Treadle Yard Goods

Liberty Cotton Lawn

2012-01-15T16:35:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when we open the deliveries at work we get a sweet surprise, and this week it was a shipment of Liberty Cotton Lawn from London.

These prints are charming, and the hand of the lawn is just what I would want in a new Spring blouse.

Come on in and check them out, you'll be glad you did.

Happy Sewing!

The Treadlettes.

New Fabric

2012-01-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

We have lots of fun new things coming in for the new year, and the most fun one, in this blogger's opinion, is a line of Lorax fabric from Robert Kaufmann.

We have panels and some great coordinates too.

Stop by this week for more new fabric line updates!
Happy Sewing.
The Treadlettes.

Happy New Year from Treadle Yard Goods

2011-12-30T12:52:00.001-08:00

Treadle Yard Goods will be closed on Sunday January 1, and Monday January 2.
Enjoy your holiday!

Toys for Tots and Second Harvest

2011-12-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Please consider bringing in a new, unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item to donate to folks in need this weekend. We need to deliver our donation boxes on Monday, so you have 2 full days to still contribute!

Thanks

The Treadlettes.

Sale!

2011-12-13T19:01:00.001-08:00

Grand Meander

2011-11-30T09:00:00.001-08:00

This Saturday, December 3rd, is the Annual Grand Meander celebration on Grand Ave.

Come celebrate with us at Treadle Yard Goods with %20 off holiday-themed printed cottons for the day and a free Make and Take activity with the talented Nina and Olivia!

Choose a fat quarter at Treadle and then head next door to Treadle 2 between 2 and 5 PM to whip up a reusable gift bag.

You may also feel free to bring along a non-perishable food item or new, unwrapped toy, as Treadle is a drop-off site for both Second Harvest and Toys for Tots.

Kick off the holiday season with us at Treadle Yard Goods and don't forget to enjoy the Grand Meander activities all along the Avenue.

Post Thanksgiving Sale

2011-11-24T17:35:00.000-08:00

At Treadle we are celebrating the beginning of the holiday gift making and giving season with savings for you. We invite you to visit Treadle on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 25, 26 and 27 for savings of 20% on all fabrics and patterns. Enjoy 20% off all regularly priced fabrics and patterns and take an additional 20% off all sale fabrics.

Sew up a fun hostess apron, cozy flannel loungers, unique pillowcases or a warm Shetland wool muffler or poncho.

We have the ideas, know how and raw materials to help you find something for everyone on your list.

We look forward to seeing you this weekend!

New Fabrics

2011-11-18T13:16:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

First of all we enjoyed seeing so many people at the Sewing Expo last week. Thanks so much for making that day a success!

Second, we have more and more new and fun fabrics coming in all the time, and I thought I would highlight some of the cuter ones for kids that we received this week.

First, there is a darling group of fabrics from Quilting Treasures featuring the beloved children's story Goodnight Moon.

This panel would work well in a quilt or pillow for the baby's room, or you could simply mount it on a frame and have some instant artwork.

The other exciting new fabric line comes from Moda and Oliver + S - Cape Ann.

We carry these adorable fabrics in both flannel and cotton broadcloth.

If you make anything from either of these new lines of fabric, please upload them to our Treadle Flickr Group.

Happy Sewing!

Original Sewing and Quilt Expo

2011-11-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

We invite you to join us at the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo at the Northland Inn in Brooklyn Park on November 10, 11 and 12. Our booth will be chock full of wonderful garments and gorgeous fabrics. Several of our garments will grace the runway during the noontime fashion show.

Fashion Sewing Club will not meet at Treadle on Tuesday, November 8, or Saturday, November 12. The Material Girls will be taking their show on the road to the stage at the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo on Thursday, November 10, at 9:30 a.m. and Saturday, November 12, at 10:15 a.m. Their booth will be right next door to ours! We hope to see you there.

Missoni

2011-10-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

So my boss Mary has just returned from a trip to the big fabric convention in Las Vegas and following her are many new fabrics including this table full of Missoni knits!

There are still many new wools and beautiful knits on their way. Come on in and take a look!

New Stuff!

2011-10-13T05:24:00.002-07:00

We here at Treadle are having a little Christmas in October this week.

New and exciting things are arriving daily for the Fall and I'll share some glimpses here on the Treadle Blog for the next few days.

We'll start small today, in size at least.

We received some adorable new trims this week from Renaissance Ribbons.

Very fun for headbands or edging a little girl's dress.

On the left there is a hint of what's to come in tomorrow's post, so stay tuned for that!

We also got in these very fun bias bindings from Anna Maria Horner. Bias tape is so useful, but is often quite boring. These new trims are anything but boring and I can't wait to throw one into a project.

Now what could be coming to this empty table? You'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out.

Don't forget to come in for our annual Fall Sale.

You only have 4 more days to come in and save 20-50% on every fabric in the store!

New Stuff!

2011-10-13T05:24:00.001-07:00

We here at Treadle are having a little Christmas in October this week.

New and exciting things are arriving daily for the fall and I'll share some glimpses here on the Treadle Blog for the next few days.

We'll start small today, in size at least.

We received some adorable new trims this week from Renaissance Ribbons.

Very fun for headbands or edging a little girl's dress.

On the left there is a hint of what's to come in tomorrow's post, so stay tuned for that!

Now what could be coming to this empty table? You'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out.

Don't forget to come in for our annual Fall Sale.

You only have 4 more days to come in and save 20-50% on every fabric in the store!

New Stuff!

2011-10-13T05:24:00.000-07:00

We here at Treadle are having a little Christmas in October this week.

New and exciting things are arriving daily for the fall and I'll share little glimpses here on the Treadle Blog for the next few days.

We'll start small today, in size at least.

We received some adorable new trims this week from Renaissance Ribbons.

Very fun for headbands or edging a little girl's dress.

On the left there is a hint of what's to come in tomorrow's post, so stay tuned for that!

Now what could be coming to this empty table? You'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out.

Don't forget to come in for our annual Fall Sale.

You only have 4 more days to come in and save 20-50% on every fabric in the store!

Sale!

2011-10-07T14:43:00.000-07:00

It's time for our annual Fall Sale at Treadle Yard Goods!

Come in and save 20-50% on all fabrics!

For the first time in Treadle history we'll also have discounts on patterns. Come in and get some great deals!

See you soon, and Happy sewing.

Book Review Corner

2011-09-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

It's time for Book Review Corner again here at the Treadle Blog!

Our latest book is the Feisty Stitcher by Susan Wasinger.

This book is a lot of fun.

There are patterns for the usual, bags, pillows, wall organizers, but they're presented in a new and exciting way!

This pillow edged with upholstery webbing, for instance, what a great idea! I have always loved the look of that webbing and was a little sorry that it was hidden inside a chair.

Now you can highlight your favorite fabrics and bring the web into the light as well.

As we come to the more fall weather, these booties are definitely on my list of must-sew.

Even these simple storage boxes are made special and fun by the use of industrial snaps in their construction.

This is truly a unique book, even as more and more sewing books come out every week.

I would absolutely recommend that you add it to your library!

Time for Some Back to School Sewing!

2011-08-24T06:45:00.001-07:00

We're coming to the end of the Summer, and that can only mean one thing for Treadle Yard Goods: The wools are coming!

We have started receiving our fall selection of wool fabrics and they are wonderful!

There are lots more on order, so keep coming back for more updates on that!

We also have the new line of fabrics from Amy Butler

- the prints you know and love, but now in a lovely drape-y rayon and cozy and oh-so-soft corduroy.

Perfect for a Fall jumper or skirt.

Don't forget to head over to Flickr and show us what you're making!

Happy Sewing

The Treadlettes

Meet Elizabeth!

2011-08-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

We have just added another lovely sewing enthusiast to our Treadlette family.

Meet Elizabeth!

Be sure to say hi when you come in next.

Paws on Grand

2011-08-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 7th is the annual Paws on Grand event where your pooch can have a day of fun!

At Treadle Yard Goods we're celebrating Paws on Grand by providing doggy treats and water for your 4-footed friend.

For this day only, we'll be open from 12-5 instead of our usual 1-5 Sunday hours.

Also, if you bring in a donation of dog food you can receive a 10% discount coupon for fabric.

Head over to the Grand Ave Business Association website for more information about the fun activities up and down the avenue.

Lisette

2011-08-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Oliver + S designer Liesl Gibson has some new patterns out, and the big news is that they're for grown-up ladies!

The Lisette patterns are in the Fall Simplicity pattern collection and they are delightful.

When you make up one of these beauties, please post a photo in the Treadle Yard Goods Flickr group and we'll share them here.

Happy Sewing!

Tabbed blanket and burp cloths

2011-07-28T18:42:00.001-07:00

Tabbed blanket and burp cloths, a photo by Patty the Snug Bug on Flickr.

Patty made up these sweet burp cloths and tabbed blankets using fabric and trims from Treadle and other stores.

Matching boys

2011-07-28T18:40:00.001-07:00

Matching boys, a photo by creatively at home on Flickr.

Stephanie has made the sweetest collection of outfits for her adorable boys.
These are from Growing Up Sew Liberated, which we reviewed just a couple of weeks ago on the blog.

Ready for fishing

2011-07-28T18:34:00.001-07:00

Ready for fishing, a photo by creatively at home on Flickr.

This sweet backpack and hat are from Little Things to Sew by Oliver + S designer Liesl Gibson.

We're going to have a little display of the best of Treadle Yard Goods on Flickr now.

Our customers are so wonderful and full of creativity and we're so impressed with them all.

Enjoy these next few posts!

Book Review Corner

2011-07-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

It's been a while since the last book review corner, but I just couldn't resist sharing this new find.

Growing Up Sew Liberated is the new book from Meg McElwee, and it is a beautiful collection of clothing, toys, accessories and parenting advice.

You may recognize Meg's name from her other book Sew Liberated, which I reviewed in this space about a year ago.

Meg's genius for easy-to-follow and carefully planned projects is again highlighted here.

The projects in this book are divided up into 5 chapters -

Greeting the Morning

Bread Sharing + Homemaking

Inside Play

Outside Play

Good Night, Sleep Tight

In this way Meg guides us through a day in the life of a child.

There is a nice range of difficulty represented in Growing Up Sew Liberated.

From the quick and easy Reversible Hooded Play Cape

to the Little Amigo Cloth Doll

which is a much more labor-intensive project.

Don't hesitate to try the projects with a higher degree of difficulty, however.

The directions are clear, concise and designed to guide sewists of all levels through to a successful project.

The clothes are sized for newborn through size 5.

The accessories, however, would be appropriate for children up to age 10.

Meg McElwee is a AMI-certified Montessori teacher, designer and mama to two young boys, find more of her inspiring projects here at SewLiberated.

Just a reminder, as well, that the final day of our Summer Clearance Sale is tomorrow, Sunday the 17th of July.

Happy Sewing!

Sale!

2011-07-08T19:37:00.001-07:00

Come in to Treadle for our Summer Clearance Sale running from now through the 17th of July.

At least 10% off everything, with discounts up to 50% on selected items.

We would also like to remind you to come join us and share your love of sewing. Fashion Sewing Club is a monthly meeting (held the second Tuesday of every month) featuring garments, pattern modification and review, and the latest news in the sewing world. You will be provided tips, techniques and new ideas that are sure to inspire you. High fashion, chic wear, proper fit, machine embroidery, children’s wear and Home Dec are just some of the topics we will explore. Whether you are an experienced sewer or just beginning – this club is for you! Bring Show and tell!

The fee is $10 (however, your first meeting is free!) and can either be prepaid by visiting the link below or paying at the meeting. The next meeting is Tuesday, July 12, at 10:30 a.m., and again at 6:30 p.m, and is held in Treadle 2. Please join us for either the morning or evening meeting.

http://www.materialgirlsewing.com/fashion-sewing-club-schedule

Lou Lou Thi

2011-07-02T19:20:00.001-07:00

We have the new line of fabrics from Anna Maria Horner in the store, and I know you will agree that it is quite lovely.

Here is Anna Maria's description of LouLouThi -

Loulouthi is a treasure box of all that I love about flowers and fabric coming together in form and inspiration. The word loulouthi simply translates from the Greek as “flower”. But in an ongoing story, my cultural heritage has enlivened these fabrics with visions of needleworks in progress, the gentle tending of village gardens, and the luxury of living alongside everyday works of art. The language of flowers and floral handiwork has spoken to me since before I could thread my own needles, and this collection is my reply to all that beauty.

Such a creative woman, with a truly intentional design aesthetic.

As we have come to expect, her cotton voile fabrics are soft and dreamy, just the thing for a lightweight summer top or dress.

Please come to Treadle and choose one of these for your very own, but don't come on the 4th of July, as we will be closed for the holiday.

Happy sewing,

The Treadlettes.

Christine Jonson Trunk Show

2011-06-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

We are hosting a trunk show from Christine Jonson from now until June 26th.

There are many, many different pieces, in some cases 3-4 iterations of the same pattern.

Come on in and see the great pieces that are featured on the cover of Threads magazine.

The lovely garments in this trunk show are all available to try on.

Ms. Jonson's clothes are very thoughtfully designed and I am sure you'll agree that the designs are both interesting and flattering.

Happy Sewing

Grand Old Day

2011-06-02T18:31:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, June 5th is Grand Old Day, and Treadle Yard Goods will be closed for the occasion.

Enjoy a mini-donut for us!

Best of Treadle

2011-05-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

Rebecca has done it again.

Crafted from an adorable vinyl-coated cotton print, Rebecca sewed up the Little Splashes Raincoat pattern from Amy Butler, and she threw in a matching umbrella!

You could learn to make an umbrella like this one, just sign up for our April Showers Umbrella class!

You’ll be singing in the rain in your custom umbrella! This class will teach
you to recover an existing umbrella frame with new fabric. Rebecca will take
you step by step from analyzing your chosen umbrellas parts to patterning the
replacement cover to attaching it to the frame. Though it seems complex, it’s
surprisingly simple when broken down into the various components
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Fee: $65.00
Instructor: Rebecca Ballas
Saturday, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., July 16 AND Saturday, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., July 23*
*Class meets a total of seven hours.

June Colburn Surface Design Classes

2011-05-28T05:18:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to be hosting a Surface Design Trunk Show and two subsequent workshops with noted international designer, teacher and lecturer, June Colburn! Friday, June 10, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., we will host DELECTABLE DYE & DISCHARGE--A Surface Design Trunk Show. Then Saturday, June 11, June will teach Silk Dyeing, Over-dyeing and Silk Screen Techniques 101 in the morning and Designing Fabric with Discharge in the afternoon. Complete details on the Trunk Show and both classes can be found on our website at http://www.treadleyardgoods.com/classes.

If you've ever wanted to try silk-screening or dyeing/discharge, but were intimidated by the process, you won't want to miss this. It's fun, it's easy, not messy and you'll be hooked in no time. Take a look at the beautiful pieces that we have in the trunk show, I know you'll be inspired to create some wonderful things yourself.

New Fabrics

2011-05-27T04:45:00.000-07:00

Mary mentioned yesterday that we have lots of new fabrics in to inspire you to sew, sew, sew, and I have some photos to prove it today!

Rainy Day Rewards!

2011-05-26T18:59:00.001-07:00

Greetings Treadle Friends,

The long Memorial Day weekend is approaching and the weather forecast is calling for a fair amount of rain. I know, shocking, more rain??? We Treadlettes see this as a great opportunity to stay indoors, pop a pan of brownies in the oven and, most importantly, SEW! To put a silver lining in those clouds we are offering a new program, our Rainy Day Rewards. Stop by Treadle on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, May 27, 28, 29 and draw for a discount of 10, 15 or 20% off on all fabric and patterns. You may use the discount on sale fabric as well as regularly priced fabric and any in stock patterns. You must use your discount this weekend. Treadle will be closed on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30. We have loads of wonderful summer fabrics just waiting to inspire you. The weather is bound to turn balmy one of these days, right? We hope to see you this weekend.

Mary Daley

Craft Hope

2011-05-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

Many of you have already heard of Craft Hope, but for those of you who haven't here's the info.

Craft Hope is a website begun in 2009 and run by the tireless Jade Sims.

From the Craft Hope website "Craft Hope is a love inspired project designed to share handmade crafts with those who need them. It is our hope to combine our love for crafting and desire to help others into a project to make a difference around the world."

Through the efforts of Craft Hope orphaned children living in Guatemala have received their first dolls, school children in Liberia have received counting and letter bean bags, midwives can do their jobs easier in Haiti, and now the call is for blankets to send to the families who have lost so much to the Tornadoes in the southern United States.

Our quilting evenings for Quilts for Quake Survivors was such a success, I would like to invite you all back for an evening for Craft Hope.

Join me and bring your friends to make blankets next Friday, May 20th, from 6-9.

If you're unable to join us at Treadle, you can mail completed blankets along to Jessie at:

Jessie Rayot
255 Centre St Apt 6
Nutley NJ 07110

The deadline for Project 13 is June 15th. Please attempt to get all handmade blankets to her by this date.

Shop Hop!

2011-04-27T11:29:00.000-07:00

Best of Flickr

2011-04-25T22:40:00.001-07:00

Please join me in a collective Awwww, while I share the adorable outfit that our customer Karin made for her son's first birthday.

Nice work, Karin. Such a sweet outfit!

Please keep posting your photos of your great work on our flickr group page, we love to see what you're making.

Quilts for Quake Survivors

2011-04-16T05:33:00.001-07:00

We had another fun and productive night last night.
Thank you so much to all of the wonderful women who gave up their Friday night to iron, cut, sew, iron again, cut again and sew these quilt tops! Thank you also to the many people who brought in fabric for this project.
We finished these 2 quilt tops and many more blocks and strips to send along to Quilts for Quake Survivors.
The remaining fabric will be donated to local groups who make quilts for our neighbors in need.
Have a beautiful weekend, and happy sewing!

Quilts for Quake Survivors

2011-04-11T12:15:00.001-07:00

A big Thank You to the fine customers who joined me this past Friday to iron, cut and piece fabric for quilt squares to donate to Quilts for Quake Survivors.
And another big Thank You to everyone who donated fabric.

We'll meet again this Friday, April 15th, from 6-9 at Treadle 2.
Treadle 2 is our classroom space which sits directly behind Treadle Yard Goods along Hamline Ave.

If anyone would like to donate a completed quilt, you can send it to Seven Islands, Inc.
This company imports Japanese fabric, and they have a partnership with Patchwork Tsushin - a Japanese quilting magazine.
from the website - Quilts will be collected until April 30^th. Seven Islands, Inc. will ship all quilts directly to Patchwork Tsushin in Japan, where the quilts will be distributed to the people in need.

Seven Islands, Inc.
“Quilt Drive for Japan”
2444 W. 205^th St., Suite A-1
Torrance, CA 90501

Thanks again for your hard work, ladies, and I look forward to seeing you again soon!

Quilts for Quake Survivors

2011-04-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

We've all seen the devastation in Japan, and now there is something we can do together to help those families who have lost so much.
Quilts for Quake Survivors is the brainchild of Daniela and Susan (author of Modern Log Cabin Quilting).
They're calling for supplies to make handmade lap and baby quilts to send to Japan.

A quote from their website -
Why Quilts you ask? Because quilts stand for love, warmth, and comfort. Log Cabin quilting is probably the easiest quilting method, extremely economical and yields beautiful results. It also symbolizes the heart of the home – the center square represents the lamplight or fire in the hearth, surrounded by the “logs” or walls of the log cabin. We’d like to share this feeling of friendship, home and warmth with those who need it most.

Please join us at Treadle 2 on April 8th and 15th, from 6-9 to cut strips, assemble blocks and hopefully put together some quilts for this great cause.

We ask that you bring along your scraps, and any stash fabric that you would like to donate and we'll provide the log-cabin know-how.

See you at the store soon,
Jess

More Best of Flickr!

2011-04-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

This is Merica.
She designed and hand-sewed this ensemble, and on top of that she is a delight!
Please send us more photos of your creations! We love to see what you're making.

Happy Anniversary, Mary!

2011-04-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

We're having our Anniversary sale from now until April 10th.
All fabric has been marked down 20-50%.
Please join us for some great deals, and be sure to congratulate Mary on her 35 years of business!

April Showers Bring...

2011-04-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

the need for a new umbrella!
Come join Rebecca as she shows you how to cover a vintage umbrella frame with a saucy vinyl-coated cotton print!
Saturdays 1-4 April 16 and 23.
Call or come in to sign up.

More Best of Flickr!

2011-03-24T05:33:00.001-07:00

Our customer Karen made this dress for herself out of a lovely wool crepe.
The pattern is Vogue V1136.
I love the great details on the jacket.

Please join our flickr group and share your latest creations!
Happy sewing!

New Fabrics!

2011-03-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

Lots of new fabrics in the store this week!
We have the new line by Ty Pennington from Free Spirit, as well as these cotton/linen blends designed by Valori Wells.
In addition to these wonderful prints, we have a new series of prints inspired by the work of 1940s and 1950s textile artist Tammis Keefe.

These whimsical prints feature dogs, cats, even crocodiles in an array of charming mid-century colorways.
Please remember to share photos of your sewing and crafting projects on our flickr page.
It's always so fun to see what everyone is making!

McCalls 5094

2011-03-17T10:01:00.001-07:00

McCalls 5094 a photo by Patty the Snug Bug on Flickr.

Patty made this wonderful dress using McCalls #5094. It looks like she's ready for the Spring!

Check out Patty's fun blog, it's chock full of great sewing and lots and lots of inspiration.

Keep posting those photos in our flickr pool! We love to see what's on your sewing tables.

Book Review Corner

2011-03-08T05:29:00.000-08:00

It's time again for Book Review Corner.
Our topic this week is Sewn Spaces by Joel Dewberry.
This book is full of imaginative and beautiful projects for you and your home.
Beyond the usual projects like pillows or pajama pants, as great as these are in this book, there are also some unexpected gems in here.
These journal covers are a quick and easy way to give an ordinary notebook a little zing.This project to etch the glass of a frame is truly inspired. I may have to do this one in my own home.
Along with these wonderful projects, the photo styling is clean and very inspirational.
The color palate is calm and soothing, while remaining fresh and clean.

If you have any sewing or crafty books that you loved (or hated) please share them with us!
We'd love to review one of your favorites.

We're Going to the Islands!

2011-02-23T19:39:00.000-08:00

All of us at Treadle are having a little difficulty coping with this long, frigid winter.

It's time to fight back.
Our weapon of choice? DENIAL!
Join us this Saturday, February 26, for a day dedicated to the power of imagination.
We will be serving tropical punch and cookies, playing calypso and reggae music and dressing in our summer finery.

All fabric and patterns will be discounted 20% and you may take an additional 20% off all sale fabrics.

Join us dressed in your best tropical duds ( long underwear optional, but encouraged ) and we will enter your name in a drawing for a $50.00 gift certificate. There will also be a prize for the most outrageous getup (extra points for creative use of coconut shells).
Judging will be purely subjective and photos will be posted (with your permission) on our Treadle Flickr page.

We hope to see you for fabric fun and camaraderie as we thumb our noses at the weather.

Snow Day

2011-02-21T07:53:00.000-08:00

It's a Snow Day again!
Stay warm today, drink some hot cocoa, sew something cozy for yourself.
The Treadlettes will be at home doing the same.
We'll be open for regular hours tomorrow!

Book Review Corner

2011-02-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

It's time for Book Review Corner again, here on the Treadle Blog.
Today's installment centers around the new book from Elizabeth Hartman, of Oh Frannson!, The Practical Guide to Patchwork.
Ms. Hartman is a very prolific quilter and designer, and this book has lots to offer quilters of all stages.
The instructions begin with the basics, how to sandwich a quilt, what kind of stitching to use while quilting, basic color theory, etc.
Personally, I am quite a novice quilter. I have made them, but my interest lies primarily in fashion sewing.
I was introduced to all sorts of interesting things through this book. These binding clips, which look like hair clips (but will snag your curly locks so beware) are an innovation that was new to me.

Also, adding this tiny flap before binding makes a quilt easy to hang on a wall. Genius.
Now to the designs - These quilts are clean, modern and range in difficulty from Beginner, through Confident Beginner to Intermediate.
The best part of the designs is this: for every design, she shows her blocks in two more permutations, so you could take the quilt in your own direction either with color, or shape of pieces.

It's so exciting when a designer will hand the reins over, and encourage you to use your own design sensibilities.

While we're discussion quilting, I wanted to call your attention to our Beginning Quilting class coming up in March.
Come join Melissa as she guides you through the basics of quilt-making from choosing fabrics to assembly and and binding.

Happy Sewing!

Craft Hope

2011-01-28T08:24:00.000-08:00

Today I would like to call your attention to a wonderful group of bloggers who are making a difference out there.
Craft Hope is the brainchild of Jade Sims, and what began as an effort to do a little good out there has bloomed into 11 projects helping everyone from children at a Honduran orphanage, to a major online auction to benefit the victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

Their latest project is an effort to properly outfit midwives serving the many who are still without permanent homes in Haiti.
There is much more detail here.
I wanted to send out a call to those of you who have a little extra sewing time to join up and make some kits for these women who are helping mothers safely deliver their beautiful new babies.
Some good friends and I met last week to do a little sewing and do a little good.
We made tote bags, dolls, blankets and a few newborn hats.
We all thought of our own tiny babies when we were making these things, and filled the projects with love for the new babies who will use them.

Please head on over to Craft Hope and join their effort to make the world a little better.

Amy Butler Trunk Show

2011-01-16T06:37:00.001-08:00

Hi All,
It's trunk show time at Treadle Yard Goods!
We have a huge selection of her great patterns, along with the new fabric line Soul Blossoms.
The patterns will not be discounted this time around, but we do have a few pieces from the "Love" line that are on sale by the front counter.
Many of the display pieces are from Amy Butler's new book Style Stitches, we'll have a copy on the counter for your perusal.

Come on by and take a look! I for one, have a deep need to make this little raincoat!

Fashion Sewing Club

2011-01-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

Come join us and share your love of sewing.
Fashion Sewing Club is a monthly meeting (held the second Tuesday of every month) featuring garments, pattern modification and review, and the latest news in the sewing world.
Come meet the Material Girls as they provide tips, techniques and new ideas that are sure to inspire you.
High fashion, chic wear, proper fit, machine embroidery, children’s wear and Home Dec are just some of the topics we will explore. Whether you are an experienced sewer or just beginning – this club is for you! Bring Show and Tell!

The fee is $10 (however, your first meeting is free!) and can either be prepaid here or paid at the meeting. The next meeting is TONIGHT, January 11, at 6:30 p.m, and is held in Treadle 2. Please join us for the fun!

Cute Dress

2011-01-09T19:56:00.001-08:00

Hi All,
This week I was working with my friend Jess, of My Friend Jess, and she had the most inspirational dress on. It was agreed, that she just had to share it here.The fabric is a wool boucle made up in a vintage, 1970's pattern. In true Jess fashion, pun not intended, she added the tree and bird outlines in felt.
Such a striking and whimsical way to let a garment make a statement.

Please don't hesitate to head on over to the Treadle Yard Goods flickr group, and share your latest creations!

End of Year Sale!

2010-12-30T04:45:00.001-08:00

We've just received Amy Butler's newest line of fabric - Soul Blossoms. These new designs are really fabulous and are sure to sell out fast. A few examples are shown below. If you stop in before January 2, you can use the sale card attached to receive 20% off Soul Blossoms and an additional 20% off any of our winter clearance fabrics. You can potentially receive discounts of up to 70% off of selected fabrics (i.e., fabric is marked 50% off and you receive the extra 20% for a total of 70% off!!!). Our holiday hours are as follows:

New Year’s Eve - Friday, December 31: 10 -5

New Year’s Day - Saturday, January 1: 10 - 5

Monday, January 3: Closed for inventory

Holiday Hours

2010-12-22T19:33:00.001-08:00

Hello Faithful Readers!
Christmas and New Year's are soon upon us.
Below are our holiday hours:

Christmas Eve - Friday, December 24: 10 – 2
Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25: Closed
New Year’s Eve - Friday, December 31: 10 -5
New Year’s Day - Saturday, January 1: 10 - 5
Monday, January 3: Closed for inventory

A happy and joyous holiday to all!

The Staff at Treadle Yard Goods

THE ARTY T SEMINAR

2010-12-21T05:57:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to have Katherine Tilton back to present "THE ARTY T" Seminar. If you could not attend the September event, now is your chance. If you did attend the previous seminar, you won't want to miss this evening as Katherine has recently returned from Paris with all new ideas and inspirations. This event is co-sponsored by the Textile Center of Minnesota http://www.textilecentermn.org/.

THE ARTY T SEMINAR

Made from scratch or purchased Ts are a sewers ideal blank canvas. Let Katherine help you see the possibilities in a humble T with a designer’s eye. Straight from her limited production design studio comes a gold mine of information on how to incorporate easy sewing and surface design techniques. In addition to a gallery of Arty T-shirts, you will see up close how-tos including slashing, inset, innovative edges, combining two Ts to make one, along with adding the punch of paint, foil and discharge. Your DIY Arty T will look as if you found it in an expensive little boutique in Florence, Paris, New York or San Francisco. Katherine will also present a trunk show of her newest work: jackets, vests, T-shirts and pants.

Skill Level: All Fee: $25

Instructor: Katherine Tilton Location: Treadle 2

Wednesday, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., December 29

Katherine Tilton brings a light-hearted clarity, simplicity and sense of deep play to all she touches. A woman of many talents, she maintains creative studios in southwestern Oregon and St. Paul. She and her sister, Marcy, conduct studio design tours to Paris and San Francisco, exploring and playing in the creative essence of those magical cities.

Brrr

2010-12-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

Due to the blizzard Treadle will be closed today.
We hope you will be cozy wherever you are.
Happy Sewing!

This is What We Do

2010-12-03T05:29:00.000-08:00

We saw the opening day of our inaugural Treadlette Gift and Accessory sale yesterday, and I have to tell you, we have some amazing things for sale!There is much, much more. Come and see how talented my co-workers are!

Also, we have a basket for Toys for Tots in the store.
The deadline to bring in a new, unwrapped toy is December 15th. Let's make everyone's holiday a great one!

This is What We Do

2010-11-27T08:39:00.001-08:00

Coming this Thursday, December 2nd, the Treadlettes are having a little sale.
Come by to see what we all do in our time away from the store.
We all sew, but some of us also knit, weave, make jewelry, bead, embroider, and much more.
Our wares will be available to purchase at Treadle 2 on Hamline Ave, just around the corner from our main entrance.

Hours
Thursday 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Please come and join us!

Giveaway Winners!

2010-11-27T08:21:00.000-08:00

Our giveaway winners, as randomly chosen by the random number generator, are Comment #5 and Comment #18.
So, congratulations Tanya and Nicole!
Tanya wins the copy of Seams to Me, and Nicole wins the copy of Handmade Beginnings.
Thank you all for playing along, I hope you all have lots of fun with your projects, we always love to hear what people are making!
Don't forget to join our flickr group, to get your photos featured here on the Treadle Blog!
Happy sewing,
The Treadlettes.

BLACK FRIDAY SALE!‏

2010-11-23T05:51:00.000-08:00

Our fearless leader, Mary, bought many, many gorgeous fabrics at the International Textile Show in September. These wonderful fabrics need to go to good homes now to make room for new fabrics which are arriving daily. Enjoy savings of 20% on all in stock fabrics and an additional 20% on all sale fabrics. Get a head start on your holiday sewing, or treat yourself to that fabric you’ve been lusting after.
The sale runs from Friday, November 26, through Sunday, November 28. We will be open our regular hours - Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.

New Fabrics and a Giveaway

2010-11-19T06:36:00.000-08:00

We have just received some of Anna Maria Horner's new line Innocent Crush.
These velveteens are crying out to become a cozy fall skirt, or a couple of soft pillows for you couch, can you hear them?
Also, we have some new colorways of Anna Maria's Square Dance. The past incarnations of this fabric were printed on a textured, dobby fabric, this time around the print is on untextured voile.

To celebrate this great influx of Anna Maria's fabrics, we're giving two lucky readers a copy of one of Anna Maria's Books - Handmade Beginnings or Seams to Me.
This giveaway is open to Twin Cities residents only.

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment here, and I'll randomly choose the winners next Friday, November 26th.

Tell us what you're sewing, tell us about your stash, let us know how you feel about the recent snowfall.

Happy Sewing, and best of luck!

Best of Treadle Flickr Group

2010-11-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

You guys have been coming through big-time with some beautiful sewing on the Treadle Yard Goods flickr group and I have a few to share here.

First, we have this lovely ensemble from Julia at minecreations.
She made the Eclair Dress from Colette Patterns, and it is just beautiful.

As a bonus, she had enough silk left over to make a matching tie for her fiance!

As we are nearly half-way through November, it's also a good time to talk about holiday sewing.
We have a fine example here - Jenna made this advent calendar out of wool felt.
This looks like a great way to use up scraps hanging around the house!

We do so love to see what you're sewing!
Head over to flickr and share your photos too!

Book Review Corner

2010-10-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

It's time for Book Review Corner again!
Today, we have two titles from the lovely and talented Anna Maria Horner -
Seams to Me and Handmade Beginnings.
Seams to Me is a manual for beginning sewing, and Anna has some great chapters about choosing the correct fabric, finding the right tools, laying out patterns and beginning sewing techniques.

This book has a nice mix of whimsical and practical projects.
I would love to make this art piece, what fun!
There are clothes for youngsters, clothes for grown-ups, and fun accessories.
Handmade Beginnings is full of more wonderful patterns, many of which are for the pampering of the prospective and new mother.
Anna also has included patterns for clothes and accessories for the new baby and even some projects for elder siblings so they feel included in all of the family excitement!

Both of these books have an envelope of patterns in the back, and they are spiral-bound, so they stay open while you're working, a big plus for me.

If you have used any good, or not so good, sewing or crafting books lately, drop us a note in the comments. We're always looking for more books to highlight in our Book Review Corner!

Happy Sewing,
The Treadlettes

Spooky Sale

2010-10-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

Stop in for a look at our selection of Halloween Fabrics, now reduced 40%! We have many fun and spooky patterns, perfect for a trick-or-treat bag, or fun holiday-appropriate napkins and place-mats!

Lots to Tell

2010-10-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

I have a jam-packed post for you today!
First of all, the last day of our sale is tomorrow, so come on in. You know you want to.

Second, we have these terrific pieces from the new Vogue catalog, all designed by Katherine Tilton.
These patterns are quite versatilePattern #8691 was used for both the gray and brown tops, and #8690 for the v-neck tops.
We have this pattern in a solid and a stripe which really highlights the interesting lines in the top.

Along with these fascinating pieces, we have so much new fabric, I don't quite know where to start!

Yesterday our favorite UPS driver brought the new fabric from Liesl Gibson at Oliver + S.
We have 8 cotton prints, and 9 knits.
These fabrics have the same whimsy that we expect from the Oliver + S line of patterns, and they feel terrific! I may have to make myself a top, they're all so cute!
Add to that a full complement of wools,

and some wonderful fleeces

and we are set up for the fall!

Oliver + S Trunk Show

2010-09-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

It's Oliver + S trunk show time!
We have a small selection of their newest patterns, which also show off the new line of Oliver + S fabrics.
I just found out about a wonderful resource on the Oliver + S website.
Learn to Sew with Oliver + S.
Liesl Gibson, the creative force behind Oliver + S, has taken pattern writing to the next level, and really wants to educate new sewers.
Please go and take a look at her syllabus, it's great information and you'll have a wonderful new wardrobe for the youngster in your life at the end of it!

SALE

2010-09-29T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Please come on in and join us for our Annual Fall Sale, September 30-October 10.
We'll have 20-50% off all fabrics in the store.
On top of that great news we'll also be showcasing many of the fine patterns from Oliver + S, as we'll have their trunk show starting soon.

Picturebook Nostalgia

2010-09-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

We have some new fabrics in the store that should be of particular interest to children, or people with children, or people who used to be children.
These new fabric lines from Robert Kaufman and Quilting Treasures are sure to inspire a little picturebook nostalgia in us all.
Robert Kaufman brings us a line of delightful Dr. Seuss prints.
From Horton to the Lorax, and the Fox in Sox to Sam I Am,all of your favorite characters are represented here. There are multiple colorways, and a nice variety of patterns.

Quilting Treasures has delivered a line of fabrics inspired by the Little Golden Books.
We have the familiar back-cover pattern, as well as a panel to make a Saggy Baggy Elephant soft book. What better way to introduce a new generation to this classic story?
As well as being awfully fun for quilting, these patterns would be perfect for teacher's gifts, or classroom bulletin boards.

These are going fast, so come on in and take a look!

Oliver + S

2010-09-12T02:39:00.000-07:00

I mentioned about a month ago that Oliver + S was coming out with some new patterns.
Well, they're here!
A more delightful collection you will be hard pressed to find.
It really is difficult for me to decide which one to make first.
This company is one of the few that has truly interesting clothes patterns for boys, so I may just jump in with the Nature Walk pants and top
but I am also very drawn to the Hopscotch Skirt.
It is difficult to choose, but I think this dilemma is the best one to have!

Don't forget to stop in for a look at the Decades of Style Trunk Show.
These beautiful garments will be on display until the 19th!

Decades of Style Trunk Show

2010-09-05T17:36:00.001-07:00

Treadle is currently displaying the Decades of Style Trunk Show. Stop in to check out these fabulously stylish designs. The Trunk Show will continue through September 19, 2010, during which time all Decades of Style patterns will be discounted 10%.

Kids' Classes

2010-08-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hi, from Jess.
I just finished a fun Summer session of kids classes, and I wanted to share some highlights from the Advanced Beginning Kids Camp.
All of the students started the week by making pajama pants.
By the end of the week, among the 6 students, we had an amazing total of 11 finished pairs of pants, and one more nearly there.
In addition to the plethora of pajama pants, we also had an apron, one completed dress and another dress nearly finished.
These girls worked really hard, and I hope they're all really proud of what they accomplished in only a week!

Michele is working on the Fall class schedule right now, and we have a couple of kids' classes on the docket.
Come join us for a few days of sewing fun!

Time for an Impromptu Sale!

2010-08-19T19:53:00.000-07:00

Friday, August 20 through September 5, selected* cotton prints at Treadle will be 20% off! AND...take an additional 20% of all sale priced prints! Help us to make room for new fall fabrics, add to your stash, and enjoy big savings.

*Sale excludes Japanese prints, corduroys, cotton lawns & voiles, and printed cotton knits.

New Oliver + S Patterns

2010-08-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

The end of Summer is always an exciting time for us at Treadle.
The UPS truck brings new fabrics every day, Mary will head off for a trade show soon to see the new lines from all of our favorite fabric companies, and the pattern companies are showing their Fall lines of patterns as well.
Oliver + S, one of our favorite small pattern companies, has just released the information about their new patterns for Fall, and we just couldn't keep them to ourselves.

These will ship from Oliver + S at the beginning of September, and we'll have a trunk show of some of the new and some of the old garments in the Oliver + S line, October 1 - 10.

Mod Sampler Quilt-Along Front

2010-08-18T15:34:00.001-07:00

Mod Sampler Quilt-Along Front
Originally uploaded by Lemonade Bags

This wonderful quilt is made from an assortment of Treadle Yard Goods fabrics using a pattern from Oh Fransson!, the Mod Sampler.

Fall Sewing

2010-08-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say that the creeping of Fall into our Summer fun, in the form of school supplies for sale in July for example, irks me.
However, in the fabric world we need to start planning our fall sewing projects pretty soon, and Treadle has the goods!

We have just started accumulating the cozier fabrics for fall.
These corduroys would keep any girl or boy warm against a biting late fall wind on their way to school.
We also have some delightful fall colors from the folks at Moda and Alexander Henry.
This cotton lawn fabric is the perfect weight for a blouse to go under a comfy sweater on a chilly fall evening.

We also have our Halloween fabrics out for those of you who like to plan ahead, and yes, that is a little peek of Santa Claus fabric for you folks who want to plan really far ahead.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, we'll have new and exciting wool fabrics coming soon, so stay tuned!

Paws on Grand

2010-08-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

Come visit us today, Sunday, August 1, for Paws on Grand and don't forget to bring your four-legged friends! We'll have free treats for your pet compliments of Sojourner Farms and, if you bring in a non-perishable pet food item, you will receive a coupon for 10% off your fabric purchase!*

Come join the fun!

*5% of the day's receipts will be donated to The Pet Project

Best of Treadle

2010-07-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
This installment of the Best of Treadle is in miniature today.
The ever lovely and talented Rebecca has been spending her free time making a wardrobe for Gene.
The year is 1940, the place is Hollywood, California.
Whether out for a shopping excursion on Rodeo Drive, or relaxing on her hobby farm, Gene is always ready for the camera.

Please keep sending us your photos!
We love to share your wonderful pieces with our faithful readers.
Yours in Stitches,
The Treadlettes.

Little Birds

2010-07-10T16:43:00.001-07:00

Hi All!
It's Book Review Corner time again.
Little Birds from the Design Collective at C + T Publishing is a new collection of patterns for charming, fanciful, droll
projects with birds as their theme.

This one came in and was gone in the blink of an eye, but we just got in some new copies and I think I need one.
The little bluebird is so appealing to me, as well as the bird applique quilt.

If you have any books or pattern companies that you would like to see highlighted here on the Treadle Blog, please let us know, and keep sending in your photos of the great work you are all doing out there!

Yours in stitches,
The Treadlettes.

emmyback2.JPG

2010-07-02T12:03:00.001-07:00

emmyback2.JPG
Originally uploaded by chrisrknits

Here's another wonderful upload from a customer:

Modeling my sister's (a bit too big for me) wedding dress of my own design for her preview. She wears a strapless bra under this dress of Duchess silk satin, taffeta silk, silk organza, bemberg rayon lining all from Treadle Yard Goods. Her fiance and soon to be brother-in-law provided the guitar picks. I painted these a pearlized white and drilled holes in them so that they could be used for embellishment. The swarovski crystals and silver lined seed beads were in my stash.

New Fabrics

2010-06-25T06:31:00.000-07:00

Faithful readers will remember that Minneapolis hosted International Quilt Market about a month ago, and Mary found some wonderful new goodies for us there.
We received two new product lines this week.
Mod Kids by Patty Young from Michael Miller has just released a line of knit fabrics to coordinate with their already popular and whimsical printed cottons.
These knits are a nice sturdy weight, perfect for active children.

The UPS truck also brought us these wonderful prints from Birch Fabrics.
This fabric is 100% organic cotton and printed with low-impact dyes.
This line is called Circa 50, and sports prints of Eames-esque chairs, rockets, campers and rambler houses.

Happy Sewing,
The Treadlettes

Book Review Corner

2010-06-24T04:35:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
It's time again for Book Review Corner!
Today my subject is Sew Liberated by Meg McElwee.
In this time of books by bloggers there can be a gap between the excitement of the projects and the quality of the instructions.

This, however, is not the case with Ms. McElwee's new book.

First of all, the projects in this book are delightful.
The book is divided into 3 chapters -

Domestic Art :Projects for Making a House a Home Pampered Artist: Projects for Spoiling Yourself and Small Stitches: Projects for Babies and Children.
Ms. McElwee is a genius with applique of all kinds.
There are projects here for hand-applique, machine applique and reverse applique.
Each project has style and whimsy, it's difficult to decide which project is the first one to make and enjoy.

Now here is the best part of this book.
The directions are wonderful.
Beyond being a sewist, Ms. McElwee is an educator.
She spent years as a Montessori teacher before she turned to writing patterns and eventually this book.
Ms. McElwee's skills as a teacher shine through here in her directions. Every technique is clearly described and there are step-by-step photos to guide you through the process.
I, for one, am quite excited to try her technique for reverse applique on knit fabric.

Lastly, as we love the quilts from silk around here, I wanted to highlight one more project.The Silken Circles Lap Quilt would be a perfect project to try Ms. McElwee's directions for applique circles, along with some basic quilting and embroidery skills.
Come by and check out our selection of silk douppioni and add this to your list of gifts to make for others, or yourself.

As always, please keep adding your photos to our flickr group and if you would like to see a book reviewed here on our blog please leave a comment.

Yours in Stitches,
The Treadlettes.

Inspiring Projects

2010-05-29T18:27:00.001-07:00

This lovely jacket was posted to our flickr group by lettergirl (aka Gina)
The full quote is this -

The question is not how to survive, but how to thrive with passion, compassion, humor & style. Maya Angelou

The Treadlettes have been busy as well,
The lovely Jennifer made this cute dress from McCall's pattern 5851.

And our oh-so-talented Rebecca covered this antique umbrella frame with a vinyl-coated cotton using a pattern from a past issue of Threads magazine (available here).
So cute!

Keep those projects coming!

Quilt Market Weekend

2010-05-24T13:15:00.001-07:00

Hi All,
We're just breathing a deep sigh after a big weekend at Treadle Yard Goods.
This past weekend Minneapolis hosted the International Spring Quilt Market, and as a result we had a bevy of activity in the shop.
Friday we had a visit from Linda Lee from Sewing Workshop, and Saturday we had a book signing by Anna Maria Horner.(Shown here with some of her lovely family, little Roman was getting sleepy, but still the life of the party!)
We also had visitors from all over the globe.
There were women from Moscow and Australia, Colorado and Texas.
We also had visits from a few fabric designers.
This is Mary, our fearless leader, with Katie Hennigar, the designer of the Chirp line from Robert Kaufman.
We couldn't have hosted this particular event without the wonderful culinary talents of Meg and Mike.
Their tapenade was delicious!
Thanks to all of the customers who came and shared in the fun this weekend, and big thanks to our visitors.

Anna Maria Horner Trunk Show

2010-05-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

Hi out there!
As if it weren't enough fun to have our great speakers coming this weekend, we also have Anna Maria Horner's Trunk Show in the store this week.
Some of the projects are from her newest book, others are from single patterns that are available from the store, and we have the wonderful Baby Zigzag Quilt which is available as a free pattern on Anna Maria's blog.
Please come by and see these cuties in person!

Guest Speakers

2010-05-12T10:10:00.001-07:00

Hi all,
I just wanted to remind you that we're going to have some very special guests at Treadle next week.
First of all, on Friday, May 21 from 6:30-8 we'll welcome Linda Lee from Sewing Workshop. There is a $10 charge for this event, so please sign up in advance, either by phone or in person, because the spots are going quickly!

Then on Saturday, May 22 from 6:00 - 8:00 Anna Maria Horner will come to visit and sign copies of her new book Handmade Beginnings.This event is free, but we ask that you RSVP either via email or by phone 651-698-9690.

Hope to see you at one of these exciting events!

Colette

2010-05-10T18:00:00.001-07:00

I wrote about a month ago about Colette, the new line of patterns that we just started carrying. Since that time I managed to finish a model of one of their patterns - Eclair.
I used Kona Crush in Aqua and Anna Maria Horner's Diamond Mine in Pomegranate.
It was a fantastic pattern!
First of all the layout was very user-friendly.
It comes as a book with a folder pocket in the back for the pattern pieces.
The directions were well-explained for a beginner sewist and also had some great tips for a more experienced seamstress.

One more wonderful feature of these patterns is that they are written for modern clothing sizes.

Everyone knows that you don't choose the size you wear when you pick out a sewing pattern. Colette Patterns are now an exception to that rule.
Not only are the sizes true to the sizes you would by off the rack, but they range from size 0 to size 18, thus making Colette patterns accessible to all.
My only remaining problem is to decide which pattern from their catalog to make next.
Keep those pictures of your projects coming, we would love to see what you are making too!

New Fabrics

2010-05-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

Our UPS driver brought lots and lots of new fabric to the store this week.
We have new Japanese ImportsTake a look at the Goat who owns a fabric store -
And the little baking animals -
Also new are these beautiful fabrics from India.These are richly dyed so please be careful and hand wash your garments.

Shop Hop!

2010-04-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
This Thursday & Friday, April 29th and 30th from 9 AM to 9 PM, and Saturday, May 1 from 9 AM to 5 PM, Treadle Yard Goods is making their first appearance in the annual Twin Cities Quilt Shop Tour.

We’re joining 9 other shops to say the Twin Cities Really Cooks!

Each store will hand out a free 9” quilt block pattern, along with favorite recipe handouts!

In addition, each shop has designed a creative layout for the quilt blocks using fabric that represents their shop.

Because we are primarily a fashion fabric store, the lovely Anne used silk shantung to create our display quilt, and it is a thing of beauty!

Layout patterns and optional fabric kits will be available for purchase.

There are 5 Grand Prizes – 4 sewing machines donated by Valley West Sewing, A1 Sewcraft, Bear Patch Quilting Co, and The Sampler plus a Gift Certificate bundle ($50.00 to spend at each shop)

There are also 10 Second Prizes - each shop will contribute a unique gift basket at a $200.00 value!

Visit all 10 shops to qualify for these great prizes!

The participating shops are Bear Patch Quilting Co, Blue Bamboo, Calla Lily Quilt Shop, Fabric Town, Glad Creations Quilt Block, Quilt Cove, Rosebud’s Cottage, The Sampler, Silver Lane Quilting and Treadle Yard Goods.

We have some beautiful quilts on display for the occasion. We have two that came to us courtesy of Michael Miller, one by our talented customer Marilyn Ampe, who dyed the fabric herself, and the masterpiece that Anne and Melissa collaborated on, made with our wonderful selection of silk shantung.
We'd love to see you there!

modkid Trunk Show

2010-04-24T08:04:00.001-07:00

Treadle Yard Goods has recently begun to carry the line of fabulous children's clothing patterns from modkid.
Stop by soon to see the trunk show currently on display! Most patterns also have a matching doll-sized patterns for "just like me" fun!
We have most of the patterns in stock, along with many of the fabrics and coordinating ribbons.
Here is a sample of the beautiful pieces on display.
ava
nina
julia
kyokofrida

Best of Treadle

2010-04-20T07:10:00.001-07:00

This fantastic, inspiring photo was sent to me by one of our fabulously talented Treadlettes - Rebecca.
This owl fabric is one of our favorites, and Rebecca has used it to fine effect here.

You may also feel free to email me at bandjontheriver (at) msn (dot) com if you would like your work featured here on our Treadle Blog!

One-Yard Wonders

2010-04-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

In the last Book Review Corner post I asked for suggestions for this Book Review Corner, and there was a request to review One-Yard Wonders.Well, I am happy to oblige.
This is one of the more fun books out there.
The projects range from garments to toys, household necessities to just amazing ideas.
Rebecca Yaker and Patricia Hoskins (of Crafty Planet fame) asked only that the designs require only one yard of fabric.

Some of the projects are sweet -
Many are really practical -
And some are just ingenious -
This book also has a special place in the hearts of the Treadlettes, as two of the patterns come from our own.

The lovely and talented Nina Robinson designed a set of baby gifts, you can get a pair of booties, a bib, a blanket and a bag to hold them all from one yard of fabric!

And I (Jess Bandelin) designed a rocket ship toy.

One more fun feature of this book is that each of the designers has a bio in the back, and if you are a blog junkie, like me, you'll find that most of them have a blog to peruse. Fun.

Thanks for the suggestion Cecile!
Please keep those suggestions coming,
Thanks,
The Treadlettes

2010-04-07T13:08:00.001-07:00

More great customer work.
Keep those photos coming, we love to see your projects!

Lots to catch up on

2010-04-04T11:20:00.001-07:00

Well, as you might know, we're having a sale right now at Treadle Yard Goods.
We opened our doors in April of 1976, that make it our 34th birthday!
Please come by and join us in the celebration.
Everything in the store is at least 10% off, with some fabrics 20-50% off.

We also have some news in the pattern arena.
We have just added Colette Patterns and their line of 40's and 50's inspired garments are sure to be a big hit.
I have already found a couple that I would love to make myself!

Thirdly, and most exciting, we will have a visit from Anna Maria Horner in May.
There will be more information coming soon, but we can expect Ms. Horner to visit on the 22nd of May to talk a little and sign her newest book Handmade Beginnings.Anna Maria Horner has some beautiful fabrics out right now and one of the Material Girls worked up this delightful top with Little Folks Forest Hills in the Berry colorway.

Right now, however, it's too nice a day to keep blogging, so stay tuned for more exciting news on all fronts.

Sewing Green

2010-03-29T18:07:00.001-07:00

It's Book Review Corner and today we're highlighting Sewing Green by Betz White.
This great book is full of wonderful ideas from using recycled materials to making re-usable lunch bags and sandwich wraps to reduce your own trash production.
Some of the more fun projects are Tyvek Tote made from a Tyvek mailing envelope, which is then decorated by coating bubble-wrap with paint and using it as a stamp.
Totally brilliant.
A few of the projects that I have made from this book are the Reusable Sandwich Wrap, the Lunch Tote and the Luxe Baby Toy.
I didn't use a recycled cashmere sweater for the Luxe Baby Toy, but felt squares worked quite well.
The directions are very clear and there is a wide variety of projects to make.
If the Sandwich Wrap doesn't interest you, for instance, there is also a wallet to make out of old shirt cuffs, and a beautiful scarf covered in leaves which is featured on the cover.
All in all a great book, one I am happy to say I have on my bookshelf at home.

Do you have any books you would like us to review, for better or worse, here on the Treadle Yard Goods blog?
Please leave your suggestions and I'll do what I can to bring attention to your favorites, or the clunkers out there.

Shop Local, Support Local

2010-03-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Kwik Sew is a local pattern company in north Minneapolis with fabulous designs at reasonable prices. We currently have on display a trunk show of selected garments from their current catalog.

Stop in and check out these designs (and others in the catalog) before the show goes away on March 28. We carry the entire Kwik Sew line year-round and in this day when "buying local" is more important than ever, we think you'll agree that this is a company you have to try!

thurman skirt 1

2010-03-16T10:13:00.001-07:00

thurman skirt 1
Originally uploaded by lettergirl

Lettergirl, aka Gina, just won a contest at BurdaStyle with this masterpiece of a skirt!
Head on over to her blog for more info.

Make it in Minutes: Felt Accessories

2010-03-08T08:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to Book Review Corner.

If you stop by the store, you can see the fantastic lovelies made by our own Jennifer from this fun book Make it in Minutes: Felt Accessories by Taylor Hagerty.

The projects range from the very utile -
knitting needle case
coin purse
To just for fun -
gift tag
All of these projects are easily sewn by hand or machine, a fun project for a rainy afternoon, or (dare I tempt the weather gods?) while sitting on a park bench in this Spring-like weather.

Also, if we've whetted your appetite for felt goodies we have a class coming up.
Fun With Felt with Jess is scheduled for Saturday, 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., March 27.

Drop by and whip up some of these fun things for yourself!

Flickr Favorites

2010-03-06T18:29:00.001-08:00

Darling pajamas by Cecile

Don't forget to join our flickr group and post your photos!

Heather Bailey Nicey Jane

2010-03-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

We received some exciting new vinylized cottons yesterday, the Nicey Jane collection from Heather Bailey.

We also have the cotton prints
and they are just the burst of springy color that we need!

Jacket Challenge Contest

2010-02-19T14:55:00.000-08:00

The Fine Fabric Stores Jacket Challenge submissions are in, and on display at Treadle.
Come in and vote for your favorite! (one vote per person please)
The voting will continue through February and then a team of unnamed judges will choose the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.

New Model at the Store

2010-02-15T18:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we Treadlettes get to make models of our favorite patterns and hang them up in the store.
I have one in progress, but someone else finished hers this week, and I am happy to share it here.
Cute factor of 10.