Category Archives: Checker Exclusives

New from Tula Pink

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This Tula Pink design features goldfish from her Besties Treading Water, it captures Tula’s iconic style and whimsical nature.

In case you missed it, Oliso has made improvements to their irons specifically with quilters and sewers in mind:

Oliso’s iconic SmartIron ® just got smarter! The new TG1600Pro Plus still features Oliso’s most-loved patented iTouch® technology. Simply touch the handle and the iron lowers, ready to work. Take your hand off and the patented scorch guards lift the iron off the board preventing scorches, burns, and tipping. It’s not only safer, but it also saves time as well as your wrists

FEATURES

  • Enhanced iTouch never-lift technology: lifts and lowers with the touch of your hand, preventing burns, saving your wrists, and saving time.
  • Diamond Ceramic Flow™ soleplate: superior heat, durability, and non-stick properties is easy to clean even in the stickiest situations.
  • 2-inch Detailer Tip: Perfect for seams, bias tape, + tight corners. Press under and over pleats, pockets, cuffs, and collars easily.
  • Extended auto shut-off: Extended 30 min standby while working for your convenience, 30-second safety auto shut-off if tipped over.
  • Triple play® steam: powerful vertical and horizontal steam removes the toughest wrinkles.
  • Fabric Selector: for accurate temperature control for synthetic, wool, cotton, and linen.
  • Built-in spray: Stubborn wrinkles? No problem. My built-in spray is a powerful wrinkle buster.
  • Anti-drip system: Prevents spitting and leaking while the iron is hot.
  • SPECIFICATIONS
  • Longest cord in class: 12’ cord with a 360° pivot.
  • Largest water tank in class: (12.7 oz/375ml) with easy side-fill door for extended steaming times.
  • 1800 watts power: for quick and even heating.
  • Weight: 3.7 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 11.7″ x 5″ x 7″. 
  • 3-year warranty: You’re part of the family with Oliso’s friendly customer service.

Note: Must only be sold in North America (United States and Mexico), as it will not work outside of these areas, even with an adapter.

Meet the new Oliso M3Pro Project Iron – tailor-made for sewing, quilting, and crafting, with the performance of a full-size iron in a sleek, compact design. Elevate your pressing and ironing performance with its innovative features:

FEATURES

  • ProLight: Patented LED light makes it easy to see and work on even intricate details.
  • Diamond Ceramic-Flow soleplate glides effortlessly over the fabric, providing quick, easy clean-up when using fusible interfacing.
  • 2-inch Detailer Tip: Perfect for seams, bias tape, + tight corners. Press under and over pleats, pockets, cuffs, and collars easily
  • Pro-Auto-Off: 30-minute on-heel and 10-minute horizontal stand-by for convenience and 30-second safety shut-off if tipped over.
  • Dual-zone steam burst: Independent front and rear steam zones; use them separately for precision pressing or both together for maximum pressing power and wrinkle removal.
  • Automatic universal voltage: Perfect for international travel, works with 120 or 220V without switching.
  • Fabric selector: For accurate temperature control for synthetic, wool, cotton, and linen.
  • Solemate™: High-temperature silicone iron rest allows you to place it face down while ironing and safely store it away, with an integrated loop for hanging.
  • Comfortable: Fits snugly into the palm of your hand for precision control and minimal strain on your wrist.
  • Easy-view fill tank: Top filling water tank with a visible water level.
  • SPECIFICATIONS
  • 1000 watt power.  220/240V + 110/120V Automatic universal voltage
  • Fabric selector: synthetic, wool, cotton+Linen
  • 8-foot, 2.44m cord
  • 1.7 fl oz., 50 ml water tank
  • 7.9” x 4.4” x 4.1”, 20cm x 11.2cm x 10.4cm (l x w x h) iron only
  • 6″ x 3.6″ x 0.3″, 15.3cm x 9.2cm x 0.8cm (l x w x h) soleplate only
  • 2.0lbs, 0.9kg
  • Solemate included
  • 2-year limited warranty

Designer Pack Ribbons

Brand new from Tula Pink, we want to introduce the newest Designer Pack – Fairy Flakes in Moonbeam! This pack includes 5 coordinated EverGlow webbing and ribbon prints – 2 yard ribbon cuts and 1 yard of webbing – to create a perfectly coordinated set! INCLUDES: 2 yards – 7/8″” wide Fairy Flakes in Moonbeam/Neon – reversible woven jacquard ribbon with neon and neutral colors 1 yard – 1″” EverGlow webbing in Moonbeam/Neon – bright yellow green nylon webbing 2 yards – 7/8″” wide Birds and Bees in Original – Sweet bees and swallows flying around flowers on a gold background 2 yards – 7/8″” wide Fairy Flakes in Cosmic/Pink – reversible woven jacquard ribbon with neon and neutral colors 2 yards – 7/8″” wide Birds and Bees in Cosmic – Sweet bees and swallows flying around flowers on a pale pink background The ribbons will embellish many sewing and crafting projects, from bag making to dog collars and add unique accents to any textile project. They are 100% polyester, washable on a gentle cycle.

The ribbons are due to arrive this month. The irons are expected in February, 2024 so place your orders now.

New from Cut Loose Press

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This is one of those patterns that you will refer to again and again! The ultimate pillowcase pattern! Hotel pillowcases cover the entire pillow with a flap that encloses the end. This pattern gives you the option of creating a pillowcase with a band or without in standard and king sizes. Why not make matching pillowcases to coordinate with your bed quilts? Now that makes a statement!

Snails Trail Mardi Gras is a variation of the ever popular Snails Trail Al Fresco (CLPJAW68). In this version, the diamond shapes are created with the Creative Grids® Half Rectangle Tool so each diamond adds even more interest and movement to the finished quilt.

Combining traditional Snails Trail blocks with these pieced diamond shapes creates this colorful version of a traditional Storm at Sea quilt. The Creative Grids® Square on Square Trim Tool includes markings to create the perfect-sized center four-patch. After that, creating the Snail’s Trail block is just a matter of color placement!

The Creative Grids® Half Rectangle Tool by Deb Heatherly:

The ever popular Snails Trail Al Fresco by Jean Ann Wright uses one fabric for the diamonds and the Creative Grids® 2 Peaks in 1 Tool.

Both use the Creative Grids® Square on Square Tool to create the Snail’s Trail Blocks.

Everything you need is in stock so place your orders now!

New Cut Loose Press® Patterns

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All you need is eight assorted 10-inch squares to create these two placemats and table runner. This stunning example of stained glass uses a technique that is pure genius. Clover fusible bias tape creates the stained glass affect so there are no tiny strips to sew into the blocks! This dramatic look is easy to achieve, even for a beginner.

Since the blocks are cut from ten-inch squares, rotary cutting is fast and easy so you can move onto the piecing in a matter of minutes.

If you would like to make an entire quilt, check out CLPCAM026.

Both projects require the Creative Grids® Scrap Crazy 8 Template Set.

The Clover Fusible Bias Tape comes in black and gold:

What a great gift for that special man in your life or to honor one that has passed. Daddy’s Ties, designed by Deb Heatherly, uses the Creative Grids® Kitty Cornered Tool (CGRDH5) to create the tie. Setting it on point brings the block to center stage. The tie and inner border are cut from one tie.

Deb has produced a YouTube video demonstrating how to prepare the tie to make this project. The link is shared on the pattern.

If you would like to make an entire quilt, check out CLPDHE038.

Both projects require the Creative Grids® Kitty Cornered Tool:


This quilt is all about color placement. By coordinating the fabrics in adjoining blocks, a star is born! The blocks alternate wide and narrow logs to add even more drama to the finished project. Since the Creative Grids® Log Cabin Trim Tool Duo can trim both widths of strips, the entire project can be done with just one tool!

Once again, this quilt is all about color placement! Changing the fabric location in just two different blocks creates the stunning secondary pattern. The flying geese pieced corners accentuate the pineapple design and gives the quilt a modern twist.

The center of the quilt is created with the Creative Grids® Pineapple Trim Tool:

The border is created with the Creative Grids® Ultimate Flying Geese Tool.

There are lots more Cut Loose Press® patterns to come, so check out the new patterns on the website often!

New from Cut Loose Press® Patterns

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Many of you already have these top-selling Creative Grids® Tools. Check out these latest patterns that showcase the potential of these tools.

This stunning example of a stained glass quilt uses a technique that is pure genius. Clover Fusible Bias Tape creates the stained glass affect so there are no tiny strips to sew into the blocks! This dramatic look is easy to achieve, even for a beginner.

Since the blocks are cut from twenty, ten-inch squares, rotary cutting is fast and easy so you can move onto the piecing in a matter of minutes.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Scrap Crazy 8 template set.


This quilt is a great way to use up leftover 2-1/2-inch strips. Combine them with some solid fat quarters to create blocks that showcase the wonky design. The inserted squares in the border add a modern look to an already striking quilt. The pattern includes cutting instructions for the logs to best utilize the fabric. Since the wonky log cabin blocks finish to 10-inches, you only need to make 12 blocks so you can finish the entire project in an afternoon.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® 10″ Wonky Log Cabin Trim Tool.


This mini quilt is all about color placement. Reversing the traditional lights and darks in the pineapple block accent the pineapple design. Placing the same fabrics in adjoining blocks creates the pattern. And the white space created when it is all sewn together creates a backdrop to showcase some amazing quilting!
Since the strips are 1-1/4-inches wide, cutting a 2-1/2-inch strip in half vertically is a great way to use up those leftover strips in your collection.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Pineapple Mini Tool.

The strips were cut using the white line down the center of a Creative Grids 2 1/2″ wide rectangle.

Everything is in stock so place your orders now.

Welcome Fall with Krista Moser

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I love how Krista’s mind works! How she combines 60 degree angles to make realistic leaf shapes boggles the mind. And don’t get me started on her fabric choices!

Fall in love with 60-degree angles with Krista Moser’s latest pattern, Fall Foliage. This pattern used the Creative Grids® 60-degree Diamond Mini Ruler to cut a variety of shapes including diamonds, triangles, and trapezoids to make these beautiful fall leaves.

There are two main blocks in this quilt, the leaves and the setting triangle units. These are made from simple shapes letting the fabric and shade do the heavy lifting to get the wow factor. This quilt is constructed into blocks first and then rows with no Y seams, making construction a breeze with well-illustrated step-by-step instructions. Finished Size: 57″ X 60.

The pattern is due to arrive later this month so place your orders now!

New from GE Designs

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Exciting News Alert! Gudrun has expanded her enchanting collection with the addition of two “Lil’s” to the line, and they’re stealing our hearts! Crafted with irresistible charm, these patterns are perfect for quilters of all levels. What’s even more delightful? You can create these adorable designs with just a package of 5″ squares, binding, and backing fabric! No fuss, pure joy! Assembling a kit has never been so simple! Whether you’re a teacher introducing students to the magical world of quilting or a seasoned expert, Gudrun’s techniques and rulers make it a breeze. What a fabulous way to dive into creativity and fun!

Saga and Mia can easily be cut with the new Creative Grids Stripology® Quarters Mini ruler that has slits every 1/4″.

Nikki is a great stash buster. Finished sizes include Crib 32in x 48in, Lap 48in x 64in, Twin 64in x 96in, Full 76-1/2in x 102in, Queen 93-1/2in x 102in & King 102in x 102in.

Nikki


Ariel is a stunning strip quilt. Finished sizes include Crib 38in x 38in, Lap 57in x 76in, Full 76in x 95in & Queen/King 95in x 95in.


Supersized Amalie is a great redesign of an old favorite. This new variation has six available sizes including Crib 37-1/2in x 50in, Lap 50in x 75in, Twin 62-1/2in x 87-1/2in, Full 75in x 100in, Queen 87-1/2in x 100in & King 100in x 100in.

These patterns are oh sew easy if the blocks are cut and trimmed with the Stripology® XL or the Stripology® Squared, both by Creative Grids®.


Phoenix works extremely well with the Creative Grids Stripology® XL. It requires just two shades of fabric for a stunning finish.

All of these patterns are due to arrive in August so place your orders now.

Beautiful Bunting Made Easy by Pamela Pereira

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Make your mantle the center stage of every holiday. This mantle is decked out for the patriotic holidays, but seasonal buntings would be just as fun. Shown below is the ‘Celebration Bunting Mantle Scarf’ #CLPPPE003 from Cut Loose Press® by Pamela Pereira.

Since the striped wedges are pieced from units cut with the Creative Grids® 22-½ degree ruler, this goes together very quickly. The half and quarter-circle units are then quilted and bound so hanging is a breeze.

The Creative Grids® 22 1/2 degree triangle is required. (There is a shorter version but you need the length of this one to cut the wider wedges on the outside.)

Sew together 8 of these wedges to create the center, half bunting; and two sets of 4 to create the outer quarter-circles.

Since the banners are quilted and bound after piecing, they hang beautifully. Can’t you picture Christmas fabrics with a village or Santa collection on display? Or Halloween fabrics with pumpkins??? The holidays and options are endless.

Instant Gratification by Cut Loose Press® Patterns

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Looking for a quick project that can be finished in a few hours? None of these projects are quilted so it will be complete from start to finish. What great projects to teach a child to sew this summer. Here are just a few of my favorites.

These little purses are so darn cute! Whether you choose a dog, cat, or owl, you will be thrilled with the results – and frankly, will probably want to make all 3! These are great opportunities to teach how to sew in a zipper, sew on button eyes, and even simple embroidery stitches to embellish the faces. All you need is a couple of fat quarters of fabric! They could use it to store their sewing supplies!


A yard of fabric, a kitchen towel, and ribbon or twill tape for the ties are all you need to make this apron in the afternoon. And, yes, those are pockets – a must-have at any age!
There are so many darling towels available now. Why not make some for a baking or canning session after it is done?

It is not a holiday dinner unless sparkling grape juice is served so everyone can participate in the toast! One 20-inch x 28-inch tea towel makes TWO bags. Save one for yourself and give one to a friend (but only if she is willing to share what’s inside.) Since the towel is already hemmed, half of the work is done for you. Showcase a cut print on a tea towel or embroider your favorite 4-inch design. Easy peasy!


Why not keep a dozen of these on hand for gifts? It is the perfect addition to any household with children who love to play in the snow! Use wonder clips to attach those mittens, scarves, and gloves and they will be dry in no time – and ready the next time someone wants to build a snowman! But, for those of us who would rather watch from the window, it is a great space saver – and can be used to store belts and scarves! This pattern is fat-quarter-friendly as well!

Want to teach some simple quilting techniques? This Easy Patriotic Table Topper is oh so easy! In fact, you can finish the whole thing in a few hours! At approximately 18” square, you could use Insul-Bright instead of batting so you could sit hot dishes on it – plenty of room for a 9 x 13 pan!

Why not set up a time to sew with friends or the littles in your life every week? They could even start holiday gifts to give to family, teachers, and friends! All of the patterns are available and in stock now since they are Cut Loose Press® so place your orders now!

New from Cut Loose Press®

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Want to add a touch of class to your décor or make a gift in less than two hours? This set of placemats uses the pre-cut Bosal placemat forms as a base which adds the body and crisp shape to your creations.

The side pocket provides a place for silverware and a napkin – perfect for a windy day picnic. Wouldn’t these be the perfect hostess gift for a pool party or buffet? What a great addition to a make it/take it series of classes. Or include it in a mother/daughter class over summer break – a fun, easy project!

One pack of the placemat forms includes four placemats.

Since these placemat forms are fusible, an applique sheet is required. It protects your work surface from the fusible while working on one side.

Shindig fro Cut Loose Press® is made from 80 ten-inch squares. You can choose to use one pack of forty and use the same contrast fabric. Or use two packs and mix and match to your heart’s content! Picking the fabrics for each set of four blocks is half the fun.

This is the perfect group or beginner quilt. Since the blocks are all trimmed to the same size AFTER the angled seam is sewn, all the blocks are the same size. And since none of those angled seams meet, it goes together like a dream.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Straight Out Of Line Tool designed by Karla Alexander.

Create swirling wonky log cabin blocks simply by controlling the fabric placements. An added bonus? It also accentuates the wonkiness of the blocks. With just 3 fabrics, it is easy to kit and can be made in an afternoon. What a great class project!


This pattern The Wonky Waves Table Runner features the 10-inch Wonky Log Cabin Trim Tool by Creative Grids®. This one is designed to work with 2-1/2in strips for both the logs and center squares making it precut-friendly. After adding each round of logs, place the appropriate centering square on the ruler over the center square of the block and trim. Since each round is trimmed before adding the next one, your final trim squares up the block making it ready to be used in your project.

Everything is in stock and ready to order for your next class!

Flutterby Frolic: A Captivating Quilt Design by Krista Moser

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Up your quilting game with this charming pattern! Flutterby Frolic will give you a complicated look without tedious piecing. Gain confidence with angles and color placement. This quilt is constructed of four main blocks: the flowers, the butterflies, the leaf blocks, and the background hexagons. Each one utilizes a different technique that will be a valuable addition to your quilting skills library.

The quilting world never ceases to amaze with its boundless creativity, and Flutterby Frolic by Krista Moser is a perfect example of this. An established name in quilting, Krista Moser, the creative force behind The Quilted Life, has once again hit a home run with this brilliant, butterfly-inspired pattern that embodies the joy and freedom of nature in textile form.

The Flutterby Frolic quilt pattern is a perfect blend of whimsical charm and intricate design, striking a harmonious balance that makes it accessible for beginners while also being interesting for experienced quilters. It’s one of those patterns that can be approached at any skill level, offering a delightful project for everyone who enjoys quilting.

Use varying shades of fabric for an ombre look, or use scraps from your stash for an eclectic look! This pattern comes with three size layouts: twin/full, wall/baby, and a table runner.

This table runner would be a great class to teach all of the different techniques. At the end of class, they will have the confidence to make the larger quilt!

Techniques and Tools Involved

Crafting a Flutterby Frolic quilt involves the use of a few specialized techniques, offering both a challenge and a learning opportunity for quilters of all skill levels. The pattern makes extensive use of HSTs and diamond shapes, requiring meticulous cutting and piecing.

An essential tool in the creation of this quilt is the Creative Grids® 60 Degree Diamond Ruler, designed by Moser. This specially designed ruler simplifies the process of cutting the precise shapes required for the quilt, making the creation process more accessible to beginners, while also ensuring accuracy and speed for more experienced quilters.

Additionally, the Flutterby Frolic quilt pattern provides an excellent canvas for free-motion quilting. The expansive background areas offer an opportunity for quilters to showcase their skills and add personal flourishes.

The ruler is in stock now. The pattern is due to arrive later this month!

Krista Moser’s Flutterby Frolic is more than a quilt pattern; it is a vibrant celebration of color, life, and the uncontained beauty of nature. With its intricate design and dynamic visual appeal, it offers a fulfilling quilting journey that bridges the gap between artistic vision and technical execution.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging new project, wishing to create a beautiful piece that symbolizes the whimsical charm of butterflies, or eager to utilize the precise Creative Grids® 60 Degree Diamond Ruler, Flutterby Frolic awaits to unfurl its wings in your creative hands. Embark on this quilting journey, and watch as your fabric butterflies take flight! Happy quilting!