Deciding...

 

With the new year just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start organizing, planning and deciding on your quilting projects for 2013!

 

 

I really like to take some time to think about my quilting goals and ideas. It seems there are always more projects on the "I Want to Make This Someday" list than I might ever be able to complete in a few lifetimes; however, taking stock on a regular basis really helps to keep the most importatnt projects at the top of the list!

Here are a few ideas:

• First, sort through your "works-in-progress." There might be one, two, or a few that might not take too much to get them finished. Finishing up a couple works in progress always seems to help me get organized. I like to also make a list of these projects so I can refer to it throughout the year.
• Next, think about those projects you've been wanting to make. I like to look through patterns and fabric and look over on-line bookmarked sites while making my list.
• I actually have two "want to make" lists: the first one has quick and easy projects on it, and the second one has projects that will take a bit more time.

Last year my number one goal was to finish my Fig Tree Farmer's Wife quilt. If I hadn't decided that this was a finish I wanted at the very beginning of the year I don't think I would have finished all 111 blocks and set them together.

• Along with lists of specific projects, try making a list of new techniques or skills you want to work on during the new year. In years past different things like applique' or foundation paper piecing, or English paper piecing have been on my list. This year I'm going to try and quilt more of my own projects, and I really want to sew some projects with laminate fabrics.

• Sometimes I have favorite groups of fabric I'm just not sure what to do with. With these, I like to gather them together and leave them somewhere I can see them every day. Having a coordinated stack in a visible spot in my sewing room seems to help me figure out when the "perfect project" for that group comes along.

• Don't make too many goals or have unrealistic expectations. I've been thinking about starting a really big project and plan on having a two-year timetable for it.
• Another reason to not have too many projects on the list is to leave yourself time for new ideas that may come along...the little Vintage Modern tumbler mat below was one of those projects for me...I just put everything aside one afternoon and made something fun!

What ever your quilting goals might be for the new year, taking a little time to think them out can have big rewards...who knows...you might just be able to figure out what to make with that favorite pre-cut you've been saving!  Happy deciding for the new year!