Review: Sony’s Cybershot DSC-HX9V

Within 20 mins of using this camera I knew I wanted one. (This is a review camera on loan from Sony).

I took around 20-30 photos of my kids and in that time frame not one of them was a bad shot. A week or so later I still have not read the manual but finding it easy to navigate through all the options and scene selections etc. My favorite setting on this camera is the background defocus which allows you to blur out the background and I found this one especially good for close ups of the kids.

What I also liked was the super zoom. It is a pocket camera, yet, it has one of the highest zooms available in the market. 16 times optical zoom! Made for great photographs where the kids were not aware that we were taking their photos (so they could not do silly poses).

There is one big negative though. The charger port is underneath the camera which means I have to either lay it down on it’s lens side or the LCD screen side to charge. You would need to make sure you have a soft clean space for charging this camera. Consider that a valuable lesson that was learnt the hard way (Screen is now scratched, Sorry Sony!).

In a nutshell:

This is a super zoom Sony Camera with a 16.2 megapixels resolution and 16 times optical zoom. It has GPS functionality so you can easily tag and remember where you took your photographs. There are some other cool features like (Backlight correction, 3D images, full HD recording), but if even if you just want an easy to use pocket camera with photographs that look like they were taken with high end SLR model then go for it!

There’s something magical about quilt patterns that have stood the test of time, and the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block is no exception. This classic design, with its intricate geometry and timeless appeal, has captured the hearts of quilters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey, this roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns is brimming with inspiration to suit every skill level.

From free tutorials to premium patterns, this collection offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern interpretations of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block. You’ll find a variety of sizes, layouts, and creative takes that breathe new life into this vintage design. It’s perfect for scrap-busting projects, heirloom quilts, or adding a touch of nostalgia to your quilting repertoire.

But before we dive into the patterns, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history behind the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block. Its origins reveal much about the ingenuity and storytelling that have long been a part of quilting traditions.

The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is part of the rich legacy of puzzle quilt blocks, which became popular in the 19th century. These designs often featured interlocking shapes, symbolizing interconnectedness and complexity, much like the lives of those who pieced them together. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block, with its distinctive angular pattern, earned its name from its resemblance to a game or riddle—a playful nod to the art of creating order from scraps and fragments.

Over the years, the block has been known by various names, including “School Girl’s Puzzle” and “Bachelor’s Puzzle,” reflecting regional differences and changing social attitudes. Despite its many identities, one thing remains constant: its enduring charm and versatility. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is not just a pattern; it’s a piece of quilting history that invites you to be part of a larger story.

Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block or simply love its bold and striking design, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own. This roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns offers endless opportunities to experiment with color, fabric, and layout, ensuring your creation is as unique as you are.

As you piece together your Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt, take a moment to appreciate the generations of quilters who have stitched this pattern before you. Each quilt tells a story, and now it’s your turn to add your chapter to this timeless tradition.

Ready to get started? Browse through the patterns, gather your favorite fabrics, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re creating a wall hanging, a cozy lap quilt, or a show-stopping bedspread, the Old Maid’s Puzzle block is a beautiful choice that blends history with artistry. Happy quilting!

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

Accuquilt Old Maids Puzzle

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

A quilt block by any other name

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Sunrise Quilt Studio

Splish Splash Stash: old maid’s puzzle block

Block #3 – School Girl’s Puzzle (also called Old Maid’s Puzzle)

Old Maid Puzzle for Jen Kingwell’s Gypsy Wife – GnomeAngel

0227 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilting Tutorial | Block of the Day 2023 | Rotary Cutting | AccuQuilt

Old Maids Puzzle – Stash Buster Block #19

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle