YAK YAK YAK! and GADGETS

So what are we all talking (I mean blogging) about? GEE... when I started this a few days ago I had no idea of 1). How many new friends I would meet, 2) How much time I could spend at the computer and ignore other things that I need to be doing.

But like a kid with a new toy, it is hard to walk away from here and do what needs to be done right now. And today I discovered a whole NEW world... GADGETS for your blog! I am an admitted "gadget freak". I LOVE gadgets, especially quilt-related ones. I have a whole collection, stashed somewhere in this house, that I can never find when I come across the perfect time to use it (like the fine tips for Elmer's glue that Sharon Schamber sells... it is here somewhere, and I needed it this week to glue down the binding on a quilt and jacket... but after 30 minutes of looking we instituted Plan B - barely open the glue and hope for the best.)

Now I have found all these add-ons for my blog. That means the look will be changing from day to day as I discover more cool things. My question is... do you ever actually FINISH getting a blog set up? Or is there always some new, cool something you need to add? I am suspecting the later is the case!

So now that we are on the subject of gadgets, let's talk QUILTING gadgets. I KNOW you have favorites and so do I (I also have some that just did not work as I expected it too, like the rotary cutter designed to cut 2 strips at one time). So what is your very-most-awesome-favorite-can't-do-without gadget?

Mine is probably the Salem "Square-Up" rulers. They come in 2 different sizes and are wonderful for squaring the corners of quilts and large blocks. (Did I mention that I am rather anal about squaring things? I just can't help it... it bugs me when I notice that a corner of a block or border or quilt is not square!) When I get a chance I will snap a picture and post it for those who are not familiar with this ruler.

Other things I enjoy using: lately, the CurveMaster presser foot. I am in the process of making a "Glorified 9-Patch" quilt which is all curved piecing. This foot really does make it easier. And also to go with that project, I purchase my first good, brass stiletto. I've tried the wooden skewer thing, but it just does not work as well as a good metal one with a very sharp point. My advise to all... just go ahead and spend $15 and get a good one. It will last you the rest of your life! (But do be careful how you wear it... I place mine on a slender ribbon and hang it around my neck. It is always within a quick reach that way. However, it can also be very uncomfortable should you lean against the table or reach down to pick up something... OUCH!)

Enough from me... I MUST go get busy with the next quilt, then make a trip to town to deliver quilts and visit Mom this afternoon.

Please post YOUR favorite gadgets here... I'm always looking for other ways to spend my hard-earned money.

Have a wonderful, quilty day. And SHARE something with someone today... even if it is just advice on a new quilt "toy" we all need!

Kat