Month: July 2025

I have a new addition to my sewing room, a sit down Bernina Q20.

I was given the opportunity to upgrade to a 20 inch throat and change of brand….and I have been trying it out over the last few days. I love my Sweet Sixteen and my quilting has developed and improved using this machine over the last 12 years, so it was with much trepidation that I ventured to the Bernina. The sewing room has been rearranged and the new machine fits perfectly..

To familiarise myself with the new machine I found a cot panel in my stash and practiced with free motion manual mode for outline work and then moved to the stitch regulator for ruler work. I am really happy with the result. The machine is easy to navigate and sews beautifully.

I love finding a range of fabrics that contain all my favourite colours. The Sacre Bleu, French General, fabrics have beautiful hues of blue and beige, along with pretty small prints.

I wanted to design a pattern that would showcase the lovely soft hues and shading of these fabrics. Of course it needed to be needle turned appliqué. I have worked out the main panels and will design what type of sashing treatment is needed after I have completed the panels.

The design is inspired by old Spanish lace patterns, simplified and drawn so that the appliqué pieces create a floral design. The centre panel depicts flowers and leaves radiating from a main stem with birds perched on the branches.