Barcelona visit

 

I've visited Barcelona first time in 1997 and it remained in my memory as one of the most beautiful and inspiring cities ever and now, 27 years later I was so happy to visit it with my family.

We managed to get the fantastic fare for the airplane tickets through Wizzair and it was around 500 euros for the 5 of us and it was almost that much to rent a charming loft from AirBnB for our stay in Premia de Mar, in the suburbs of Barcelona. The train station (R1 line connected to the city centre in 30 mins) was literally across the apartment building that was in the quiet zone full of shops and small restaurants working till late, so it was very handy. The transportation (T-mobilitat or TMB) was great, but we had some problems with tickets (that weren't working) so my hope that it will be running a bit more smoothly and efficiently in the future. It was also challenging to figure out the zone of Premia de Mar, as it was listed as zone 4 for the trains (Rodalies) only, while in TMB group transportation, offering various tickets like T-usual, T-casual or T-familiar which we mostly used, was in the 2nd zone.

We mostly used trains, even to arrive to the airport (R1 +R2), although it was easily approachable with Metro or bus and it only takes about 15 minutes from the Barcelona's Plaça de Catalunya. 

Just upon our landing at the airport, we had an unpleasant episode with the Car Rental agency "Do You Spain" and my strongest suggestion is to avoid this agency, due to lack of professionalism and to rent a car directly from Rent-a-car agency, in our case it was from Europcar, that was very professional.

We rented a car because our flight was arriving late (planned for 10 pm, but it landed at 11.15 pm), because we were 5 ( a bit challenging for regular Taxi) and also because we wanted to visit Montserrat the next day, which is exactly what we did.

We enjoyed it so much. There's a car parking just before the monastery settlement (the ticket was 7 euros for entire day). We eat there at the Montserrat Restaurant, where we enjoyed beautiful views.

After that kids wanted to visit La Roca village but the weather wasn't very collaborative, so we mostly rushed to arrive to our apartment and also to leave the car at the airport.  

On our second day, we had the privilege of visiting one of the most beautiful and enchanting places in Barcelona - the Sagrada Familia. It was a particularly special experience for me as it was the first time I could enter and fully appreciate the interior, considering my previous visits coincided with the basilica's construction.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, we purchased our tickets in advance, a week ahead, directly from the official Sagrada Familia website. This allowed us to secure our desired date and time slot for the visit, ensuring a seamless and delightful experience. In fact, we followed the same approach for all our other planned activities, opting for the convenience of online ticket purchases.

For lunch, thanks to my sister, we discovered a hidden gem, the Puertecillo fish restaurant, located in close proximity. The experience was simply delightful. At Puertecillo, you have the unique opportunity to handpick your fresh fish and specify your preferred cooking method, whether it's fried or grilled. The simplicity of the process and the absence of service charges create a homely atmosphere, making it not only a culinary delight but also an affordable dining experience.

Our afternoon was dedicated to the most enchanting Park Guell.

We walked by the Casa Vicens in our way back to the city's centre. I wish we had some time to visit the interior and taste the churros with chocolate served there, in their cafeteria.

Next day, we started with the Arc de Triomf, partially visited Parc de la Ciutadella, partially Montjuic (to visit the Museum of Joan Miro), partially L'Aquarium, and finally we reunited late afternoon to visit the Picasso Museum together.

We had a brunch break at the wonderful Born - Honest Greens cafe in the Gothic Quarter.

On our final day, we embraced a much-needed sense of relaxation, given that our feet were practically pleading for respite after days of incessant walking and running since our arrival. We leisurely strolled past the architectural marvels of Barcelona cathedral, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila (La Pedrera), taking the time to explore quaint stores nestled in the heart of the city.

A particular highlight was our visit to La Boqueria, a culinary haven where color overflowed in abundance. It wasn't just a feast for the eyes; the vibrant market also tantalized our taste buds, creating a delightful symphony for both the senses.

Looking forward to the next time,

xx

Katarina

Duomo quilt pattern

 

It's the Duomo quilt pattern release day and I can't be more excited!!!

Ever since I visited the enchanting Duomo in Florence, I knew I had to translate that beauty and all the inspiration into something...and one year later, my Florence fabric collection is almost here as well as the quilt pattern that was inspired with that beautiful marble facade.

 

Here's the mock-up I did in Twin 1, using only 4 prints from the Florence fabric collection, that looks like a meadow garden to me! My plan is to fussy cut the central squares from the Florence (city) print.

And here's the THROW II in same fabrics:

As my Florence fabrics aren't here just yet, I had to use my Wintertale fabric collection, which turned out great, as now I have a beautiful quilt ready to be gifted, just in time for the Holidays. I used flannel backing and can't be more thrilled about this choice!

And I hope that you will join me in my Quilt-along during the month of November by subscribing here, (the subscription box is on the right of my blog) or by visiting my website where you can get the subscription box with a pop-up window or there's the area reserved for that at the bottom of my website's landing page.

Here are the requirements:

QAL schedule:

·       Week One, November 2 - Prep: Choose + Cut Fabrics

·       Week Two, November 9 - Make units and sub-blocks

·       Week Three, November 16 - Make blocks

·       Week Four, November 23 - Quilt top assembly

·       Week Five, November 30 - Finishing

Some more mock-ups:

THROW II in Seedling

And here are some of the beautiful testers versions:

Alicia Jones of Wild Blooms Quilt Co. made the BABY I version in Juniper fabrics:

Sue Vinyard of Vineyard Quilts made the THROW I version in AGF pure solids:

 Debbie Grosskopf made the THROW II version in Mindscape fabrics:

 

Aurora of Atelier Calvet made the scrappy version in BABY size:

Lori of The Grey Finch Company made the THROW I version in True Blue collection:

Also regarding the FABRIC KITS, here are some of the stores to be kitting this quilt pattern:

Wild Blooms QuiltCo - THROW II in Wintertale

The Grey Finch Company - THROW I in True Blue

Fieldstone fabric - THROW II in Wintertale

Hope to see you joining me during this sew-along!

Happy November!

Katarina

xoxo 

Duomo quilt sew-along

After a great experience that I had with my first ever organised Winterflake quilt sew along, I thought to offer another sew-along, with the only change that it will be organized via email subscription (totally free) and you will be able to get the videos and other information that way!

You can simply subscribe here, finding the subscription box on the right of my blog or by visiting my website where you can get the subscription box with a pop-up window or there's the area reserved for that at the bottom of my website's landing page.

As with Winterflake and my other tested quilt patterns, I can't thank enough to my amazing pattern testers who helped me so much during this journey. It's been so helpful to share the experience, the opinions and feedback in order to bring the better pattern and sewing results.   
There are so many possibilities to play with only 2 blocks, or just one, upon your liking and preferences. 
This pattern was quite challenging and is absolutely the most extensive pattern I ever wrote, because it has several layouts and sizes, so there was a lot going on behind the scenes, I will not lie. I almost quit with writing it, as I felt exhausted at one point. 

 There is also the BONUS-fat quarter variation for all those pre-cuts lovers.

"Duomo" quilt pattern was inspired with beautiful old tiles from the facade of The Duomo - Catedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore - in Florence.

I am so happy to show you some of the versions that will be available.

The pattern will be available on November 1, and the sew-along will commence on November 2, the very next day. 

And November is not just another month; it's my birthday month, and this year, I'm celebrating it with all of you in the most creative way possible! Welcome to the "November Quilt Sew-Along Party!" 🎉

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there's something magical about November that makes it the perfect time to embark on a cozy quilting adventure. 

And here's the twist: this sew-along will run through all five weeks of November, leading up to the most festive time of the year. By the end of it, you'll have a stunning quilt ready to grace your holiday parties and gatherings or maybe to have a perfect gift for that special person in your life.

Why a November Quilt Sew-Along?

 

November is more than just pumpkin spice lattes and Thanksgiving turkey (although those are pretty great too). It's a month of reflection, gratitude, and creativity. By stitching together our own unique quilt, we're not just creating a beautiful piece of art; we're crafting memories, warmth, and a sense of togetherness.

 

Here is the schedule:

·       Week One, November 2 -  Prep: Choose  + Cut Fabrics: pages 1, 2, 3 and 4

·       Week Two, November 9 - Make units and sub-blocks: pages 5, 6 and 7

·       Week Three, November 16 -  Make blocks : page 8

·       Week Four, November 23 - Quilt top assembly: pages 9, 10,11, 12 and 13

·       Week Five, November 30 - Finishing: pages 15 and 16

 

What to Expect:

The "November Quilt Sew-Along Party" is designed for quilters of all levels, from beginners eager to learn to seasoned pros looking for a fun project. Here's what you can expect:

Week 1: Gathering Supplies and Inspiration, Cutting and Preparing 

We kick off the party by sharing a list of supplies you'll need. Get ready to rummage through your fabric stash or head to your favorite quilt shop for some themed materials. I'll also dive into the inspiration behind my quilt design. I'll guide you through the process of cutting fabric with precision and care, sharing some tips for obtaining perfect units. But most importantly, I will try to give you some ideas and inspiration for choosing fabrics for your quilt. 

Week 2: Sewing units and Sub-Blocks!

We'll start sewing the units and sub-blocks together, exploring techniques to ensure perfect seams. Don't worry; we'll talk about that elusive scant 1/4-inch seam allowance too!

Week 3: Sewing Blocks!

 This is where the magic begins!

Week 4: Assembling the Quilt Top!

As November draws to a close, we'll assemble the quilt top, bringing all your hard work together. You'll start to see your quilt take shape, and the excitement will build!

Week 5: Quilting and Finishing (Nov 30)

In the final week, we'll delve into basting, quilting, binding and finishing touches. By the end of November, you'll have a beautiful, completed quilt to showcase proudly during the holiday season.

So, mark your calendars, set up your sewing space and prepare to celebrate my birthday month with creativity, camaraderie, and quilting joy. Let's make November unforgettable with the "November Quilt Sew-Along Party!" 

Sign-up for my newsletter to stay tuned for weekly updates, tips, and inspiration. 

Your quilt journey is about to begin, and I can't wait to sew along with you! 🎂🧵

Katarina