Snow!

As I write this post, most of the UK has been covered by a blanket of snow which is something that doesn't happen very often. The offices in Malvern got quite a bit as the worst hit areas were in the west of the country.
This was the scene mid morning.....

Thanks to Paul Williams for braving the car park to take the photo!

I live in the east where we got off quite lightly with only an inch or so of snow, but still enough to close schools early.

Judi and I are busy working on the March issue at the moment and this week we did some additional photography work in Judi's new flat which has a wonderful lounge with large windows. She's just moved again, not far this time though, but has been without internet access for a short time. We are so reliant on the internet these days that it is hard trying to cope without it!

Most of you should have received or seen the February issue which is out now; I hope you like the heart themed projects we put together for you. Making a project with hearts doesn't have to be for Valentine's Day of course, but is also a way of showing someone that you care.

One of the first main quilt shows of the year starts next week at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, West Sussex but don't forget quilt group exhibitions also make a great day out! We are always happy to advertise your local shows in the magazine, just email details to me. They also appear on the website too!

Seeing as it's snowy outside, I think a snow day is called for! And that means lots of sewing and quilting! I have a quilt top that needs a couple of borders adding to it but I am also being distracted by the  scrappy tripalong quilts that are being posted in Blogland. Check out Katy Jones' blog to see what all the fuss is about........
In the meantime, here are my two blocks I have managed so far

Go on..............you know you want to!

Joanna

December is so last year!

It may still be the week before Christmas, but we poor editors are surrounded by hearts and words of love at the moment (would be nice to be surrounded by chocolate too) as we put the February issue together before the end of the year!

 

The January issue is out now with some great projects to tempt you if you find some sewing time over the Christmas period.

 

 

The main front cover quilt is a quick pieced project, with a hint of applique, that is a great way of using those large scale Oriental prints that we all have in our stash but can't bear to cut up.

 

Another project that several members of staff have been drooling over is Mulled Wine, a cosy tweed quilt. Even it's name suggests snuggling up in front of a warm fire!

Most of all we are really excited to start a new block of the month programme, Hand Quilting for All. This is a sampler type quilt designed especially for P&Q by award winning quilter, Jacquie Harvey. It will teach you all the various techniques Jacquie uses in her quilts and runs over 9 months.

Judi and I are looking forward to taking a couple of days off (hopefully) over the holiday season as it has been a very busy six months adjusting to Di not working full time on the magazine. We all met up for an editors' Christmas lunch this week and it was great to see Di looking so well. She asked us to pass on her thanks for all the good wishes she has received from everyone.

Until next time.....

Happy Quilting!

Joanna