Time for another 10 minute tip! If you find this annoying, you should be aware that I have over 50 of these tips. I try to limit them to just Tuesdays, so consider yourself warned!
This week's tip might take more than 10 minutes depending on your situation. Never the less, it's a good thing to do!
MAKE A LIST OF ALL OF YOUR PROJECTS IN PROGRESS.
I start with these categories:
1.Quilts that need binding, labels and/or sleeves.
2. Quilt tops that need quilting.
3. Quilt tops that just need a bit of finishing or borders.
4. Blocks sets that need to be put together or finished.
5. Blocks sets that are not complete.
6. Kits ready to be assembled.
7. Pattern/fabric that is almost a kit.
Now that you can see your progress on each project you should feel better (not just stressed!) Look at how close you are to finishing some of these projects. Decide what is keeping you from finishing them. Make notes next to them like: buy binding fabric, or find quilting thread, or piece a backing. I do this in another color ink because it helps remind me what needs to happen and because it's cute.
Now that you can see what's keeping you from finishing these projects, you can solve those problems. I choose one quilt from the category that is closest to being finished and just get it done! I LOVE the feeling of being able to cross something off the list for good. Maybe that's just a personal issue, but it really makes me happy. And it means that I will have a show and tell at the next guild meeting!
So rather than feeling overwhelmed or as I often hear others say, "I just can't seem to finish anything!" Now you have a plan. Doesn't it seem much more achievable to look at the list, pick one, and get it done! It also helps keep me from starting new projects because I know they will need to be added to the list.
My suggestion to you is to try the list, and then try to mark something off before you start a new project. Just a suggestion. If that sounds no fun at all, then just sew away on whatever your heart desires. The only rule in the quilting world (as far as I'm concerned) is the following...
Enjoy every stitch!!
Oh I definitely agree with the list thing. I have a couple lists for my quilting. I carry one in my purse all the time too so I can check and see what binding, backing, or background fabrics I may be looking for and what quilting thread I may need next. It's good to be organized when you're someone who likes to have several irons (I mean quilts!) in the fire. lol
ReplyDeleteI don't think I could function without my lists! :)
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