True Up’s Half Anniversary Gratitude and Giveaway

Today, True Up turns six months old. That’s something like three and a half years in internet time, isn’t it? OK, six months is not really a significant milestone, but it is nice excuse to thank everyone involved in making this site a success, and to show my thanks by having a big huge giveaway.

My lovely sponsors have chipped in five prizes …

 

1. $100 gift certificate from Pink Chalk Fabrics

 

2. $60 gift certificate from Retro Age Vintage Fabrics

 

3. 50€ gift certificate from Volksfaden*

 

4. Half-yard set of 14 fabrics from Heather Bailey‘s Pop Garden collection, from Bee Square Fabrics

 

5. $50 gift certificate from Phat Fabric

 

To enter to win one of these fabulous items, please leave a comment on this post with at least one suggestion for future True Up content. You could point me to a fabric collection, designer, company, or design era that I haven’t yet covered or a fabric type that I’ve neglected, suggest a theme for The Daily Swatch, ask a question about fabric, or anything else you can think of!

Thank you so much to my sponsors for providing these prizes. And thanks to all the readers and commenters — you have all helped make this venture even more fun than I originally thought it would be. Last but not even close to least, I am very gracious for my husband, Bryan, who believes in me and this site and tolerates using all my spare time and energy (and some of my not-spare time and energy, too) working on it.

I will close the drawing one week from today, Wednesday, Oct. 22, at noon central U.S. time and announce the winners shortly thereafter. Good luck!

*Volksfaden is located in Germany, and both the owner Linda and I felt it would be wasteful to ship her mostly American-imported fabric back to the U.S. or elsewhere in the world. So, this prize will be available to people with European addresses only. I have set up a separate post here for this special drawing. Europeans can enter the main drawing here for the other prizes as well. My apologies for the disparity, my non-European readers, but we thought this was the best solution!

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10/15/2008 | Giveaways | Comments

425 Responses to “True Up’s Half Anniversary Gratitude and Giveaway”

  1. Posted by: Jen - 10/15/2008 - 1

    Congratulations on your 6-month anniversary! I’ve recently started quilting and my fabric love is really blossoming!

    As for suggestions:

    - How about a post or two discussing pattern scale and how that matters when you’re choosing fabric for a project? This is something I wonder about all the time!

    Thank you for all of your hard work!

  2. Posted by: Jan - 10/15/2008 - 2

    I love the style of Verna Mosquera…….would love to see some of her pattern/fabrics highlighted

  3. Posted by: Elizabeth - 10/15/2008 - 3

    Happy Anniversary!
    I’d love to have some features about the process of pattern/fabric design itself–how a pattern gets started, how it becomes a piece of fabric, that kind of thing!

  4. Posted by: Julie - 10/15/2008 - 4

    Love the vintage stuff — so more of that would be awesome. And perhaps more on fabric storage and organization.

  5. Posted by: Jenna Z - 10/15/2008 - 5

    ooh, I loved the kitchen fabrics! So maybe a food-theme week. Animals week. I also love vintage so maybe feedsacks? Or fabrics by era. I would also like to see features on modern fabric designers and how they started out, I mean how do you actually get to design a fabric line? One last thing, I am always interested in fabric content and how it determines the look of a finished piece so a little something about how one chooses what content their fabric is or if the fabric company has a say in that.

  6. Posted by: Courtney - 10/15/2008 - 6

    Happy Anniversary!
    I’d love a post about textured fabrics (e.g., corduroy, upholstery weight) … special things to consider when using it, how to avoid bulky seams, etc.

  7. Posted by: kara - 10/15/2008 - 7

    congratulations! I have loved your daily feeds on swatches…very inspiring. perhaps something like vintage embroidered fabrics or how people incorporate textures harmoniously or “your favorite sewing tip” or “fabric picking tip”.

  8. Posted by: mj - 10/15/2008 - 8

    I think I’ve mentioned this before, but I’d love something about fabric weights and hand. I love love love how Katie Jump Rope feels and was surprised when I ordered some how different it was than other stuff. It would be great if online sellers had some way of describing that.

    Some sites talk about weight, especially in linen, but I don’t know how to interpret that either.

  9. Posted by: Kathy - 10/15/2008 - 9

    Wow! I love a contest. Can’t seem to get enough fabric these days-I might have to shuffle the yarn bins around a bit. I really enjoy seeing the stash organization. Bring on some more! :)

  10. Posted by: Amy - 10/15/2008 - 10

    Congratulation! That’s a lot of work! Even though I don’t think I’ve ever commented on the daily swatch posts, I really enjoying them and their themes. How about trying one of these:
    -dogs
    -cats
    -barnyard/farm
    -trees
    -furniture?? (pictures of furniture, etc.)
    -maps
    -Christmas/Hanukkah

  11. Posted by: Nanette - 10/15/2008 - 11

    Those are some fabby good prizes! I’m so there.

    First off Kim thank you for dreaming True up and for posting all the things we fabrihaulics love to see. I’m sure I’ve made several words up here and spelled them wrong too. Anyway Love True Up! Yay.

    What would I like to see you do? I would love to see more of what fabrics are being made out of the USA. Japan, of course, but what is happening in the rest of the world with fabric making? And of course I always want to know more places to get Japanese fabric and vintage fabric. Always want that. I like hearing about women making their own fabric too. And I like hearing and seeing what people make and do with their spoonflower fabric. I guess I’m into indy fabric makers. Or want to be! I’d also like a deep throat kind of approach to quilt market too. An expose on the ups and downs of Quilt market. Ok by now you’ve pegged me as a kook, if you didn’t already. So be it.

    Thanks for all you do Kim.

  12. Posted by: laura reyes - 10/15/2008 - 12

    congratulations on your success!
    i would love more information on fabric all-year calendars. they were often towels.
    the history behind them, etc.
    thank you!

  13. Posted by: lindamade - 10/15/2008 - 13

    happy 6 months (i seriously can’t believe it’s been that long!). i’d like to see some inside shots of a textile mill/fabric production line.. another kind of fun thing would to do spotlights of things made from fabric collections (i know there are flickr groups for these sort of things, but in a best of the best showcase way). i love to see people actually using fabric. :)

  14. Posted by: Average Jane Crafter - 10/15/2008 - 14

    WOWZA! Six months already!? And, yet, it seems like dear ole True Up has been around forever. :)

    Congrats!

    I’m guessing you’ve already seen her stuff (heck, maybe I found her through you …) but I’m loving Cicada Daydream’s new stuff
    http://cicadadaydream.blogspot.com/

    I also like hearing about folks making/designing their own fabrics.

    :)

  15. Posted by: Sarah - 10/15/2008 - 15

    Haven’t you covered everything already?! It seems so, your blog is so wonderful. I love the vintage features…feedsacks, barkcloth…but really anything sounds good to me.

  16. Posted by: Rosemary - 10/15/2008 - 16

    Congratulations! I love your blog so very, very much- look forward to every post. Can I suggest a post on the fabrics of Gunta Stölzl, the Bauhaus textile designer? I’d also love to see any of these themes for swatch week: Ikat, US Civil War-era fabrics, or African “kanga”.

  17. Posted by: Sparkly Green Knickers - 10/15/2008 - 17

    What generous sponsors you have!

    I’m always looking for fabrics for boys (there is so much out there for girls!!), and I’m loving hand screen printed fabrics, so maybe they could be featured on your site at some stage.

  18. Posted by: Jessica - 10/15/2008 - 18

    I love love love your blog!!

    Its difficult to come up with something NEW… but maybe you could start a weekly feature of amateur designers fabrics from Spoonflower?

  19. Posted by: Jen B. - 10/15/2008 - 19

    I didn’t realize that the site was so young still! Great job. I have a little boy, so anything that would be appropriate for him (cloth, patterns, projects) would be great!

  20. Posted by: Aileen - 10/15/2008 - 20

    Happy Anniversary. This is a wonderful blog and I have no doubt will be celebrating many more anniversaries to come. I am hesistant to suggest any content, because I am constantly wowed by your coverage, but perhaps a Daily Swatch theme of ‘space age’ or ‘the circus’ would be fun. I am always on the lookout for vintage-style robots, spaceships, aliens etc, and also for circus stuff, but I rarely see stuff I like.

  21. Posted by: Lewellyn - 10/15/2008 - 21

    6 months already! I can’t believe I’ve lurked so long! I’ve been wondering about next-step fabrics for sewing clothes. I recently started making some skirts (from Sew What Skirts) using quilting fabrics (particularly batiks). Now that it’s fall, I’d like to make a skirt appropriate for the weather, but I’m not sure where to go next. Thanks!

  22. Posted by: Meghan - 10/15/2008 - 22

    I love how you have the different styles or themes of fabric every week, so in addition to that I think it would be great to show things that were made with those styles/themes along with the fabric.

  23. Posted by: Lemon Tree Tami - 10/15/2008 - 23

    Congratulations! Wow those six months just sped by in a flash, didn’t they? I’ve loved reading all the interesting textile posts. How about talking about:

    -the differences between rotary printing and flat screen printing fabrics?

    -the various types of print repeat? brick? seamless? etc

    -get behind the scenes interviews with the major print houses? (show pictures of their printing facilities if possible)

    Great blog! Oh how cute, I just noticed the itty bitty smiley face on the bottom left. LOL

  24. Posted by: Sarah - 10/15/2008 - 24

    Congrats on 6 months! I love coming here to see the wonderful patterns I might not look for on my own. Many happy returns!

    My suggestion: How about a running commentary on new and up&coming fabric designers/designs – perhaps focusing on those starting out in design programs, or those who are printing fabric on their own? I think supporting and highlighting independent designers and those who are just starting out would provide some good exposure for them, and help open the eyes of your readers to patterns and design we might not hear about otherwise. Plus – what a great way to encourage a new generation of fabric love!

  25. Posted by: Avice - 10/15/2008 - 25

    I love learning about fabrics from your site and am always inspired. It would be great to learn more about the history of the Liberty designs and who is producing them these days (because I think that Liberty itself sold the rights).

  26. Posted by: Dewdrop - 10/15/2008 - 26

    I second all of the ideas left in the comments already. I would love to see all of those things. Most of the suggestions I had fell into some of the larger categories suggested already (fabric weights and hand questions, pattern scale questions, etc.). I’ve been wanting to go to some estate sales and flea markets lately and would like to know how I can tell if what I’m looking at is any good or not. I don’t know, maybe that just comes with practice.

    Thanks so much for this wonderful blog. I’ve really enjoyed the first 6 months.

  27. Posted by: Tina - 10/15/2008 - 27

    congratulations. I’d love to see more interviews with designers and how they started their business. More about the process of starting your own fabric line.

  28. Posted by: Handmaiden - 10/15/2008 - 28

    I am really enjoying yr blog, have found it recently as also a new blogger….would love to see more focus on japanese fabrics, and Ink and Spindle (independent textile designer and screen printers)in aussie

  29. Posted by: Elizabeth - 10/15/2008 - 29

    Congrats on the first 6 months of True Up!

    I would love to see more behind the scene things about how textiles are made. I’m a big fan of the discovery channel show “how its made”!

    As far as a contest idea goes… maybe a largest stash competition? Messiest stash? (i cant suggest cleanest or most organized because i wouldn’t be able to enter!)

  30. Posted by: Sheridan - 10/15/2008 - 30

    Congratulations! I have been reading from the beginning, and I can’t believe how quickly that has gone.

    I would love to see a feature on Liberty fabrics and Marimekko fabrics. And I love retro kids fabrics, so I would love to see what other people have in the same style.

  31. Posted by: Katie - 10/15/2008 - 31

    Happy 6 months. I’ve enjoyed reading so far!

    I would also like to learn about the pattern design and printing process. That would be very informative and helpful.

  32. Posted by: Carrie - 10/15/2008 - 32

    Congratulations! I really enjoy reading TrueUp and seeing fabrics I might not find otherwise. I am fascinated by seasonal colorways – i.e. what are the hot colors for fabrics and/or fashion each coming season. I’d love to know more about how fabric houses pick their colorways.

  33. Posted by: Lisa - 10/15/2008 - 33

    Have been really enjoying your insight into fabrics and love all the themes you have explored. Your links to fabric sales is also appreciated. I would be interested in seeing more about the history of textiles; toile prints; seasonal prints; interviews with fabric designers; new fabric lines etc. Your hard work and informative posts are most appreciated!

  34. Posted by: lazysaturday - 10/15/2008 - 34

    Congratulations, I really enjoy your blog, especially the themed swatches!
    I’d love to see a post on yarn dyed fabric, or swatches of insect themed fabrics.

  35. Posted by: Katie - 10/15/2008 - 35

    Congrats on six months!

    I’d love to see some posts on local/independent fabric makers? Maybe interviews with local brick and mortar shop owners?

  36. Posted by: Stefanie - 10/15/2008 - 36

    Congrats on the 6 months! For such a short time your blog is amazing!!!

    As for a feature/question. I would love to see quilts and such featured in solid cottons and to learn more about them. I have bought solids before but once I sew with them the always seem light and airy compared to those I see online. Is Kona Cotton the cream of the crop? Is there something even better out there? What makes Kona so great compared to other solid cottons?

  37. Posted by: RachelMM - 10/15/2008 - 37

    Wow! That is awesome. I love your blog and the beautiful fabrics you showcase are so very inspiring.

    I would love to see some posts on different fabric weights, contents of the fabrics, and what they are best used for. So often you find an amazing fabric and want to do something with it, but it wasn’t necessarily the best choice for your project. They would be some very interesting posts! Thank you!

  38. Posted by: sandy - 10/15/2008 - 38

    WOW how nice. I do read you everyday.

    Future how about
    photos of quilt studios
    art quilting
    most unusual tool used in quilting

    THANKS

  39. Posted by: kylie - 10/15/2008 - 39

    Congrats on 6 months, it seems to have gone so quick. I love what you have beeen doing so far. Love the sales links too. What could you do thats new, maybe showcase some more independant designers and printers. And a feature on boy fabrics. Interviews with all types of designers really.

  40. Posted by: tulip - 10/15/2008 - 40

    Congratulations on 6 months!! So many good suggestions already! I am a big fan of the Japanese and retro fabrics. I’d also like to see a post on linen and it’s different weights and suppliers etc… I’m also with Stefanie on the Kona cotton issue. I’ve used it and I didn’t like it. It was really stiff to me versus other cottons that I had used. So that would be a good one!
    Thanks for this great site! I’m learning so much about fabric!

  41. Posted by: hillary - 10/15/2008 - 41

    clever girl… making us do your job for you ;) how about a post on your silk screening progress?

  42. Posted by: Kathleen - 10/15/2008 - 42

    Wow happy 6 months! I’d love to see you do something on sports themed fabrics. I’m in the process of making some very boyish hockey quilts and would love to see maybe some vintage sports stuff!

  43. Posted by: Beth - 10/15/2008 - 43

    Congratulations!! I love the sale alerts on this blog and getting to see all the great fabric. I am trying to sew more clothing and would love to see more coverage of apparel fabric and tried-and-true sources for finding good knits, etc.

  44. Posted by: Amber - 10/15/2008 - 44

    Congrats – man, everyone has such great ideas – I agree about the Japanese fabric and also the comment about scale and how to choose depending on your project. I love your blog – the sale updates are fantastic!

  45. Posted by: Tricia - 10/15/2008 - 45

    Happy anniversary! I love the daily swatch. I’d love to see a literary theme–letters, books, all that stuff.

  46. Posted by: NapoleonQuilts - 10/15/2008 - 46

    Happy half-anniversary!

    For future TrueUp content I’d love to see a textile glossary, with types of fabric, weaving terms, finish terms, processes, etc.

  47. Posted by: jessica - 10/15/2008 - 47

    so many outstanding suggestions. wow.
    my first thought was to feature up and coming designers, japanese fabric and natural fibers. or better yet, an up and coming japanese designer who only uses hemp fabric. just kiddin.
    congratulations! i love love love what you have done so far and look forward to celebrating many more milestones with you.

  48. Posted by: julia - 10/15/2008 - 48

    WOW!! Those really are great prizes!! So, my entry is daily swatch themes: locations(i.e. Africa, Paris), zoo, pirates, trees&leaves, bunnies…
    Thank you so for sharing your fabric love with us! I love it!!

  49. Posted by: lauren - 10/15/2008 - 49

    What amazing sponsors and support! It’s quite a task to think of something you aren’t covering already, this is such a fabulous reference for all of us fabric lovers! I suppose maybe it would be interesting to (and maybe this would be difficult, or just highly subjective) showcase some truly ugly fabrics for fun?

  50. Posted by: Clara - 10/15/2008 - 50

    I just recently started watching your blog and I enjoy seeing the variety of fabrics pictured. I would love to see art nouveau style patterns.

  51. Posted by: Niesz Vintage Home - 10/15/2008 - 51

    Wow! Kim,
    What fantastic giveaway prizes! Your sponsors are awesome. Congratulations on a very successful 6 months!

    Daily swatch themes could be:
    * Cowboy/Western
    * Toile
    * Border Prints
    * Specific color themes
    * Geometrics
    * Stripes
    * Paisleys

    I love all of your informational posts and Sales Alerts. Keep up the great work!
    Kimberly :)

  52. Posted by: Marilyn - 10/15/2008 - 52

    I would love to see more vintage children fabrics.

  53. Posted by: Cicada Studio - 10/15/2008 - 53

    Only 6 months? Look how far you’ve come. Your sponsor’s generous prizes are indicative of how much they support your efforts.

    I’d like to see some interviews- shop owners, designers, printers, book writers, historians, anyone who might have a particular perspective on their fabric-based interest.

  54. Posted by: Cass Ward - 10/15/2008 - 54

    Well I really need to win this prize now the Aussie dollar is doing so badly against the US one. How about some articles on Aussie designers and or Aussie stores that we can buy our fabric at now.

  55. Posted by: Nada - 10/15/2008 - 55

    I’ve always been curious about dupioni silk…

    I’ve have tons of modern quilting cottons i love, and am slowly learning to make simple clothes with them, but I also have a stack of vintage or repro dress patterns, and don’t have a clue where to begin when understanding the called for fabrics… I mean, I’ve never seen “quilting cotton” called for on a cloths pattern, but am pretty sure that’s b/c i don’t know what else it would be called…

    I have 5+yds of a Katie Jump Rope print that I’d love to turn into a dress, but am terrified I’ll use it inappropriately and “waste” it

  56. Posted by: kathie - 10/15/2008 - 56

    i’d love to hear more about the impact of the fabric industry on the enviornment, and all the ways that small textile companies are attempting to change the paradigm of the industry.
    one company i know of is here in austin, Mod Green Pod.

  57. Posted by: Betsy - 10/15/2008 - 57

    I’d like to see something on threads – how they’re made, how to match them to fabrics, stashes, etc.

  58. Posted by: Katie R - 10/15/2008 - 58

    What wonderful prizes! Congratulations on 6 months and thanks for using the excuse to be generous. There are tons of comments with wonderful ideas.
    What about a fairytale theme or more pattern themes? (you did plaid, what about retro stripes or dots, or houndstooth etc. ? I don’t know there are already so many great suggestions and you already do wonderful! Thank you for all the inspiration and creativity you share!

  59. Posted by: Catherine Post - 10/15/2008 - 59

    I have two ideas. One, sewing machine review (the best sewing machine for your buck). Two, I am a nerd – I admit it. I would love to see science fiction themed fabric or other related items.

    Congrats on 6 months. I look forward to seeing more!

  60. Posted by: Amanda - 10/15/2008 - 60

    Congratulations on 6 months!

    I have some swatch themes for you:
    rockets/space, christmas, valentine’s day, carnivals, sweets, landscapes, paisley, airscapes, toys, bicycles, pattern panels. whew.

    I love your site!!

  61. Posted by: gina - 10/15/2008 - 61

    Happy half-birthday, True Up! I second the suggestion for a food theme week. More vintage, more bizarre stuff would also be great. Yay Kim!

  62. Posted by: stacysews - 10/15/2008 - 62

    Happy 6 months to you! I would love to have a theme of handmade fabrics – like the kind you see on Etsy or anything unusual!

  63. Posted by: tpanderson - 10/15/2008 - 63

    Amazing how a FAB give away brings out the lurkers! Love this site and found it bc of a link to know your weaves. Now, of course it is a weekly fav. I would like more of the info like that…print and dye techniques, history of fabric types (nylon, rayon, denim, etc.) bios of up-and-coming artists and designers and bios of artists and designers who impacted the world of fashion and textile design (Pucci, Chanel, K. Fassett) Whatever you choose will be fun and info-packed I am sure. Thanks for the give away and esp for the great site!

  64. Posted by: Christy - 10/15/2008 - 64

    WOW! has it really been six months, already….my how time has flown. I have been reading this blog since it’s inception and love how it has grown into something so informative, and interesting. I think that you do an excellent job of covering a lot of different aspects of fabric, and announcing new stuff! I would love to see more information about “specific use” fabrics ie: upholstery, clothing, drapery etc…I am getting more into clothing making, and would love to read up on knits, rayons, woolens

    Thanks so much for all of your hard work!

  65. Posted by: Melanie O. - 10/15/2008 - 65

    Love your blog – thank you for all the time you put into it! I would like to see something about knits – the different types, weights, stretch, etc.

  66. Posted by: Sara - 10/15/2008 - 66

    Wow, I can’t believe that your blog is only 6 months old. I think I’ve been reading it for about 2 months. True Up is just fantastic!

    I’d like to see more posts about independent fabric designers who screenprint their own fabrics. Maybe interviews with some. I enjoy reading about the process the artists go through to get to the end product.

  67. Posted by: jenni - 10/15/2008 - 67

    i love true up! it’s lots of fun to see all the different fabrics and of course the heads up on sales is fabulous. i would really like to see some more informational type posts, such as help with something that has often flumoxed me when trying to purchase fabric online, understanding fabric weight since you can’t pick it up and feel it on the internet. thanks for the great site!

  68. Posted by: sarah Lemmon - 10/15/2008 - 68

    I love your blog. Thanks for all the inspiration. I would love to see more information on fun projects to do with scraps of fabric — we all have them lying around and perhaps we could use some of these scraps for cool holiday gifts… any ideas?

  69. Posted by: Jenny - 10/15/2008 - 69

    As someone who is just getting (back) into sewing, I think it would be interesting to read more about different types or weaves of fabric – how they’re made, and how they can affect a finished garment/object… Even something like the difference between a “plain” cotton quilting fabric and a “sateen” quilting or home dec fabric.

  70. Posted by: Rachelle Ferris - 10/15/2008 - 70

    I haven’t read through everything to see what has been suggested, but maybe – if the information is available from different manufacturers, when reprints are available, i.e. Alexander Henry’s Apples + Pears is being printed in the Red colorway and shipping to retailers March 2nd!? I dont even know if this type of information is available.

  71. Posted by: Maitreya - 10/15/2008 - 71

    Ummm, maybe more on handmade/handprinted fabrics and how to diy? Love the site :)

  72. Posted by: Michele C - 10/15/2008 - 72

    In your case, I think six months is a lot of time, as you do so much work and research to get us fabric info. I’ve enjoyed it since you started and have been glad to see your blog expand with information. I’d love to know more about Liberty of London fabrics and how to find them affordably in the U.S. Thanks so much! — Michele

  73. Posted by: Heids - 10/15/2008 - 73

    Congratulations – You have provided me with some fab links and new designers to follow over the last 6 months. I love to support our very talented Australian designers who have some fabulous hand screen printed fabrics available. On this theme I think an introduction to Tiwi Fabric which is hand screen printed by the local women on the Tiwi Islands just north of Darwin, Australia would be excellent – the patterns are unique and the colours are brillant.
    http://www.tiwiart.com/products-listing.asp?iArtistID=0&iArtMediumID=12&iPriceMin=&iPriceMax=&Submit.x=32&Submit.y=3

  74. Posted by: Samantha - 10/15/2008 - 74

    Congrats on your 6th month birthday

    I love the convenience of online fabric shopping but I’d love to hear about reader’s favorite neighborhood independent fabric stores. They would be fun to visit when traveling and this also might serve, in some cases, as a record of a dying breed – last year a local fabric store closed its doors after 40 years. It was an amazing place with a back room stuffed with bolts of vintage fabric – now it’s gone.

  75. Posted by: Kiera - 10/15/2008 - 75

    Congratulations! 6 months IS an accomplishment for a blog, especially one as cool as yours! Thanks for all of the eye candy and informative posts. I look forward to checking out the site every day.

    Here’s my content suggestion: interview someone from the California School of Professional Fabric Design in Berkeley, CA, or any other surface design program.

  76. Posted by: mamie - 10/15/2008 - 76

    i would love a post about storage of fabric and ideas of how to arrange fabrics in ways to inspire and help create.

  77. Posted by: Alissa - 10/15/2008 - 77

    Perhaps someone has already mentioned this, but maybe a Japanese fabric week? I know that’s broad… maybe Japanese animals? Foods? Oh the list is long with all the amazing cute Japanese fabrics!

  78. Posted by: lsaspacey - 10/16/2008 - 78

    Wow, congrats!!!

    Kim,

    You were able to help me before, I am wondering if you’ll be able to help me again. Two weeks ago I notice a new collection of fabric in my local Jo-Ann Fabrics. It is very reminiscent of Russian folkloric fabric prints and according to the labels the collection name is Crafted. It has about seven different prints, some coordinating bottomweight fabric, and a corduroy under that name too. I think a lot of people would be interested in it but I can’t find any information or pictures, not even on the Jo-Ann web site.

    I wrote down a few names/numbers of the styles: They all have this main number (152021) and then Mod Garden Border (965 5762); Mod Posy (963 7554); Arts Crafts Floral Border (966 7924); and this really interesting print done with long chenille-like embroidery called Olive Flourish Emb. (963 7463). That last one’s not pretty but is pretty gutsy for a Jo-Ann store. If you can find any information on this line I would be really grateful.

    Thanks.
    Lisa

  79. Posted by: gwensmom - 10/16/2008 - 79

    How time flies- it doesn’t seem like 6 months.

    My suggestion is content on how to get into fabric design. Do fabric companies have searches or contests or seminars for new designers?

    Also, the lists on sale days are getting really long. So maybe divide them into categories like Etsy shops, chain stores (Hancock, Joanne) and online shops for easier navigating.

    Thanks and keep up the great work!

  80. Posted by: Jhoanna - 10/16/2008 - 80

    Happy Half-Anniversary :-)

    It’s always exciting to drop in and see what new fabric or info about fabric you’ve uncovered.

    I’d love to see a week on fabric with indigenous designs from different countries. For example, I recently stumbled upon quilting cotton here in Australia that features authentic Aboriginal art (link: http://www.bulurru.com/index.html). It would be interesting to see what the indigenous people of other countries are designing for fabric (if any?)

  81. Posted by: Karen - 10/16/2008 - 81

    Happy Anniversary!

    I’d love to read more about how artists get into the fabric designing business and then how you go from design to a printed fabric.

  82. Posted by: Jacqui - 10/16/2008 - 82

    Can’t resist the lure of the prizes, although two comments in as many days is making me worry I’m turning into a stalker or something :D Topics, well I second the ones asking about fabric weights because I’m really very reluctant to buy fabrics online unless I already know how they’ll feel. I’m always into posts on practical things too, and at the moment especially printing my own fabrics, whether with potato stamps or with Spoonflower or whatever other neat ways, ideas, patterns etc. are out there. Would love to see Scandinavian fabrics featured sometime (if you haven’t already), I fell in love with the Swedish stuff while there last year and want to know more about it. Keep up the good work, love seeing your posts appear in my feed.

  83. Posted by: Tella - 10/16/2008 - 83

    Congratulations on the anniversary! I would love to read about mixing fabrics from different collections. So often people stick to the same coordinating line, when I think it’s more interesting to pull from different sources. That said, it’s often very difficult to coordinate colors once you do that. Reading about how other mix fabric lines would be inspirational to me!

  84. Posted by: Jesse - 10/16/2008 - 84

    Congratulations! Your posts are always fascinating. I’d love to see something about shwe shwe fabric, because while the traditional designs are lovely, there’s been something of an explosion in modernising them. Perhaps something about regional fabrics from around the world?

  85. Posted by: mariarrosa - 10/16/2008 - 85

    Congratulations! I learn very much with your blog so I only can say keep doing the same. Thank you very much!

  86. Posted by: BethieB - 10/16/2008 - 86

    Hi Kim! I’ve stopped by a few times in the past but have never posted, the lure of those prizes is just too hard to resist so I’m posting now, lol!

    I’d love to see what designers around the world are doing. I’m throwing a barnyard animals themed baby shower, and it’s been really difficult finding fabrics that were the right colors (bright red and blues) with the westerny theme, so I’d love to see more of that. And also, I keep putting off working with slinky fabrics because I’m terrified and don’t know how to use them or what to use them for, so any tips and ideas on that would be awesome.

    Also, I’ve been fascinated by the different quilting techniques and their history, especially crazy quilts and string quilts. They somehow use all those different fabrics and colors and designs and stitches and make it work, and just imagining how they did (and still do) those projects gives me heartburn, lol. So any informational posts on those subjects would thrill me and my family to death. :0)

  87. Posted by: Ros - 10/16/2008 - 87

    How about something on how to use ugly scraps of fabric and turn them into something beautiful?

  88. Posted by: Sandra - 10/16/2008 - 88

    Happy Anniversary!
    I would love to see some stuff about Scandinavian fabrics “then & now”. I’m a big fan of Danish design :o )

  89. Posted by: laurel hansen - 10/16/2008 - 89

    I would like to see how fabric is designed…what is the process like?

  90. Posted by: Louise - 10/16/2008 - 90

    I love your website, and get lots of inspiration from it! I’ve posted this on the European thread also, but a fun British theme would be great!

  91. Posted by: laura - 10/16/2008 - 91

    Congratulations! Please just keep torturing me by showing me gorgeous daily swatches and then reminding me that I should be decluttering – such sweet pain!

  92. Posted by: the pesky bombolino - 10/16/2008 - 92

    Congratulations again! Is it just too greedy to enter both contests?! I’d like to see a feature on Liberty fabrics too- both the vintage and modern ranges.

  93. Posted by: Christine Ebner - 10/16/2008 - 93

    I would love to read more about ethnic fabric from around the world! we all see a lot of japanese fabrics lately, but what about e.g. african prints, and all these arabic influenced designs with a lot of gold and sparkly things on them?

  94. Posted by: Natasha - 10/16/2008 - 94

    Congratulations on 6 months. I would love to know more about textile design, the printing process, how to make repeats. Maybe also about upcoming trends in fabric. What motifs are hot, what colour palettes etc.

  95. Posted by: Morgan - 10/16/2008 - 95

    Hi, so glad that you guys have been online for 6 months. Hoping you last much longer.

    I live in New Zealand and sometimes find it hard to find companies that ship here. Maybe you could do a post about the best fabric companies that ship internationally. That would be really helpful!

  96. Posted by: iHanna - 10/16/2008 - 96

    I only just found you and thought to suggest/ask: have you done a post on Kaffe’s fabric design? Those are my favorite! I would also like to read about the fabric designers that are keeping successful blogs!?

    THanks.

  97. Posted by: Sarah - 10/16/2008 - 97

    I just came across your blog and am so surprised by all of the information you have up in only 6 months! I know that other people have already mentioned it, but I would really like to learn more about the weight of fabric. When to use what/what it really means.

    Congrats on 6 months! I’m so glad I found you!

  98. Posted by: Rita - 10/16/2008 - 98

    Hello Kim,

    I always follow up what you write about in your blog. I´m a fabric-lover myself, with very eclectic taste, and its always a pleasant surprise to read your posts.
    I would like you to focus on Fairytale fabric, vintage inspired or japanese, because that´s my main theme in the clothes I make, and I´m still begining my research in thet area.

    Congratularions for the six intense and very good months!

  99. Posted by: Quat - 10/16/2008 - 99

    I always love the visual fondling of fabrics on your blog – keep up the good work.

    I would love to see a bit about recycling mixtures of vintage fabrics (eg embroideries, with cottons, and more robust fabrics like denim & corduroy).

    And keep up the daily swatch – maybe choose a colour and theme together (eg yellow florals, red people).

    Thanks for a lovely site.
    Kim

  100. Posted by: karen - 10/16/2008 - 100

    Congratulations on six months! I’d love to see a discussion on color and mixing fabrics.

  101. Posted by: Stephanie - 10/16/2008 - 101

    Congratulations on a job well done. You cover so many fabrics and designers and although I’m a “newer” reader perhaps you’ve covered what I’ll suggest…Japanese Indigo. I lived in Japan for 3 years and brought home a few gorgeous pieces.

  102. Posted by: Melissa - 10/16/2008 - 102

    I would like to know more about silk and working with different types of silk. I don’t think it’s been covered on TrueUp? I know you did some posts on linen and I loved that series!

    Thanks for the wonderful blog, I read every day in my feedreader!

  103. Posted by: juliet - 10/16/2008 - 103

    Congrats!!! I found your site through yahoo & Iam thrilled to have do so> Iam a housey-girl & have always loved to find ways to improve my home. The frabrics shown on your site are a wonderful way to do so. Curtains, pillows,bedding sets, & even wallpaper made from fabric are not a lost art as long as sites like yours are around! Thank you! Juliet

  104. Posted by: tracy - 10/16/2008 - 104

    Just started sewing and just started reading the blog. Love it! Suggestion — list of suppliers for good quality “basics” (e.g., solids, courderoys, denim) that can set off all the really cool pattern fabrics

  105. Posted by: Vireya - 10/16/2008 - 105

    Congratulations on 6 months!

    I’d love to ee some pile fabrics; velvet, velveteen, velour, corduroy, crushed velvet, devore, even woven carpets could be in this category.

    All the best for many more 6-month anniversaries!

  106. Posted by: Melissa - 10/16/2008 - 106

    Congrats! I would love to see how the fabrics you feature are used in various patterns.

  107. Posted by: Carol - 10/16/2008 - 107

    I would love to see patterns by all the cottage industry designers, fabric stashes and sewing areas, and I look forward to seeing holiday fabrics.

    I love your links to sales and contests. Thank you.

  108. Posted by: Anne - 10/16/2008 - 108

    Congratulations on your milestone! I love the fabric stylings of Lila Tueller with her rich colors and organic designs.

  109. Posted by: Emy - 10/16/2008 - 109

    I would love to see some suggestions for those awesome but icky vintage polyester doubleknits we all find when thrifting. :D Hah! Good luck on that. :)

  110. Posted by: Marsha - 10/16/2008 - 110

    Happy six-month birthday!

    I’d love to see a post about fabric suitable for kids (both in terms of color/pattern and material/durability).

  111. Posted by: Bonney - 10/16/2008 - 111

    Congratulations!! My question has to do with how to decide if a vintage fabric is going to “work” for a new idea. Short of it shredding in your hands how do you test a thrifted fabric?

  112. Posted by: Christy - 10/16/2008 - 112

    Idea: I would love to see some matelasse fabric featured!

    Congrats on the 6 months!

  113. Posted by: Erin - 10/16/2008 - 113

    Love your blog – how about cordoroys? (sp?)

  114. Posted by: Julie Andrea - 10/16/2008 - 114

    Six Months, way to go! :-)

    I would like to see ways of using soft leather (cow, moose, deer) and an effective way of using an old sugar bag. Thanks a bunch, Julie Andrea

  115. Posted by: Molly - 10/16/2008 - 115

    I am curious to learn about the mark up on fabric. What does it cost my local fabric store per yard? And, is it possible to purchase fabric wholesale if you agree to buy a certain amount?

    Great blog!

  116. Posted by: TinaJewel - 10/16/2008 - 116

    I am just finding your website and am amazed at all the different kinds of fabrics! I love the ones with tiny people, animals or characters on them!

  117. Posted by: Anne - 10/16/2008 - 117

    Contrats – I would love to see hints on how to coordinate colors – it is so hard to look at fabric and visualize how it will all fit together. No I am not color blind but have so sense of color combinations.

  118. Posted by: Meagan - 10/16/2008 - 118

    Congrats, congrats!
    There are so many posts already that I am sure to be duplicating suggestions, but…
    1) Features on affordable, eco-conscious fabric choices
    2) A feature on how to pick fabrics for a quilt/project–mixing color, texture, and pattern scale
    3) A feature on making items with solid colors, and just focusing on who out there makes GORGEOUSLY hued fabric (I wish I had suggestions on who to look to, but it’s not that easy to find!)
    In any case, huzzah! on your .5 year anniversary. May there be many more of these markers to come.

  119. Posted by: Courtney - 10/16/2008 - 119

    Wow! Don’t diminish the accomplishment of 6 months, it’s great!!
    I’d love to hear more about things like Inklude that make an impact in the community. And/or the actual process of creating different types of fabric!

    Thanks for the chance!

  120. Posted by: Jennifer - 10/16/2008 - 120

    I would love to see some Marimekko things. It reminds me of when I was a kid and my mother would go the Crate & Barrel in Boston where they actually sold the fabric. You could have large pieces of it put on a wooden frame to hang on your wall.
    We had a couple of those but also various napkins and table cloths.

  121. Posted by: carrie - 10/16/2008 - 121

    Congrats on six months! I love the fabrics you’ve featured. Maybe it’s the time of year, but I’d love to see vintage Halloween and fall fabrics, as well as projects.

  122. Posted by: Jo-Ann - 10/16/2008 - 122

    Happy Anniversary! How about vintage hankies, and specifically vintage hankies with dogs on them? Or just dog and/or cat fabrics?

  123. Posted by: Amy - 10/16/2008 - 123

    I’d like to learn more tips about actually cutting fabric for sewing. It seems there are many ways to go about doing it and so far this has been the most difficult part of a sewing project for this newbie.

  124. Posted by: Gail - 10/16/2008 - 124

    Ooooo! More on fabric designers and designing.

    Mostly, just keep up the great work you’re doing!
    : )
    Gail

  125. Posted by: Kam A - 10/16/2008 - 125

    I would love tips on painting fabrics to make unique designs. Congrats on six months!!

  126. Posted by: Heather H. - 10/16/2008 - 126

    congrats on six months! i’d love to see more on vintage fabrics in the future. :)

  127. Posted by: Cathy - 10/16/2008 - 127

    I’d love to see a focus on non-cottons. Maybe silks, wools, etc.

  128. Posted by: Heather - 10/16/2008 - 128

    I love the history behind ephemeral fabrics, especially with printed material on them: potato sacks, coffee sacks, feed bags. Material that would have been used over and over for that purpose only before it was discarded. Material that would be a far cry from polka-dotted 100% poly-cotton that you’d get at Joann today!

  129. Posted by: Angela Scaletta - 10/16/2008 - 129

    It’d be fun to see some oilcloth, or textured velvets or corduroy. I love pattern panels, too – where you get a yard of fabric with all the pieces for a doll or pillow or whatever on it.

    I love reading your blog – it’s so inspiring and entertaining. Here’s to several more years of fabric fun!

  130. Posted by: Rona - 10/16/2008 - 130

    What a wonderful site! Congratulations!
    I just found this recently and am enjoying looking at your archives.

    My personal favorites are Japanese fabrics!

    Thanks for the great site!

  131. Posted by: marie beck - 10/16/2008 - 131

    Wow! So successful in just six months?! That’s something to be proud of! I’m not sure if this has been mentioned above because I don’t have spare time at the moment to read all the comments from you many fans, but I would personally love find out more about how we common folk could become fabric designers. You know, like maybe some interviews including how you can get started in your own home. Even just more on printing on fabric. I’m really intrigued by these processes and am wanting to look into it more.

    Thanks for all your hard work, you’ve got something awesome going on here!

    <3 Marie

  132. Posted by: Jeanne Crockett - 10/16/2008 - 132

    Six months of consistent posts is a real accomplishment! Good job!

    I’d like to see Asian themes—and sophisticated combinations.

  133. Posted by: Emily - 10/16/2008 - 133

    It’s hard to come up with a suggestion as you’ve done such a fabulous job so far! Perhaps animal fabrics (dogs, cats, etc.?) or toiles? I love toile!

  134. Posted by: Regina - 10/16/2008 - 134

    I just found you today – so just browsing quickly through and seeing lots of great topics.

    I also would love to learn more about the environmental impact of fabrics, and how we can make “green” selections in our projects.

  135. Posted by: Nikki - 10/16/2008 - 135

    I love new/smaller fabric designers. I’d love to see more on lesser known designers and how they get started.

  136. Posted by: John - 10/16/2008 - 136

    Wow, what great prizes. Thanks so much for this giveaway, but also for running this great blog! I love the site as is so don’t have too many suggestions, but how about personal profiles of fabric designers? Maybe with some wacky, atypical questions. Or, maybe highlighting fabrics and quilt designs from different countries?

  137. Posted by: Janna - 10/16/2008 - 137

    It would be fun to see profiles of fabric stores…both storefronts on across the U.S. and those on the web. Who are the owners behind them, how did they get started….etc. Or, even highlight your favorite stores with photo collages of your favorite picks…

    With the holidays coming up, I am always interested in interesting holiday fabrics…

  138. Posted by: Anna Socrates - 10/16/2008 - 138

    This is a wonderful site. Themes: how about Cat week or fabric with lovely ladies. I am planning a quilt that uses vintage and mostly fabric with both of these theme items.
    Anna

  139. Posted by: Sarah R. - 10/16/2008 - 139

    Congrats on 6 months!

    I’d love to see some info on working with heavier fabrics. And I second the suggestion someone made above about environmentally friendly fabric choices. That really interests me.

  140. Posted by: Sandra - 10/16/2008 - 140

    I just found your site & am so happy as I am a fabric addict! I would love to learn more about diy fabric printing, following spoonflower’s progress of course but also tutorials on how to print at home using various mediums (screenprinting, hand stamping, ink jet methods, …). Sometimes I have something in mind & wish I could just make it myself :-) .

  141. Posted by: Elizabeth - 10/16/2008 - 141

    Well, I’m new to your blog as of a couple weeks ago, so I’m not completely up to date on what fabrics you’ve covered and haven’t covered. I have to say my favorite part about what you post is the fabric deals on Sunday! It’s so hard to find good fabric at an affordable price. Thanks for helping make that available to everyone!

    I’d love to see information on printing your own fabric on up-cycled fabrics (like thrifted bedsheets). . . I guess just creative ways to make your own custom fabrics to use in sewing projects!

  142. Posted by: Paige - 10/16/2008 - 142

    Congratulations on your anniversary! I’m really loving the vintage feedsack and/or retro fabrics, especially early Americana…more of that would be great.
    Thanks for all that you do here! I love True Up.

  143. Posted by: Donna - 10/16/2008 - 143

    I would like to see information for beginning quilt makers – perhaps something for hand quilting how to? I just discovered your site and happy to see that there are 6 months of archives to trundle through. Congratulations on a half year of writing.

  144. Posted by: ~k - 10/16/2008 - 144

    I think that you should have a “cosmetics” theme week. I just love that kind of girly retro fabric!
    Great Site, keep up the good work!

  145. Posted by: Kate - 10/16/2008 - 145

    I’m thrilled with the blog — the daily swatches and info about vintage fabric as well as features and info about new lines from established designers and new lines from small, indie designers. Great great stuff.

    One fabric type I’d like to know more about is ikat.

    Daily swatch themes have all been great — some additional ideas … ground or air transportation, vices (my odd vintage cigarette print makes me wonder about gambling, or cocktail-themed prints. Maybe dancing might fall in there). Animal prints — one week for prints mimicking animal skins and one for prints of actual animals.

    And, I love your posts with with business- or process- oriented subject matter (developing new fabric searching methods for online business, screen printing, etc.) More of the same would be welcomed!

    Congrats on 6 months, and looking forward to the next!

  146. Posted by: amy - 10/16/2008 - 146

    I think I would like to learn more about how fabric is made, and how one goes about designing fabric. I also think it might be interesting to focus on an indie/up and coming designer.
    I also love love love vintage fabrics, thank you for teaching me about them!

  147. Posted by: Kate - 10/16/2008 - 147

    I would like to see more about people who print their own fabric. Happy halfiversary!

  148. Posted by: MsLizF - 10/16/2008 - 148

    Love your site….can’t get enough of looking at fabric….would like to see more of animals, holiday and 60′s fabric. Keep up the good work.

  149. Posted by: Lesley S - 10/16/2008 - 149

    I love your site, it’s a wonderful place for resources and inspiration — thank you!! As for suggestions, I’m always hunting for fabrics that are hard to find and sometimes out of print (it took me over a year to finally get my hands on the pool colorway of Alexander Henry’s 2D zoo!!). Is there some way of making it easier to find these types of prints that sell out asap?? Just a thought. Maybe it’s just wishful thinking on my part!

  150. Posted by: stacey - 10/16/2008 - 150

    Project Linus! http://www.projectlinus.org/

    I recently lost my son and it was a comfort to receive the little handmade quilt from this group. I plan to make some myself and send to them for other families. Maybe you can talk about how to use some of your lovely fabric scraps this way and raise awareness of this part of the group. I know many people know about project linus, but I never really understood what an impact it could make in someones life until I received one myself.

  151. Posted by: Stacie - 10/16/2008 - 151

    Happy Anniversary! Since I’m a beginning quilter I love to see articles on basics, including supply essentials, tutorials and the latest and greatest in fabrics and notions. :)

  152. Posted by: Marianne - 10/16/2008 - 152

    How about a series on where to find those great steals and deals on vintage fabric? Or maybe the Daily Swatch could be the “best vintage fabric find ever”–including price and quantity of fabric obtained?

  153. Posted by: Jennifer - 10/16/2008 - 153

    I would love to learn more about the creative process in designing fabric, from the initial sketch to computerized design, revisions and printing. I know this is a long process, but I’d love to see it detailed by some designers. I would love to know what computer programs they are designing in, what other tools they use to create their designs. Is there a platform they prefer?

    I love your site, it’s been a great resource for me as I further delve into fabric design and create new and fun things with the never ending stash of fabrics I have at hand. Keep up the great work and I’ll be back for more!

  154. Posted by: Irene - 10/16/2008 - 154

    I would love to locate resources for recycling or where to donate fabric. It seems like I throw a lot of scraps away- teeny pieces that I would love to keep out of the trash. I also have some fabric that I know I will never use. I want to find someone who would put it to good use.
    Thanks for such a great site!

  155. Posted by: Doris at Threads of Conversation - 10/16/2008 - 155

    I left my suggestion on the last post…but congrats again and thanks to you and all your generous sponsors!

  156. Posted by: sharon - 10/16/2008 - 156

    Happy Anniversary. I just found this blog today but, will be sure to look through the last months of posts.

    My suggestion is Jodi Kahn’s book, simply sublime bags. I just found it and am planning to use it to craft some of my christmas gifts this year

  157. Posted by: RobinW - 10/16/2008 - 157

    I have a theory that everything looks good with purple. Same for Khaki. How about a week of a specific color and what is/was being used to coordinate with it.
    How about comparison of color trends through time.
    Color combination fashions come and go. Example: the turquoise/black & pink/black of the mid-50s. At the time they were presented as cutting-edge new.

  158. Posted by: Michelle - 10/16/2008 - 158

    Just found your site, it looks fabulous! I’ve only just begun browsing the archives, so I’m sorry if this has already been covered but I’d be interested in some pieces about batiks. Thanks for this site, what a marvelous resource.

  159. Posted by: Amanda - 10/16/2008 - 159

    I’m thrilled to have stumbled upon your blog. I’d love to see help on machine selection. There just isn’t enough information out there!

  160. Posted by: Roseanna Bogley - 10/16/2008 - 160

    Lovely site, congratulations. I love vintage fabrics and projects. Lately, I am fascinated with early 20th century…Edwardian period.

  161. Posted by: Dinah - 10/16/2008 - 161

    Congratulations! I would enjoy seeing more ideas/discussion on using home dec fabrics for fashion use.

  162. Posted by: chantal - 10/16/2008 - 162

    I would like to hear more about African print fabrics.

  163. Posted by: Tonya - 10/16/2008 - 163

    Great site, congratulations! I love the daily swatch segment, I would love to see pattern suggestions along with the fabric picks. I have trouble finding good patterns for children, and I am always unsure about how to confidently pick a fabric for a pattern.

  164. Posted by: Jessica Fraser - 10/16/2008 - 164

    I would love to see a post on Japanese fabrics (specifically fairy-tale themed!)…

    Congrats!

  165. Posted by: Ellen B - 10/16/2008 - 165

    Love your blog! Congratulations on 6 months! I’ve enjoyed the info on how to declutter a stash and love the sale alerts…If only you could make the fabric touchable through the web…How about patterns and buttons?

  166. Posted by: elizabeth - 10/16/2008 - 166

    I just found you today (what an exciting day to find you) not only have found an awesome blog, but i get to enter a contest too! and what incredibly great prizes! everyone has made such interesting suggestions -i would love to learn more about any of them. Since i am new, im not sure if you have already covered these topics, but here are my thoughts… have you covered anything about using different types of fabric together that wouldnt normally be used, but make great combinations? are there any other places like Spoonflower where you can design your own fabric, or are there other good methods for printing your own designs? i have recently seen some things about companies bringing back fabrics that are printed with the clothes pattern already on them (so all you do is cut and sew – do you know what i mean? ) i would like to learn more about that. i am a new to sewing myself and i am so excited about your website i will certainly be coming back to visit often congrats on reaching your 6 month mark :)

  167. Posted by: maria - 10/16/2008 - 167

    I’m also new to the site and have added it to my bookmarks for daily browsing.
    Have you done anything on sustainable fabrics yet?

  168. Posted by: Kim - 10/16/2008 - 168

    Congratulations on the site’s half birthday! I love all your features but would like more information on Japanese sewing/pattern books. I fell in love with a Japanese book not too long ago but am a little more than slightly intimidated to actually make anything from it.
    Also, I have three young nieces so I’d be interested in seeing age appropriate children’s clothing patterns (for those under 6) that can be slightly modified so that each child has an outfit made from the same pattern but each outfit is a little different, other than the actual fabric or hemlines. I guess what I’m looking for is an easy way to make minor changes to patterns without having to redraw the pattern. Or do a heck of a lot of math! I’d also like to find patterns that accomodate kids as they grow…maybe a dress becomming a tunic finally becomming a top and still being “cool” enough for the child to wear over the [few] years they grow through the pattern.

    Looking forward to seeing what the next six months has in store!

  169. Posted by: Donita - 10/16/2008 - 169

    I love your blog. Keep it coming!

  170. Posted by: Lori Kay - 10/16/2008 - 170

    I’d love to see a swatch week of bunnies. We’re big into bunnies at my house.

  171. Posted by: Erin - 10/16/2008 - 171

    Thank you, and felicitaciones! Very impressive, and much appreciated. I echo all of the comments/suggestions, but nothing needs improvement – all the additions would only be gravy to an already magnificent site. Hmmm…..how about features on fabric care/washing machine disasters? Or fabric shopping finds/local stores. Buying fabric online – how to avoid surprises.

  172. Posted by: Kristy - 10/16/2008 - 172

    Congratulations! What a lot you’ve done in six months!

    Like others have said, I’d love to learn about fabric design.

  173. Posted by: Melissa - 10/16/2008 - 173

    Congrats on your anniversary!

    One thing I’m really wanting to learn about is tips for designing fabrics (so I can make my own from Spoonflower).

  174. Posted by: coffeechris - 10/16/2008 - 174

    Happy six months! I think “celebrate the seasons” – four different groups released each change of season would be a great theme. What a color palette, mix of designers and tactic trip you could take.
    The contest is a great one – true to you – go sponsors!

  175. Posted by: Heather - 10/16/2008 - 175

    Love your blog–so much pretty!

  176. Posted by: sharon - 10/16/2008 - 176

    Hi -

    thanks for the past 6 months. I love your blog. A few ideas that relate to my personal textile obsessions
    1- tablecloths and teatowels … “patio cloth”?
    2- vintage chenille
    3- souvenir textile items (mostley tablecloths and teatowels again)
    4-printed hankies
    5- “manly” prints

  177. Posted by: Rachel - 10/16/2008 - 177

    I know you mainly cover cotton quilting type fabrics, but I’ve been working with velvet and corduroy a lot lately and I would love to see more on those!

  178. Posted by: Rebekah - 10/16/2008 - 178

    Congrats on 6 months! As for future content…I would love to see a post that rates irons. I’m in the market for a new one and I’d love to see some good recommendations.

  179. Posted by: Alexandra Myers - 10/16/2008 - 179

    Please enter me in the drawing.

    Have you ever featured books? (Can you tell I’m a librarian?)

  180. Posted by: Kari - 10/16/2008 - 180

    Congratulations! I would love to see either sewing techniques (what the heck is a gathering stitch?) or innovative ways to use different types of fabric. Most people stick to quilting cotton but there are so many other types of fabric out there that could be used creatively (room dividers, 3-d art wall hangings, to make boxes, etc.) Looking forward to the next 6 months and beyond!

  181. Posted by: Gretchen - 10/16/2008 - 181

    I just found your site via Whip Up… No suggestions yet but I can’t wait to look through your site!

  182. Posted by: Lisa - 10/16/2008 - 182

    Congratulations on 6 months!

    I would love tips on fabric storing and a good way to match fabrics with patterns. I always have problems with that! Thanks!

  183. Posted by: Yolanda - 10/16/2008 - 183

    Good afternoon. I would like it if you highlighted ethnic fabric, like African American, Mexican American, etc. Thank you for the consideration.

  184. Posted by: Amanda - 10/16/2008 - 184

    Congrats on the milestone!

    I would love to see on your site on how to pair different fabrics together. Whether they’re from the same designer or not. I have trouble with this sometimes when I’m deciding on new fabrics for an upcoming quilt.

  185. Posted by: garen - 10/16/2008 - 185

    Love the site! Would love to see more on international fabrics – there are so many great traditional fabrics from around the world

  186. Posted by: Anita - 10/16/2008 - 186

    Happy Half-Anniversary! I love the historical aspect of textiles… so maybe you could delve into some of that. Reproduction Fabrics often has some good historical content in their newsletters, but I’m sure there is a wealth of information out there that could be explored.

  187. Posted by: Sally - 10/16/2008 - 187

    Ditto on what Gretchen said … just found you through Whip Up and look forward to digging around in the archives!

  188. Posted by: Tiff@Three Peas - 10/16/2008 - 188

    Happy Half Anniversary!!!!!! I have a question. After washing flannel before my project they tend to come out pilled. It just doesn’t look nice. How do I wash it and still keep it looking nice?

  189. Posted by: gajettes - 10/16/2008 - 189

    i love seeing others stashes – would love to see more about storage tips and tricks – or just plain fun stories about finds and treasures…

  190. Posted by: Merilee - 10/16/2008 - 190

    Thank you for a fantastic blog – I visit it at least once a day! I’ve been looking around for more contemporary masculine fabrics lately. Would love to see what you find! Thanks to your sponsors, too, for an enticing giveaway!

  191. Posted by: Sarah - 10/16/2008 - 191

    Happy 6 months!

    I would love to see some information about care of fabrics – washing, how to keep it from fading, etc.

  192. Posted by: Viv - 10/16/2008 - 192

    Congratulations! I would love to hear more about how to find vintage fabrics, tips I guess, and more than just “check Ebay.” I would also love an article on matching fabrics, how to identify complementary colors and prints. I hope that makes sense. Thanks!

  193. Posted by: Jen - 10/16/2008 - 193

    Six months already? Wow, time flies.

    I would really love an explanation of the differences between weaves: poplin, voile, batiste, organza, etc.

  194. Posted by: karyn - 10/16/2008 - 194

    congratulations on everything you’ve created in just 6 months. you’ve filled a big need in the community.

    i’d love to learn more about the designer’s behind the fabrics, especially their process and their inspirations.

    thank you for your hard work, i love reading your blog immensely.

  195. Posted by: Susan - 10/16/2008 - 195

    I want to know more about flannel, and combining flannel with other cotton fabric for a blanket. Do you have to use batting? What is the difference between flannel and “quliter’s flannel?”

  196. Posted by: Allison - 10/16/2008 - 196

    I really enjoy your site, congrats, and I hope all of this excitement spurs you on to continue!

    Organization, studio pictures, more store links, posting about specials online, and also, why not throw in a little info about crafty podcasting? (wink wink)

  197. Posted by: Amy - 10/16/2008 - 197

    Happy anniversary! I love all the inspiration I find here, it makes me want to grow in my craftiness. Hehe!

    I’d love to hear more about how artists are using fabric along with other media–paper, yarn, etc. to stretch our ideas of what makes art and craft. Anything that makes me think outside my own parameters is helpful and intriguing.

    Thanks for all the hard work putting this site together.

  198. Posted by: Ahava - 10/16/2008 - 198

    Congrats! It’s been so fun reading your blog over these past six months.

    Hmm… maybe in the future you could do color-themed weeks? Oh, and I’d love to see a storage feature. I can always use more ideas about storing my fabric.

  199. Posted by: Julie Richardson - 10/16/2008 - 199

    Congrats on 6 months! I just recently found your blog and LOVE it! I too would love to learn more about fabric design – one woman who inspires me with her simple designs is Lotta Jansdotter.

  200. Posted by: Laura Bucci - 10/16/2008 - 200

    I’m fairly new to True Up. I’ve been looking through some your posts and I’m not a hundred percent sure if you’ve covered this. I am curious to know more about what sources textile designers use for developing a line (libraries/books, or other) and the copyright laws when drawing inspiration from old work. Great Prizes!

  201. Posted by: Monica Gee - 10/16/2008 - 201

    I’d love to know more about the use of different needles/feet for different types of fabrics. You already have so much helpful material – but that is something I’d like to see more of. Thanks!

  202. Posted by: Missy - 10/16/2008 - 202

    Congratulations!

    How about doing some stuff with gift-giving, but for the hard-to-craftily-gift? I can find tons of stuff to make for friends, my mom, my mother-in-law. But what do I made for my dad? For my late-20s brother? It would be neat to see a new angle on that – best fabric designs and types, resources, etc!

  203. Posted by: Michelle - 10/16/2008 - 203

    Just popped over from Pink Chalk, and what I liked looking through your posts is the summaries of sales…as if I needed more encouragement to buy fabric! Great site, love your banner!

  204. Posted by: Peggie - 10/16/2008 - 204

    I love your site and get it sent email to my inbox. The choices of fabrics you show are great. I am finding it hard to make a suggestion, I love the surprises in my box every day!

    How about fabrics from the 1920′s, especially for aprons and where we can purchase these today. Just a thrown out thought!
    Thank you for a great site!

  205. Posted by: Donna - 10/16/2008 - 205

    Six months already?!

    I have some fabric with mandolins on it, so I’d like to see a musical instruments themed Daily Swatch. And a fabric company don’t think has been mentioned on here is Fabric Tales

    http://fabrictales.com/

    They are based in Japan but give excellent service to international customers.

  206. Posted by: carrie - 10/16/2008 - 206

    What a great site. I was just reading Bee Squares page, and she had a post about this giveaway! I am so glad that I followed the link. I love vintage fabric and make eco friendly items from otherwise wasted material. I also am a quilter and recently purchased from Bee Square. I would love to learn more about Japanese fabric. I will be looking at all the archives to see what I can dig up! Thanks for having such an excellent giveaway! I am going to go bookmark your page!

  207. Posted by: Christina - 10/16/2008 - 207

    Hi, what a great site you have! I would love to see more projects using oilcloth. Otherwise I love seeing dollquilts and the display of imagination and different techniques by their creators so I’d love to see more of those:)

    All the best,
    Christina

  208. Posted by: Beth Walker - 10/16/2008 - 208

    I LOVE this site and it has led me to fabric that has helped me find ways to invest (I like to think of it as investing instead of the others ways one can think about ever-growing fabric stashes). I especially appreciate information about and pointers to beautiful hand-printed fabrics. Topics to cover? I think there is can never be enough written about original fabric designs and designers. Also, it would be great to read about cotton and rayon –parallelling the wonderful information on your site about barkcloth and linen.

    Thanks for such a great site!

  209. Posted by: leslie - 10/16/2008 - 209

    this is one of the first places i check in my bloglines and in the last six months, you are responsible for me ordering far too many yards of fabric : )

    i’d love to see a profile on the fabric designs of shinzi kato. you know, just to inspire me to buy even more…

  210. Posted by: Casey Sentz - 10/16/2008 - 210

    Love the blog! I’d like to hear more about oilcloth. :)

  211. Posted by: Chen - 10/16/2008 - 211

    Love your blog and congratulations on your anniversary! I love your daily swatch segment and would like to see more novelty swatches especially on dachshunds or hedgehogs!

  212. Posted by: Sandra - 10/16/2008 - 212

    Congratulations for your 6 months! I think your blog great and thanks for all the inspiration you bring. How about some information about Portuguese fabrics our portuguese fabric designers, frankly I don’t know if there are enough but I would like to know.

  213. Posted by: Leann - 10/16/2008 - 213

    I would love to see you do more with indie designers and how to actually become one. We all have a dream! :)

    Happy 6 Month Anniversary!

  214. Posted by: Lili - 10/16/2008 - 214

    Congratulations on 6 months! I cant believe its already been that long. I’ve been enjoying your blog since the beginning.

    I’d love to hear more about fabric storage. I love seeing other crafter’s studios and discovering new blogs. Also, maybe even a few projects along the way to show off the favorites in my stash?

    I’m looking forward to the next 6 months! Thanks for sharing with us!

  215. Posted by: Michelle B. - 10/16/2008 - 215

    I love everything the way it is! But i am extremely partial to adorable animal prints! Anything with cute cuddly forest animals always catches my heart! Thanks!
    overthemoon43@yahoo.com

  216. Posted by: Jen B. - 10/16/2008 - 216

    more stash-busting ideas!

  217. Posted by: Lyanna - 10/16/2008 - 217

    Congrats on the 6 month mark! I would love to win this prize – I recently just started quilting and I love fabric. I am a graphic designer and I would love to know how to go about creating my own fabric line. THank so much!!

  218. Posted by: Sara - 10/16/2008 - 218

    Congratulations and Happy 6 month Anniversary! I too love the vintage textiles and would love more information on condition issues, removing stains and smells as well as storage. I’m also always happy to learn more about color theory, mixing prints and colors, etc.

    Love your blog- please keep up the great work!

  219. Posted by: allison - 10/16/2008 - 219

    I would LOVE to enter the contest, because the wall o’fabric in my basement is just not enough.

    I suggest fabrics with insect prints. I have a bit of an interesting fabric with prints of crickets and cicadas, but can’t think if I’ve ever seen any vintage insect prints.

    Or how about seeds and garden motifs?

    Keep up the drool-worthy work!

  220. Posted by: Sue Cahill - 10/16/2008 - 220

    Please throw my name in the hat.

    I would love to see quick tutorials or patterns for gifts or small items.
    I am always looking for ideas to use all the wonderful fabrics available.

    Thanks for an inspiring and lovely site, keep up the good work.

  221. Posted by: sherri s. - 10/16/2008 - 221

    Love this fun site–congrats on the anniversary. Apropos one of your recent posts, it would be great to see graphic woodcut-type images on fabric; surely someone somewhere is doing that? I also like seeing how fabric is printed, whether by hand or machine made. And love selvedge, too…and seeing stashes, of course! Thanks for the giveaway.

  222. Posted by: froginthepond - 10/16/2008 - 222

    Thanks for a great site – and the giveaway! I’d like to see a little more of the work of short run fabric screenprinting. It’s opening up fabric design to more people while providing an economic bases for independent designers.

  223. Posted by: Katy Pastoors - 10/16/2008 - 223

    Hey there, great website, would love to be in your contest!. I would love to see a post about christmas fabrics, i am starting all my christmas sewing and would love to see what kind of fabrics are out there.

  224. Posted by: Christine - 10/16/2008 - 224

    Happy Half Blogiversary! Keep up the great work! True Up is such an enjoyable read.

    I would love to see more vintage novelty fabric–especially rare or incredibly bizarre prints.

  225. Posted by: Kit - 10/16/2008 - 225

    Congrats! Here’s to another 6 months (and more!)

    As for suggestions, I’ve been trying to find fabric suitable for children’s sleepwear. Any info you could post on that would be greatly appreciated!

  226. Posted by: jeanne - 10/16/2008 - 226

    anything made from vintage oilcloth, aprons, book covers, slippers, ….anything. Oh and happy half year anniversary!!!!!!

  227. Posted by: Carey - 10/16/2008 - 227

    I love the idea of celebrating the half anniversary. We celebrate half birthdays here too. So on that theme – how about birthday stuff. I like the homemade party stuff that you can do with kids. Oh and sewing ideas for kids, with kids, about kids. Good stuff – Keep it up.
    C

  228. Posted by: Rae - 10/16/2008 - 228

    I think you guys have done just about EVERYTHING there is to do…but owls are really cool right now so I’d like to see an owl theme. The other thing I would like to see is more DIY fabric posts — I know you posted about Spoonflower…but is it possible just to print fabric on a printer at home? Maybe something about dying or stenciling; I’d like to find an alternative to Spoonflower that would allow me to make small pieces of fabric without having to wait for it.

  229. Posted by: Baba - 10/16/2008 - 229

    That is a milestone anniversary. Congratulations. I have loved seeing all the vintage fabrics and meeting new designers. I would love to hear some history of early American textile firms, with pics. I am a history buff. The beautiful vintage fabrics just tickle me. Thanks and keep up the great work!

  230. Posted by: Kelly Darke - 10/16/2008 - 230

    Congrats on six months!
    I am always looking for tips on how to sew slippery fabrics or stretchy fabrics that move while I’m working on them.

  231. Posted by: Beth - 10/16/2008 - 231

    Congrats on 6 great months! I’ve enjoyed ‘em all. I’ve learned so much and love your sale notices. I’d like to see some information on vintage printed/ cheater projects such as dolls, books, and aprons. When did this “trend” start? What kind of wacky projects have people whipped up from this fabric? Was anyone else tortured as a child with a cheater Cabbage Patch Kid or just me?
    Thanks for all of the work that you put into this. It’s a great resource!

  232. Posted by: kirsten - 10/16/2008 - 232

    fun stuff! you cover so much – i can only think of handmade fabrics? like graphic design tips and silkscreening?

  233. Posted by: Jacey - 10/16/2008 - 233

    Congrats! I was pointed here by Bee Square. I’d never seen your site before, but I’m bookmarking it now. I like your concept, and I think my favorite feature is your Sale Sunday posts. There’s so much fabric available and so many sellers, so it’s nice to see what kind of values are available. I really love Lecien’s My Folklore fabric, and I’d like to see some fabric along that line.

  234. Posted by: LeeAnn - 10/16/2008 - 234

    I can’t believe this is my first visit here! I just popped on over here from Bee Squares Blog and I’ll be keeping up with this site for sure.

    I have to admit I just found out what Kona cotton was last week. You know, if you are not part of the textile industry and you are not fortunate enough to live next to an uber cool fabric store you really don’t know what makes fabric special. For example, I hear everyone rave about Liberty fabric, but what exactly makes it different from the rest? And this extends into all the fashion fabrics.

  235. Posted by: Gayle - 10/16/2008 - 235

    I would love to see more ideas of how to organize my stach and how to deal with those small pieces I love and can’t bear to part with.

  236. Posted by: Shannon - 10/16/2008 - 236

    I’d love to see a weekly feature of whats new in children’s fabrics.

    Happy 6 month anniversary, I enjoy reading your blog very much.

  237. Posted by: A. M. Lindsey - 10/16/2008 - 237

    Fab. shop and having ordered from a few of the sites you name. I love all the crafty gals who share their ideas, stories and ambitions. Thank you–for brightening up each and every day!
    Ann

  238. Posted by: Mandy - 10/16/2008 - 238

    Thanks for taking on a new website–you’re well loved (and you were so nervous, hee! I love it!)
    I would love to see suggestions/tutorials/links to such things on how to work with some of these fabrics, especially if you include things like silks or knits.

  239. Posted by: Kathleen - 10/16/2008 - 239

    Congratulations! I check your site almost daily. How about covering vintage Swedish linens? I have a great vintage tablecloth with simple, modern-looking flowers and the names of towns in Sweden.

    Oh, and on October 22nd I will be having my final birthday celebration. I’m turning 39 and that’s really enough years for me.

  240. Posted by: MichelleB - 10/16/2008 - 240

    Happy Anniversary!

    What about something about threads – the different weights, how they are in fabric, etc. I never thought about it, or realized the huge difference until I started quilting with different weights.

  241. Posted by: jessica m. - 10/16/2008 - 241

    Thanks! I really enjoy your blog. I would love to see small printers showcased. You know, the ones at home or in a small studio working out the process of printing from start to finish.

  242. Posted by: sarah - 10/16/2008 - 242

    I think some kitchen ideas would be fun!
    Shorty

  243. Posted by: scout - 10/16/2008 - 243

    W00t! Six months of daily, guilt-free fabric fun. I’ve been recommending True Up to every quilter I run into, and they’re all impressed.

    My suggestion: I would love to see you choose a palette of fabrics from *different* designers to use together. It’s always easy to just grab a jelly roll from one designer, but to make a coherent ensemble from a collection of vintage and new fabrics is so much more interesting.

    For example, browsing through the True Up sponsors’ pages, I chose the following four fabrics to go together:

    http://www.heatherbaileystore.com/product-p/ac-bj14-hb10ice.htm

    http://www.pinkchalkfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=37_47_136_138&products_id=220

    http://www.vintagefabrics.com.au/store/WsDefault.asp?One=193

    http://store.phatfabric.com/leiinbrcogib.html

  244. Posted by: Rebecca Miller - 10/16/2008 - 244

    Maybe a list of things everyone ought to have on hand…not just basic tools, but things you can use to fix a problem or “multi-taskers.”

  245. Posted by: beth cote - 10/16/2008 - 245

    Hi-

    I would love some info on vintage fabric collectors, as well as businesses that specialize in old fabric. Also what to do with the vintage fabric beyond loving it, if it is old. I also really like the indpendant design movement that is happening and would love tutorials on repeats. Also would like info on European Fabrics–Scandinavian seems hot now. Congrads on a great blog!

  246. Posted by: aurora - 10/16/2008 - 246

    I liked the posts when you went to san francisco and then wrote about the fabric stores there–maybe you could do this for other cities? or have guest bloggers write about the stores in their cities? also–I think a blog post about Lacis–a remarkable fabric/lace/trims and everything sewing & needlework related store in Berkeley, Ca…oh, and they h ave a wonderful Museum Of lace, also…

  247. Posted by: bobbinoggin - 10/16/2008 - 247

    i’m entering! who hoo.

    my addition/suggestion/take what you please is:
    i would enjoy reading an article that looks into fabric with a focus on color palettes. we see palettes come and go. bright colors and designs that are trendy and fun. but what about some patterns and colors that will stand the test of time? maybe some palettes are fit more for clothing, some for home accents, etc.?

    thank you for an awesome site!

  248. Posted by: jenny - 10/16/2008 - 248

    given the 250 suggestions so far, I’m not sure whether my ideas are novel or needed, but here’s one: fabrics of the world – the fabrics unique to different countries (not just Japan or Sweden). I remember wandering the web and finding intfab.com and being impressed by the uniqueness of things like Dutch textiles and the colors of Italian fabric. see this post for some interesting Russian fabric:
    http://americangirlsinmoscow.blogspot.com/2007/10/russian-fabric-for-good-cause-get-ready.html

    anyway, I love the blog and congrats on the anniversary!

  249. Posted by: Anary - 10/16/2008 - 249

    Congrats on the anniversary!!
    I am lovin’ how to declutter your stash! I would like to see something about organizing notions.

  250. Posted by: Deborah - 10/16/2008 - 250

    I’ve just found your website, it looks really interesting and I’ll be visiting some more. How about posts about different types of dyes, pros and cons, uses etc? Maybe something about organic or natural dyes?

  251. Posted by: Sarah - 10/16/2008 - 251

    I love your blog!

    My suggestions for the daily swatch:

    toiles or world/ethnic fabrics. Maybe even pick a country/region and have that be the theme.

  252. Posted by: Amy @ parkcitygirl - 10/16/2008 - 252

    Congrats! 6 mo is like 3 1/2 yrs :) what about masculine fabrics – currently available, and not the cheesy sort. . .? Love reading/looking at your pics :)

  253. Posted by: Margo Pawell - 10/17/2008 - 253

    Congrats! I recommend along with focusing on other designers and sewer’s fabric lines or stashes but also focusing on what they do with those fabric (their sewing creations). Also 6 months is equal to 3 and 1/2 years.

  254. Posted by: cathy gillette - 10/17/2008 - 254

    I love ideas on how to combine fabrics in one block patterns. I think that scrap quilts and crazy quilts will have a real interest surge with the economy the way is is. My favorites are patterns that take the scrappy collection, but tie the whole top together with one fabulous fabric that brings it up to date.

  255. Posted by: crafty_dame - 10/17/2008 - 255

    i would LOVE to see storage ideas for non-quilting fabrics! it seems like every good storage idea is for flat cottons, and what about things like knits that don’t fold up nearly as nice! on that same note, i’d love to see clean studios from fabric lovers who work with the bulky fabric as well. as inspiring and gorgeous as the studios i’ve seen are, the artists all seem to work with the easily stored fabric, and really, that just seems like cheating. ;)

  256. Posted by: tini - 10/17/2008 - 256

    Hey congrats…

    i would love to see more chenille and minky fabrics get featured here… :)

  257. Posted by: Jessica - 10/17/2008 - 257

    I’ve been really into texture of late. I’d love to see more textured fabrics on your site. Keep up the hard work!

  258. Posted by: Amanda - 10/17/2008 - 258

    I would also love to see more talk about pattern scale when choosing fabrics. I really don’t seem to have understood it all yet.

    Thanks for the wonderful information and congrats on the milestone!

  259. Posted by: lorchick - 10/17/2008 - 259

    This is quite possibly the dumbest fabric question ever, but my question concerns fabrics. Constantly at the fabric store I work at, I am asked, ‘Why does cotton only come in 115cm? width?’ (being the canadian store that we are, we go by cm.)
    To which I sagely reply, “Hm, I’m not sure!”
    A wise quilt-instructor and muchly travelled customer once informed me and some other people that it is incredibly rare to find cotton that is wider than 115cm. So I was wondering… why is that? Why does cotton only go up to 115, but most other fabrics are much wider, averaging at 155?

  260. Posted by: Jamie V - 10/17/2008 - 260

    I love all of your posts and info – but I definitely like to read about how to organize the sewing room/craft room and how to handle the clutter! Jamie V in MT
    amzanioli@yahoo.com

  261. Posted by: Valerie - 10/17/2008 - 261

    Congratulations on your 6 month anniversary! I have only found your blog recently so forgive me if you’ve already done this, but I would love something on Japanese prints, especially the cute ones you find nowadays.

  262. Posted by: susanne - 10/17/2008 - 262

    I would love to know how Japanese designers choose designs and how they make and print their fabrics. Echinico makes a cotton/linen blend–American fabric makers don’t make this blend.

  263. Posted by: carrie - 10/17/2008 - 263

    Congrats! Perhaps more interviews with designers would be informative–it’s fun and inspirational to get inside their brains. Keep up the fantastic work…

  264. Posted by: Cami - 10/17/2008 - 264

    I love hearing what inspires everyone. It seems to be different for everyone.

  265. Posted by: Rachel H - 10/17/2008 - 265

    As someone new to sewing, I’d love to read about how to get started, some basic tools/equipment, using a variety of materials, and maybe some helpful hints that it took you a while to learn/figure out.

  266. Posted by: quenna - 10/17/2008 - 266

    I just found this site via whip up! Congrats on your anniversary :)

    I’m always interested in different ways of organizing fabric and sewing supplies especially ideas for working with limited space. Not everyone have a separate craft room or a wall for open shelves. So maybe an article for non traditional storage solutions.

    Here’s an example: http://blissfulbyquenna.blogspot.com/2008/02/organizing-fabrics-or-how-to-store-your.html

    Maybe an easy guide to identify fabric content or weave, especially when working with vintage or thrift store finds.

    Keep up the good work :)

  267. Posted by: Esther - 10/17/2008 - 267

    One suggestion might be to do a section on how to date vintage textiles- specific advice about what to look for, what patterns were popular at what time, etc

  268. Posted by: kelly - 10/17/2008 - 268

    congratulations – those 6 months went fast!

    yoshiko jinzenji is an interesting designer. I love her luminous bamboo dyed fabrics.

  269. Posted by: Denise Felton - 10/17/2008 - 269

    Oh, wow! What an amazing giveaway.

    I keep waiting for steampunk to be translated to fiber arts and, in particular, into fabric lines. Seen any?

  270. Posted by: mary grace - 10/17/2008 - 270

    wow — 6 months and you have an incredible following :) congrats on the blog-iversary! :) i’d love to see more of your “ten steps” articles — i.e. 10 steps to starting a craft business, 10 steps to starting a blog, 10 ways to attract readers, etc. :) thanks for all the great content!

  271. Posted by: Jenna - 10/17/2008 - 271

    Congrats! I second the idea of including a post about what to do with little scrap pieces – I can’t throw them away, but not sure what to do with them!

  272. Posted by: Lisa D. - 10/17/2008 - 272

    Would love to see vintage Christmas fabrics featured. Happy half-iversary!

  273. Posted by: Caroline - 10/17/2008 - 273

    Congrats on the six-month anniversary!

    I think it would be great to do a post on interfacing. So many people have a hard time figuring out what the best types to use for different projects!

  274. Posted by: Jill - 10/17/2008 - 274

    Happy Anniversary! Great site! I’d love to see something about amateur fabric designers and the process of getting their work printed.

  275. Posted by: Krissy - 10/17/2008 - 275

    Oh my gosh!!!!!! That is amazing! I never win anything … lol I’d be beside myself if I actually got something I wanted! LOL Isn’t Kathy at Pink Chalk Fabrics amazing!?!??

    As odd as it sounds … I’d love to know about finishing touches… zippers, magnetic closures, binding…. I am able bind okay enough … but I love thorough instructions and pictures. And how to work with different zippers and sewing them into projects, whether it’s a bag, quiet book or dress/skirt/whatever. :)

  276. Posted by: kristi clements - 10/17/2008 - 276

    Congratulations on six months of greatness!

    I would love, love, love to see a lot of Christmas stuff coming up… I’m already in the spirit and know you have many beautiful ideas to show!

  277. Posted by: tara - 10/17/2008 - 277

    I know it’s already been said a ba-jillion times but I love, love, love vintage fabrics so more on that:) Oh, and I have glass jars filled with leftover pieces of my favorite fabrics–any ideas?

    congrats!!

  278. Posted by: Lisa - 10/17/2008 - 278

    I’m a newbie, but I’d love to see some info on organization and storage both of the pristine uncut pieces and the endless scraps.

  279. Posted by: Jeanne - 10/17/2008 - 279

    Happy anniversary. You have such a wonderful blog, and I’ve enjoyed reading it over the past year. a few ideas for future posts: the design process specific designers go through, printed corduroy, and oil cloth.

  280. Posted by: Karen - 10/17/2008 - 280

    I think all the comments so far have really great ideas.
    It’s been a while since I was on your site, but I’m going to go back now and check it out.

  281. Posted by: MelissainAtlanta - 10/17/2008 - 281

    Happy Anniversary! Your site is so fun! Really just keep on doing what you’re doing, it’s great!

  282. Posted by: Malinda - 10/17/2008 - 282

    I would LOVE to see more interviews with textile designers! Maybe more on teh process of manufacturing/creating fabric.

    thanks for this site – I visit often and am often inspired.

  283. Posted by: jen eskridge - 10/17/2008 - 283

    I’d love more information about the textile design process. I LOVE Spoonflower and I know many professionals use it- but what about the drawing, vectors and repeats… not to mention highlights on textile artists’ inspirations. I think True-up’s sale pages are great too. Who doesn’t love a sale?? ~jen~

  284. Posted by: Rebecca - 10/17/2008 - 284

    Wow – Great giveaway!! I’d love to see a post on panels. I recently bought a christmas table topper panel from Moda and LOVE it!! I’d love to see some more good quality panels out there and where I can buy them. They work great for a quick project or a reversible one.

  285. Posted by: evelyn - 10/17/2008 - 285

    I’d love to see a discussion of solids for quilting – what to look for, which companies offer the nicest ones, what about other options (linen seems to be a craze lately, but there are so many types of linens!), quilt patterns like “soft spoken” that highlight them, etc.

  286. Posted by: Stephanie - 10/17/2008 - 286

    Congrats on 6 months! I found you about 4 months and I consider it great luck.
    How about something on “masculine” quilts and fabric, as in ideas on quilts and gifts that are ‘manly’ enough for our brothers, fathers, friends and lovers? i certainly struggle with that!

  287. Posted by: Amy - 10/17/2008 - 287

    I just found you via Pink Chalk Studios and am so excited to have a new blog to read! since I have just started reading I don’t know what to suggest…maybe more tips on how to use your fabric to it’s fullest potentional and not waste a single bit of it!!!
    Happy 6 months!!!

  288. Posted by: sarah - 10/17/2008 - 288

    Joel Dewberry fabrics, any newish designers along his, and Heather Bailey’s lines. Thia is a fabulous giveaway!

  289. Posted by: Deirdre - 10/17/2008 - 289

    Congrats on the 6 months! I’d love to see some project ideas – maybe for the Daily Swatches. I’m also a big fan of all those little fabric packs – charm packs, layer cakes, jelly roles, all those little things. I like being able to get all or many of the fabrics in a collection for such a great price, but I don’t always know what to make.

  290. Posted by: heather jane - 10/17/2008 - 290

    I love seeing all the new fabrics available all in one place. I also collect a lot of vintage fabric from thrift stores and I love seeing your round-ups as sometimes I find things I have in your posts. I have not been reading for 6 months and I may have missed this, but I would enjoy a round-up of children’s deco weight fabrics (vintage or new).

    Thanks for the hard work you put into this blog. I also love the sale information you post! It’s a good reminder when I may not have kept track of my sale flyers or for a store I don’t get flyers on…especially on-line stores.

  291. Posted by: CBear - 10/17/2008 - 291

    I’d love to see more about working with and purchasing linen.

    I love all the linen I see in the Japanese craft books, but don’t know what to look for or where to get it!

  292. Posted by: Concha - 10/17/2008 - 292

    I’d love a special feature about traditional fabrics from all over the world!

    Congratulations True Up and Kim!

  293. Posted by: Debbie - 10/17/2008 - 293

    Have you ever considered doing a post about student textile work? There’s a lot of great stuff out there!

    Or, a post about Natalie Chanin/Alabama Stitch Book.

    Congrats on your half anniversary!

  294. Posted by: Alison - 10/17/2008 - 294

    Congrats!
    I have two boys (3 if you count hubby)and find it hard to get nice fabric to make them things from – so a little guide would be lovely! ;-)

  295. Posted by: Heidi - 10/17/2008 - 295

    Congratulations on your anniversary!
    Two designers I love are
    Leanne’s House http://www.leanneshouse.typepad.com/

    and

    Squirrel Momma http://www.squirrelmomma.typepad.com/

    Cheers Heidi

  296. Posted by: Audrey - 10/17/2008 - 296

    I would love tips on using different weight fabrics together in a quilt such as quilting cottons, corduroy, chennile, flannel back satin, linen, etc. for a creative looking and feeling blanket. I would love more information on tips to use solid cottons in a quilt more effectively as well. Congratulations on your anniversary!

  297. Posted by: Samantha - 10/17/2008 - 297

    Congratulations! I think forecasts for the up and coming colors would be cool. I also think something about mixing and matching would be really helpful. I seem to have trouble there. I’ve been trying to come up with combinations for fun skirts for my girls and I want that mixey look, but something holds me back from making the choices.

  298. Posted by: Michelle - 10/17/2008 - 298

    Well, I’m pretty new to your site(which I’ve been quite enjoying) but I could use some help with colour combining. I always see combinations of different fabric online which I love but get stuck when trying to put something together from my stash. Any suggestions with that would be great!

  299. Posted by: Linda Gerig - 10/17/2008 - 299

    Just found your blog. Love to hear about the designers and their fabrics and patterns. You have a good selection in the drawings. Linda Gerig

  300. Posted by: Lisa - 10/17/2008 - 300

    It would be so lovely to have help with finding great patterns for cold weather clothing for kids and picking fabrics for such cold weather clothing. I feel stuck this time of year!

  301. Posted by: Jan - 10/17/2008 - 301

    Congrats on 6 months! Anything on baby nursery items would be appreciated~!

  302. Posted by: Lauren Hawley - 10/17/2008 - 302

    Congratulations! With so many sites out there, it’s amazing that you’ve come up with such a winner. True Up is the CHEERS of fabricaholics! I’m so intimidated and yet fascinated by the computer age of textile design. I’d love more info on that so, you know, I can feel modern and up-to-date!
    Thanks for all you do!

  303. Posted by: Kathryn - 10/17/2008 - 303

    Great blog! I’d love to learn more about combining colors.

  304. Posted by: Jen - 10/17/2008 - 304

    Congratulations!! It seems like you have been here much longer than 6 months :) Love the vintage stuff. Keep up the great work!

  305. Posted by: Jennifer - 10/17/2008 - 305

    I love reading about the fabric design process. I especially like reading interviews from real designers – the ins and outs, how they got started, and what inspires them.
    By the way, this is a FABULOUS giveaway! Amazing prizes!

  306. Posted by: Missy - 10/17/2008 - 306

    I adore your blog! I love to read insiring tutorials on childrens clothing. Like how to make a perfect collar or other technical things.

  307. Posted by: Julie Webb - 10/17/2008 - 307

    How about a discussion of how to determine if projects are worthy of using a (precious) vintage fabric on…some sort of criteria by which sewers could determine if, in the end, they’re going to be happy they used a fabric that they’ll never be able to duplicate.

  308. Posted by: Carmen - 10/17/2008 - 308

    Congratulations!
    I love fabrics with large prints, I think it is sometimes hard to find and I think they are so beautiful…like those Marimekko’s.

  309. Posted by: Jamie Burton - 10/17/2008 - 309

    I love vintage stuff… The Daily Swatch, especially the fabrics with a children’s theme…!
    Congratulations!

  310. Posted by: Tanya - 10/17/2008 - 310

    I would join others in requesting more information on linen including best sources, details regarding the various types and tips for selecting etc. Information on color trends is always fun. Fabulous give away… thank you and congratulations on this milestone.

  311. Posted by: jan - 10/17/2008 - 311

    Love your blog! It makes me feel better about my stash-i-ness! I love vintage fabrics and feedsacks, so maybe a theme along those lines. Maybe something on dating fabric by width.

  312. Posted by: ginevra - 10/17/2008 - 312

    Love the swatch-a-day stuff best. I’m kinda interested in the quilt-business side of stuff, so, I’d like any insights you have into what makes a quilt fabric really, really popular? What do people look for in a craft fabric?

  313. Posted by: Angie - 10/17/2008 - 313

    I am new(er) to sewing, so I really like it when you chat with us about kinds of fabrics. I loved the linen series, and barkcloth was interesting too! I would love more information on Quilt Market. I dream of sneaking in!

  314. Posted by: Jennifer (momof four) - 10/17/2008 - 314

    Love this site! I would love more vintage! I love the swatches!

    Thanks for the great giveaway!!!

    Crossing my fingers and toes!

  315. Posted by: regina - 10/17/2008 - 315

    This website is such a wealth of information already! Thanks for that.

    I was noticing that some heavier weight cottons say to “dry clean only” on the bolt label. Is that totally necessary? Just wondering. It looks like all my other suggestions have been taken already. I always love seeing the vintage stuff, organic and sustainable stuff too. Keep up the awesome work! We all appreciate good husbands like yours.

  316. Posted by: joy - 10/17/2008 - 316

    i’m a new reader, so i’m not sure what’s been featured yet, but my suggestion would be any kitchen-themed fabrics, madras plaids (my obsession) and hand-painted fabrics/fabric artists. a tutorial on handpainting fabric would be a lovely bonus!

  317. Posted by: ronit - 10/17/2008 - 317

    Great blog! I’d love to learn more about corduroy (one of my favorite fabrics but one I’m a little scared to sew) as well as learning more about fabric dying (solid, batiks, etc).

  318. Posted by: Shiloah - 10/17/2008 - 318

    I would love to see more tips on what types of fabrics are best for various uses and projects. I’m a quilter and I love the variety to be found in the quilting-weight world, but those fabrics are often too lightweight for other types of crafts and home dec. Thanks!

  319. Posted by: Hyena In Petticoats - 10/17/2008 - 319

    Congrats on the six month anniversary!

    You’re doing such a brilliant job and I’ve learnt so much along the way….

    I’d love to see more stuff on designing and printing your own fabric, and the fabric design process in general – from big design houses right down to gocco printing…..

    Thanks again for such a great blog, and such a generous giveaway!

    Cheers,

    Leah xx

  320. Posted by: Cecy - 10/17/2008 - 320

    I am new to your site. I would love to see items from japanese designer Shinzi Katoh.

    http://www.shinzikatoh.com/english/online.html

  321. Posted by: Michelle A. - 10/17/2008 - 321

    I would love to see projects and details on crafting with fabric…specifically card making, scrapbooking, altered items… as well as making unique fabric creations.

  322. Posted by: Nicole (ikkinlala) - 10/18/2008 - 322

    Congratulations!

    I’d be interested in learning about organic or naturally-dyed fabrics.

  323. Posted by: Mariah - 10/18/2008 - 323

    Feed sacks and anything else to do with quilting history. Congratulations on six months! I put you in my favs about a week ago! :-)

  324. Posted by: Tricia - 10/18/2008 - 324

    I’d love to see an owl theme! Congratulations!

  325. Posted by: Myrnie - 10/18/2008 - 325

    How about tips on hard-to sew fabrics? Thick things like denim and upholstery, thin crepes…I sew mostly quilting cotton, and haven’t ventured to much else.

  326. Posted by: cerise - 10/18/2008 - 326

    congratulations!

    what about a post on some traditional international fabric patterns and the history/folklore of them? it would be interesting to hear about the stories and inspiration behind fabric designs, any of them! even modern ones, actually.

  327. Posted by: Jessica - 10/18/2008 - 327

    Congrats on six months!

    I’d like to see a post on vintage fabrics and copyright. I believe you’ve posted on that some in the past, but I would be very interested if you’ve learned more! I often see vintage fabrics that I would love to remake on Spoonflower, but I wouldn’t want to anger the copyright gods!

  328. Posted by: Morgan - 10/18/2008 - 328

    Fun! I’d love to see more vintage fabric, especially brightly colored stuff from the ’50s. Or maybe few “world’s ugliest fabrics” posts?!

  329. Posted by: Anne - 10/18/2008 - 329

    Thank you for all of the information you’ve given so far.

    I would like to see more information on how much yardage to buy if you see a fabric that you like, but don’t have a project in mind yet and don’t want to have a stash that overflows your sewing room. Also, more on coordinating fabrics so they go well together, but don’t end up too matchy-matchy.

  330. Posted by: LizA - 10/18/2008 - 330

    I’m new to your site, but browsing here has been great! I am also a not so experienced sewer.
    I would like a post on sewing with heavier weight fabrics esp corduroy. International fabrics would also a great. I lived in Indonesia for a bit and they have the most amazing hand woven fabrics.

  331. Posted by: Renee - 10/18/2008 - 331

    I love the vintage fabrics. I also like the sales alerts and the tweets update!
    I have you in my reader and always enjoy.

  332. Posted by: Nanna - 10/18/2008 - 332

    I love sewing childern cloths from Ikea fabric, but I think you already has it covered…

  333. Posted by: Lynne - 10/18/2008 - 333

    WOW – WOW – WOW!!! What a great website on fabrics and sewing. I’ve been sewing since I was 14 and I LOVE RETRO fabrics, since I’m a “vintage retro” person. The wealth of information you provide here and through your links, I find very enjoyable. Keep on – Keeping on!!!! Happy Anniversary!!!

  334. Posted by: Heather - 10/18/2008 - 334

    Just found your site through Pink Chalk’s link. Can’t wait to delve in!

  335. Posted by: Carol - 10/18/2008 - 335

    Congratulations! Your site is wonderful = I’m always so inspired! And these are some FAB prizes!

    I’d love to see a swatch theme of music – notes, instruments, etc. :-)

  336. Posted by: Cynthia - 10/18/2008 - 336

    Congratulations on your six month anniversary. I enjoy your articles and really have little to suggest as I think you are going in the right direction. Keep it up! Best wishes on the next six months!

  337. Posted by: Livy - 10/18/2008 - 337

    Congratulations on a successful six months! I love seeing projects made with re-purposed vintage fabrics.

  338. Posted by: meri - 10/18/2008 - 338

    Congrats for these 6 months of work! And thanks for the giveaway.
    I love Pippijoe’s fabrics and all linen. I would like to know more about printed linens

  339. Posted by: Priscilla - 10/18/2008 - 339

    Congratulations, I’ve enjoyed your site since the beginning and think that it’s a great resource!

    I’d love a resource article on sites to find small amounts of vintage scraps or good quality reproduction scraps (perhaps by era) if you want to repair heirloom or vintage quilts.

    Thanks for all your hard work!

  340. Posted by: LisaB - 10/18/2008 - 340

    Congrats! 6 months of hard work – for us to all enjoy – thank you!

    I’d love to hear some details on what various fabric producers are doing to improve the sustainability of their products (i.e. ‘greener’ products).

  341. Posted by: Jess - 10/18/2008 - 341

    I’m new, so anything focused on stuff for beginners would be greatly appreciated. I mean, I haven’t taken sewing anything since I was ten – I’m having to relearn how to cut fabric and pick needles!

    How about tutorials on using vintage fabrics in reupholstering furniture?

  342. Posted by: Nichole - 10/18/2008 - 342

    Happy half anniversary. I’ve really enjoyed this blog and learning more about the object of by obsession…fabric! I’d love to see you continue to interview new and upcoming as well as established designers. Each designer has a different approach to the process of creating and a different path that led them to be a fabric designer, so I think it in endlessly fascinating subject.

  343. Posted by: Lynn Judge - 10/18/2008 - 343

    Wow Congrats on the site and what a amazing giveaway!!

  344. Posted by: Mary Corbet - 10/18/2008 - 344

    Six months of hard work, that’s for sure! Though when it comes to writing about and working with textiles, can we really call it hard work??!! Congrats on your half-year mark.

    For a contest suggestion, how about asking folks what their favorite project made from fabric was / is. What project finish, for example, were they most pleased with? or what project did they have the most fun making? etc.

    MC

  345. Posted by: sarah - 10/18/2008 - 345

    Happy Anniversary! Save the Children used to sell fabric using drawings and prints of/from children around the world. I think they have discontinued their fabric and I have yet to find another manufacterer with prints as such.

  346. Posted by: Debi - 10/18/2008 - 346

    I would love to see more about vintage tablecloth fabrics. I repurpose them for aprons.

  347. Posted by: Jennifer - 10/18/2008 - 347

    I jumped over from Pink Chalk Fabrics. I like what I have seen so far. I would love to be educated on what types of fabric are similar and can be used in place of others when sewing for clothes.

  348. Posted by: Juddie - 10/18/2008 - 348

    Hi there,
    I once saw a documentary about the history of men’s ties (neckties). It was really fascinating – I had no idea about the intricate processes of developing patterns for ties or the trend cycles directly relating tie designs with other items of clothing. Perhaps you might be able to explore these ideas in a future post?

    Thanks for the giveaway, and happy half anniversary!

  349. Posted by: Ashley - 10/18/2008 - 349

    Andalucia… by Patty Young is a beautiful line of fabric.

  350. Posted by: Nancy Holley - 10/18/2008 - 350

    I think it would be cool if someone gave some color inspiration challenges for sewing projects like show 2 or three colors and then let us post what we come up with.

  351. Posted by: Bekhy - 10/18/2008 - 351

    On the daily swatches, would be nice to see a monthly or weekly theme and then have a series of write-ups about that particular fabric about how it’s recognizable from a certain era, what its influences were, fabric content. Also would love to see a somewhat systematic review of trends in fabric design starting with current trends, its design roots and working back, with lots of pictures. It’s cool to me to see particularly the cycling of the color wheel, how it might relate to the political/social climate of the time, and how the economy affects what designs are successful.

  352. Posted by: Robin - 10/18/2008 - 352

    I am fascinated with pattern design and the process. Alot of us create our own designs and refuse to use someone else’s pattern. I’m sure I am not alone when I create something unique and cute and wonder if it’s worth a try to develop a pattern for it!

    Thanks – love the site

  353. Posted by: Janet - 10/18/2008 - 353

    I just came from running errands downtown and I saw a women wearing a golden sari with beautiful golden threads and thought, why can’t we find that fabric around here. The color was outstanding. I’d like to hear more about different ethnic fabrics and wear to purchase or find. And, ecofriendly fabrics, cotton is high pesticide use and I’m feeling a little guilty about purchasing it, what other options do we have? Thanks!!!

  354. Posted by: Stacy - 10/18/2008 - 354

    Congrats! Wow, you cover so much. This might be a repeat, but maybe something on how someone gets into designing fabric and how it is made. I like the suggestion about the the pattern making process too.

    Thanks!

  355. Posted by: zeda - 10/18/2008 - 355

    CONGRATULATIONS vintage and african fabric, and any kind of tips that would be helpful.

  356. Posted by: Eve - 10/19/2008 - 356

    I am interested in info on sewing knit fabrics, I would love to see a post about that. I am always seeing super cute thermal fabrics and need some inspiration on what I could do with them!

  357. Posted by: jacquie - 10/19/2008 - 357

    congrats on 6 months. i learn sooo much from your posts. i’m really interested in vintage fabrics…maybe you could help us find out how old fabrics are…how to research about vintage fabric. i found a bolt of wamsutta studio print and i’d love to know more about it, but i don’t have a clue how to start.

  358. Posted by: upstatelisa - 10/19/2008 - 358

    congratulations! I would love to know how everyone’s patterns, ideas come to fruition! very inspiring!

  359. Posted by: Daphne - 10/19/2008 - 359

    Congrats on six months–I’m happy you launched this wonderful blog. My question is basically more about the industry: who does the forecasting? how do they make decisions about colors, weights, styles, etc.? is it tied into fashion forecasting? how has the crafting boom affected manufacturers? I think this has been touched on here and elsewhere but I’m still quite curious. I love the focus on indie designers and printmakers here, but we still all go shop for the bigger designers at the chain (and local quilt) shops, and I’m curious about where I fit in their supply chain, if you know what I mean.

    Thank you!!!

  360. Posted by: metrosupial designs - 10/19/2008 - 360

    I just found your site and haven’t had time to poke around much yet. Looks fun.

    I always am drawn to large scale flower prints and keep thinking I need to diversify my stash. Some tips on breaking out of the rut would be useful. Some info on scale and values.

  361. Posted by: LisaW - 10/19/2008 - 361

    Congrats! I only recently found your site, but I’m really enjoying it! I’d love to see more simple, clean lines and beginning quilting ideas. Thanks!

  362. Posted by: donna - 10/19/2008 - 362

    Congrats on 6 months :-) I would love to see more on Japanese prints. Keep up the wonderful work.

  363. Posted by: Heidi Gagne - 10/19/2008 - 363

    Happy half-anniversary!
    You really seem to have most things already covered here.
    I would love to see more vintage spotlights, with submissions from readers on their best vintage fabric (I have an amazing piece with Hunter S. Thompson-esque imagery including JFK on it dating from the late 60s that is dying for some eyes to view it).
    Would also love to see what some people have MADE with their vintage bits, since I still don’t have the guts to cut into most of mine.

  364. Posted by: Carrie - 10/19/2008 - 364

    Congrats on 6 great months! I’d love to see a week on “The One That Got Away” – that fabric you loved, but delayed getting and then it went out of print and became impossible to find and you’ve been kicking yourself about it ever since. For me it’s that Paint-by-Numbers bird fabric by Moda. What was I thinking??

    I’d also be interested to know why, if a fabric is a big seller, it goes out of print. For the love of God, why?

  365. Posted by: Ellen - 10/19/2008 - 365

    How about fabrics from India and tea towel prints?

  366. Posted by: Mary - 10/19/2008 - 366

    Congrats on 6 months of True Up!

    I’m interested in historical fabric processes – possibly a feature about how fabrics and garments were created in the days of yore?

  367. Posted by: Margie - 10/19/2008 - 367

    I would love a cool way to make children’s clothing out of second hand finds.

  368. Posted by: Bonnie Nyquist - 10/19/2008 - 368

    Congrats of 6 mo! Your site is great! I would love to know more tricks to sewing with Minkee. Love the look of it,hate sewing with it,there must be more tricks to it!

  369. Posted by: Ursa - 10/19/2008 - 369

    Hi. Discovered your website through Pink Chalk. Can’t wait to take more time and read your fabulous blog.
    For a suggestion. How about matching solid color fabric with patterned ones. How to not overwhelm projects. Thank you.

  370. Posted by: Anne - 10/19/2008 - 370

    Gosh, I love so much about your site – it’s hard to come up with something to suggest! I think my favorite posts are ones with how-to’s or process information. Right now I’m amassing a large amount of fabric scraps, so I guess any information on how to deal with scraps – either organizationally or ways to use them up – would be really extra super cool icing on the top of an already really aweseome blog.

  371. Posted by: MamaChanga - 10/20/2008 - 371

    Congratulations on your milestone!

    I’m new, sent over from Pink Chalk! Since I’m a newbie to sewing are there any specific books you can recommend or any specific tips for newbies?

    Thanks!

  372. Posted by: Betsy Bush - 10/20/2008 - 372

    A review of a wonderful new book by India Flint called “Eco Colour” published by Murdoch Publishing in Australia. It is a beautifully presented book about dying fabric using natural dyes.

    Have a look at it anyway even if you think that this is a bit far from your websites direction – There are quite a few quilters in Australia who are using natural dyed fabrics to create quilts.

  373. Posted by: Shasta - 10/20/2008 - 373

    Congratulations on your half year anniversary! You have such a great site, I’m not sure if I can offer any good suggestions – so I suggest more of the same. Stuff for beginners, especially how to select fabric, stuff for experienced people letting us know the latest and greatest trends, book reviews, whatever.

  374. Posted by: Richard Freeman - 10/20/2008 - 374

    Howdy there, well done on the anniversary and having some great sponsors there!

    In terms of new posts, do you ever do anything on either getting hold of recycled fabrics or how to get crazy left-field stuff like fireproof cotton? (well, you need something fairly heavy duty for tipis I am afraid :-) )

    Thanks, Richard

  375. Posted by: Jessica Dougherty - 10/20/2008 - 375

    what an awesome giveaway! my website, funky finds, features lots of great indie designers, artists & crafters you could gain inspiration from for an upcoming contest! http://funkyfinds.us

  376. Posted by: Karen - 10/20/2008 - 376

    Love your site! I just found it over a week ago and I am absolutely hooked – had to go back and read every post.

    My love of fabric is emotional. One of my favorite things is to look through my stash, especially the scraps, and be reminded of the projects I worked on with it, why I was making it (gift for a friend? inspired idea? crazy school project?). I also love how fabric can create an emotional connection. Flannel? Soft and cuddly, make you wants to settle down and relax. Velvet? Luxurious and regal, makes you want to show off. Even prints can inspire feelings of everything from “so cute!” to “totally modern and hip”. They can bring you back to your childhood or having your dreaming about the style you want to have.

    Anyway, sorry for the rambling. What I’d love to see is some interviews from designers about the inspiration for their fabrics… or comments from you or readers about memories on loving fabric as a child… things like that to combine the technical and aesthetic beauty with the emotional power of fabric and design.

  377. Posted by: Nicole - 10/20/2008 - 377

    How exciting! I would love to see more about organizing and using up all of the fabric in my stash. Keep up the great work!

  378. Posted by: Amy - 10/20/2008 - 378

    Congratulations! Your site is an inspiration.

    My favorite fabric topics lately are Japanese kid-oriented themes (I adore the fairy-tale prints), vintage embroidery, vintage sheets, and linen.

  379. Posted by: Lori - 10/20/2008 - 379

    Wow! This site is new to me and it is full of wonderful fabrics and great information. From what I’ve read you’ve covered a lot of information. It’ll take me days to go back and read! I’ve bookmarked your site and will return often. Congrats on 6 months!!
    Lori

  380. Posted by: aSprinkling - 10/20/2008 - 380

    Ok. Let me just say that I haven’t read your blog before. But Pink Chalk Studio pointed me this way. Honestly, I’m just really getting into very much sewing and could use some fabric for a stash starter. So…I’m sure that I would have no good ideas about where to send you. But what would help me would be a discussion of how to select fabrics to coordinate for a single project. I’m just no good at it. Give me the selection and I can make something that looks nice, but the picking is hard.

  381. Posted by: Linda - 10/20/2008 - 381

    Congratulations! May we help you celebrate many more!

    I would love to see more on applique quilting and ideas for it – especially with an indie edge.

  382. Posted by: Alexis - 10/20/2008 - 382

    6 Months certainly is a MILESTONE. Remembering when my website went “live” I recall how each day seemed like a milestone. It is all a lot of fun but also a little unnerving trying to remember all the things you must do.
    As for “ideas” I personally like to read about two subjects. One is using fabrics from my stash and the other is finding great ideas for small projects that are relatively quick to make, attractive and suitable for gifts for many occasions. That way I can have items made up and ready when I need a gift on short notice.
    Keep up the great work.

    Alexis

  383. Posted by: MegVS - 10/20/2008 - 383

    Congrats! What about featuring patterns that are done by some of the fabulous fabric designers like Sandi Henderson, Amy Butler, Anna Maria Horner, etc ?

  384. Posted by: Sue Cook - 10/20/2008 - 384

    How about some sort of challenge? One of your advertisers can put a group of fabrics together and your readers can purchase a kit to do a project.

  385. Posted by: Pati C. - 10/20/2008 - 385

    Great idea for a contest. How about a bit on African Mud Cloth? or the difference between a “hand dyed” and a true, Batik?

    Thanks,
    Pati

  386. Posted by: Darcy - 10/20/2008 - 386

    I love to appliqué, I know thats a little strange, but I find it so rewarding and satisfying. My suggestion is in regards to the technology surfacing in sewing/quilting and in particular appliqué. Fusible this and thats, wash away whatcha call its, there are lots of materials out there and so much you can do with them. Appliqué doesn’t have to be scary or really time consuming. Congrats on your anniversary, here’s to many more.

  387. Posted by: outi - 10/20/2008 - 387

    Love your blog and your contest sponsors! How about something on linsey/woolsey.It is a very American historical fabric . I understand they currently only weave the fabric for museum and restoration purposes yet I own a jacket by Eileen Fisher that is 59% wool and 41% linen. Does anyone make it for retail sale? Very curious.Keep up the good work.

  388. Posted by: Sam - 10/20/2008 - 388

    I love your blog! So much inspiration.

    I’d love to learn more about color theory, both in how fabric designers make their color choices and how to effectively choose colors for projects, especially quilts.

    Thanks for such a great resource!

  389. Posted by: Paper Dolls for Boys - 10/20/2008 - 389

    Thanks so much for gathering the information all of us addicted to fabric crave! I’d say your going strong and I can’t think of any suggestions for improvement except maybe featuring more vintage fabric and giving us an idea of what it’s worth. I’m trying to learn more about pricing vintage fabrics and I think you’d be a great source!

    Congratulations on your half anniversary, I’m sending you a virtual half cake with a beautiful paisley print (not too garish).

    Cheers,
    Tracey

  390. Posted by: Beth - 10/20/2008 - 390

    What a great giveaway! I’m a new reader so please forgive if you’ve written about this before, but I am really interested in the creative process fabric designers employ: inspiration, creating design documents, how they know what will work on the fabric, etc.

    Thanks!

  391. Posted by: Angela - 10/20/2008 - 391

    Congratulations! Love your blog. I’d like to see something about African fabric (where to buy) and perhaps African-inspired quilts in general. Thanks so much!

  392. Posted by: Jennie C. - 10/20/2008 - 392

    Wow – thanks for the fab giveaway. What about featuring some vintage pre-printed fabric panels. I have several that I inherited my grandmother and I don’t know what to do with them. There’s some little dolls with clothes and a big red gingham dog. Tote bags, aprons … some fun ideas would be great.

  393. Posted by: Peggie - 10/20/2008 - 393

    I’d like to know more about vintage southwestern fabrics–Arizona, California, New Mexico

  394. Posted by: Stacey - 10/21/2008 - 394

    Happy Anniversary!

    What great prizes. I’d be interested in information about knit fabrics for clothing. Nice ones like in the Ottobre magazine.

  395. Posted by: Robin - 10/21/2008 - 395

    I’d really enjoy learning about fabrics and weight — 10 oz. fabric vs. 6 oz — that sort of thing.
    Color theory and scale would be great, too.
    Happy Anniversary!

  396. Posted by: Liz B - 10/21/2008 - 396

    I have only recently discovered your blog but I am really enjoying it. I can live vicariously through all the fabrics you post that I will never have access to! A suggestion I have would be to show ironic uses of fabric–a meat print fabric used to make a vegan’s lunchbag, a retro pin-up print used to make a cozy for a modern gadget…

  397. Posted by: Rose - 10/21/2008 - 397

    Six months!That is fantastic. Congratulations.
    I’d like to see more about colour – vintage vs modern fabrics, it would be fun to see how the palette’s changing.

  398. Posted by: Jo Ann - 10/21/2008 - 398

    Congrats on your 6 month blogaversary. I have trouble visualizing what my end product will be when I just have a rough idea and swatches of fabric. And I hate to waste fabric and time. Anything you can offer to help me see the end result would be great.

  399. Posted by: Betsy - 10/21/2008 - 399

    Love your blog. I haven’t read all of your many comments on this post so I don’t know if this has been suggested before but what about a series of posts on vintage upholstery fabrics? Some of them are so cool. Thanks!

  400. Posted by: Ashley - 10/21/2008 - 400

    Love your blog! Congrats on the 6 month anniversary… this is quite a giveaway, and even though I’ve never won, I’m going to hope that this is the one! I’m so intrigued by the printing process – behind the scenes kind of stuff. Maybe others would find this interesting as well?

  401. Posted by: Judy - 10/21/2008 - 401

    Hi there, I’m new here. Came over by Pink Chalks suggestion. I’d like to know what makes a fabric shop successful. Thanks!

  402. Posted by: patty - 10/21/2008 - 402

    Congrats 6 months that is great. There are times that I foolishly don’t purchase enough fabric. Having a list of avenues to research how to find more would be great. I have a fabric currently that I am looking for and on the selvage all I have is 1 by Diana L….. and I would love to find it or the manufacture.

    Great blog, keep it up.

  403. Posted by: Janice - 10/21/2008 - 403

    Congrats on “3 and a half years” ;) I would love to know more about color/pattern combinations…how to successfully achieve them. Seems everyone else does it and it looks like they were meant to be. I do it and it looks…wellll, like they should probably end their relationship.

  404. Posted by: becky - 10/21/2008 - 404

    Hi! Congrats on the anniversary!

    I’ve been loving tuning in to your site, right up my alley… I’d like to 2nd the interest in fabric calender/towels, i love those. I also delight in anything focused on simple storage ideas (for the rest of my art stash, as well as the fabric!!)

    thanks so much for your labor of love here.

  405. Posted by: Lindsey@A Kindred Spirits Thoughts - 10/21/2008 - 405

    Hmmm well I love owls so maybe an owl themed week? Thanks for the giveaway and congrats! (I’m in America by the way)

    Lindsey

  406. Posted by: Elizabeth - 10/21/2008 - 406

    Congratulations! I would love to see more on the process a designer goes through to create their fabric line.

  407. Posted by: Helen stubbings - 10/21/2008 - 407

    I’d like to read more about the fabric design process. How do designers draw,paint, colour, present their submissions etc…Helen

  408. Posted by: Sally - 10/21/2008 - 408

    I would love to see some “boy designs” featured. There are so many great fabrics, patterns, designs for girls, and since I have two boys, I’d love to see some boy stuff highlighted.

    Thanks!!!

  409. Posted by: Tiffany - 10/21/2008 - 409

    What have you learned about yourself & your art in the past six months because of this blog? :)

  410. Posted by: Lori Alberti - 10/21/2008 - 410

    It is great to find a blog that covers a variety of subjects and entertains the idea that your readers have valuable input. I have a couple patterns I have designed and hope to someday find a venue which includes distribution to schools and home economic classes. Do you have suggestions on fabric lines that the younger generation are purchasing?

  411. Posted by: Zarina - 10/21/2008 - 411

    Just found out and still can squeeze in before closing time (its nearly noon Oct 22 here in Malaysia.

    I agree with one comment – if you could provide the whole process from the designing of the fabric to the printing. Who knows, you may have another fabric designer here.

  412. Posted by: Peggy Welchert - 10/21/2008 - 412

    This is my first visit to your blog, but I can tell you it will not be my last. I learned so much in just a few minutes and I studied textiles when I was in college many years ago.

    I would like to see information about using vintage fabrics from different era’s together in one project. Maybe to also include modern fabrics with vintage to allow decorating to be more flexible.

  413. Posted by: laura west kong - 10/22/2008 - 413

    How about a contest where people create their own fabrics to go with a specific fabric line and use them together in a quilt?

  414. Posted by: Joyce Levengood - 10/22/2008 - 414

    How about an article on mixing and matching fabric scale

  415. Posted by: Cindy Ericsson - 10/22/2008 - 415

    I love everything I’ve read here — keep it coming! I would love to see more on Marimekko-type prints.

  416. Posted by: kimberly - 10/22/2008 - 416

    Congratulations! I had two ideas – but they’ve both already been mentioned :) . I’d like to see more about matching thread colors/types with different fabric choices, the difference a pattern repeat/size makes on the finish product, and some “tried and true” methods of doing some tricky items. Thanks again!

  417. Posted by: Jennifer Ladd - 10/22/2008 - 417

    Your site is GREAT! I would love to see more designer interviews! But I love all the fabric you show me – stuff I would never find on my own!

  418. Posted by: heather hales DESIGNS - 10/22/2008 - 418

    I second the designer interviews please! Also, I would love to know more about the process of fabric design/making. I chatted a bit witht he ladies at the quilt shop and hear words like “grey goose”? How do they print fabric, why are some designer fabrics softer, smoother or tighter than others? I’d love to know how the process works.

    thanks to you and your awesome sponsors!!

  419. Posted by: Mary - 10/22/2008 - 419

    I would love to know more about vintage fabrics–how to figure out the age of things picked up at thrift stores, garage sales, etc.

  420. Posted by: Mary Beth - 10/22/2008 - 420

    Care for vintage fabrics

  421. Posted by: cristina718 - 10/22/2008 - 421

    May I suggest Ikat for the fabric of the week (unless you’ve done that already). I’m certainly in the market to find some cheaper alternatives to Madeleine Weinrib’s gorgeous fabrics.
    Thanks
    A True fan
    Cristina

  422. Posted by: Dot - 10/22/2008 - 422

    Kim—you are part of my early morning routine. I have been a fiber addict for years and currently work part-time in a quilt shop (retired a year ago from social work). I daily share your site with co-workers and customers alike as you are such a wonderful wealth of information. You first came to my attention when I was looking for information on bark cloth to add to a hangtag on some totes and purses I make for a local antique shop.(I like to give the buyer some inf. on the fabric in the piece they are purchasing).
    An area of interest of late is flannel which has become so different than it was as recently as 10 years ago—now seeing paisleys, bright graphic designs, etc. not just plaids and subdued colors. I think many would enjoy this as topic.
    Please, keep doing what you do—it is truly a joy.
    Dot H. (North Carolina)

  423. Posted by: Bronwyn - 10/27/2008 - 423

    Congrats on such an achievement! Can I suggest an article on types of thread to use; both for machine and hand-quilting – there is always such choice in shops but not a lot of know-how. Thanks for being so generous to your readers and good luck to everyone from me!

  424. Posted by: LollyChops - 10/30/2008 - 424

    How about tutorials or a listing of resources on how to make seamless patterns in programs like PhotoShop (so we can have our own fabric printed at someplace like spoonflower)?

  425. Posted by: Heather Shinabarger - 03/13/2010 - 425

    Congratulations! This is my very first visit to your site so I am unsure f which topics/fabrics you’ve already covered. I love seeing vintage fabric and the 1930s reproduction quilting fabrics.

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