March of the Tools

Heather Bailey is having her second annual March of the Tools, a place to recommend tools that "make life better, work easier and fun funner." So now you know what that badge to the right is all about. I was trying to think about what things make my life better, mostly from a sewing perspective. I don't have anything earth shattering to write about, nothing new or cutting-edge, except, duh, my rotary cutter (and it's gotta be the 60 mm size, thank you very much). When it comes to quilting, my needs are few and basic.

Obviously fabric... and my favorite ruler, which is no longer being made and that is making me really sad. It was made by Judy Martin and when she discontinued it, I emailed her pronto and asked to buy any remaining rulers she had in stock. She said she had some used ones which she would discount. Sold! I bought every one she had left. It is the perfect size: 7 by 19 inches, which is the main reason I like it so much, plus it has clear easy-to-read markings every 1/8 inch, with none of those distracting yellow markings like some of my other rulers (I won't name names, but you know who you are). I use Judy's ruler almost exclusively and all the markings are wearing off (insert sad face here). I should probably accept the inevitable and start shopping for a new brand.

Thread: nothing better than Superior brand. It really is superior. Nearly lint-less. And you want to know about thread? Start reading Superior Thread's monthly newsletter. Who knew there was so much to learn about thread? At the risk of you thinking I need to get a life, I find all that information about thread pretty interesting.

Probably my current favorite tool, which I use for inspiration, is my computer, where I read all my favorite quilting blogs. Yeah, still trying to find a way to actually get paid for spending all that time.

So, thanks, Heather, for a great idea. March on...