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Thursday, May 23, 2013

Changes Planned For SewCalGal



Time to let you know some changes planned at SewCalGal.

This summer I'm going to be working on some format and content changes to this blog.  As  such there will be windows where you may not hear from me. My plans are to have these completed by late September when I'll be back on track with sharing insights on a regular basis.  If you have any recommendations for changes, feel free to leave a comment or email me.

Format Changes:  

  • I've been looking into changing from Google's blogspot blog to Wordpress (or possibly Typepad), but I need more time to focus on making such a transition.  Tests have gone pretty well.  Pros/Cons with each blog tool, but I am thinking if I can find enough time to focus I'll officially make the move.   Either way, I'll change my blog clothing (background, header, style) as it is always fun to get a new outfit!

Content Changes:  

designer showcase copy
  • SewCalGal is launching a series called Designer Showcase, which will show off talented designers of quilts and machine embroidery.    As this blog is primarily focused on increasing awareness of those in the business, products, events, etc., there have been many articles shared about various designers.  But,  this new series will change the format a bit, as there will also be either a FREE pattern that you can download or a GIVEAWAY for a pattern(s) from the respective designer.    I have several Designers lined up, but if you are a designer and looking for ways to promote your unique designs, please email me.  A few Designer Showcase articles will be released this summer, with the goal that starting this Fall it becomes a weekly series.
  • Precision Piecing is a topic I've been researching.  After several decades of quilting, I've found my habits  have fallen into sloppy workmanship and I've been wanting to find ways to improve.  There are several books, DVDs and classes with experts on Precision Piecing.  Somewhat similar to the 2012 FMQ Challenge, I'm looking into ways of showcasing Piecing Experts by way of hosting their tutorials combined with Precision Piecing Challenges and sponsored giveaways.  For now, I'm researching, but if you are interested in being showcased as such an expert and providing a free tutorial, please email me with your background and ideas for such.
  • Fun Friday Giveaways are taking the summer off and you'll find various sponsored giveaways again starting this Fall.  I have several wonderful sponsors lined up, but if you would like to be scheduled for sponsoring such a giveaway, please email me 


SewCalGal will continue to research and write reviews (e.g. products, classes, as well as continue to work with the Quilters with Modern Tools which our group will continue to host Blog Hops every Spring and Fall to showcase a modern tool.  This group also shares insights throughout the year, on their respective blogs, about Modern Quilting Tools that they use (e.g. Electric Quilt Software, AccuQuilt, Sizzix, Silhouette, Machine Embroidery Digitizing Software, etc.).

As Spring begins to turn into Summer, I want to wish you a happy Summer and hope you find plenty of time to enjoy and create.  And,  consider taking a summer school quilting class at local quilt shop and/or online at Craftsy!  It is fun to learn new skills, as well as to continually improve them too!



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16 comments:

Library Gal Quilts said...

I have always admired your blog and your energy! Thank you for sharing with us, and I will keep checking in on you! Pam

Unknown said...

Speaking of precision piecing, I just took a class from Sally Collins. It was a 6 hour class and OMG was it fantastic. It doesn't matter if your piece is 1/2" or 12" the process is the same. She would be a great teacher for you to get.

Ramona said...

Sounds like a busy summer!! Good luck with it all.

kbo said...

I've been told "Change is Good", therefore which ever route you take will be good! Happy Sunmmer.

Joanna said...

I am an avid follower of SewCalGal and have discovered links/blogs through your site that have helped me in my quilting journey. I'm very interested in the precision piecing topic. I've had to make myself become more aware of the structure of my work, not just the final appearance. Look forward to seeing what's next.

Kathryn said...

Looks Like your blog will continue to be one of my favorites. I'm trying an appliqué class in June with a master. Have yourself a good summer.

Marjorie's Busy Corner said...

You take the time your need to do what you have to do...we are all busy this time of the year for sure....take care

Jocelyn said...

Wow, you sure have a full plate. I hope the transitions go well. You've got a lot going on, but I'm sure your new site will be well worth the effort.

Polly said...

Would you share with us why you want to leave Blogger and move to Wordpress or Typepad?

Rosemary Dickinson said...

Best of luck making your changes. I'll be keeping my eye on your blog and looking forward to your return!

Nina Lise@Mrs Moen said...

Happy summer to you too, SewCalGal, and good luck with the work with the changes on your blog. It takes a surprisingly amount of time just doing some small changes, doesn't!

Dana Gaffney said...

:) wrote to you this morning before I saw this. I'd be interested in what you find out about Wordpress, it does make you a "no reply" on Google, googles fault not wordpress. I like the sound of the changes, patterns and designers are always welcome.

tich said...

This sounds really exciting, but a load of work, so remember to take some time for yourself.

Eileen said...

SCG, I also think Sally Collins would be a fantastic piecing teacher for your blog.
Since I just bought an embroidery/sewing machine, I'm very excited about your plans to have giveaways and freebies for embroiderers.
Have a great summer; I'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

Ivory Spring said...

You are obviously one of the most innovative blogger in the blog world. I always love that your posts are so "meaty", and I sure look forward to seeing the new content coming up! HUGS!

Newbie Jen said...

Thank you, thank you! I can't wait for the precision piecing series. I started taking the Craftsy class that is available, but I feel like there is so much more to learn. I know you will do a fabulous job. I wish it was starting tomorrow!