Is This Progress?

On Saturday, I attended the Block-of-the-Month session at Cabin Fever Quilt Shoppe in Auburn. I was actually surprised at the number of people there. This is obviously a popular activity for quilters.

Kathy Sanchez, from whom I have taken classes and who is a great instructor, was teaching the class. There is a book that has 50 wonderful blocks all made from squares and rectangles. There is even one block with an ice skate design. Much potential here.

I was a little nervous as I drove up to Auburn. But, I was pleasantly relieved that once Kathy explained how to make the block, I felt confident that I would be able to make it. Having noted this, I suspect that the drill is to start with the easier blocks and increase the complexity each month (for 9 months).

I am going to make my block this week and am looking forward to doing it. Could this be quilting progress or just beginner's luck? I prefer to think of it as progress, even if it's a baby step.

As I worked on my floral lap quilt, I noticed that my long seams are getting much straighter. I had to strip-sew black and white sections together (5" x WOF) to sub-cut into smaller pieces. When I pressed the completed section, I was happy to see how straight the seams were. YAY! Now this is progress for certain.

I am thinking about a new sewing machine. YIKES. I suggested to Dear Husband that this would be a good Christmas present. I like the Janome brand, but think I need to upgrade. My little "Gold" has served me well and is very easy to transport to classes, but I would like a machine with more functionality. I bet this happens to all new quilters, right?