Sunday, September 28, 2008

A Variation, A Thrift Find, and a Giveaway

I wanted to show you another little quilt I made that's a variation on the Happy Jacks quilt. For those of you who prefer plain, old pumpkins to Jack O'Lanterns, perhaps this is the idea for you!


I made this mini the same as I did the Jack O'Lantern quilts but instead of adding faces, I added some green wool leaves. This one will decorate my desk at the office, I think.


When I went to the thrift store the other day, I decided to get something that can be found in most thrift stores--a basket. Look for one that's sturdy and has some character. A basket can easily be turned into a decoration by filling it with some of your favorite seasonal collections.


Here I just tucked a small quilt inside, added a hurricane candle holder, pumpkins, Indian corn, and a few silk leaves, and then I hung a black cat decoration from the basket latch at the top.


Now, the giveaway. Leave a comment and I'll enter you in the drawing for the Happy Jacks II quilt I just finished. I'll announce a winner on October 1st! Good luck!
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86 comments:

  1. KimSeptember 28, 2008 at 12:33 AM

    I think the basket idea is a must do! I have a corner and a great basket too.. WOO HOOO! Love your Happy Jacks and would love it. Could even put in my basket. Thanks for sharing!

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  2. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 1:02 AM

    You are something else! First you give us very good instructions on a very cute quilt.... then you give away the one you made! What a generous person you are!!! This only happens in Quiltland! Of course I would love for it to come to my house!
    I will go to the thrift store today. Maybe I will find something useful...got lots of ideas from you!
    Have a great Sunday!

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  3. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:52 AM

    Hello, I live in Helsinki, Finland, we don´t have the thrift stores here nor we have antique mall etc. But I love patchwork, my children love Halloween, so I will do for sure your nice Happy Jack for them. Thank you for your perfect instructions. Have a nice autumn!!! Jana

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  4. UnknownSeptember 28, 2008 at 3:13 AM

    You have the best ideas, What a cute quilt. I have tried to win several give-a -ways but never have. I think I need to get MY name in this pot. I don't think anyone will think you rigged it IF I should win.

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  5. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 4:11 AM

    Kim you did it again, Gave me the inspiration to get this old butt moving. Thanks again. Pic me I love all your quilts. Sharon Mac

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  6. MichelleSeptember 28, 2008 at 4:24 AM

    Your Happy Jacks pattern is really cute! Thanks for taking the time to give us directions. I've enjoyed seeing all your fall/halloween decorations. :) Thanks for a fun giveaway too!

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  7. Marylin's Quilt BasketSeptember 28, 2008 at 4:26 AM

    Kim, It is fun to see what you are doing. I love your thrift finds. I did copy the Pumpkin Boy and got a Large white fram $5 Goodwill.
    This little quilt is cute. Thanks for all the ideas. Your Good. QH friend Marylin Tucker

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  8. NancySeptember 28, 2008 at 4:36 AM

    Oh, I could still have one on my door, even though I can't seem to make my own....I need to start reading directions all the way through...

    Would love a chance to win...

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  9. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:05 AM

    Your too kind too kind. Perhaps could work towards my advantage in scoring on a lovely little Halloween number! I'd love the chance.

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  10. ranetteSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:07 AM

    I didn't have time to make the "happy jacks" quilt but I would love to win yours ;o) The basket idea is a good one. Thanks.

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  11. UnknownSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:10 AM

    Please enter my name too!

    You just amaze me with how much you get done!!! I had all intentions of making this with you but other things came along this week.

    Patty

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  12. PiecefulChaosSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:11 AM

    The happy jacks quilt is so cute! I'd love to win it! Your thrift store decorating is great - I wish we had a thrift store closer to home. I have to rely on garage and yard sales but they are only on Saturday mornings usually :(

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  13. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:16 AM

    I'll wait until you don't pick my name and then I'll start on my own Happy Jacks, but I'd rather have yours.
    Thanks for the great directions.
    Chris in Sacramento

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  14. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:47 AM

    What a lovey decoration, I'm going to pull out my baskets and fall decorations and see what I can put together. Thanks for the inspiration.
    Please throw my name in the hat for the giveaway, who wouldn't love to win such a great prize.
    Sue Cahill (sbonetsue at yahoo dot com)

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  15. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 6:14 AM

    I think Happy Jacks is suppose to be hanging from my railing so the little Tricker Treaters can see them. Love your basket idea. You are quite the decorator. The problem for me would be where to store all these goodies.

    Linda Z

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  16. TamaraSeptember 28, 2008 at 6:24 AM

    Kim
    Once again you have managed to bring inspiration to many. So have such a creative mind and an awesome talent. Then you are so extremely nice to pass it on. I love your happy jacks and am keeping my fingers crossed that I am the lucky person choosing.

    Thanks again for your inspirational blog.

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  17. carolSeptember 28, 2008 at 6:43 AM

    What a cute little quilt. I have enjoyed reading your blog and seeing all the pictures of your decorating.

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  18. MichelleBSeptember 28, 2008 at 7:02 AM

    Okay, I'll play. I love your new little quilt.

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  19. Cindy L.September 28, 2008 at 7:06 AM

    Hi Kim
    Thank you so much for sharing the instructions for happy jacks!! Please enter me in your drawing!! I am off to the quilt store tomorrow to buy some suitable orangey fabric. I searched and searched my sewing room but NOTHING seems quite right LOL. Just doing my part for the economy! Picture my husband rolling his eyes and gagging!
    Cindy L.

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  20. JeanneSeptember 28, 2008 at 7:11 AM

    Please enter me in your giveaway. I'd love to have your jacks come and visit the ones I'm working on!
    Jeanne :)

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  21. MaryjoSeptember 28, 2008 at 7:27 AM

    Your jacks wallhanging is darling...love all that you share...hope I win!

    Mary Jo in Iowa

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  22. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 8:05 AM

    Please enter me in the Jacks give-away. Guess what - a brand spanking new (and huge) Goodwill just opened last week near where I work. If you ever get to Des Moines, you'll have to check it out!

    Wendy in Iowa

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  23. AnnaSeptember 28, 2008 at 8:06 AM

    love your pumpkins....thanks for posting the pattern....anna

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  24. dotSeptember 28, 2008 at 8:10 AM

    Your decorating ideas are wonderful. I will throw my hat into the drawing. This is a really cute happy jack hanging. Have a great day.

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  25. CarolSeptember 28, 2008 at 8:26 AM

    Please enter my name for the cute pumpkin quilt and thanks for the tutorial. I would have never thought to use the free motion foot for the wool, but it seems like an easy way to do it. I like how the little single pumpkin quilt looks too, it's going to be very cute in your cubical at work.

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  26. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 8:37 AM

    So cute! Thank you for the tutorial. Would love to be entered for the drawing :o)

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  27. ThimbleannaSeptember 28, 2008 at 9:44 AM

    Man Kim. You're so generous! Not only do you show us how to make that quilt, you give it away. I'm just astounded at all you manage to get done while working. WonderWoman you are!!

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  28. RobinSeptember 28, 2008 at 9:48 AM

    Awesome, as always! Please enter me in your drawing for Happy Jacks II!

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  29. PatSeptember 28, 2008 at 10:12 AM

    That quilt is a cutie. Please enter me in your give away. Thanks so much.

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  30. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 10:50 AM

    Hello all,
    I am a new quilter. The first quilt I made was a Halloween one...but it's still not completed. The cost of taking it to the quilter has had me put it aside. Currently, I've been doing tote bags, purses and wall hangings - projects I can finish myself.

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  31. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 11:23 AM

    Kim,

    I would love to have an "Original Kim" for my collection of Halloween quilts and your Happy Jacks would be perfect. I will have to get busy with your directions - very well written and photographed. Thanks for sharing your talents with all of us.

    Ellen, in KCMO

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  32. DPUTigerSeptember 28, 2008 at 11:24 AM

    That's a cool basket. I'm generally not much for thrift stores, but now I'm hearing about finding Lane Cedar Chests at thrift stores and that has me really intrigued. But now? a nap! :) Hope you have had a great weekend!

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  33. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 11:32 AM

    HI,I DON'T HAVE MY OWN BLOG BUT LOVE TO READ YOURS! i HOPE I HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THE DARLING QUILT! THANKS, DORIS

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  34. LindaSeptember 28, 2008 at 12:05 PM

    Hi Kim I love your blog and read it every day! I'm currently working on your pumpkin quilt--a four patch to hang in my interior window at work. This is actually a first--I don't decorate! Happy quilting.
    Lurking Linda

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  35. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 12:16 PM

    HAPPY JACKS QUILT IS SOOOOOOO CUTE, AS ARE ALL YOUR QUILTS, WOULD LOVE TO SEE IT HANGING ON MY WALL.
    THANX FOR THE CHANCE
    PAM B

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  36. TeresaSeptember 28, 2008 at 1:28 PM

    Oh, to win the Happy Jacks would make me one Happy Teresa - Please count me in!

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  37. CandaceSeptember 28, 2008 at 1:38 PM

    Kim, thanks for the fabulous tutorial! You are one multi-talented gal!! Please enter me in your drawing. Cheers!

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  38. Julie in the BarnSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:00 PM

    Well, heck. I'm late to the party! Please toss my name in the bucket/basket/crock or whatever. I've copied off the wonderful tutorial you gave us just in case I don't win. You are soooo generous & dang clever, to boot!

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  39. MelzieSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:38 PM

    OMG PICK ME PICK ME you can pick your friends, you can pick your nose. But you can't pick your FRIENDS' NOSES! BUT YOU CAN PICK MELZIE! ;) xoxo melzie

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  40. Diana BananaSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:40 PM

    Please put me in the drawing. Thanks for the wonderful tutorial!

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  41. LorraineSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:41 PM

    ooooh pick me....pick me......and I love the little "one pumpkin" quilt you made....nice to have something quilty at work!

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  42. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 2:49 PM

    I'd love to win that! It's adorable. And thank you for posting the directions. Very good directions, too.

    Amy
    abf3615@aol.com

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  43. SharonSeptember 28, 2008 at 3:05 PM

    Kim ~ I've been trying to get a quilt from you for years, so I should be the winner. LOL Your Happy Jack quilts are so cute. I love the basket you picked up. I've been thrifting and found 3 black wrought iron things to put some pumpkins on, thanks to your ideas.

    Lootysmom

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  44. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 4:04 PM

    I hope Boy Child picks number 44 this time! I started the quilt but I haven't been able to put a face because I don't have the ability to stretch and pin it for quilting yet. But if I win this, I don't even have to worry about it! :)

    Love,
    Your Thimbleberries Club Friend
    Imelda (imeldara@surewest.net)

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  45. PinkySeptember 28, 2008 at 4:49 PM

    Hi, I keep coming back to your blog after seeing your Thimbleberries Stars quilt. I keep waiting and waiting for those instructions...it's been an enjoyable delay. Love your pumpkin quilt.

    Karleen

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  46. RhondaSeptember 28, 2008 at 4:59 PM

    What a great find. I love boxes, metal, woven, plastic, whatever. Oh, and drop my name in for the giveaway.

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  47. PunkiePie (Jen)September 28, 2008 at 5:26 PM

    What a great pumpkin quilt. I love it. Enter me in the giveaway... maybe I'll be lucky!

    Jen :)

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  48. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:29 PM

    Love your blog. Love your Happy Jack's. Hope they can come to visit me! Minnie Stitches

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  49. UnknownSeptember 28, 2008 at 5:38 PM

    I am new to blogging and happened upon yours. I have been following it and enjoy the updates and the beautiful projects you make. Love your blog and your quilts!
    Lynn

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  50. JazySeptember 28, 2008 at 5:43 PM

    I love the basket idea! The pumkin quilt has been added to my to-do-list!! (like I need more on that list!)

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  51. quiltmom annaSeptember 28, 2008 at 6:31 PM

    Hi Kim,
    I went off to the thrift store yesterday - see what effect you can have - all the way to Western Canada- I bought a lovely seagrass basket for towels or a quilt project that is current_ I haven't decided which..
    I loved your basket and it looks great with the autumn decorations in it. I finally put away my Easter and spring stuff this weekend and put up a few fall things. It is amazing how much that cheers one up.
    I love the Happy Jacks quilt- who ever wins it will be very lucky.
    Hope work has slowed down a bit .
    Thanks for the great tutorial for the Happy Jacks-I am saving it for one day when life slows down a little. VBG I really like the variation of the leaves....it might suit may kind of decorating more seeing as I change things so often ROFLOL...
    Regards,
    Anna

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  52. UnknownSeptember 28, 2008 at 6:46 PM

    WOW - this is super generous of you - it's adorable and I like the mini one your going to have at work. Anyway please add my name to the ever growing list of people.

    Hugs - karen

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  53. Very MarySeptember 28, 2008 at 7:11 PM

    That's a genius idea with the basket!

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  54. MarySeptember 28, 2008 at 8:32 PM

    love your happy jacks quilt.....and wow I wish I could stick things in a basket and make it look so good.. when I get home from vacation you have inspired me to try.

    Love your blog and follow it regularly

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  55. JeanneSeptember 28, 2008 at 9:06 PM

    That quilt has my name all over it!

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  56. JanaSeptember 28, 2008 at 9:17 PM

    Love those lil' pumpkins! The quilts are darling!

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  57. juliaSeptember 28, 2008 at 10:12 PM

    Hi Kim,
    you're wonderful to share this tutorial with us and even more generous to part with its adorably cute outcome...I would be thrilled if I'd win...good luck to all who want it, too...;o)...
    Thx,
    Julia

    P.S.: I think everybody need some Happy Jacks...

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  58. AnonymousSeptember 28, 2008 at 10:17 PM

    Kim,

    Amazing as always. When you give something away, you get a bunch of posts! I like the latest version best, although the happy faces are very cute.

    See you Wednesday.
    Julia

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  59. louleeSeptember 28, 2008 at 11:31 PM

    Your basket looks great, very seasonal.

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  60. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 5:41 AM

    What an amazing woman you are!!! I am really happy to know you and call you "friend".

    Jackie in Calgary Canada

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  61. Beth in ALSeptember 29, 2008 at 6:11 AM

    Hi Kim - Have been following along and you never cease to amaze me with your creativity! Please enter me in your drawing - and thanks so much for the tutorial for Happy Jacks!
    Hugs, Beth
    bhambeth@gmail.com

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  62. AngieSeptember 29, 2008 at 6:15 AM

    Thanks so much for the fabulous tutorial! I would LOVE love love to be added to your drawing for the Jack quilt!! :) And BTW your decorating is just delightful and so much inspiration! :)

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  63. Mama SparkSeptember 29, 2008 at 6:30 AM

    Love the quilt. Sign me up!

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  64. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 7:13 AM

    Kim, Great job on the happy jack quilt! Please sign me up!

    Lizzie Swinney

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  65. UnknownSeptember 29, 2008 at 7:34 AM

    You've just gotta love that happy jack with the wink! and I like the one with the leaves too

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  66. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 7:42 AM

    Thanks so much for the directions and all your great ideas. Please enter me for your quilt drawing. I'd be honored to have it.
    Jazzy's Mama

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  67. Penni DomikisSeptember 29, 2008 at 7:55 AM

    Haven't been around in a few days and imagine my excitement when I realized you were no running a Quilt Academy. Cute pattern. I was designing one just like it this year only larger. Would love to win this one. Please enter me in the drawing. Thanks--- Can't wait to see more decorating also. Love the candle holders.

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  68. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 8:04 AM

    SEW cute...thanks for sharing. I will keep HAPPY JACKS thoughts until we hear the winner. Thanks for the tutorial. You are the best. XXX Annie from San Diego

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  69. SaraSeptember 29, 2008 at 8:29 AM

    I love your quilt. Please enter me in the drwing!! Thanks,
    Sara

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  70. SaraSeptember 29, 2008 at 8:30 AM

    P.S. I also was going to mention that I am also a legal secretary!! I enjoy your postings about the crazy things that happen at the office.
    Sara

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  71. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 9:26 AM

    Love your pumpkin wall hanging. Please enter me in the giveaway. Your ideas are awesome, wish you could do a giveaway on some of your talent and ambition.
    Kim H

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  72. JeannieSeptember 29, 2008 at 11:25 AM

    Oh my gosh! Not only do you give us the inspiration and directions, you give away one of your Jack quilts! Wow, what a sweetie! Have a great week and please pick me! Cheers.

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  73. RichelleSeptember 29, 2008 at 12:50 PM

    I now know what I want to be when I grow up.....You! You cook, you clean, you decorate, and finish up your projects. I want to be just like you!

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  74. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 1:07 PM

    I'd love to win the jack o lantern quilt top. I follow your blog daily and have been enjoying your tutorial!
    Peggy

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  75. DiSeptember 29, 2008 at 2:47 PM

    I'm still gathering my fabrics for this cute little quilt. Thank you for such straight forward instructions. I love the pumpkin with the leaves as well!!!

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  76. Tracey in CTSeptember 29, 2008 at 4:05 PM

    Love the happy jacks! They are so cute! I wonder if I could find some time to make my own? You know, it really would save me a bunch of time if you just pick my name! LOL.

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  77. AnonymousSeptember 29, 2008 at 4:09 PM

    Thanks for the tutorials and your decorating ideas. Love what you do. The Happy Jacks are just plain cute. I really like the plain one you did today too!

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  78. The Southern MomSeptember 29, 2008 at 9:25 PM

    I really like the little pumpkin tha's winking...sooo cute! Thanks for the tut!

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  79. DarleneSeptember 29, 2008 at 11:20 PM

    You knew I'd be here - were you waiting? Please drop my name in the bowl, bucket, basket, or whatever you're going to use and make sure you pull it out! LOL

    It's cute and I love it! Can I just have it????

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  80. Chocolate CatSeptember 30, 2008 at 2:30 AM

    Please please please count me in!! I'd love to win a piece of your work and i don't already have any halloween decorations so it would be well loved!!!!!!!!!!!

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  81. VickySeptember 30, 2008 at 6:14 AM

    I almost missed this. Imagine going away on vacation when Kim is giving away a quilt! LOL.

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  82. SandySeptember 30, 2008 at 7:35 AM

    Kim, first thank you for sharing this quick and easy pattern, and giving us step by step instructions. Would luv to give this Happy Jacks II quilt a new home.

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  83. AnonymousSeptember 30, 2008 at 8:55 AM

    Kim,

    I love everything that you do.
    I enjoy when you share at Thimbleberries. I am impressed with your knowledge on changing quilts and creating quilts.
    I like your blog.

    Sandra

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  84. ShelinaSeptember 30, 2008 at 8:36 PM

    Wow! 83 commenters before me! I too wanted to thank you for the tutorial. I was worried that I might not have enough orange fabric in my stash, but no, I have plenty. I hope to start making this as soon as I get my WIP top pieced. Please enter me in the drawing.

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  85. mamabugSeptember 30, 2008 at 8:59 PM

    This is a very cute quilt!!! The tutorial is also great but it would sure be better just to get a finished product :) Thanks for all you do. Kathie k.bugbee@att.net

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  86. NanSeptember 30, 2008 at 10:25 PM

    I just made it, didn't I? It's October 1st tomorrow! I would love to be entered in the drawing for that sweet quilt! I also like your variation on the happy punkins.
    Actually, I thought I was too late to be in the drawing and wanted to comment on that incredible basket you found at the thrift shop! I need to visit that particular shop! Of course, you and I would probably be fighting over the same things! LOL!

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