New Gagdets

Who doesn't like new gadgets or toys!  For sure, I do.   Recently, I  purchased some new ones to make life easier and more fun.

My latest gadget is the "Big Shot" by Sizzix:

I can't wait to try it out.  Silly me, I didn't purchase the fabric dies yet!  I had to remedy that real fast so last night I went online and purchased two and can't wait for them to arrive.  I became interested in this product when Amy from During Quiet Time shared some quilts she made using Sizzix, where she is a part of the design team.

This is a beautiful pillow that she made using the Bottle die (which I just purchased!):

(Picture from Amy at During Quiet Time)

Also found this wall hanging using the same die:

(Pic from Sizzix website)

There are a few YouTube videos that show you how to use this die.  I'm looking forward to see if I can make something unique!

Recently, I enjoyed going to Arizona Quilt Guild quilt show with a friend.  While there, I purchased a couple of small items from vendors selling their wares.  The first item was this cool seam ripper:

I was a bit skeptical that this would work, even though I saw it demonstrated.  I brought it home and tried it out for myself and it works like a dream.  Really,  I don't know how I lived without it before.  It cost $22 and was worth every penny.

I also purchased this thread cutter for $1.49 but it doesn't work as well as I had hoped.  It's OK but not great:

I bought an old Bernina sewing machine, Record Electronic, made in 1979 from someone at work.  Her grandmother passed away and left this for her but she doesn't sew and offered to sell it to me.  She brought the machine to work and I did a test run on it.  I bought it right on the spot!  The motor runs so smoothly, like a gently hum that could you lull you to sleep.  It doesn't look fancy but I didn't buy it for its look.  I read wonderful reviews on this machine.  Many of the women who own it say they wouldn't ever part with it.  You can't get a better review than that.  The only thing that I miss with this machine is the button that allows you to choose what position the needle is left when you stop sewing.  I own a Janome 6600 Memory Craft machine but I really prefer to sew on the Bernina.  On the Janome, I have trouble sewing through layers of fabric.  It could just be a seam I'm sewing over and the Janome can struggle with it.  It's sad because I spent $1400 on it and it should do a much better job.

What gadget do you own that you wouldn't part with?  Please share!