Bonnie, for the fun! Janet in WA

Marylou said...

I have to say Bonnie, I don't understand all the whining. I am VERY grateful for all you do for us. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for everything you do for us!

Julie said...

You are so sweet to give us this free mystery every year!!! I want to say again how much I appreciate it! I'm still waiting for my tri recs rulers to arrive. My only complaint is that the mail isn't delivering them fast enough! LOL

Unknown said...

Bonnie, I have reread this post several times in total disbelief! How can anyone whine aka gripe aka mutter etc.?

First rule is this: NO ONE has to make this quilt!!!! If you would like to join the mystery quilt makers, then be calm, pick out which method works well enough for you etc.

Second rule is: Try several methods on fabric that isn't what you want to save for the quilt ... this is called making a mock-up or trial piecing. If it is too difficult - STOP making this quilt!

And whatever you do ... MAJOR OVERALL RULE -- stop whining!!!

Bonnie, please, chalk these silly whiners up as bratty snarky kids. One can only imagine what misery they caused parents and teachers!

The first step of the mystery is one of the more difficult, for me. And I have dyslexia!!!
But hey, I want to make this ... so I do what I can the way I can.

HUGS BONNIE,
JulieinTN

Maureen said...

I don't post often, but I would like to say thank you for your generosity in supplying this mystery quilt, It is very simple, If people dont like what you supply then hit the delete button, It is free for goodness sake, stop complaining enjoy the generosity of someone who has given up their time and energy to do this. So thank you again to you and to Linda from Inklingo for all your time and effort

ljeanne said...

Like so many who have commented, I look forward to your mystery every year. Thank you for all that you give us.

Unknown said...

Bonnie, you are so generous with your knowledge and time, I am afraid I would of blow a gasket long ago. Thank you so much for all I have learned from you.

Cathy said...

Bonnie, thank you for all the work you put into this fun opportunity of a mystery quilt. I appreciate all your tips, and encouraging words. I have learned so much from you, thank you for all the time you give to make us better quilters, teaching us new techniques & tools. You rock!

Melody (lacyquilter) said...

Thank you, Bonnie for all you do. No one has the right to complain about something that is given FREE!

Unknown said...

Please don't let the whiners spoil this for the rest of us. This is my first mystery quilt and I am super excited that my first mystery is a Bonnie Hunter mystery. You give so many options that there is no reason to whine. For 13.99 you can get rulers at Joann's, for $20 you can do inklingo... you can paper piece. So for real Quilting Whiners where else are you going to get a beautiful quilt top for $20. Stop whining and start enjoying. Thank you Bonnie. Please don't let the few bad ones ruin it for the rest of us. Thank you for all you do.

Kathy Biggs said...

Well, some people might just need to find themselves a new hobby, ya think?! But then they would complain about that too. Unfortunately, it's just the way it is. BUT I personally LOVE your mysteries. I LOVE using new rulers and any excuse to buy them. I don't love paper piecing, but it provides perfection in a challenging and intriguing method...ok, well, maybe I DO LOVE it, too. (I may still give Inklingo a try, but not sure my printer is up to it. However, that might just be the ticket for getting the new printer I want.) AND what I really LOVE is that you provide these FANTASTIC mystery quilt patterns for us for FREE. You ROCK, Bonnie. Just ignore the grumble butts.

Avalon Acres Farm said...

Oh Bonnie, I'm so sorry that you have to deal with whiners----what is the matter with people---if you don't like any of the many varieties of ways to do it DON'T DO THE MYSTERY. Simple as that! I cannot BELIEVE that people are complaining, that is absolutely ridiculous! Bonnie, please remember that for every whiner, you have 100's of us who appreciate all the hard work and consideration you give us to make these wonderful mysteries! Don't let the bad apples spoil the bunch. Thank you so much for all you do!

QuiltinGram said...

I can't understand the whiner's either! You provide more free patterns and info on the Internet than anyone else and should be applauded! I Thank You for all you have done for all quilters! Quilting Hugs

Studio Beis said...

WOW - I really can't believe people are complaining or whining. People this is a BIG undertaking for Bonnie. Either do it or do something else. No one is forcing anyone to participate. Thank you Bonnie for the excitement this is bringing me. This is my first mystery quilt - don't know what to expect next, but that is the fun of it!!!

Karen said...

I have learned so much from doing your last 2 mystery quilts. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! I was excited to have a chance to learn how to use the TriRecs from you. Sorry for the whiners.

Jill said...

Well said.......thanks for all you do........and I am sorry for those that can't see how much time and effort you put into each mystery. You are so generous to share wonderful mystery quilts year after year.

thequiltersshed said...

I'm sorry there's whining. None here. I love how generous you are about your patterns and your life.

Labix said...

In most professions we hear more from the complainers than we do from those who are content. The key is to realize that for every vocal complainer, there are many silent folks who are having a blast. I love learning, and I've learned so much about tools, techniques, colors, jargon, and letting to of control--probably the best lesson I am getting. I realize that I've always fretted my fabric choices b/c I want so much to control the outcome instead of enjoying the journey and leaving the outcome to itself. Thank you for offering this mystery and remember that every complaint you get equals hundreds of people who are happily quilting and can't get to their email to tell you how much fun it is. Cheers from AZ, Ann

Louise said...

Bonnie - Thank you for giving us this Mystery gift, and I hope the Whiners don't bother you too much. Some people think their job is to critique, and that will never change.
As for using printer ink to print off the clues....they can just use old-fashion paper and pen, and write down the clues as they come out. I do that, and hardly ever use my printer.
You are so generous with your designs, your ideas, and your TIME!

Andee said...

Wish you could have heard all the joy at our party today! There was no whining at all...some folks need to be smacked w a ruler! I hope they stop bugging you...also that they are a minority...we love you and your generosity!!!! Now where is that ruler...

HelenMarie said...

well said Bonnie! you give freely of your time and talent and I am grateful for all you do for us. It's unfortunate that a few bad apples make it hard on you. Please don't let them spoil all the fun the rest of us have together. Thank you SO MUCH for all you do.
helenmarie in tn

TcMay said...

No whining here,I have a sign just like yours and I mean it too. Love the challenge of this mystery.It will be a real skill sharpener for so many if they just go a little slower and not try to rush it. My gracious you are so very,very generous with all of us. I thank you so much. May in TC,Michigan

Unknown said...

This is my first mystery with you, Bonnie and I think you have gone above and beyond to provide clear directions and illustrations. It is a shame that you have been bothered with this! Thank you for all your work!

Carol Mathers said...

shame! shame! on the whiners! your appreciated! I love your mysteries! 5th one....see no need to whine! huge hugs coming your way! Thanks!

Unknown said...

Bonnie,
Yeah for you. I love your mysteries and love trying new tools. I learn a lot from you. I was careful to cut that little piece of the side of the second ruler (hope that makes sense). Well I could not believe what a difference that made and how easy these are going together. I have to confess that I am not string piecing, but rather making each block one at a time. This does take more time, but when I am learning something new I like to follow the process through till I get comfortable with it. I am getting them done and they look good. I have to laugh because this is such a different experience than last year when I started Easy Street and we did those flying geese. OMG mine where a mess! BY the time we finished I was doing ok. I can't wait to see what new things I will be learning. You are responsible for my increase skills!. Thank you.

Peggy said...

Oh Bonnie - how frustrating for you. Please know that for every whiner - there's a hundred happy campers loving the fun of your mystery and appreciating all you do to make it easy for us with great directions!

Unknown said...

Bonnie, thank you for your time and instructions. This is my first mystery quilt EVER, and I am thoroughly enjoying myself. First clue done; patiently awaiting the next!

HelenMarie said...

oh... and P.S. - - - this is my first time using the tri recs and your videos are awesome! Just like you were by my side teaching me how to use them. And I suppose we have your son or hubby to thank for taking the videos too!

helenmarie in tn

debi said...

Bonnie - I am amazed that you had time to make this quilt - let alone write the instructions for two quilts whilst holiday house shopping, tripping around teaching fabulous classes! some people amaze me - I had to buy the Tri Recs, and am getting used to using them - it's a learning curve isn't it. Something new every day.

I want to thank you very very much for your caring and sharing. All the way from Australia.

Laura said...

No whining here either! Almost every store has rulers on sale right now, and surely these complainers could afford the Tri-Recs at 40% or 50% off! Thank you for doing these mystery quilts, they are wonderful and are very much appreciated!

Emi said...

Me, too! I got my tri-recs on sale because I heard they were great for accuracy but haven't taken them for a test drive yet. Thanks for the great excuse!

Stitched With Prayer said...

Hi Bonnie! I agree with you about the whining...it doesn't do anyone any good and generally just serves to get people upset, especially the one who is doing the whining, LOL. You'll never hear me complain. I so appreciate all the time you take to provide us with some wonderful sewing experiences and can't thank you enough for your generosity. I am just really sad that I can't participate in this sew along mystery, but my grandson's fiance has decided she doesn't want a wedding guest book. She wants signature blocks at the table where the book would be and after they are all gathered, I will be putting them into a quilt. I actually love the idea, but really need to put my other projects in progress aside and start marking the quarter inch seam allowance on 200 Kona Snow charm squares. Then just a couple of weeks before the wedding, I will press freezer paper to each of them for a stable signature block. I tried doing this sitting down and it just doesn't work well for me. My Scleroderma limits my stamina and standing time so I'm going to get busy on prepping these blocks right away and truthfully, I'm looking forward to it. Will it be tedious, yes, but it will be so rewarding that nothing will rain on this signature block preparation parade, *grin*. when I'm sitting, I will be sketching out exactly how I'm going to make the quilt. I've never done this before (designing the quilt) and I'm crossing my fingers that it will turn into something beautiful that she and my grandson will love. Well, that was the long way around to explain why I can't join in for this QAL, but, I thought I'd share. Thanks again Bonnie for all you do for us. Big Hugs...

Beverly said...

Bonnie, I appreciate everything you do, and I have learned so much from your generous gifts. Please ignore those bad-mannered people. xo

Beth G said...

Oh my goodness, Bonnie. I am so sorry about the complainers. Please know that I appreciate all you do and how much you give away FREE!!! I have rulers that don't slip thanks to your advice on the see through bandage tape, a great seam guide from an old credit card, my own little featherweight because of your shared love of antique machines, and so much more. I am following this mystery but trying not to start it because I still haven't finished Orca Bay or Easy street. But I am downloading the directions to use in the future. And in addition I have made three baby quilts using FREE patterns from your site. I also own two of your books and your little guide to help find the perfect quarter inch. No whining here, just a huge thank you for your generous spirit. Beth Gereben

Karyn said...

My Grandfather taught me well...the right tool for the right job. You are far more gracious than I, and stated your case very eloquently. I think my response may have been closer to "This is a GIFT and it is FREE. It you don't like it or appreciate it..... GO ELSEWHERE"...... but that is why you have the following you have. *I* appreciate all that you offer your readers. The Facebook page seems to be drama free and supportive! Thank you for allowing that. I am finding it a great source of fellowship. I'm seriously blown away..... sounds like they just don't like quilting! Maybe a simpler pattern would work for them? Gosh.... next year, you could do "Mystery Quilt for Whiners" that only involves squares (you CAN cut those with a rotary cutter, right???) and then a MQ for the rest of us............ UGH. Sorry you have to deal with the bologna every time you offer this up.

candi said...

Oh Bonnie, how frustrating for you! And I am sorry you have to deal with this. People just don't realize what they are doing sometimes. Please know that the rest of us very much APPRECIATE your generosity of giving us a free mystery and the time you take to explain the clues. Much love to you,

Unknown said...

Thank you Bonnie. Thank you for offering a free mystery quilt that I look forward to doing every holiday. Thank you for the time and effort it takes to write out all the patterns and for making videos of some steps. Thank you for giving of YOUR time so that we can choose to make your pattern or we can choose to decide its not for us. Thank you for being you.

Judy Lane said...

Bonnie, you are a wonderful, hard-working woman. You gave us the number of units we need for big and small quilts, the size of the triangles. People should be able to figure out how many background strips they need by the width of their material and what size quilt they want to make. You are loved and appreciated.

janbland said...

127 posts from people who don't understand the whiners. I believe the masses have spoken!

Katie said...

I have never ONCE printed any of your mysteries, and I have managed to complete all of them justttt fineeee ;c) I never print anything unless ABSOLUTELY necessasry. . (which is like n, . . never) ;c)
PS - printing on paper when you have the information right here at your disposal, at all times. . just seems SOOO wasteful. . I"m the same way with paper towels. . it's like watching your money go into the trash. . . literally ;c)

Unknown said...

Bonnie,

The above replies tell it all, Thank you for all you do and don't let a few spoil this mystery. I did Easy Street last year and had so much fun and also a big challenge and will do this one also. I think you explained it all so well with U-tube.I never have used a Tri Rec ruler, but I will try, if not will use one of the other options you gave. Again thanks so much.

Karen said...

Bonnie- This will be my first mystery quilt with you and am looking SO forward to it. Just the fact that you spend so much time traveling and teaching and still find time to give us this free pattern and guidance is remarkable. You were right to tell the whiners they need to figure some things out for themselves. Quilters should be able to do basic math. Thank you for all you do. You're the best !!

Wench5661 said...

Bonnie, I must thank you !!! I love the sign your holding in the picture. The fun in making a mystery quilt is in making it your own!!! How much easier can you make it? Its supposed to be a scrap quilt in color waves. I always quilt with a notebook and calculator to figure how many strips I'll need after cutting a single row.

Come on people, if you want exact everything make a quilt from a book. If you do not like the method do some research and find another way, or just skip this mystery quilt. It is not easy to do what Bonnie has done for us. This is for fun! If you are stressing over it, buy some of Bonnie's Books and make a quilt from there!

Bonnie From me, thank you! I Love your quilts and find your instructions easy to follow. Do not worry about the few, the rest of us love you and your quilts!!!

Brit in Colo said...

Same old story! You do TOO MUCH for all of us Bonnie. Food for thought? On a lighter note, thank you, your talents are really appreciated, along with your amazing mystery quilt instructions! Julie.

jennifer said...

bonnie- I've been quilting for 25 years+ now, and this is the first mystery of yours that I've done. one of the reasons that I chose to do your mystery (besides using up *some* of my stash) is because your style is so different from mine. as a rule, I do not do "twiddly" quilts with lots of pieces; you do. I knew that when I "signed up" and figured that it would be good for me to do something totally different. (I'm doing judy's mystery quilt this year, too, and have the fabrcis for next year's picked out). i''ve never really done these kind of star points, and I did print out the directions from my own EQ5, but when I saw those wacky and difficult rotary cutting measurements, I just put on my big girl pants (so to speak!) and jumped right in. I made do with a similar ruler that I have already, and i'm over halfway done with BOTH the orange and cream triangles. and do you know what? it wasn't so bad after all! SO: thanks for doing a FREE mystery, and you won't hear any whining out of me! i'm having fun, and it's great and challenging to do something different!

Judy said...

You need to find an app thatwill automaticly delete all whiny messages and then delete their name from your data base so they don 't get the next steps until they apoligizeand stop acting like spoiled brats. That is my opinion and I am sticking to it. You do so much for the quilting community out of the goodness of your heart , you dob NOT deserve that kind of behavior.

Allison said...

There is so much complaining in life ...... that is why I sew, to get away from the complaining!!
Bonnie I love your mysteries and look forward to starting the new one soon. I learnt (from you) how to make as many blocks as I can and then start the next step when it is released and again make as many as I can ...... I do this with all my mysteries now. Yes I'm a mystery junkie :) I like the fact that you have given two sizes - and I'm going to make half of the smaller size - I think, although I might change my mind once started. All I can say is THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Susan said...

Well said, Bonnie!

Julie said...

Here's another. I would suggest the whiners aren't really quilters. If you're a quilter you appreciate the usefulness of all techniques. If you don't know one, for the love of the art, you learn it. Otherwise, put your sewing machines away and take up knitting.

Unknown said...

So sorry you are being pout through this. I'm grateful for all your hard work! I used to teach quilting & I know how much work goes into prep. I ran America's largest quilting program for incarcerated MEN! I had nearly 300 men who were paid to make lap quilts which were donated all over the world. I spent hours getting things ready for that, too.

Thank you so very much! Like someone just said over on FB, if you don't like it - don't do it (abbreviated text), go find something that offers instant gratification. Personally, I'm enjoying working on something that isn't done is 30 minutes! Life's too short to race through it! Slow down & enjoy each step.

Thank you again! Happy Stitching.

Kristy said...

I am so thankful for your wonderful talent and gift in teaching that talent and your willingness to do so. Please do not let the whiners get you down. There are so many others of us that appreciate you more than words can say.

DBrez said...

Bonnie,
Just spent the best two days cutting sewing and trading fabrics with my quilting friend Mary. I am thoroughly enjoying my first mystery!

Unknown said...

WAY TO GO, Girl!! I totally agree and you said it so well. Some people look a gift horse right in the mouth and complain.You were too kind. Thank you for doing this for your readers and followers. It is greatly appreciated.

sandra said...

I am flabbergasted that people are complaining. I mean, what else do you have to do to make some people happy??like you said, free pattern ,two sizes, several different ways if doing it, what more do people want??? On top of that, two very good teaching videos and numerous hints with each clue. I for one am VERY thankful and appreciative of what you do. You shouldn't have to put up with whining and negative comments.

Kate said...

A really good post, well put. xxxxx

Frances Ledenbach said...

Thank you Bonnie for doing this mystery quilt for us. And for the whiners, I say, if you don't like specialty rulers, templates, printing on fabric, and paper piecing, then don't do the mystery quilt.

Tricia Benes said...

I'm having a blast. Never use the tri-recs ruler but the little units are coming out perfect. So fun when it works! I appreciate all that you do for us/me. I buy all of your books but haven't made a single quilt out of any of them. I buy them to support you for all of the giving that you do. Thanks from the bottom of my heart. Back to triangles!!

Wench5661 said...

I all ways print out my instructions and keep them after the quilt is done.

Bonnie Thank You again for all you do! Someday I will meet you and tell you face to face. You are a kind and generous Person and you are appreciated!!!

CountryGal said...

Bonnie - this is my first Mystery ever and I am doing it only because it is one of yours so I know I will love it! Thank you for generosity with gifting us with this mystery - you go above and beyond!! I just wish I had half of your energy!! I got my fabrics cut yesterday before I picked up my 3 year old grandson for the weekend - sewing will have to wait until Monday! Really enjoy your patterns and your blog!

Elaine said...

Wow Bonnie, I can't believe people would be whining! I don't know how you have the time to come up with a mystery quilt with all the traveling you do!
I looked over my options and decided paper piecing would be the best for me, then thought about the paper I would need to print out the squares. Picked up the phone and called my husband at work and asked would he bring home some waste paper from the office!!! In the mean time went through my mail and found some paper I could use to get me started. This is my first quilt with you and I'm very excited!

Unknown said...

No whining but although I knew that we were going to need the Tri Recs rulers, I was hoping that it wouldn't be in the first clue. On Friday morning I call my local Hobby Lobby, it's all I've got locally but they didn't have one so had to drive to a larger city to JoAnns to get one. On Black Friday, I really wanted to start this quilt. Well, $190 later, I have my rulers and many more items! The great news - I could start my clue and I saved $298!!!

Kathy said...

I'm thrilled that you offer your pattern for free. This won't be the first of your patterns I have made. Been making quilts for more than 25 years. I have discovered techniques I like as well as techniques I don't like. Doesn't matter to me what technique you suggest in your instructions. If I prefer a different method, then that's the one I will use. As for # of strips, with your kind of scrappy quilts, just cut until you have enough. As you sew if you discover you don't have enough, go grab more fabric in the correct color family. If one is trying to make a *coordinated/formal* quilt (say 4 very specific fabrics), then based on your general yardage guidelines, I would buy some extra (or make sure that I pulled fabric from stash where that fabric had more available than what you specified). I'm so sorry that people do this. Maybe they should find patterns that meet their own preferences for techniques/methods of making quilts. Hope you have a great holiday season. By the way, my Easy Street is on the design wall. Piecing the triangular "blocks" for the outside edges.

Kathy Greene

Barbara D'Angelo said...

This is the first mystery quilt from Quiltville I have participated in, I find it exciting to learn new ways to do things. I don't have the rulers but will pick some up at first chance so I can do some of each method. It is so much easier to learn if you have a project to complete with the new method. One of the things that interested me in this project was all the different ways it can be done. I did miss the first post in October, FB playing with me I think, so I was a little confused with the whole thing at first, Now that I have read that post I am amazed at the completeness and detail you have gone through to produce this Mystery for us. It is too bad people no longer can think for themselves and make others miserable by whining. I look on quilting as a way to express myself, and rarely use other peoples patterns, but this project has excited me to start another quilt. You are a very kind and sharing person, and your love of quilting comes through in all your posts, Thank you very much for this project you are sharing with your readers!

Anonymous said...

Thanks Bonnie for the mystery quilt. I am really liking the orange and blue together. I appreciate all that you do for us. Carole

Kevin the Quilter said...

Man, oh, man! Bonnie............I sure do hope on the flip side you are getting the praise of your adoring fans? It's the only thing that could brighten someone belittling your efforts for a beautiful work of art you are sharing with us! FOR FREE! I want to thank you for sharing your talent with us, and for teaching me new techniques. I already have another idea for another quilt using the tri-recs ruler! If ever you feel under appreciated in your efforts here, please know, there is a big ole' quiltin' country boy in Missouri that is your biggest fan! LITERALLY! LOL

Diane said...

Bonnie,
Sorry people are being ungrateful. This is the first time I am trying one of your mystery quilts and I'm doing it because I want to challenge myself and learn new techniques and do something different than what I normally do. This is really exciting. Thanks.

Nancy Stone said...

Thank you Bonnie for all the effort you put in to designing this awesome mystery quilt. I would not have been brave enough to try the TriRecs rulers on my own, but with your videos and explanations, I'm off and running. Don't let the whiners get to you. There are many, many more of us that love the project!!

Mandy L said...

What ever happened to "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all". Some people just cannot accept gifts graciously.Thank you Bonnie, I was astounded by the amount of information in clue #1 and the amount of time you took out of your busy schedule to give something special to people whom you will surely never meet. How generous and kind. You are a treasure in the quilt community!

Unknown said...

If they hate templates, paper piecing, and everything else, then don't make the quilt. It's that simple! I love your mysteries Bonnie, they always have something new to learn. Each and every one has taught me something and that is fabulous!!

Diana said...

Thank you Bonnie! You are absolutely Correct on all of your comments. People need to realize this is a SCRAP project and to use their creativity and stretch their brain and not just "follow directions". Thank you for your gift to us!

lst4wrds said...

As a novice quilter, I have to say I'm so impressed with the detail of instruction Bonnie provides. I've done many other needlework classes that don't come close to providing this much information. Using the TriRecs is making me stretch my boundaries and get away from that "make it bigger and cut it down". I love how little waste we are creating. Hope the complaints don't change years to come. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Bonnie for such a wonderful gift and teaching me to grow.

Sheryl said...

Oh, dear, Bonnie. As my husband would say, "They'd gripe if they were hung with a new rope!" Unfortunately, it is just another example of our ungrateful society. You set up the rules, you stick with them. My stars, what an extremely generous lady you are!! You have a WHOLE HOST of people out here who love you and everything you do. IGNORE THE OTHERS!!!! For the gripers, if . you . don't . like . it . don't . make . it!!

Kathy said...

Thank-you so much for all the free patterns. I liked them so much i purchased String Fling. I hope you keep doing the mystery quilts; this is my first and I'm excited to see what it turns out to be.

Satindoll2002 said...

Bonnie-girl!!! I'm a Newbie, and I'm SO EXCITED about this Mystery I could burst!!!! thank you very much. I'm planning to get into one of your workshops next year, even if I have to travel. Quilt Love Pervail!!!!! Piece-on
Whinners be ware!!!!!!
Sandi in Bay Area, California

Gloria said...

Bonnie, you have done everyone a great service by making your post that you almost didn't post. Tell it like it is, that's the only option you have to put a stop to the whiners. As everyone has posted, you are amazing and gracious in sharing your free quilt patterns and tips with us! I learned how to use Tri-Rec from you and I'm so appreciative!! Please don't let a few bad apples ruin it for the majority of us who enjoy working on your mysteries and free at that!! Hugs to you Bonnie!!

Connie Farland said...

VERY WELL SAID Bonnie!!!!! Grow up ladies & gents and quit the whinning!!! Life is too short. I have the Studio 180 V Block Trimmer by Deb Tucker & LOVE IT!!! We all need to try something new & be willing to learn something (even if it is math!) If you want to complain then might I suggest you do a different project.........THANKS Bonnie for your willingness to do these mystery quilts and for all that you share & might I add for FREE.......People remember this takes up Bonnie's time & energy....be grateful!!!

Quiltingfool said...

Bonnie it makes my teeth hurt when I hear this going on. Please don't get upset. The grumblers are just louder than the worker bees. The worker bees are too busy to complain and wouldn't complain anyway. I've done every mystery and from the bottom of my heart - thank you Bonnie. Please don't stop because of the "whiners".

Karen said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Cathy T said...

Thank you for the Mystery Quilt and the instructions. Complainers need not participate. I love learning to use new rulers and try out new methods. Cheers!

Mego said...

You GO, girl! I LOVE your comments. This is a GIFT. If you have questions, ASK. Snark? Keep it to yourself! THANK YOU!

sandra said...

Hahaha very true!!!!!

Unknown said...

Bonnie, you rock.

Cathy Tomm said...

Love your mystery quilts. I am being the other kind of Winner tonight and spilt White wine on some of my patches. It was White so I just ironed it dry. Having a good time.

Ruth Kay said...

Sorry to hear that some people are complaining. I have finished my 92 orange and blue tri-recs. I decided to take the opportunity to try out foundation piecing for the first time. It was one of things on my list to try someday - and that day has come.

pinkdeenster said...

Wow. Just wow. It's FREE people. Get over your entitled selves! If you don't like the options you are not being forced to play. SHEESH!

I'll add my thanks, Bonnie, for this and all the free patterns you provide. You go way beyond what I would expect for free!

I hope you can just delete any negative posts and ignore them!

Thanks again.

Unknown said...

Let's hope the positives outweigh the negatives. Thank you so much for doing this for us.

Jan

Diane larson said...

There are already so many comments that I really don't want to add another bit I just have to say OMG what is the matter with people? Complaining about something they get for free!? My father in law always said about those types,,, they'd bitch if you hung them with a new rope. Never quite knew what that meant but I'm sure it fits here.

Linda said...

OM Gosh! I cant believe that so many would complain about your instructions They are precise to the point and FREE!!!!! As for myself I am ecstatic that you are offering this quilt and look forward to what mine might turn out like! And how it is going to differ from all the others that are out their! Looking forward to next month!

Dorothy said...

Thank you Bonnie for all you do for us quilters. I know I love to follow your blog and so do some of my quilting friends. We really appreciate all your tips and the great patterns you give us. We hope you can feel the love from those of us that appreciate all you do and will continue with your cheerful ways. Thanks!!!!

Elaine said...

Bonnie, You are my role model though I do not have any where near your energy level. I have learned more from you in the few months that I learned about you at guild than I have in the years that I have tried to quilt. You and your energy level are awesome. THANK YOU! You are a godsend to the quilting community. This is like Christmas to me. Thank you for your gift and for sharing it with so many. Not everyone with a talent shares any of it with others Again THANK YOU! Love and hugs!

colleen said...

I read your blog everyday ---- I don't always read the comments and when I read them I don't always read all of them.
I had no idea that people are writing to you (I do understand people are able to email you directly) complaining and whining
I have noticed very positive and appreciative comments
Any way I am very pleased that you are willing once again to put up with our human nature to go to all the trouble and time it takes to make up a quilt pattern keep it under wraps and make it yourself too. Thank you colleen on the left coast
Ps
I must confess I did have difficulty with the color selection .... until I realized it is my quilt I may use which ever colors I want ..... Then your chosen colors became much more appealing as I didn't have to worry just use more variety as you have said
Thank you
Colleen

The Calico Quilter said...

No complaints here! I love your mysteries and hope you get enough loving feedback to see how much joy you bring to quilters all over the country. And, this has been a learning experience because I discovered a new ruler that I hadn't used before and finally enjoy piecing these kinds of blocks. Without this mystery I may not have tried it. I'm really looking forward to seeing where all these star points end up. Bon voyage on your upcoming trip and thank you again.

Marla said...

Blow off the steam and forget the whiners! There are many, many of us out here merrily making it work for ourselves! I don't like the tri recs ruler. There I said it! HOWEVER if I want to participate I NEED to find a way to do it! I am using the Marti Michell templates! MY responsibility! The same with the rest of them! I have another friend using the tri rec and another paper piecing! That is the beauty to quilting and it is up to each and every one of us to make things work.

Sometimes it is so hard to realize all the good you are doing when there are naysayers. I've been in that boat often. Why is it so much easier for us to focus on the gripers and negative nellies than the positive? But just remember that we are out here, many of us very quiet, grateful and having a blast BECAUSE OF YOU!!! You have joined us together as a quilting community with your mysteries and free patterns.

I'm just sorry that it took ugly actions from others for ME to remember my manners and tell you THANK YOU!

Unknown said...

Bonnie, I was surprised to see the comment, and to think others would actually complain! This is my first Mystery Quilt, and I am EXCITED!!! I was surprised to see you even made videos!! Anything like this on the internet would cost $$$...and probably not be as precise as your directions:)
Thank you SEW MUCH for caring about quilting and us quilters, to give such a priceless gift of your time and knowledge. Hugs!

Unknown said...

Some people are just so lazy that they expect to be spoon fed everything. Rest assured that the majority of us are thrilled to take part in this wonderful adventure.

ConnieB/CA said...

Thank you so much for this mystery quilt. I have looked at others and wished I had participated, and now I am. Still working away on clue #1, but I am making the large version. No whining here! Just loving and appreciation for the work you put into these free patterns.

Jennie said...

I would like to thank you for all of the hard work you put into your patterns and mystery quilt instructions. I'm a fairly new quilter and the heart that you put into these instructions sure make it easy for us newbies! I stopped at a local quilt shop a few times picking up extra stash for this and mentioned the mystery quilt. I was surprised they hadn't heard of your website. They have now though :) I can't thank you enough for all that you do!

Lee said...

It's simple: If the requirements don't suit you, don't do the quilt.

Jennie said...

I also have trouble selecting my colors :)

SewCalGal said...

There are those that simply don't know, what to be hand fed, yet want to complain every step of life that it must be the fault of someone else. No accountability. Shame for those quilters that want to complain vs learn and have fun.

I for one appreciate all you do to make our world of quilting so wonderful. And for inspiring us to learn, to challenge our skills, to create spectacular quilts and more. Thank you.

Future Mystery Quilt Along events need to have a rule up front that clearly states "whiners not welcome here".

SewCalGal
www.sewcalgal.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

Thank you very much for all your hard work and generosity that you have given to us. I just can't understand how people can be so whinie. You would think that people would be greatful or just take the high road. I think it is just down right rude. Go Bonnie! They all needed that...

The Thimblemouse of Country Crossroads said...

Wow....people never cease to amaze me and not always for the best...I've often said there are those who would complain if they won a million $ and you paid them in $1's (personally I would LOVE to roll around in a million $ pile of dollar bills..lol). I really think the 'whiners' really have nothing better to do than make up things to whine about...it makes them feel important to see their words in print....if only they could see themselves as others do. Personally I'm having a blast...yes, I tried using a different ruler (I just didn't have the tri's and was too anxious to wait)...yes, I totally cut wrong - hit my head, laughed, and then found a way to "fix-it"...easy peasy....a friend has since come to my rescue with the loan of her 'recs...which reinforces my belief that 99% of quilters ARE good, kind, caring and sharing...it's just too bad the 'other' 1% find a way to sneak into our playground. Bonnie...for all you do...THANK YOU ~ YOU ARE THE BEST!!!

Anonymous said...

I am doing this quilt to stay away from the holiday ruckus! Actually love that I am going to get to learn new techniques. Your instructions and videos are awesome!

lindyloo said...

I quit volunteering at my guild because I couldn't take the complaining anymore. Why do we let the loud ones spoil our gift? I have come to the conclusion that "You can please some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but there are those chosen few who will not be pleased no matter what you do." So just do what you do, 'cuz most of us are pleased all of the time. And if you have to blow off some steam, we're with you! Backing you up all the way.

Anonymous said...

Bonnie, Many of us know that it is extremely generous of you to design, describe, and document the many patterns you make available on the internet. You deserve credit and thanks. And thanks, too, for challenging us to try something new, to stretch our skills, to improve ourselves. Those not ready to do this should gracefully recognize that and back away. For myself, I'm thankful. Regards, Neame

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