One Month Down

It has been a month since my last post, and it's been a month on my new job. I am really enjoying the job, the new industry and my new co-workers. A friend reminded me that all things happen for a reason, and to enjoy this next chapter of my life. He has a good out-look, and my out-look remains positive. With that said, the only draw back has been the longer commute to work, which results in less time at home with my family. It is taking some adjustment, but I am making the most of the time we do have together.

On the project front, I finished the restoration of the 1948 Singer 15-91. This machine is incredibly FAST and powerful! If I ever have a sewing machine related accident, this machine will be the one to cause it. (I hope I didn't just jinx myself.) I used the 15-91 to quilt the "Kissing Fish" project and the machine performed great. I did need to adjust the bobbin tension for the cotton thread, as it was a bit too tight - a fact I discovered halfway through the quilting. But I was able to 'pick' the trouble areas and even out the stitches, without having to remove them.

1948 Singer 15-91
This is one sweet, POWERFUL, great stitching machine!

As for the "Kissing Fish"...here is the finished quilt. The points on the individual 8" blocks came out well. Putting all the blocks together...not so well. I definitely need more practice on half-square triangles and 1/4" seams. Practice makes perfect...eventually.

Overall, I'm very please with the "Kissing Fish".

Most of the points aligned properly;some, not so much.

Next project - the 1950 Singer 201-2. I'm looking forward to that restoration. I have a lot of expectations for that machine - it needs to sew as well as my 201k and with the speed and power of my 15-91. I hope it lives up to the hype I've read about.

Until next time, cheers!

Smiling from Ear to Ear

Last week I received a phone call from one of the many places I had submitted my resume. After a 30 minute phone interview in the middle of Bed, Bath & Beyond, I impressed the hiring manager enough to land the in-person interview. Woo Hoo! I was so excited, I almost forgot why I was in BB&B - I needed a new iron as my old one decided to spew forth gobs of rust and muck! Luckily I was using a pressing cloth at the time. With my 20% Off coupon, I settled on one of the Rowenta models and merrily headed home.

Speed forward three days - the interview went great! Both the company and I felt good about the entire process, and two days later I was invited back for a second interview. And I am happy and proud to say - I landed the job! I start on St. Patrick's Day and I'm looking forward to the new experience and industry. There is of course a trial period - three months where the salary adjusts and before full benefits kick in. But to be honest, it's an honest to goodness job and I'm tickled to be back in the work force!

On to more good news....The Kissing Fish quilt is all pieced. The 201k did a wonderful job; me on the other had, I really need more experience with my points aligning correctly. That will come in time. I've since purchased a 1/4" foot that is compatible with all of my old Singers, and I tested it out on the 201k and then the 15-91. The 15-91 needed a presser bar alignment, but after that...PRESTO! The best 1/4" seams I've ever stitched...on both machines.

Speaking of the 15-91...Hercules is completed. Yes, I named the machine Hercules, because quite honestly, this machine is a total brutish beast! It has so much power and speed that I can truthfully say that if I ever stitch my finger together, it will be with the 15-91! I will dedicate a post to the restoration of Hercules and he will be quilting the Kissing Fish.

I sold two of my Featherweights about two weeks ago and the majority of the proceeds will go towards tomorrow's Sewing & Quilting Expo here in Atlanta. Now I can spend a few dollars and not feel guilty. I did, however, already acquire another machine. Actually, Michel found it and encouraged me to purchase it; he's such a wonderful enabler! I now have a 1950 Singer 201-2 in my herd.

1950 Singer 201-2

This little (okay, heavy) beauty begged to come home. She was sitting in a Western Electric bentwood case with a few bobbins, screwdriver and original manual. Note the metal foot controller - I'll replace that with something different. I've never been a fan of the metal controllers. They are neat to have as original equipment, but I prefer the bakelite controllers. And yes, to answer the question before it is asked...I am looking for a Western Electric machine for that case!

I also found this and want to duplicate it.

Clown Quilt

It looks like a fun project and would a great gift for any one of my nieces or nephews. Or maybe even me!

I'll post my goodies from the Expo - I need to make my list before bedtime.  Until tomorrow - cheers!