I purchased this fabulous machine (the 440) at the Ricky Tims, Alex Anderson, Libby Lehman Super Show in Downey in 2009. It has enough bells and whistles that you can really add some great embellishments to your quilt. The reason it was away from me was I hit the 2,000,000 stitch mark.

I have been a Featherweight sewer for so long that I actually left the Bernina in the box for over a month mentally telling myself, “Oh that machine is too much for me.” Finally, I took the plunge and started up my new machine.

Now it is time to try some new techniques.

With all those great Bali Pops that are out there, this is a quick and easy pattern for gifts. You just take the precut 2 1/2″ strips and sew 7 together (either do 2 at a time or start at opposite ends of each new addition – that way you do don’t get the curve).

Mark from the edge 1 1/2″, then in increments of 1″ to the other side. Pinch on the line and stitch 1/4″ straight down, then 1/16″ from the edge. Iron to one side and stitch in the ditch the rows facing down. The next seam stitch the rows the opposite way. Add some fabric in the middle and then another wavy end and you have yourself a nice placemat.

Many of us are working long hours and usually end up eating at our desks. Why not make a nice placemat for your office or for your office mates? Quick and easy! Pattern found in April/May 2012 The Quilter Magazine. I found it as I am starting to weed out some of my magazine collection. The ones I don’t want to keep will be past along to a local Senior Living apartment complex that displays quilts on their walls.

Again, thanks for reading. I appreciate your comments.