It will feel so good to have that quilt finished! It will become one of your favorites! I think one of my oldest is probably 5 years. But… I do have jeans that I cut to make a quilt that I keep moving from house to house that are probably 10 years old or so!
Me too😂. Was working on it when my mom died, then next time I worked on it I had to move. I only have borders to quilt, then bind. I'm determined to be done by 2025🎉
Sounds like the Grandmother’s flower garden I started for a king Sized bed for my husband and I. He died, I downsized. It sits with less than a row left to finish a quilt I no longer have a place for. Who knows maybe someday will get a larger bed.
Tiffany from Tiffanys quilting life accepts unfinished quilts. She finishes them and credits the person that started making it and didn't finish it for whatever reason and also puts her name on it as someone who helped or finished the quilt. Also, there are a lot of people on eBay that will purchase unfinished quilts/quilt tops. I think it would be great to find an organization to donate them to that will get them to people that love the art of quilting but can't really afford the fabric. 😊 Thank you for sharing. 😊❄⛄ HAPPY NEW YEAR from my home to yours! 🎉🥂🍾🎉
Hey Fallon, you are charming and I love your enthusiasm and your skill. One suggestion for finishing your to be finished projects is from Karen Brown at Just Get It Done Quilts. Her suggestion is to use a timer and work on your unfinished projects a certain period of time every day, then quit and sew something else. Just keep going and you will work that pile down to a number of finished quilts which you can give away or sell!! Good luck!!
I moved 2-1/2 years ago and was able to set up a dedicated sewing area. I did the 2022 Declutter challenge with Karen Brown of Just Get It Done & it helped immensely. She encouraged a list of unfinished projects, fabric purchased without a purpose & do as you suggest - do I still love it. Getting a quilting partner was essential, as that person can help us get over the tough spots, when low on “push”. A timer is also essential when trying to work thru the projects - keeps me from burnout. My BOM were 20 years old from the first guild & I had some sentimental attachment, so I bordered the blocks & made three quilts - fast & easy. I had purchased 12 appliqué patterns to make flower blocks - I had started one block & collected an enormous amount of fabric to make it. I put all the patterns into a gallon ziplock and sent them off to the local donation if I had been with a guild I would have taken them there. I am making progress on the remains, the complete list for 2024 has been made & im on my way for this year. 😃. Just enjoy the trip.
So much beautiful fabric and beautiful work! At 72 years young, after 4 + decades of quilting, I do relate. Last year I joined a quilt guild charity group and am busy organizing my fabrics and UFO's to get them finished and out into the universe to be used and loved! Most will be donated to local agencies with many good causes (hospice patients, foster kids, senior and veterans, and so on). Focus on the purpose for your work, to help give you direction and renew your energy. Enjoy!💜
I live in Idaho and am the coordinator for a quilt group. We have 5 long armers, and we just love getting quilt tops so that we can finish them and donate them to charities. In 2022, and in 2023 we gave away 210 quilts each year. I would be willing to help you reduce your load of tops, knowing that they would go to somebody in need.
I have just moved sewing spaces, and I found kits I forgot I purchased, - so I said to myself I don't need not to buy more fabric as I have sooooo much fabric, then looked at a fabric shop newsletter..... ohhh shiny new fabric and guess what I have more fabric in the post. 🤣🤣 So you are not alone Fallon.
I still have quite a few. Last year I did my 12 projects of 2023 where I challenged myself to complete at least 1 project each month. I was able to complete about 10 WIPs this way. I also learned to walk away from some projects and be okay with that. Thanks for sharing your journey.
I understand completely and have a stack of unfinished projects myself. I have a quilter friend who buys what she needs for a quilt, works on it til its finished and then gets rid of all the scraps. I told her I think shes an alien from another universe.😂
@@sewbeitquilts you're welcome... I'm curious to know if you sell your quilts? Or are they heirlooms for family. I've got a ton of fabrics and I'll be making quilt blankets for me and the fam, can't wait!
Wow 74 🤪. I thought I had a lot with 36 projects. I finished one in Nov 2023 that I had started in August 1995. That was my oldest project and now I think I’m going to do the same as you. There are some that I just don’t have any desire to finish so I will donate them or just put the fabric back in my stash. Life is too short to keep projects taking up space in my closets or my head! I loved seeing all your projects!
Remember you can do more with a quilt block than make a quilt. You can use random blocks to make totes and zipper pouches. Take a completed top an make a By Annie bag. A small collection of Blocks can become a baby quilt.
Fallon you are not alone! Im a shiny squirrel too!! I will see your 74 and raise you 14. Yes I do have 88 different projects in various stages. 41 of them are in a closet waiting to be thrown on the long arm when inspiration hits me. 7 are table runners. 12 are difficult blocks I lost interest in. 2 of these ones need a border. I bought the fabric so long ago that it’s not in print anymore. The rest are all quilt tops that need finished piecing or rows sewn together. Some I do plan to finish. The others I may bankrupt. I also said the only way I will buy fabric is if I need it to finish what I already have. And I also have quite a few projects that I would love to start. But I won’t until I get some of these figured out. Happy new year!!
Please consider gifting any quilts (pieced and quilt tops) to your local quilt guild. They would finish these quilts for their preferred charity. This could be a win - win situation.
Yes! Stay tuned! I have plans to finish some myself to donate, keep, and sell.. each month I will update on what I finished and what I did with them. I am hoping to have some to donate each month.
The older I get, the worse I am at multi-tasking. I’m not a block of the month person, either. I tried the Riley Blake Block Challenge last year where the new blocks came out weekly. I did good for a month, but got frustrated putting it aside, then bringing it back out to work on it 5-6 days later. So, it sits. I’m a one-quilt-at-a-time girl, start to finish. I might be planning the next quilt and pulling a pattern and fabrics to use, but not starting it until I get the current quilt binded/bound. I started and completed 14 quilts last year, which isn’t much, but that’s the way my brain works. Best wishes on completing your WIPs in 2024!
I am really hoping to challenge myself to work projects start to finish too! I honestly didn’t think I had this many unfinished so this opened my eyes to needing to change how I work!
I also only work on 1 quilt at a time!! Other quilters in my area think im crazy! But if I start something else before I finish it, I probably wont finish. I will collect fabric for sometimes years, but once I start a quilt, thats the only one I work on till its done. I do have a tote full of quilt tops that need quilting. But that bc I dont currently have a way to quilt them. They are too big to do on my domestic, and I dont have access to a long arm right now.
I have 15 unfinished and I know why, I see a new idea and start on that- squirrel!! Also I decide to "change" the pattern and then get stuck, ha ha. My word for this year is FINISH 😂
Check with your local guild regarding those you wish to get rid of that aren't finished. Sometimes they will take the flimsies and finish making them into quilted and bound quilts and then donate then to organizations that need quilts. Thank you for sharing
I got rid of every UFO I had last year doing Karen Brown’s declutter challenge. I’ve managed to keep all my “start-itis” in check, so have currently zero WIP’s. Consequently. I’m leaving for a quilt retreat tomorrow and am looking for something to work on while I’m there. It’s a nice problem.
I have 46 ufos. Hoping to get 15 done this year. I listed them and noted what stage they were in. The ones close to being done are going to be done first for the instant gratification so I am motivated to keep going.
I am in the same boat as you. And I agree with everything you said. You shouldn’t be embarrassed! It brings you joy! Who cares what others think. I have 33 appliqué/wool appliqué/ stitchery block projects; 16 pieced quilts in process; and 17 flimsiest to quilt. This doesn’t include numerous quilts that I have kitted up myself. So you have a kindred spirit here 😊
Thank you! I am so glad you understood my feelings on it! It brought me so much joy to work on them and it will bring me joy to bring them back out and finish them! We will finish them when the time is right!
I started a quilt and worked on it on and off for my daughter and fineally finished it for her 30 th birthday present. I started that quilt when she was 1 year old.
Fallon, I spent 2023 finishing up my unfinished projects as well as making gifts for Christmas this year. I think next year, I will focus on making gifts as well as getting a few quilts off my wish list that I want to make using fabric from my stash.
I have been paid so many times to finish other people's quilts over the years. You aren't alone if you have trouble finishing. I've also been blessed with people donating their UFO so that I can make quilts for different charities where I live. So don't think they are a waste. Look for people who will take these kinds of things and use it to comfort others in need.
Hi from Hamburg, Germany. I have more unfinished Quilts: 91.OMG!!!!!!!! I think I am crazy. But I have so must ideas. And when I get a new idea I must starting a new quilt. 😳
You are not alone. I counted my UFOs a few years back and it was 90. I should count again to update myself. I sent out some big quilt tops from 23 years ago that I just don't want to finish on my domestic machine. That has helped me mentally knowing that I really don't have to quilt all of these. But I have a lot of projects in various stages that I should finish, especially when my daughter said it would be too sad if she had to finish them. I don't want to leave behind a mess when I still have the opportunity to turn my UFOs into something joyful or actually re-home them myself. I loved your video and I hope to follow your progress this year. You are inspiring me. Thank you!
I'd LOVE to have that many flimsies to think about. That would mean that I've been productive! I DO have a BUNCH (not sure I can count) UFOs in varies stages. You've got me thinking. I'm going to take sort ALL my blocks. Make them into lap quilts or baby quilts, throw quilts and use sashing & borders as necessary to make them a finished flimsy. Then I'll CHOOSE if i want finish each individually. If not, I'm taking them straight to my local guild. Like many have said... our guild gets them batted & quilted to donate to different organizations. Win Win all the way around! Thanks for the honest sharing & motivation to "get moving"😊
Don't feel bad, Fallon. You are amazing to take on all these projects. I'm sure Quilt Guilds that make quilts to give away to organizations would appreciate your finished unfinished quilts. Take care. Marion in Oregon.
I am realizing that even if I finish a big chunk of these quilts I can possibly keep them all. I am going to look at what the requirements are for different organizations and see what I can donate after finishing them.
I’m sure some of your followers would love to finish your projects if you have a giveaway! The flimsiest can go to charity groups that quilt and donate them when done.
I will be your quilt fairy and help finish them 😊I finish as I go and have either been donated or gifted to the recipient. Mind you I restrict myself to five unique projects at any one time.
I took TONS of 5 inch squares from leftover scraps to the Goodwill. A few weeks later my friend called ma and was so excited to find TONS of 5 inch squares from the Goodwill. We had a good laugh over it!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I’ve been a crafter for over 40 years and craft supplies and projects are everywhere. Barn, garage, closet, sunroom, you get the idea. This has helped me to make a difference and apply order to the chaos. I’m planning on selling and giving away most of this. I want to concentrate on paper crafting and quilting. Thanks again 😍
I know what you mean! I also like to paint and embroider. I also have a cricut and tons of vinyl and cardstock for it. I really need to go through all of those things too! It seems to all multiply when I sleep! Oh and I used to knit a lot so I had sooo much yarn! I recently donated a lot of that to an art teacher at a local elementary school.
I thinking finding new crafters and selling or donating would be a wonderful idea. I crochet, beginner quilter I mean beginner, and such and with crochet I donate a lot of my creations. Quilting I have just given stuff away so far.
I think a dozen or more give aways would be wonderful! Many of us would love to finish some of your quilts. Cory Yoder does this several times a year. She will find quilts she has started and doesn't have the time or has fallen out of love with then and has a drawing to send them to quilters subscribed to her channel. I have seen others do the same. As far as block of the month, I print out the blocks but don't DO the block of the month until it is finished because I want to know I am going to love it before I commet to it, Then if I love it I buy the fabric or use fabric from my stash and make the quilt. I would love to have your block of the month blocks/patterns/fabric. I would pay for the shipping!
lol! I am so glad I could help! Yes, I have been working on my unfinished quilts live on Wednesdays and plan to do some update videos at the end of each month to show what I accomplished!
Fallon, please do not throw any fabric away....or a quilt top or even a block or 10. I would purchase some things from your hoard and i'm sure other subscribers would. With smaller amounts of goods you could make grab bags. Your work is fabulous. I very much enjoy your videos. thanks.
Perhaps give unfinished projects to a quilt guild. They could finish them and give them away to maybe foster kids or people that have had fires and lost everything, etc.
I would love to receive some of the ones you Do not want as I am sure others would who are living on a fixed income which makes it hard to buy all the material but still enjoy the sewing and quilting
Project Linus coordinator might be able to find someone to finish those you want to declutter. Or any of the compassion or charity quilts would love a project that has begun!
We are creative souls with a passion for quilting. I have 86 UFO’s (at last count). I quickly become bored with block of the month quilts. Sometimes I do finish them or use the blocks in a crumb type quilt. I love the piecing better than the quilting although I do own a long arm and finish about 40-45 a year. The only thing I feel some guilt about is the amount of money I spent on the fabrics if I don’t finish them. By the way I am retired so quilting is my therapy!
40-45 a year! Wow! I do hope I can get a longarm at some point. I really think that would help me get some finished quicker. I do enjoy the piecing process more than anything else. When I lose interest there it just goes downhill fast.
We have a quilting group that meets at our church building every Monday morning to hand quilt whatever happens to be on the quilting frame. The quilts go to children's homes find raisers and to those in the community who have lost their home to a fire. They gladly take finished quilt tops!
Fallon, I feel so much better about my three unfinished projects! I do like your process for determining what to keep and finish and what to let go. Like you I'm focused on working on my stash, and not spending any money on new quilts. Happy New Year!!!
I have trouble letting projects sit unfinished. I usually do them start to finish. I have only three flimsys which are from fat quarter shop sew sampler box. Since they do not really have colors I would normally pick, I put them together for picnic table cloths. We do a lot of camping with several family members, so I always have lots of picnic table covers. The only other things I have in the works is making 4 patches using 2-1/2" squares and 1-1.2" squares. I make them as I finish a project. I also make crumb blocks and string blocks with left overs and spool blocks as well. Some day I will have enough of all those to make scrappy quilts. Unfortunately I do not have access to a long armer, so my quilts are all straight stitch in variations. I am not good at free motion, that could be because I have a 50 year old Viking sewing machine. I wore out my brother within a year. I did some free motion on it, but it no longer runs. No matter what I have I sew every day since I retired two years ago. LOVING THE QUILTING LIFE!!!
Just watching this now after I was watching your ones you finished this month. This is what I am working on. I find i work well on deadlines. If no deadline things get set aside. And then dont det picked up. This month i had two quilts i had to finish by the 31st of January. I finished the quilting at 1145 pm last night. So many things croped up to divert me. Today and tomorrow i am cleaning up the mess that was created doing these tops. And deciding what is important and what is not. Now im off to sew Beccas channel to watch her video on this subject. No more beating my self up for not finishing and focusing on what is not important to me. Thanks for exposing your not dones. It helps us to see we are not alone.
Like you, I love the piecing and all that comes before it the very most. Binding is fun because it is a finished quilt then. The actual quilting part, not so much. So very "not so much" that I have over 150 unfinished quilts dating back to 1970, Just got a new machine with a larger throat space, so now the quilting will not be such a battle.
This is timely because last year this time I started finishing projects because I was so invested and I am 79. Very reasonable to say 12. I finished 10 ane still did not feel like a slave and put a few other smaller projects in. All in all I got great joy so it can be done. I went from what I liked best and id say I can still do it this year. I saved money but I sometimes had to go to quilt shops to add to what I had. Good luck keep it fun.😊
I am so glad to hear that I am not the only one who likes to start - but then doesn't finish - a quilt. My goal for 2023 was to finish all of my "started" piecing projects. I was able to finish the last quilt top on New Year's Eve right after midnight. So now I have 12 quilt tops to quilt. My obstacle has been feeling that I was not going to be able to quilt it "good enough". So I have learned some free-motion quilting and am taking a ruler quilting class this year - then I'll be out of excuses. I do plan on starting new projects in 2024 - I have about 24 of them that I can pick from. My goal is one per month but I'm not going to move on until the one that I start is finished. I hope you can find homes for the projects that you no longer wanting to finish and good luck on finishing some of those quilts that you do want to keep.
Boy, do I identify with using the planned binding elsewhere! I have half a dozen flimsies that need to be quilted and only one that excites me. I did catch up on last year’s projects at the end of ‘23 rather than join new sew alongs.
If we only count quilting prohects? 17. Add in the knitting, crocheting, weaving, and Hardanger Embroidery? We approach 200, and that’s only projects I have purchased all the supplies for or started. I’m not counting the “things I want to make but don’t have supplies pulled/purchased yet” projects. To be fair, the non-sewing needlework and weaving projects have beem around for 12-40yrs. Yes, I have two projects I started before my children were born. 2024 is going to be primarily focused on finishing projects. I found two more ‘batches’ of fabric I know I pulled for projects and can not remember what those were. Documenting project progress is also going to become a ‘thing’ for me this year.
Wow! This video surprised me! I know I'm not the only one with WIPS & UFO's but I was surprised by your numbers. I also don't feel so bad about my pile, lol. Good video and I love the quilt that you love that needs binding. Happy New Year, Di
74!!!! What a year you have ahead!! I maybe get to 6 finished ' flimsyies' and then I set myself to finish them and sell or give them away. Good luck with it all!
A few years ago I moved to a small apartment and needed to part with A LOT of fabric. I found a convent whose sisters make quilts and sell or raffle them which provides them with some income. I donated three huge boxes of quilting fabric to them and am delighted when I see photos of their quilts on the newsletter. Also, I regularly donate to a senior quilting group that makes quilts for the Linus Project. I’m sure you could find a group that would love your give-aways!! Good luck. I share your dilemma!!
Thank you being honest. My cousin says she just puts fleece on the back of quits, for a quick batting and backing. Right sides to gether sew and turn right side out. I also quilt tops not done. You are not alone. 😮
I had never heard the term 'flimsy' - but I have pieced and finished only a few quilts over the years. But I know I have a few older projects that continue to follow me from house to house. 😂
"Flimsy" is a classic, old sewing word that means "thin fabric." Unfortunately, people are now using it to mean "a quilt top," but why not just call a quilt top, "a quilt top"?
There are so many quilt terms that I hear and have to look up what they mean. I heard UFO a lot and that was a tough one to try to google to find out what it meant!
I love the blue star quilt. It was the first UFO that you showed. I would love to have that pattern. I just did a 11 hr marathon of your quilt channel.I’m 83 I use to teach quilting 15 yrs ago. I taught at the sewing store I managed and I in some of the Chicago libraries. I also have about 5 UFOs . I was pretty good at staying on them. I’ve got over 20 with backs about queen size to be quilted. I need to start sending them out…. I would love that pattern.
The first pattern you are looking for was from Open Gate Quilts. You can check their website to see if she has the pattern available. The quilt was part of their 12 days of christmas box and sometimes she keeps them exclusive.
Enjoy your honesty. I recently finished a quilt that had been around for 6 years and I made my self finish it. I scheduled myself for a couple of hours for a few days and guess what I got it done. Now an inventory or what else I'll do. It's ok to take some to the thrift store. About 10 years ago I took a big box labeled unfinished projects to the thrift store.. Hopeful someone looked it over and loved it! Now no guilt or anxiety Let it go---Let it go---Let it go
Last year I joined a UFO challenge thru My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe, I do the piecing, (but I’m a “procrastiquilter” and quilt by “credit card”😂. I had 14 flimsies that needed to be completed! I had backing and a roll of batting, got them quilted $$$, trimmed and bound by machine (done is better than perfect!). Was so rewarding to get them done. The quilt Shoppe has another UFO challenge beginning on Feb. 1, 2024, and I will be joining again!
Oh my. I can see why you would feel a bit overwhelmed. That is a lot of unfinished projects. I think I have twelve that need quilting. I don't want to quilt them on my regular sewing machine and my long arm needs serviced. And then this year I only made three new quilts, but I seriously need to get a move on. I hate being in limbo. I look forward to seeing which projects you get finished. =)
At least you have an idea of how many unfinished projects you have. LOL! What if you offered some of your WIPs to viewers? Many might be interested in finishing them and doing something with them.
I still have many ufo's even after a clean up. A few years ago I went thru all the quilt tops I had made, I culled out 25 tht also had backing fabric. I contacted the local guild and they were so happy they even came and picked up the huge pile. She explained they would finish and donate to a local cause which is what I wss gong to do. I was so happy to let that pile go and the anxiety it bought. I still have mire top and kits cut the I need to cull again.
It's good to take a deep look at what's in our sewing rooms. For the flimsies ... donate them to an organization that will finish the top and pass it along. Our city has an organization that helps refugees, for example, and they gladly take quilts. On the kits, pull out the fabric and blend it into your stash. I have one quilt made up of 'orphan' blocks from several different quilt alongs, but if that's too complicated, pass the blocks along or make pot holders out of them. We all needed this reminder to assess our quilting bandwidth!
I agree with you about Block of the Month. Now that I am caught up I will not start a Block of the Month until it is done so that Ican get it done without it dragging on.
I'm not into the monthly block challenges either. Mostly I make lap quilts for Hospice patients, so only have 3 unfinished projects that are for me or my family.
Last year I discovered that several of our local churches create quilts for Lutheran World Relief. They look for quilt tops that are 60 x 80 so that is the size I shoot for. It allows me to try new patterns or colors and then when I have several done I donate them. The group finishes them. It's the best of both worlds. I learned to not do sew alongs of any kind. I do not like making one block, packing it all up and then wait. It's just not for me. Too many times I change my mind on fabrics or simply lose interest and it becomes a chore. I wish you much luck in finding what works for you. I would bind those 12 first and be done with/enjoy them. You'll be glad you did.
Yes! It is so hard to only work a block at a time. I think you are right. You put it away each month and move on. It is so hard to keep interest in it. And over the year, yes, my taste can change! Great points!
Such a refreshing, satisfying TH-cam video! I feel absolutely the same as you do in so many ways!! I get enticed by the beautiful fabric and the ideas and the pictures........Sitting here watching your video I can estimate that I have at least 6 quilts in various stages. Probably 10 flimsies and a definite 2 BOM's that I've lost interest in. I am definitely in the same boat as you. But now I want to go to my sewing room and sort it out. Thank you for the inspiration to do what I must do!
Maybe you can offer your unfinished quilts to a local quilt guild or quilt shop. I commend how much work you have done. I have not gotten into that rhythm of starting and project and then starting something else. I find myself finishing a quilt before I start another quilt. Don't get me wrong I do start other small projects that does include a BOM. I have 2 quilt tops that need everything done to them. I hoping to get them done soon. Yes, I too need to stop spending money on items I don't need. 😊
I forget sometimes that I quilt because I need that creative outlet. Not because I need, or sometimes, even want the finished project. You have made progress by just identifying the projects that need attention. I really like the concept of identifying what projects continue to bring you joy. The only issue with this is the end of a project may be the most challenging part of the process. For example, I have a number of tops that I pieced that just need that last border or some appliqué. I don’t enjoy either process. If I looked at the quilt in this stage and asked myself if it brings me joy I would say no. Sometimes we just need to work past this step. So I hope you will consider this when choosing which projects to continue working on.
Contact your local Lutheran churches to see if any have active quilting groups that make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. The LWR quilt program is a big deal worldwide. They have specific quilt size and fabric print requirements, but perhaps some of your quilt tops would meet the requirements or could be adjusted to meet those requirements. I’m sure they would take quilt tops and finish them. I would enjoy it if you have segments once or twice monthly to show us what you have accomplished toward project completion. You could inspire us. Lastly, I think it would reasonable to say, “I’m going to at least pause my purchase of subscription boxes until I finish what I have.” I know the subscription boxes are money-makers for quilting shops you would like to support, but everyone has a limit to the number of projects they can accomplish no matter how beautiful those projects are. Good luck with your 2024 goals.
I know I am a few days late but I can't help but comment. I am now to the point of only working with scraps. I buy sheets at walmart occassionly to finish them. I do all my own quilting on my machine and so far I have completed 3 in the last 3 months and I am not young or healthy but I do love quilting and even though I have gotten slow and not even keeping my channel up I can't give it up. The problem is now the great grands are getting big enough to start requesting what colors they would like to have! LOL My colors are whatever I can pull together and make them a bed size quilt as they are moving out of the baby beds into twins or full. So if you are so inclined I would even enjoy your scraps. I am sure that I could do something with the quilt blocks and or the boms. This is the only way that I have gifts for anyone anymore as a widow only drawing a widows SS there is no extra for anything! But Fallon you do with them as you see fit, charity is great and so is the thrift store. I know how much money is involved especially now in quilting projects! Do the best you can and believe in yourself what ever you do! Mary
I have 3 unfinished quilts, but my goal for ‘24 is to finish them before starting a new project. I have a rule for myself to NOT start something new until the quilt I’m working on is finished. Guess I’m a rule breaker 😂 An idea for the quilts/projects that you don’t want to keep, would be a giveaway 🤔 I’m sure there are some quilters out there that would love to finish them and add their own touch 😊 Best of luck reaching your goal of finishing and I will look forward to seeing your progress!
I was also going to suggest a give away. Locally at a guild or something; or online. I know Jordan fabric does one per video and that seems to work pretty well for them. Also Holly charges for shipping in her give ways and gets a lot of participation, so covering that also isn't a requirement. Or more work, try to sell them through a destash group.
Hi, Fallon. I have 2 UFO's but it upset me so much, I haven't been in my sewing room for 2 months. This video helps me get back to work and not worry about the mistakes.
I find I do 3 quilts at a time, small medium and large, and eventually I make myself finish one a month, it maybe a bag but it is finished, so stay strong and keep going on.
Visit Becca’s channel! Her new video posts on 1/3/24 so subscribe to her channel and watch it when it posts! youtube.com/@SewBecca?si=4ig9IH3Y32Axb1W3
Began again to work on 2 from 1983.
I am working on a quilt I started 26 (that is NOT a typo) years ago! I picked it back up a month ago and am determined to finish it this month!
It will feel so good to have that quilt finished! It will become one of your favorites!
I think one of my oldest is probably 5 years. But… I do have jeans that I cut to make a quilt that I keep moving from house to house that are probably 10 years old or so!
Me too😂. Was working on it when my mom died, then next time I worked on it I had to move. I only have borders to quilt, then bind. I'm determined to be done by 2025🎉
That’s amazing! Good luck finding joy in this again ❤
Sounds like the Grandmother’s flower garden I started for a king Sized bed for my husband and I. He died, I downsized. It sits with less than a row left to finish a quilt I no longer have a place for. Who knows maybe someday will get a larger bed.
My condolences jeanpoulton, why not make your quilt into a lap quilt and cushions so you can hug it with good memories ❤
Tiffany from Tiffanys quilting life accepts unfinished quilts. She finishes them and credits the person that started making it and didn't finish it for whatever reason and also puts her name on it as someone who helped or finished the quilt. Also, there are a lot of people on eBay that will purchase unfinished quilts/quilt tops. I think it would be great to find an organization to donate them to that will get them to people that love the art of quilting but can't really afford the fabric. 😊 Thank you for sharing. 😊❄⛄ HAPPY NEW YEAR from my home to yours! 🎉🥂🍾🎉
Hey Fallon, you are charming and I love your enthusiasm and your skill. One suggestion for finishing your to be finished projects is from Karen Brown at Just Get It Done Quilts. Her suggestion is to use a timer and work on your unfinished projects a certain period of time every day, then quit and sew something else. Just keep going and you will work that pile down to a number of finished quilts which you can give away or sell!!
Good luck!!
We counted UFOS while in a 12 month quilt class. The teacher had 104 and I have 112. So this year’s motto is “Get ‘er done!” ❤😂
When I retired 5 years ago I had 34 projects and boms, i have done a lot so far and I am now down to 13 boxed boms.
Wow! Great progress!
I moved 2-1/2 years ago and was able to set up a dedicated sewing area. I did the 2022 Declutter challenge with Karen Brown of Just Get It Done & it helped immensely. She encouraged a list of unfinished projects, fabric purchased without a purpose & do as you suggest - do I still love it. Getting a quilting partner was essential, as that person can help us get over the tough spots, when low on “push”. A timer is also essential when trying to work thru the projects - keeps me from burnout. My BOM were 20 years old from the first guild & I had some sentimental attachment, so I bordered the blocks & made three quilts - fast & easy. I had purchased 12 appliqué patterns to make flower blocks - I had started one block & collected an enormous amount of fabric to make it. I put all the patterns into a gallon ziplock and sent them off to the local donation if I had been with a guild I would have taken them there. I am making progress on the remains, the complete list for 2024 has been made & im on my way for this year. 😃. Just enjoy the trip.
So much beautiful fabric and beautiful work! At 72 years young, after 4 + decades of quilting, I do relate. Last year I joined a quilt guild charity group and am busy organizing my fabrics and UFO's to get them finished and out into the universe to be used and loved! Most will be donated to local agencies with many good causes (hospice patients, foster kids, senior and veterans, and so on). Focus on the purpose for your work, to help give you direction and renew your energy. Enjoy!💜
I live in Idaho and am the coordinator for a quilt group. We have 5 long armers, and we just love getting quilt tops so that we can finish them and donate them to charities. In 2022, and in 2023 we gave away 210 quilts each year. I would be willing to help you reduce your load of tops, knowing that they would go to somebody in need.
I have just moved sewing spaces, and I found kits I forgot I purchased, - so I said to myself I don't need not to buy more fabric as I have sooooo much fabric, then looked at a fabric shop newsletter..... ohhh shiny new fabric and guess what I have more fabric in the post. 🤣🤣
So you are not alone Fallon.
Oh goodness! After I filmed this I found another quilt kit! lol. I actually unsubscribed to a few quilt shops because I kept buying from their sales!
I still have quite a few. Last year I did my 12 projects of 2023 where I challenged myself to complete at least 1 project each month. I was able to complete about 10 WIPs this way. I also learned to walk away from some projects and be okay with that. Thanks for sharing your journey.
I bet it felt so good to get some of your projects finished! I hope that is me at the end of the year!
I understand completely and have a stack of unfinished projects myself. I have a quilter friend who buys what she needs for a quilt, works on it til its finished and then gets rid of all the scraps. I told her I think shes an alien from another universe.😂
Great! Now I have to go and count my WIPs and UFOs!! 😆
😮LOVE that first blue/white quilt!!!!❤
Thank you!
@@sewbeitquilts you're welcome... I'm curious to know if you sell your quilts? Or are they heirlooms for family. I've got a ton of fabrics and I'll be making quilt blankets for me and the fam, can't wait!
Wow 74 🤪. I thought I had a lot with 36 projects. I finished one in Nov 2023 that I had started in August 1995. That was my oldest project and now I think I’m going to do the same as you. There are some that I just don’t have any desire to finish so I will donate them or just put the fabric back in my stash. Life is too short to keep projects taking up space in my closets or my head! I loved seeing all your projects!
Remember you can do more with a quilt block than make a quilt. You can use random blocks to make totes and zipper pouches. Take a completed top an make a By Annie bag. A small collection of Blocks can become a baby quilt.
Great reminder!
Fallon you are not alone! Im a shiny squirrel too!! I will see your 74 and raise you 14. Yes I do have 88 different projects in various stages. 41 of them are in a closet waiting to be thrown on the long arm when inspiration hits me. 7 are table runners. 12 are difficult blocks I lost interest in. 2 of these ones need a border. I bought the fabric so long ago that it’s not in print anymore. The rest are all quilt tops that need finished piecing or rows sewn together. Some I do plan to finish. The others I may bankrupt. I also said the only way I will buy fabric is if I need it to finish what I already have. And I also have quite a few projects that I would love to start. But I won’t until I get some of these figured out. Happy new year!!
Im happy to lnow that I am not the only one that don't finish projects.
You are in good company here!
I have a quilt design that I made in the 70s. I have decided that this will be the year it finally gets made.
It will feel so good to get that quilt finished!
You are not alone. Don’t be ashamed. Quilting is a hobby, not a job. So get focused on what you want to complete and enjoy those projects.
Please consider gifting any quilts (pieced and quilt tops) to your local quilt guild. They would finish these quilts for their preferred charity. This could be a win - win situation.
Yes! Stay tuned! I have plans to finish some myself to donate, keep, and sell.. each month I will update on what I finished and what I did with them. I am hoping to have some to donate each month.
The older I get, the worse I am at multi-tasking. I’m not a block of the month person, either. I tried the Riley Blake Block Challenge last year where the new blocks came out weekly. I did good for a month, but got frustrated putting it aside, then bringing it back out to work on it 5-6 days later. So, it sits. I’m a one-quilt-at-a-time girl, start to finish. I might be planning the next quilt and pulling a pattern and fabrics to use, but not starting it until I get the current quilt binded/bound. I started and completed 14 quilts last year, which isn’t much, but that’s the way my brain works. Best wishes on completing your WIPs in 2024!
I am really hoping to challenge myself to work projects start to finish too! I honestly didn’t think I had this many unfinished so this opened my eyes to needing to change how I work!
I also only work on 1 quilt at a time!! Other quilters in my area think im crazy! But if I start something else before I finish it, I probably wont finish. I will collect fabric for sometimes years, but once I start a quilt, thats the only one I work on till its done. I do have a tote full of quilt tops that need quilting. But that bc I dont currently have a way to quilt them. They are too big to do on my domestic, and I dont have access to a long arm right now.
I have 15 unfinished and I know why, I see a new idea and start on that- squirrel!! Also I decide to "change" the pattern and then get stuck, ha ha. My word for this year is FINISH 😂
You sound like me! Once I finish a top I feel done and want to work on something else!
I can relate to this video! Wow--glad I am not alone! I am afraid to count. 😍
Well now you have to count! Lol
Check with your local guild regarding those you wish to get rid of that aren't finished. Sometimes they will take the flimsies and finish making them into quilted and bound quilts and then donate then to organizations that need quilts. Thank you for sharing
Great suggestion!
I got rid of every UFO I had last year doing Karen Brown’s declutter challenge. I’ve managed to keep all my “start-itis” in check, so have currently zero WIP’s. Consequently. I’m leaving for a quilt retreat tomorrow and am looking for something to work on while I’m there. It’s a nice problem.
I love that! Start-itis! That is so me!
Haha! I’m glad I’m not the only one!!!
We are in this together!!!
I have 46 ufos. Hoping to get 15 done this year. I listed them and noted what stage they were in. The ones close to being done are going to be done first for the instant gratification so I am motivated to keep going.
I am in the same boat as you. And I agree with everything you said. You shouldn’t be embarrassed! It brings you joy! Who cares what others think. I have 33 appliqué/wool appliqué/ stitchery block projects; 16 pieced quilts in process; and 17 flimsiest to quilt. This doesn’t include numerous quilts that I have kitted up myself. So you have a kindred spirit here 😊
Thank you! I am so glad you understood my feelings on it! It brought me so much joy to work on them and it will bring me joy to bring them back out and finish them! We will finish them when the time is right!
I started a quilt and worked on it on and off for my daughter and fineally finished it for her 30 th birthday present. I started that quilt when she was 1 year old.
I just love that your daughter finished it for you! I think that makes it even more special!
You’re speaking to the choir! LoL. I have so many unfinished quilt projects.! 😁❤️
Do you have any plans to work on finishing some this year? I know some people just like to work on the tops!
Yes, I'm working on them little by little. Happy New Year! 🥰
I feel better about my ufo's now. I have many in different areas, including knitting, crocheting, sewing, and quilting.
Ahhhh, you're like me. Sewing is just one area where you have unfinished projects. We creative types get involved in so many things...
Fallon, I spent 2023 finishing up my unfinished projects as well as making gifts for Christmas this year. I think next year, I will focus on making gifts as well as getting a few quilts off my wish list that I want to make using fabric from my stash.
You are ahead of me! I have a plan to finish these so hopefully I stick to it! I have a wish list of quilts to make too!
I have been paid so many times to finish other people's quilts over the years. You aren't alone if you have trouble finishing. I've also been blessed with people donating their UFO so that I can make quilts for different charities where I live. So don't think they are a waste. Look for people who will take these kinds of things and use it to comfort others in need.
Love your honesty, i say finish and sell them, you have put a lot of time and money in them, selling them so you can buy more!! SMILE
Thank you! I might list a few to sell. Its so hard to put a price on them!
@sewbeitquilts Tiffany's sewing life, sells once in a while on utube check it out she calls them unstash I think...Smile
Hi from Hamburg, Germany. I have more unfinished Quilts: 91.OMG!!!!!!!! I think I am crazy. But I have so must ideas. And when I get a new idea I must starting a new quilt. 😳
You are not alone. I counted my UFOs a few years back and it was 90. I should count again to update myself. I sent out some big quilt tops from 23 years ago that I just don't want to finish on my domestic machine. That has helped me mentally knowing that I really don't have to quilt all of these. But I have a lot of projects in various stages that I should finish, especially when my daughter said it would be too sad if she had to finish them. I don't want to leave behind a mess when I still have the opportunity to turn my UFOs into something joyful or actually re-home them myself. I loved your video and I hope to follow your progress this year. You are inspiring me. Thank you!
I'd LOVE to have that many flimsies to think about. That would mean that I've been productive! I DO have a BUNCH (not sure I can count) UFOs in varies stages. You've got me thinking. I'm going to take sort ALL my blocks. Make them into lap quilts or baby quilts, throw quilts and use sashing & borders as necessary to make them a finished flimsy. Then I'll CHOOSE if i want finish each individually. If not, I'm taking them straight to my local guild. Like many have said... our guild gets them batted & quilted to donate to different organizations. Win Win all the way around!
Thanks for the honest sharing & motivation to "get moving"😊
Don't feel bad, Fallon. You are amazing to take on all these projects. I'm sure Quilt Guilds that make quilts to give away to organizations would appreciate your finished unfinished quilts. Take care. Marion in Oregon.
I am realizing that even if I finish a big chunk of these quilts I can possibly keep them all. I am going to look at what the requirements are for different organizations and see what I can donate after finishing them.
I’m sure some of your followers would love to finish your projects if you have a giveaway! The flimsiest can go to charity groups that quilt and donate them when done.
I will be your quilt fairy and help finish them 😊I finish as I go and have either been donated or gifted to the recipient. Mind you I restrict myself to five unique projects at any one time.
I took TONS of 5 inch squares from leftover scraps to the Goodwill. A few weeks later my friend called ma and was so excited to find TONS of 5 inch squares from the Goodwill. We had a good laugh over it!
I'm so glad to see this video. Thank you. I now feel normal. It's called Multitasking with fabric.😂
Yes!!!🙌
A tip: cut the binding when you cut for blocks. Then they are together for later
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I’ve been a crafter for over 40 years and craft supplies and projects are everywhere. Barn, garage, closet, sunroom, you get the idea. This has helped me to make a difference and apply order to the chaos. I’m planning on selling and giving away most of this. I want to concentrate on paper crafting and quilting. Thanks again 😍
I know what you mean! I also like to paint and embroider. I also have a cricut and tons of vinyl and cardstock for it. I really need to go through all of those things too! It seems to all multiply when I sleep!
Oh and I used to knit a lot so I had sooo much yarn! I recently donated a lot of that to an art teacher at a local elementary school.
I thinking finding new crafters and selling or donating would be a wonderful idea. I crochet, beginner quilter I mean beginner, and such and with crochet I donate a lot of my creations. Quilting I have just given stuff away so far.
I think a dozen or more give aways would be wonderful! Many of us would love to finish some of your quilts. Cory Yoder does this several times a year. She will find quilts she has started and doesn't have the time or has fallen out of love with then and has a drawing to send them to quilters subscribed to her channel. I have seen others do the same. As far as block of the month, I print out the blocks but don't DO the block of the month until it is finished because I want to know I am going to love it before I commet to it, Then if I love it I buy the fabric or use fabric from my stash and make the quilt. I would love to have your block of the month blocks/patterns/fabric. I would pay for the shipping!
Oh you make me more cheered about the mountain of projects I have. I am afraid to mae the list. Please encourage us to finish by working on yours!
lol! I am so glad I could help! Yes, I have been working on my unfinished quilts live on Wednesdays and plan to do some update videos at the end of each month to show what I accomplished!
Fallon, please do not throw any fabric away....or a quilt top or even a block or 10. I would purchase some things from your hoard and i'm sure other subscribers would. With smaller amounts of goods you could make grab bags. Your work is fabulous. I very much enjoy your videos. thanks.
I definitely won’t! I’ll give updates on what I finish and what I plan to do with them all!
I guess i’m one of the lucky ones, because i’m the type of person that i can’t do anything else until i finish what i started. 😊
I wish that is how I work!
Oh Girl! No I don't have that many, but at one point I had so many I just couldn't even walk into my sewing room! So I feel ya.
The hexagon flowers would look good appliqued on the large four squares you showed for a beautiful scrappy look.
Great idea!
Perhaps give unfinished projects to a quilt guild. They could finish them and give them away to maybe foster kids or people that have had fires and lost everything, etc.
Great idea! I am not part of one but I will look and see if there are any close by.
I would love to receive some of the ones you Do not want as I am sure others would who are living on a fixed income which makes it hard to buy all the material but still enjoy the sewing and quilting
Project Linus coordinator might be able to find someone to finish those you want to declutter. Or any of the compassion or charity quilts would love a project that has begun!
We are creative souls with a passion for quilting. I have 86 UFO’s (at last count). I quickly become bored with block of the month quilts. Sometimes I do finish them or use the blocks in a crumb type quilt. I love the piecing better than the quilting although I do own a long arm and finish about 40-45 a year. The only thing I feel some guilt about is the amount of money I spent on the fabrics if I don’t finish them. By the way I am retired so quilting is my therapy!
40-45 a year! Wow!
I do hope I can get a longarm at some point. I really think that would help me get some finished quicker. I do enjoy the piecing process more than anything else. When I lose interest there it just goes downhill fast.
We have a quilting group that meets at our church building every Monday morning to hand quilt whatever happens to be on the quilting frame. The quilts go to children's homes find raisers and to those in the community who have lost their home to a fire. They gladly take finished quilt tops!
Fallon, I feel so much better about my three unfinished projects! I do like your process for determining what to keep and finish and what to let go. Like you I'm focused on working on my stash, and not spending any money on new quilts. Happy New Year!!!
I’m glad I could help you feel better! And yes!!! Let’s shop our stash this year! Happy New Year!
I have trouble letting projects sit unfinished. I usually do them start to finish. I have only three flimsys which are from fat quarter shop sew sampler box. Since they do not really have colors I would normally pick, I put them together for picnic table cloths. We do a lot of camping with several family members, so I always have lots of picnic table covers. The only other things I have in the works is making 4 patches using 2-1/2" squares and 1-1.2" squares. I make them as I finish a project. I also make crumb blocks and string blocks with left overs and spool blocks as well. Some day I will have enough of all those to make scrappy quilts. Unfortunately I do not have access to a long armer, so my quilts are all straight stitch in variations. I am not good at free motion, that could be because I have a 50 year old Viking sewing machine. I wore out my brother within a year. I did some free motion on it, but it no longer runs. No matter what I have I sew every day since I retired two years ago. LOVING THE QUILTING LIFE!!!
Just watching this now after I was watching your ones you finished this month. This is what I am working on. I find i work well on deadlines. If no deadline things get set aside. And then dont det picked up. This month i had two quilts i had to finish by the 31st of January. I finished the quilting at 1145 pm last night. So many things croped up to divert me. Today and tomorrow i am cleaning up the mess that was created doing these tops. And deciding what is important and what is not. Now im off to sew Beccas channel to watch her video on this subject. No more beating my self up for not finishing and focusing on what is not important to me. Thanks for exposing your not dones. It helps us to see we are not alone.
Like you, I love the piecing and all that comes before it the very most. Binding is fun because it is a finished quilt then. The actual quilting part, not so much. So very "not so much" that I have over 150 unfinished quilts dating back to 1970, Just got a new machine with a larger throat space, so now the quilting will not be such a battle.
Yes! A larger throat space helps so much! I hope you get some of them finished! It feels so good to have them done.
Now I don’t feel so badly! Lol. I only have 20!
I’m so glad I could help in some small way! lol!😂
This is timely because last year this time I started finishing projects because I was so invested and I am 79. Very reasonable to say 12. I finished 10 ane still did not feel like a slave and put a few other smaller projects in. All in all I got great joy so it can be done. I went from what I liked best and id say I can still do it this year. I saved money but I sometimes had to go to quilt shops to add to what I had. Good luck keep it fun.😊
I don't get to quilt much but i think i have attention deficit. I get toes easily and see something new.
That’s happens to me too! I can really love a quilt I am working on but I still move on because I just need something new to work on!
I've used quilts as backing when I don't want to work on them any longer. Works for me
I am so glad to hear that I am not the only one who likes to start - but then doesn't finish - a quilt. My goal for 2023 was to finish all of my "started" piecing projects. I was able to finish the last quilt top on New Year's Eve right after midnight. So now I have 12 quilt tops to quilt. My obstacle has been feeling that I was not going to be able to quilt it "good enough". So I have learned some free-motion quilting and am taking a ruler quilting class this year - then I'll be out of excuses. I do plan on starting new projects in 2024 - I have about 24 of them that I can pick from. My goal is one per month but I'm not going to move on until the one that I start is finished. I hope you can find homes for the projects that you no longer wanting to finish and good luck on finishing some of those quilts that you do want to keep.
Boy, do I identify with using the planned binding elsewhere! I have half a dozen flimsies that need to be quilted and only one that excites me. I did catch up on last year’s projects at the end of ‘23 rather than join new sew alongs.
If we only count quilting prohects? 17. Add in the knitting, crocheting, weaving, and Hardanger Embroidery? We approach 200, and that’s only projects I have purchased all the supplies for or started. I’m not counting the “things I want to make but don’t have supplies pulled/purchased yet” projects.
To be fair, the non-sewing needlework and weaving projects have beem around for 12-40yrs. Yes, I have two projects I started before my children were born.
2024 is going to be primarily focused on finishing projects. I found two more ‘batches’ of fabric I know I pulled for projects and can not remember what those were. Documenting project progress is also going to become a ‘thing’ for me this year.
Oh I am only counting Quilting here! lol. I have a few embroidery, cross stitch, and knitting projects too! But we won't talk about that! lol
Wow! This video surprised me! I know I'm not the only one with WIPS & UFO's but I was surprised by your numbers. I also don't feel so bad about my pile, lol. Good video and I love the quilt that you love that needs binding. Happy New Year, Di
Haha! I think I got carried away with starting projects and not finishing them!
74!!!! What a year you have ahead!!
I maybe get to 6 finished ' flimsyies' and then I set myself to finish them and sell or give them away. Good luck with it all!
My fiancé’s great grandmother quilted for years! And 98% of those quilts were donated to shelters. I’d love to be able to bless people like that!
I hope hoping to donate some this year as I finish them!
I am so happy my ocd won't let me start a new one when I am not done what I'm working on! 😂
I need to change my personality so I am not like this! lol
A few years ago I moved to a small apartment and needed to part with A LOT of fabric. I found a convent whose sisters make quilts and sell or raffle them which provides them with some income. I donated three huge boxes of quilting fabric to them and am delighted when I see photos of their quilts on the newsletter. Also, I regularly donate to a senior quilting group that makes quilts for the Linus Project. I’m sure you could find a group that would love your give-aways!! Good luck. I share your dilemma!!
You win! You have more than I do, but I do have a lot and I don't feel guilty about them either.
I’m so glad you don’t feel guilty about yours either! We just know there are too many great patterns out there so we need to sample them!
Thank you being honest. My cousin says she just puts fleece on the back of quits, for a quick batting and backing. Right sides to gether sew and turn right side out. I also quilt tops not done. You are not alone. 😮
Oh I just love that idea!
I had never heard the term 'flimsy' - but I have pieced and finished only a few quilts over the years. But I know I have a few older projects that continue to follow me from house to house. 😂
"Flimsy" is a classic, old sewing word that means "thin fabric." Unfortunately, people are now using it to mean "a quilt top," but why not just call a quilt top, "a quilt top"?
There are so many quilt terms that I hear and have to look up what they mean. I heard UFO a lot and that was a tough one to try to google to find out what it meant!
Glad I’m not the only one. Thanks for sharing. It’s helping so many of us. Yes, going to get organized. Will like and subscribe.❤
Thank you Sandra! I will have an update video sharing what I got done at the end of the month!
Hi. You could always sell them , the ones you don’t want. Better than just taking up space lol.
I love the blue star quilt. It was the first UFO that you showed. I would love to have that pattern. I just did a 11 hr marathon of your quilt channel.I’m 83 I use to teach quilting 15 yrs ago. I taught at the sewing store I managed and I in some of the Chicago libraries. I also have about 5 UFOs . I was pretty good at staying on them. I’ve got over 20 with backs about queen size to be quilted. I need to start sending them out…. I would love that pattern.
The first pattern you are looking for was from Open Gate Quilts. You can check their website to see if she has the pattern available. The quilt was part of their 12 days of christmas box and sometimes she keeps them exclusive.
You are not alone. I haven’t the time to count how many but it’s got to be at least over 30 with flimsy included.
Enjoy your honesty. I recently finished a quilt that had been around for 6 years and I made my self finish it. I scheduled myself for a couple of hours for a few days and guess what I got it done. Now an inventory or what else I'll do. It's ok to take some to the thrift store. About 10 years ago I took a big box labeled unfinished projects to the thrift store.. Hopeful someone looked it over and loved it! Now no guilt or anxiety Let it go---Let it go---Let it go
Yes! Don't have guilt over it! I am sure someone found them and was so excited about it!
It’s good to know that I am not the only one that feels overwhelmed by my pile of unfinished projects.
You are so not alone!
Last year I joined a UFO challenge thru My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe, I do the piecing, (but I’m a “procrastiquilter” and quilt by “credit card”😂. I had 14 flimsies that needed to be completed! I had backing and a roll of batting, got them quilted $$$, trimmed and bound by machine (done is better than perfect!). Was so rewarding to get them done. The quilt Shoppe has another UFO challenge beginning on Feb. 1, 2024, and I will be joining again!
Oh my. I can see why you would feel a bit overwhelmed. That is a lot of unfinished projects. I think I have twelve that need quilting. I don't want to quilt them on my regular sewing machine and my long arm needs serviced. And then this year I only made three new quilts, but I seriously need to get a move on. I hate being in limbo. I look forward to seeing which projects you get finished. =)
At least you have an idea of how many unfinished projects you have. LOL! What if you offered some of your WIPs to viewers? Many might be interested in finishing them and doing something with them.
oh my, 74 lol. And I thought I was not doing well with my 6 or 7 lol. I love the idea of quilt bankruptcy.
I still have many ufo's even after a clean up. A few years ago I went thru all the quilt tops I had made, I culled out 25 tht also had backing fabric. I contacted the local guild and they were so happy they even came and picked up the huge pile. She explained they would finish and donate to a local cause which is what I wss gong to do. I was so happy to let that pile go and the anxiety it bought. I still have mire top and kits cut the I need to cull again.
It's good to take a deep look at what's in our sewing rooms. For the flimsies ... donate them to an organization that will finish the top and pass it along. Our city has an organization that helps refugees, for example, and they gladly take quilts. On the kits, pull out the fabric and blend it into your stash. I have one quilt made up of 'orphan' blocks from several different quilt alongs, but if that's too complicated, pass the blocks along or make pot holders out of them. We all needed this reminder to assess our quilting bandwidth!
I agree with you about Block of the Month. Now that I am caught up I will not start a Block of the Month until it is done so that Ican get it done without it dragging on.
I'm not into the monthly block challenges either. Mostly I make lap quilts for Hospice patients, so only have 3 unfinished projects that are for me or my family.
What a wonderful gift to donate!
Last year I discovered that several of our local churches create quilts for Lutheran World Relief. They look for quilt tops that are 60 x 80 so that is the size I shoot for. It allows me to try new patterns or colors and then when I have several done I donate them. The group finishes them. It's the best of both worlds. I learned to not do sew alongs of any kind. I do not like making one block, packing it all up and then wait. It's just not for me. Too many times I change my mind on fabrics or simply lose interest and it becomes a chore. I wish you much luck in finding what works for you. I would bind those 12 first and be done with/enjoy them. You'll be glad you did.
Yes! It is so hard to only work a block at a time. I think you are right. You put it away each month and move on. It is so hard to keep interest in it. And over the year, yes, my taste can change! Great points!
Such a refreshing, satisfying TH-cam video! I feel absolutely the same as you do in so many ways!! I get enticed by the beautiful fabric and the ideas and the pictures........Sitting here watching your video I can estimate that I have at least 6 quilts in various stages. Probably 10 flimsies and a definite 2 BOM's that I've lost interest in. I am definitely in the same boat as you. But now I want to go to my sewing room and sort it out. Thank you for the inspiration to do what I must do!
You are so welcome! Hopefully we can encourage each other throughout the year. I plan to update each month!
Maybe you can offer your unfinished quilts to a local quilt guild or quilt shop. I commend how much work you have done. I have not gotten into that rhythm of starting and project and then starting something else. I find myself finishing a quilt before I start another quilt. Don't get me wrong I do start other small projects that does include a BOM. I have 2 quilt tops that need everything done to them. I hoping to get them done soon. Yes, I too need to stop spending money on items I don't need. 😊
You can donate them to a local quilt guild or use them as prizes for some of your followers.
I forget sometimes that I quilt because I need that creative outlet. Not because I need, or sometimes, even want the finished project. You have made progress by just identifying the projects that need attention. I really like the concept of identifying what projects continue to bring you joy. The only issue with this is the end of a project may be the most challenging part of the process. For example, I have a number of tops that I pieced that just need that last border or some appliqué. I don’t enjoy either process. If I looked at the quilt in this stage and asked myself if it brings me joy I would say no. Sometimes we just need to work past this step. So I hope you will consider this when choosing which projects to continue working on.
This video just gave me inspiration to pull out one of my flimsies and finish it.
Contact your local Lutheran churches to see if any have active quilting groups that make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. The LWR quilt program is a big deal worldwide. They have specific quilt size and fabric print requirements, but perhaps some of your quilt tops would meet the requirements or could be adjusted to meet those requirements. I’m sure they would take quilt tops and finish them. I would enjoy it if you have segments once or twice monthly to show us what you have accomplished toward project completion. You could inspire us. Lastly, I think it would reasonable to say, “I’m going to at least pause my purchase of subscription boxes until I finish what I have.” I know the subscription boxes are money-makers for quilting shops you would like to support, but everyone has a limit to the number of projects they can accomplish no matter how beautiful those projects are. Good luck with your 2024 goals.
I know I am a few days late but I can't help but comment. I am now to the point of only working with scraps. I buy sheets at walmart occassionly to finish them. I do all my own quilting on my machine and so far I have completed 3 in the last 3 months and I am not young or healthy but I do love quilting and even though I have gotten slow and not even keeping my channel up I can't give it up. The problem is now the great grands are getting big enough to start requesting what colors they would like to have! LOL My colors are whatever I can pull together and make them a bed size quilt as they are moving out of the baby beds into twins or full. So if you are so inclined I would even enjoy your scraps. I am sure that I could do something with the quilt blocks and or the boms. This is the only way that I have gifts for anyone anymore as a widow only drawing a widows SS there is no extra for anything! But Fallon you do with them as you see fit, charity is great and so is the thrift store. I know how much money is involved especially now in quilting projects! Do the best you can and believe in yourself what ever you do! Mary
I have 3 unfinished quilts, but my goal for ‘24 is to finish them before starting a new project. I have a rule for myself to NOT start something new until the quilt I’m working on is finished. Guess I’m a rule breaker 😂 An idea for the quilts/projects that you don’t want to keep, would be a giveaway 🤔 I’m sure there are some quilters out there that would love to finish them and add their own touch 😊 Best of luck reaching your goal of finishing and I will look forward to seeing your progress!
When I get a handle on all of these that is going to be a goal I set for myself too!
I was also going to suggest a give away. Locally at a guild or something; or online. I know Jordan fabric does one per video and that seems to work pretty well for them. Also Holly charges for shipping in her give ways and gets a lot of participation, so covering that also isn't a requirement.
Or more work, try to sell them through a destash group.
Hi, Fallon. I have 2 UFO's but it upset me so much, I haven't been in my sewing room for 2 months. This video helps me get back to work and not worry about the mistakes.
You can do it! It is so hard when a project goes wrong but sometimes if we go back to it after a break it isn’t as noticed we thought!
I can relate to your problem 😂
I find I do 3 quilts at a time, small medium and large, and eventually I make myself finish one a month, it maybe a bag but it is finished, so stay strong and keep going on.
That's a great idea!