Stretching to the Stars is an easy quilt that's assembled using strip piecing and quick piecing techniques. The design is a good choice when you want to stitch a patriotic quilt, but a simple fabric switch can make it suit any theme. My sister made a cuddly baby quilt from the pattern, using soft pastels and neutrals. You'll assemble two block sizes, one 8" square and the other 4" square, to help you practice working with smaller and larger components. Beginning quilters might want to brush up on their rotary cutting and pressing skills before beginning.

_{Quilt by Janet Wickell}

I'm not big on sewing zippers -- I've had a mental block about them since about 1963. So I've avoided making pillow covers, because I like covers that can be removed when it's time to wash them, something that's critical when you have a house full of felines like we do. This quick and easy pillow cover method solves the problem by eliminating the zippers and replacing them with a simple, fold-over back. Start looking through your UFO bins for quilt blocks, and then grab some backing fabric. You'll finish this easy throw pillow cover in no time.

_{Photo © Janet Wickell}