Fabric Friday - I know what I like

16 comments
During September 100% of my sewing time has been spent working on Quilt Market projects.  I've really enjoyed it and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have RJR use my designs to showcase their fabric.  However, as much as I really like their 30's line, I'm ready to move on to other fabric in October.  

It seems like there are so many new fabric designers and new fabric lines.  I think it is fantastic but it makes me a bit puzzled too.  There just seems like so so much fabric on the market right now.  There is a lot to choose from but I have to really be sure I love it before I take it home.  Cleaning out my stash made me aware that my taste is not always what is popular in the stores.  I found myself wanting to get rid of what would be considered very popular fabric lines from several seasons ago.  It is easy to get carried away in what is "new".

  After watching Project Runway last night I was very interested in the fabric that the designers made for themselves but somewhat disappointed too.  Mondo designed the only fabric I found interesting.
I'm always drawn to whimsical novelty prints.  This one in fall colors has so many elements to catch the eye.  For a closer look, below you'll see the matryoshkas are little animals.  So cute.  And I love the Tudor house, castle and elements of the outside.  The detail amazes me.   There is a flag and flowers and dots, and so many things I could fussy cut. 



I love houses on fabric, too.  And I think the story in this fabric is of the 3 little pigs, but I'm not sure.  The house is made from brick and there is a main pig and other little pigs in a cart.  So for all I know it could be "To market to market to buy a fat pig" or another nursery story.  I like that it tells a story.  I just don't know what story! 
I'm slightly confused about what this fabric above is telling me. I do know that I like it.  I like the colors, and the flowers with the blue plaid.  I think it is supposed to be a trellis or something.  It speaks to me.
Something as simple as a green stripe also speaks to me.  I love that exact color of green.  And I really like stripes in a quilt.  There is so much you can do with stripes.  I'm drawn to simple fabrics as much as I'm drawn to kooky novelty prints.

The great thing about having so many fabric designers out there is that there is something to attract almost every fabric lover/user.  I do know what I like and it is getting easier to find fabric I like.  I also know what I don't like.  And I think that helps me sort through it all.  Knowing what I like and sticking with my style helps me not to waste.  Ya know?

-nanette
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16 comments

Sandi Linn Andersen said...

I know what I like, too, and I am really liking that green stripe. Oh, I can see that in a spring project with some popping pink, a mellow yellow.....yep, I like it! That pig fabric is pretty cute, too. I have a dream that one day I will have my own fabric line. Could be just a dream, but you never know........ :-)
Sandi

Lynn said...

Interesting post. I watched Project runway too and I agree with you. Is this Mondo's 3rd win, using bright exciting fabrics? Definitely my favorite show. Have you seen this blog http://blog.spoonflower.com/? You can design and order your own fabric!

Lynn said...

Not sure that link worked try this one: http://www.spoonflower.com/welcome

Rita said...

you are funny, and always have that wonderful, warm smile on your face. i really enjoy your blog -- and i like the way you share all your great ideas with us. i like you, too, you are happy and make me smile!
rita

Micki said...

I love novelty fabric too...it is just so cute!
Micki

Rae Ann said...

I agree with all that Rita has said above. You make us all very HAPPY Nanette and are such a joy to be around.
Your choice and style of fabric always seems to thrill me and I find myself wanting to grow up to be like you. ;)
I am learning to love more fabric lines but 30's will always be my #1!

Browndirtcottage said...

OMG! I'm a Project Runway GROUPIE
too!!!!! I think Mondo should be the one to win...LOVE everything he designs!!

Love your little fabrics here too!
Especially that next to last photo with the blue...oh ye-ow!!

Nedra said...

I remember the first time I met you was when you did a trunk show for That Alpine Group (many moons ago). Right then I recognized a new style and vision that only you have. You really lead the pack with new and fresh images on fabric.
Everytime I see a Matryoshka I think of you.

amy smart said...

You find the greatest stuff! I love those pigs and matryoshkas!

Lurline said...

Great trellis fabric - I have pondered on it before - now who in their wildest dreams would combine that blue trellis with those flowers - look how well they they work! The green stripe - isn't that just a perfect 30's green? - I'm sure that's the attraction!
Hugs - Lurline♥

Anonymous said...

These are great fabrics! I love the prints and the colors. So alive.
baby crib

Janet said...

I've never watched project runway, I'm probably the only one. I do know if you ever had a fabric store, I'd want to hang out there.

Thimbleanna said...

Gosh Nanette, could you pass that skill along to me? This new age of quilting fabric is driving me cah-razy! Too much to choose from and it's all so confusing. Love your little Japanese-ish prints!

pratima said...

Nanette, you are right! There are so many new collections in the market, it's overwhelming. I'm beginning to discover what fabrics I like most. I can't thank you enough for your lovely fabric Fridays here. They inspire me so much!

Aunt Spicy said...

Its hard to keep up with all the fabrics!

That first one I saw everywhere on my trip this summer ad did not even buy any...dumb!

sallgood said...

My problem is that I like TOO MANY DIFFERENT things!! :D
I love adding a thin stripey border or binding to a quilt too- I'd love some of those green stripes!!