Shirlwin's Sessions

Promises and Borders

2012-02-23T15:29:00.000+08:00

Block 2 of Jenny of ELEFANTZ BOM is now completed. These blocks are a joy to stitch ... nothing too difficult and an effective result at the end.

Already it is obvious how delightful the completed quilt will be.

More Blocks

2012-02-21T13:26:00.002+08:00

So far this year I seem to be concentrating on BOM's, and although they take a year to complete there is none of that must rush and complete this before I begin something else.

In our Craft Forum I have joined a non-swap, but almost a swap, in that we do at least one block a month [chosen by those of us in this 'swap'] and post a photo before the end of the month. Upon joining we forwarded some 'goodies' and at the end of the BOM those who posted photos are in the draw for the goodies ... divided into a few prizes. This 'swap' not only saves on postage, it gives the member the opportunity to complete a quilt in her chosen colours. We can add borders as desired.

As well I was rather taken with the Asian Teapot BOM.

This is an applique BOM. I am trying not to purchase new fabric for this BOM, but ... sadly ... on a trip to the fabric shop I broke that resolution. Though, I hasten to add, a girl can not have too much fabric!!

Stormy Weather ... Sentimental Journey

2012-02-11T16:37:00.000+08:00

Block 6, Stormy Weather of the Sentimental Journey BOM is complete. I cut this out over a week ago, brought it south for something to do. Taking photos in another place is a trial as I am not used to the lighting, but after a little 'adjusting' the colours are not too bad; perhaps a tad too pink? The pale colour is actually cream.

The completion of this block means the half-way mark on making the blocks for this quilt, though I hasten to add there is a lot more to do after that!

Stormy weather ... well yes, it is topical as the weather has been unusual, though I would be fibbing if I said it was stormy.

Wall hanging

2012-02-07T07:09:00.000+08:00

My first attempt at a wall hanging, this for a swap [and as I haven't yet posted it away, and as I don't think the recipient looks in here] I am taking a chance.

Initially I was inclined to make an apron ... a couple of years ago I made several aprons and reckon I have them down to a fine art! However an apron was not particularly welcome, and a wall hanging was suggested. The mind went into overtime. Thankfully I had not long before reorganised all my fabrics into their new abode, which did make the task of choosing very easy. A piece of apple fabric had been purchased for some long forgotten project ... apples and kitchens seemed an apt equation.

I hope she likes it; I enjoyed making it.

Please excuse the poor photo ... wasn't at home when it was taken and finding a suitable hanging place in someone else's home isn't easy, especially when I was in a hurry.

Promises and Borders

2012-01-25T16:17:00.001+08:00

Block 1

This year I intend completing a BOM or two. Working on one block a month is not too difficult if I keep up to date; and I have every intention of doing that.

Promises and borders promises to be a little different, and with a particular recipient in mind for this quilt, the incentive to stitch is not difficult. Jenny of ELEFANTZ selected her lovely preferred fabric, one of which I was able to source. However I am satisfied with my complimentary choices and enjoyed stitching the first block.

Another Table Topper

2012-01-16T09:01:00.000+08:00

I love the phrase, 'table topper'! Instead of a table cloth, a supper cloth, or an afternoon tea cloth, the table topper encompasses all these, even more if you had the inclination.

A table topper is often padded which is a great when used on a wooden table as it eliminates the possibility of scratches that surely diminish the beauty of a piece of furniture.

This table topper pattern was origninally a wall hanging ... by having the stitching facing outwards neither end is top or bottom, or it can be placed diagonally upon the table.

Oh so tidy!

2012-01-15T07:50:00.000+08:00

Garage sales are interesting and can offer untold bargains. Garage sales are slightly addictive!

For some untold reason visits to a certain craft store mean that fabrics fall into my shopping trolley. [These trolleys line up in anticipation outside the store door; all that is required is that the shopper uses a $2 to unlock the holding chain ... a $2 coin is always available in the little purse that lives in the depths of my handbag.]

Of course these essential purchases multiply; after all some fabrics are chosen for their delightful colour/pattern with no particular project in mind. Frequently when a project does present itself the 'stash' of fabric simply does not extend to the particular colour necessary for its completion, which in turn means another trip to the store.

Over a period of two, or is it three, years my fabric stash has grown ... almost faster than a mushroom farm. The number of plastic boxes required to accommodate this material began to take over the space in our small home. A solution was required, but what?

Yesterday we attended two garage sales. The first had nothing of particular interest on the tables though we did manage to spend the princely sum of 60c on three items; a CD holder, a leather wallet and an ice bucket, none of which we needed but thought might come in handy one day.

Garage sale number two yielded a real treasure. Lined up against the wall were several large pieces of furniture: a huge metal filing cabinet that would have easily graced the wall of a modern office, a wardrobe with drawers beneath ... painted white with garish blue trim, a couple of sets of drawers, and at the end stood what at first glance looked like a two-door wardrobe. I opened the doors and instead of a rail for hangers it sported rows of shelves. Mmmm ... I wonder? I looked around at what else was on offer ... a huge bundle of books by an author I have never heard of, and by the speed the stack was going down no one else had either, a microwave ... we have a perfectly good one, a wok, and other interesting kitchen equipment with reasonable price stickers attached.

The cupboard with the shelves still beckoned. I wandered back again and Significant Other, noticing my attraction helped with the sales talk! [He likes buying from garage sales ... hence the three not really needed items at the previous one.] I decided! A deal was made and S.O. brought the vehicle closer to enable easy loading.

Once home we manouvered the cupboards into place [not easy on a hot morning when the temperature already sat above 30°C and rising]. Several hours later all the fabric and other bits and pieces essential to anyone seriously engaged in using fabric were transferred. Empty plastic containers now need a new home!

There is one downside to this tale. Already the cupboard is full [one could almost say overflowing] which makes the immediate purchase of more absolutely essential fabric null and void!

Somewhere My Love

2012-01-07T17:20:00.000+08:00

Block 5 of Sentimental Journey, 'Somewhere My Love' proved to be a tad taxing. Perhaps if I hadn't been tired it would have come together easier. Matching the points on the hearts and the centre block provided a few moments of frustration, but in the end I managed to place 3 out of 4 correctly. The fourth? I just left it as 'backward sewing' may have proved impossible, or at least a large part would have needed re-doing.

This quilt is coming along nicely, and when laid all out side by side, the result is rather pleasing.

1st project for the year

2012-01-02T19:22:00.001+08:00

Recently I put my name down for a doll swap in our Craft Forum, but as closing time draw closer I developed cold feet. My doll making belonged to the past when I made dolls for school raffles, dolls that were cut out in two pieces, back and front. A 'proper' doll I hadn't tackled. I withdrew from that swap.

However as the excitment of Christmas passed and time began to hang heavily on my hands [isn't housework all up to date for Christmas?] and I had discovered a lovely pattern in the latest Homespun magazine I decided to tackle a doll.

The doll in the magazine was named Shelly ... she had long plaited hair, and wore a shell necklace. Mmmmm ... not really what I wanted, but the pattern was intriguing. I traced the pattern, cut the pieces out and started from there. The days were hot; enthusiasm waned, but in the cool of the evening I sewed.

The head wasn't difficult ... don't ask about joining the head to the body! Had the instructions been followed attaching the head would have been easier. I have a bad habit of thinking I know, when I don't!

Shelly's face in the pattern didn't come up to my specifications either. [Yes, I know, but in my mind a pattern is a pattern; to be altered, added, or adhered to, or reconstructed to another's specifications.] Out came the Prisma pencils and a face slowly came to life. Don't you like the freckles?!

[oops ... the knitting needle I pushed up her back to get her to stand straight is showing ... ignore it. I wanted to show her lovely scuffs/shoes!]

As this doll has short red hair [that feather wool is wonderful ... I simply threaded a short length through a large-eyed needle, pulled it through once and tied a half knot]; she has been named Catriona ... a good Scottish name for a red-head.

She left gathering shells on the magazine page. A bag with knitting and a magazine, plus a quilt-cum-swag roll completed the essentials she needs for her move south.

Season's Greetings

2011-12-24T19:04:00.000+08:00

Happy Christmas and very best wishes for a happy and healthy 2012.

Town Square

2011-12-16T15:12:00.001+08:00

It seems absolutely ages since I attempted a block of the Nine Patch Nirvana quilt, but after successfully tackling a Sentimental Journey block yesterday, and with time on my hands [!!] out came the fabric for block 4.

It is easy to see how this block was named Town Square: four substantial red brick buildings in the outer corner of the square ... church, school, library and council chambers? Or do you have other ideas? Grassy paths lead to the town square where folks congregate and exchange news and gossip. The cream pieces? Shops and other incidentals to daily life.

These blocks are a breeze, a lot less work than the Sentimental Journey and I feel guilty at such a quick finish; almost feel the need to start another! But! Commonsense does reign at times.

As Time Goes By

2011-12-15T17:04:00.000+08:00

Block 4 in the Sentimental Journey quilt is completed! At the beginning of December I wondered if time would allow its start, little alone completion, but this morning I posted off what I think is the end of my Christmas mail, came home, had a coffee, read a little short story, and decided to start on Block 4, As Time Goes By ... time might go by too fast if that start wasn't made.

In spite of a muggy early afternoon I cut and stitched; a cooler strong wind whistled past the sewing machine in the mid afternoon; a decided plus!

Result ... block 4 finished ... and no need to think about block 5 until next month ... next year!

A bell and cushions

2011-12-13T11:33:00.000+08:00

Yesterday a very exciting game of cricket was played in Tasmania, Australia; the New Zealand Black Caps V Australia. After a disappointing loss, for the Kiwis, in the 1st test, and what I believed to be a not so flash start to the 2nd Test, suddenly on Day 4, the game became interesting. Washing, of clothes and floors, completed there were several other pressing tasks for my day, but with the likely chance of NZ cleaning up the Aussies on the cricket pitch I had to find a small project to justify my sitting and listening to the game.

Several weeks ago, at another Garage Sale, I picked up a plain wooden bell shape of wood, thinking that one day I might do something with it. For the princely sum of 10cents who could leave such a bargain behind? A container of paints yielded red and green, and an impressive bronze shade. It wasn't difficult to trace two bunches of holly leaves onto the bell, and sitting in my armchair, I painted and listened to the enthralling, though often scary game. Would NZ win? I hoped so. Significant Other left the room ... he has not the heart for the highs and lows of a game of cricket at the crunch!

All was well ... NZ won the cricket with seven runs in hand, and I completed painting and embellishing the bell, that will be added to our Christmas decorations.

For several days, weeks in fact, as the urge only comes upon me at the 11th hour, I have been sewing. Last night I completed the last of my hand-crafted gifts, a cushion. On a count-up the tally of cushions made over the last wee while exceeds half a dozen. There is something about cushions! They don't take long to make, and if given as gifts the thought of colour and stitching fulfils the creative mood of the moment.

These two cushions, going to different people, indeed different countries, are part of a family of patterns I saved for 'the future'. I seem to recall making another last year as well.

The colours selected are, hopefully, if my intuition is correct, suitable for the recipients. Anyway, I did enjoy making them! 'Tis a pity this house is not large ... in all honesty there are few corners left for another cushion, but ... gifts? I am sure my mind will come up with more ideas!

Gift giving

2011-12-06T14:27:00.001+08:00

Near the beginning of this year I determined that many of the gifts I sent would be 'handmade', as somehow Christmas has become so commercial as to be ridiculous.

I did begin early stashing completed items away in a big plastic box. Yet once again as the 25th draws near and as I found patterns crying out to be made, I have engaged in a rush to make more. Already that box is empty; many gifts that needed posting are winging their way across the oceans, and I am still stitching.

This little table topper has a simple charm. Over the years I have purchased fat q's of Christmas fabric, having I will confess, no particular project in mind. Two or three early in the season, followed by another couple in the sales does tend to appreciate [as interest in a bank?]. Two table toppers down, a third, that is destined to stay at home, almost complete. And, there is fabric for another two or three next year! Oh, I will need to purchase fabric for the outer border, but isn't that what sale time is for?

This table topper would look equally delightful in colours to suit a particular kitchen or dining room ... that idea is in the back of my mind for an easy sewing project during the year.

A New Toy

2011-11-26T15:05:00.000+08:00

When I purchased my first computer, in New Zealand, a scanner and printer were included in the 'deal'. Alas, when selling-up a decision had to be made; the computer, and its associated accessories were passed on to youngest son ... there was neither rhyme nor reason to cart their combined bulk across the Tasman.

I may have mentioned previously that a normal Saturday morning often includes a visit to a garage sale. Sometimes there are bargains, sometimes not; the fun is in looking. This morning came up trumps! No 1 house offered girl's clothing ~ not in the market for that; it also had an excellent selection of books, and in spite of the fact that we need yet another bookcase, I chose three.

House No 2 didn't look promising from the road. A few trestle tables that didn't appear heavily laden clung to the walls of the garage, almost like a wall flower at a dance sitting unobtrusively in the certainty she would be bypassed by the roaming males. But ... on closer inspection I spied a scanner; same brand as what I previously owned, and this time the CD was included [unlike a scanner for sale several months ago minus the all important CD ... the lady in charge that day looked blank at my enquiry for the relevant CD ... I often wonder if she managed to find a buyer].

The scanner is home and installed. What use is a scanner if one doesn't use it!? Finding a black and white photo all of 40 years old I tried my luck. In spite of not having a clue what to do the image appeared, albeit as faded as the original. Not a problem. I have another programme to sort that.

I had heard that some folks use their scanner, in place of a camera, for craft work. OK ... Just having completed a hexagon mug rug suitable for Christmas I placed it in the scanner, pushed a button, and hey presto ...

I see now that in my haste the mug-rug wasn't placed squarely, but it did work. Little gifts, like this, will end up at someone's house in time for December 25th.

Christmas is Coming

2011-11-17T17:24:00.000+08:00

Christmas with all its excitement is looming! As I was presented with a little grandchild earlier in the year what else could a doting Nana do but make a little gift, one that will last for several years.

Deciding between a stocking or a Santa Sack a search through my library of magazines made the choice easy ... a Santa Sack. Santa is taking it easy at the moment ... afterall he has a few weeks before his round-the-world trip!

For his first Christmas I will fill the sack; while his parents will have that pleasure in the coming years.

Christmas Swag

2011-11-13T19:07:00.000+08:00

Since the end of September Sew Happy Sewalong has given instructions for a Christmas swag. In a fit of determination each week I printed the instructions and stitched the block. While not complicated the simplicity of each block makes for an effective Christmas swag.

This afternoon the project was completed, albeit with a few variations; beads for eyes, buttons and holly berries, and buttons to hold the pieces together rather than a long strip. Should you desire to make a similar swag, with or without your variations, the pattern is available from Sew Happy Sewalong website.

Ain't Misbehavin'

2011-11-10T11:52:00.000+08:00

Block 3 of the Sentimental Journey quilt is now complete with improved results. A great tip from Vicki has definitely improved my points. Her suggestion was to spray starch the pieces before stitching, and although I had read that somewhere before the hint had not sunk in. This time I spray starched some of the pieces, as a comparision, and what a difference! Next time I will use it for all the block!

At the moment the three completed blocks are lying on the top of the couch looking good. Only another nine to go, plus the borders etc.

Butterfly Dreaming

2011-10-21T07:06:00.000+08:00

I have a dear little grandson who will be one year old early in the New Year. When visiting him not long after his birth I purchased The Enormous Turnip, a book greatly favoured by his Dad when he began school. Speaking on the phone recently my son related how Grandson loves The Enormous Turnip ... his lovely Mum reads it to him regularly and he sits and listens. I am thrilled as I am a great believer of obtaining a child's interest in books at an early age.

It was suggested that Grandson would 'love The Very Hungry Caterpillar' book. I requested they not buy it ... that privilege was mine. The pop-up version of the book is ordered and will arrive later in the month. A book needs a bag; a bag that can double as a library bag.

A quick hunt through my magazine 'library' turned up a pattern ... the bag is complete, but instead of a caterpillar on just one side, I made it double sided.

A chance to win!!

2011-10-20T13:46:00.001+08:00

Vicki of http://tozzscorner.blogspot.com/ is offering a marvellous chance, well 5 chances in all, of winning an EQ7. What an opportunity. Hop over there and enter in the fun ... good luck!

A Moment for Bragging

2011-10-20T12:00:00.000+08:00

Every so often a girl needs to brag just a little; you know the moment when you realise what you have completed is actually rather nice.

Recently I was in another swap, this time the swap was a mystery ... to the recipient, though for some time what I would make remained a mystery to me as well. Finally I decided on a table topper, an article that might be of some use. Knowing, from another swap, my swapee's choice of colours made the selection of cottons easy. A pattern from one of my many [I could admit to having a few plastic boxes of magazines containing patterns, but will refrain from saying what size of box] hoarded magazines provided inspiration with every stitch.

Duly completed and posted off, received and opened, allows me to show a photo of the table topper.

I will admit that the temptation to make another one for myself, and maybe as a gift next Christmas to a family member, is great.

Sentimental Journey Quilt ~ Block 2

2011-10-08T14:03:00.001+08:00

October, a new month, and another block in the Sentimental Journey block.

I delayed starting this second block as I had other works in progress that needed finishing, especially a Mystery Swap, which needless to say, shall remain a mystery until the end of the month. Suffice to say ... it is completed!

When November comes around I must remember to cut block three one day, and sew it the next. I made the mistake this time of beginning cutting after lunch, with the idea the whole exercise would be complete by my bedtime. Wrong! For some reason I didn't cut all the pieces, and after sitting sewing realised my mistake. By then tiredness crept over me, but at least I could see progress.

In the beginning I was tempted to 'race ahead' and do them all, but that madness has dissipated! One a month is enough, though I am pleased with the final effect.

Frustrations!!!

2011-10-07T15:22:00.002+08:00

Is there anybody else having my problem. There are so many lovely blogs and I wish to comment; unfortunately I can't ... the reason

We are sorry, but we were unable to complete your request.

The following errors were found:

Input error: Cookie value is null for FormRestoration

It appears on blogs whose comments are embedded, and is so frustrating. Like a merry-go-round, round and round and round, but going nowhere.

Does anyone know how to rectify this problem? I would appreciate your input.

Whats in a Name

2011-10-04T20:57:00.000+08:00

Dawn is asking how our blog name came about. There are so many different names out there in Blogland, each as varied as their owner.

I thought long for a name ... my name is Shirley but upon my arrival in Australia I found that name quickly became Shirl ... it does appear to be an Australian thing to alter a name! When I began my blog I simply combined my Aussie name with the place where I live and added sessions as my crafting does tend to come in waves, or sessions.

Down on the Farm Swap and another Mug Rug

2011-09-30T11:24:00.000+08:00

Recently, in our Craft Forum, I participated in a Down on the Farm swap, which in essence allowed us to send something of a 'farming' nature to our partner.

Jeanette and I were paired up, and I made her a cushion, and included in the parcel a little 'sit on the shelf' cow.

Jeanette's parcel for me arrived yesterday. Inside was the most gorgeous 'cow' doll, named Milkshake. Her pockets were decorated with two 'cow' buttons, and around her neck she wore a cow bell. Milkshake had a name tag on the back of her head, instantly giving this bovine a name.

As well as Milkshake Jeanette included some scrummy 'Bilby' chocolates, which didn't last long! Chocolate is made for eating! And that wasn't all ... a notebook with a cow on the front added to the surprise.

Our Craft Forum gives us the opportunity to participate in swaps of many types. Another swap recently completed was a Mug Rug; this was sent to the UK

and I received a lovely mug rug from Celine in return. Do you see the cute Teddy Bear tree trunk?

Four Score

2011-09-25T17:11:00.001+08:00

Block 3 of the Nine Patch Nirvana quilt is named Four Score ... in this photo it looks puckered, but let me assure you that it isn't so. After taking the photo I checked and couldn't see what the photo shows ... must be a Gremlin!

For anyone wishing to tackle a patchwork block quilt I recommend this Nirvana quilt as it it relatively easy to put together, and takes little time for each block.

The colours showing in this photo are more true than the previous two ... perhaps the impending rain has altered the atmosphere?

Ask and Answer

2011-09-23T13:21:00.001+08:00

Block 1 for the Nine Patch Nirvana Quilt BOM has the intriguing name of Ask and Answer, which is pretty logical! Greatly enthusiastic I cut the pieces for this block last night, and this morning, after racing through the chores, of which washing was the major, I sat at the machine and sewed.

This block came together relatively easy and enthusiasm has not yet departed!

The completed blocks will have the lime green fabric [previous post] sashing, followed by a border of the deep raspberry, then a wide floral border, another deep raspberry, and bound with the lime green ... which should make for a quilt that won't get lost.

Five hours later ...

While still in the mood, I cut, sewed, and photographed Block 2, with the title of Something Borrowed. Sorry I haven't used blue!

I am enjoying making these blocks, which are simple, but accuracy is most important ... accuracy in cutting, and accuracy in keeping ¼" seam. I would be untruthful to state I didn't have to use the quick unpick ~ but one seam needed a second attempt.

A new Quilt

2011-09-22T16:20:00.002+08:00

It must be the time of year ... whatever that means! The creative bug needs feeding.

I mentioned earlier that I am making a BOM quilt in Our Craft Forum. I have no wish to race ahead and complete this project in a shorter period than designated ... there is a great temptation to do just this!!

Yesterday, whilst shopping for fabric, it just happened that a selection of fabric, suitable for another BOM quilt, Nirvana, dropped into my shopping trolley, and not wishing to be nasty and toss it away, I of course, purchased same ... along with matching cottons. As I am not tackling this quilt with others I am completely free to do it in the time span that suits my wishes; be it three months, or six.

The colours of fabrics available this season are vibrant and colourful ... the finished quilt should look great! Another plus is the fact that I will have more practice in matching points.

Another Mug Rug

2011-09-18T12:08:00.001+08:00

Rug Mugs are fascinating little projects to make, and the variation is as endless as your imagination ... and talent!

My swapee in the Craft Forum suggested that the mug rug I made for her could find a home in her bedroom decorated in lime green, cream, purple and chocolate brown. I hope she is happy with the result that is at this moment winging its way across to the UK.

I sometimes wonder just how inattentive I can be! The number of times I have forgotten to take a photo of the hexi swap flower is becoming embarrassing. This time the envelope had slipped into the post box when the realisation dawned. Maybe next month I will be less remiss?!

To compensate I have taken a photo of the lovely hexi flowers I have received. I requested either blue or green flowers with a cream centre; the add-ons are ones I have made in a moment of boredom!

Another Month

2011-09-04T15:42:00.001+08:00

September and Spring arrive hand in hand, though the weather seems to lean back towards winter at the moment. All the better to sit indoors and stitch!

Our Craft Forum has several swaps on the go, which gives me plenty to think about, and skills to put into practice. The Row x Row Round Robin is almost at an end so I have spread my wings a little and put my hand up for other projects.

The mug rug swap proved interesting allowing scope for a small scale project to show a little imagination. Mug rugs are on my list of possible Christmas gifts; this latest effort may be the first of many.

As well three of the ladies from the Craft Forum decided to do a BOM, Sentimental Journey, and invited those willing to join in. For more details check out Vicki's blog. With a little trepidation I have completed the first block, Stars Fell on Alabama, and am more or less happy with the result, especially considering that this is the first time I have tackled such a large block. Since joining the Craft Forum I have extended myself well beyond my wildest dreams ... three years ago patchwork and quilting were crafts I wondered if I could do. Sometimes it does pay to jump in and try!

I have ideas aplenty and fear that I will need to live to be well over 120 before I have a hope of tackling all of them, and no doubt by then the list will have grown even further.

It does seem that as I flick through magazines it is cushions that capture my attention the most ... sadly a home can only have so many cushions! A cushion I recently completed ...

As Christmas approaches it appears imperative I make a list!

Mug Rug

2011-08-22T08:27:00.000+08:00

Our Craft Forum's forthcoming swap is a small one; something we can make in a day or two ... a mug rug. I have previously made a few mug rugs, but decided that in view of the forthcoming swap I would refresh myself on the basics.

This particular mug rug will fly to Otago ... blue and gold being Otago colours.

Makeover

2011-08-20T09:31:00.000+08:00

While it has been some time since I posted that time has not been idly spent. The sewing machine, and I, have been busy.

When I first purchased the Janome, my first real electric machine, I thought the stubborn foot-control was simply my lack of experience. Although the machine is only three and a half years old from the beginning I had to 'put my foot down' more than once to get the machine to work. Recently it became more stubborn; sometimes racing ahead stitching even with my foot off the pedal. I knew then the fault lay more in the foot-control than my foot/brain co-ordination, and after a chat with the shop where it was purchased I discovered these foot-controls sometimes need repairing, or replacing. Mine was replaced last weekend. Now I have a machine that works perfectly and is a pleasure to use.

Since my last posting I did make a reversable apron for a swap, but forgot to take a picture, much to my regret as it was rather cute. And of course I have stitched a few hexagons for swaps and didn't bother to photograph them either.

After completing another row for the Round Robin in a Tam's Patch block, I decided the block was rather lovely, and simple ... an added bonus. As my stash has grown considerably [one buys fabric knowing that one day they will be useful!], and having colours that went well I decided to update 'my chair'.

This chair, while not exactly the most modern, is comfortable and allows me to sit with my feet curled under me [a favourite position] while I embroider, or sew bindings on quilts, or read, or do cryptic crosswords etc. The chair was purchased for the mighty sum of $5 from a garage sale, or was it the Op Shop ... I forget now, but that is by the by. It was covered in Autumn toned fabric, which was rather dating. A small project, not only to add to the chairs charms, but also to allow me to wallow in the freedom of my new foot-control pedal, I have made a quilt cover for the chair. In choosing to quilt this cover I am attempting to improve my quilting skills in readiness for when [WHEN] I have completed The Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt, which I know will be a long task.

Quilt and matching cushions

2011-07-10T16:06:00.000+08:00

The sewing machine has been busy these past few days with the last stitch in place only moments ago. Not to mention tying in all those ends!

Though the block pattern is easy the fabric gives the substance. I had the brilliant green in my stash box for some time, originally purchased it for a project I forget what. That project never left the ground! When thinking about a birthday gift for my son undergarments, T-shirts, and other wearables hardly made the list. I suppose it might be true to say I have taken to this quilting lark and look for any excuse to make another.

As I expect this quilt to find a place on the couch ... a warm cover for cold wintery nights ... a couple of matching cushions may be handy. The quilt is backed with a warm flannel and I machined stitched 'wavy lines' for the quilting. In the Ditch would not have given the same effect, whereas the wavy lines were just as simple, and in this case, I think, more effective.

Ladybugs

2011-07-04T16:31:00.000+08:00

Ladybugs ... or what I call them Ladybirds, though when one gives the matter some thought, of course they are bugs. But ... bugs? Mmm, conjures up images of creepie crawlies doesn't it? And I am not a particular fan of creepie crawlies.

"Ladybird, ladybird, fly away home, your house in on fire and your children alone" is a ditty we chanted as children. I wonder if children of today's oh so modern age know such ditties.

Over the last few days I have sewn the top of a post and rail, or is it just post, quilt top, completed a huge cushion to match, and feeling rather pleased with my calm temperment [meaning everything went well] decided to have a slight change of tempo. The sandwiching of the quilt, actually quilting it for it is larger than I have ever attempted before, and sewing on the binding is best left for another day.

The washing was on the line [must get it in shortly before the damp night air descends], and I felt like making another dishcloth; this time from a pattern that incorporates a ladybug. Not having red cotton ~ I use a cotton/bamboo thread ~ I opted for pink ... a paler shade of red!

A little over two hours later I had it finished. Another item for the gift box!

Table mats and dish cloth

2011-06-28T13:08:00.001+08:00

Table mats and a dish cloth are both homely items, and for the past few days I have been [intermittently] working on both.

We had only two sets of table mats, both a pair. Lovely for just us, but when visitors arrive I end up using a table cloth, which takes up a lot of clothes-line space! As I ran into problems with my Cats and Mice Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt block, I needed a diversion. Something useful was called for ... a girl can't always make excuses for not finishing something. I can tell you that the Cats and Mice problem was corrected, and this morning I made the final stitch on the table mats binding.

A little piece of useless information ... I purchased this 'olive' fabric while in NZ, not knowing how or when I would utilise it. As I searched through my box [large box] for ideas for a suitable project the olive fabric cried out to be used. I am pleased with the result, and now when we have folks to a meal the table will not be a pot pouri of mats, as it was last night!

Dish cloths are simple little projects that take up little or no time, and can be tackled in an evening ... I truly do not like sitting just twiddling my thumbs ... a needle of some variety gives the impression of being 'usefully employed'; a habit that has enveloped me for decades.

The dish cloth will go into the box of gifts ... the table mats are for our use.

ATC

2011-06-24T13:36:00.001+08:00

Earlier in the week my attention was captured by a posting in Our Craft Forum pertaining to Fabric Postcards and Artist Trading Cards. My imagination ran into overdrive, and after countless hours lost due to the flush of creative ideas, yesterday I attempted my first Artist Trading Card ... I realise they should be part of a set ... I have ideas for five companions, but at the moment not the time.

Yes, this card is far from perfect, but perfection is a state reached only after a lot of trial and error, mistakes that can be learned from, and practice, practice, practice. Once completed I immediately noticed several mistakes ... ones that can certainly be improved upon.

Perhaps this little project would have been best not allowed to see the light of the camera ... I suppose it could be truthfully said I am not shy in coming forward!

I present my first ever Artist Trading Card ... 'the ballet', the first in a series [I hope] entitled, "Let's Dance".

These little cards measure 2½" x 3½"; quite tiny in fact. In case you wonder what the bottom 'things' represent ... footlights! OK, I am no artist, but the time spent building this little card was extremely rewarding.

Garage Sale Bargain

2011-06-20T15:40:00.001+08:00

While not everyone is addicted to Garage Sales as My Other Half, and while not everyone is bitten by the bug when exposed to Garage Sales by their Significant Other, I have to confess ... He [who isn't always obeyed! ... but due thought is given] has led me down the path of destruction!

Saturdays invariably mean at least one garage sale to attend. We did attend one on Saturday and I found a most useful 'swinging chair' [for my computer station] for only $5. Oh, and a little brown lidded bowl for 50cents. Once upon a time brown never figured on my list of colours to perhaps contemplate, or buy. Somehow it has inveigled itself into my psyche ... I blame that on the fact that the surrounding countryside in this area is brown for half the year. There is no other explanation.

The weekend just past had another Garage Sale on the Sunday. I prefer Sunday's to be quiet, and heading into town for an 8.00 am Garage Sale is not my preferred option. However, I obeyed!! Poor Significant Other ... there was nothing to interest him, though he had purchased 'man things' [tools of some variety ... you know the type that a woman could successfully use a knife or another kitchen appliance with almost the same result; except the knife might be bluntened, or the fork bent].

The Sunday sale was not a Garage Sale in the true sense of the word. It correctly could be termed an 'under the verandah sale'. There were two bikes ~ free! Nope, not interested in bikes! There were jigsaw puzzles for $1 each, but I have two jigsaw puzzles as yet unopened ... saving them for a rainy day!

Stacked alongside the house-wall were several cardboard boxes; all had books in them. I am partial to bargain priced books! I squat on my hauches [not so easy getting up from that position with an arm full of books], and found five novels that I might read one day, but at 50 cents each! That was a bargain.

I shuffled, still squatting, along to the next box. It was full of craft books! Not magazines, but books, and oh, so cheap. I sorted through them. Our bookcase [the third purchased over the last three or four years is almost full, so caution was essential]. I finally chose four; brought them home, and over a cup of coffee, drooled to my heart's content. They all had wonderful ideas, some of which I may attempt in the future ... they definitely fired the imagination, and for a paltry $6; there are no limits to the heights the imagination soared.

Sue and Sam

2011-06-17T07:38:00.000+08:00

The last few days have been cold and damp, and busy. I am in a row by row swap, which is proving both fun and challenging. The participants made their own first row, subsequent rows are to blend well with the first, which often sends the sewer down roads never travelled in colours and blocks. This all adds up to expand our horizons.

This month the row I constructed features Sunbonnet Sue and Overall Sam, in colours as chosen by the row owner.

I had fun with this, and was very thankful a swatch of fabric was offered to help with colour selection. I chose to use some, and hope this helps tying in the overall effect of the completed quilt.

Wonderful Opportunity to win!!

2011-06-10T19:50:00.000+08:00

Samelia's Mum has a wonderful Giveaway ... AccuQuilt GO! Baby - Giveaway.

Head over here:~

http://www.sameliasmum.com/2011/06/accuquilt-go-baby-giveaway.html

and be in with a chance to win this magnificent AccuQuilt GO! Baby.

A Crowd of Hexagons

2011-06-07T08:00:00.000+08:00

Over the past several months I have been involved in a Hexagon Flower Swap in our Craft Forum. While being rather lax in taking photos of those I have made, and sent to swapees, yesterday I lined up those received, along with a few I have made for myself.

At the moment I am not sure what they will be made into, but their numbers are growing ... inspiration is sure to strike shortly ... Perhaps a table centre? Or a cushion?

Foundation Day weekend

2011-06-05T18:49:00.000+08:00

This weekend in Western Australia is Foundation Day weekend; Foundation Day being celebrated as when the first British settlers landed at the Swan River [Fremantle/Perth today].

We had a busy few days earlier in the week with a visitor, which encouraged me to have a massive tidy up of my sewing gear! Not that it is as tidy today! Friday afternoon saw me feeling a cushion coming on. The inactivity of earlier in the day made me feel slightly guilty; only slightly! I have intentions of making another quilt, this time utilising the Post and Rail block as it is quick to do, but still effective, especially if the selection of fabric is well chosen. The cushion was completed within a short time ... I will definitely make the quilt in this block.

Whilst in New Zealand and visiting a friend whom I have known all my life from teenage years onwards I made a promise to sew her an apron. She is interested in fairies and angels ... and while I used fabric already in my stash the angel on the bib was an additional idea. Hope you like it Megs! It will be in the post early this week, but not tomorrow as the Post Office is closed.

Now my plate is clear, until the next row by row journal arrives, and I can once again concentrate on my The Farmer's Wife quilt blocks.

Problem Solved

2011-05-30T20:44:00.001+08:00

After indulging in a little detective work I discovered the reason why it wasn't possible to make a comment on my blog. Problem solved, and Fixed!!!

Completed!!

2011-05-30T15:19:00.000+08:00

After many months of starting and stopping with the Gum Leaf quilt it is finally completed. Choosing the border fabric was not as difficult as I originally thought ... two fabrics put their hand up for selection as I wandered along the bolts of fabric.

Last night, when patience was beginning to wear thin [after all I had raked and wheelbarrowed ten barrows of litter ... coincidently gum leaves] as I was steaming along in fine style on quilting the outer border I hit a safety pin. Yes, I know ... I should have removed it sooner, but [and there is always a but, or an excuse, or reason] I must have been exceeding the speed limit and reached it sooner than anticipated. Well ... I broke the needle, which in itself is not a catastrophe. However when I attempted to put in a new needle I just couldn't find the right place. I tried, and tried, Patience wore thinner by the second! Determination was stronger. I had to give in whilst I dished up dinner, though eating was automatic as my mind was grappling with the needle situation.

After reading the Instruction Book [if all else fails read the instruction book!], I began to wonder if the sudden halt because of the broken needle had actually damaged a part. One little piece I decided might be better if pulled down. Nothing to be lost I thought, as if that didn't work it would mean a trip to the Sewing Machine Doctor, and I have more things to do this week than that.

Gingerly I eased down the little piece and lo ... and behold ... the needle fitted in. And ... the machine worked.

Today I hand-stitched the binding ... Now the quilt adorns the couch, where, even if I say so myself, it looks grand.

Cat Quilt

2011-05-09T14:52:00.000+08:00

The 'cat quilt' was begun last year long before the expected arrival of my latest grandson, but for a myriad of reasons, most of them inconsequential, it wasn't completed. However, these last few days I have been on a roll 'craft wise', and earlier this day I put the last stitch into the 'cat quilt'. It will be in the post next time we go into town and winging its way to New Zealand.

A Home amongst the gum trees

2011-05-06T13:19:00.001+08:00

After a few days of intensive needleturn applique, and machining blocks together, I have now completed the Gum Leaf quilt top. This photo was taken outdoors in the bright sunlight, so the colours are rather dull [we haven't had any rain worth calling rain in WA for absolutely months].

I am not sure what border to put on ... will sleep on that for a night, as I find that the answer usually is very evident in the morning.

This quilt top has taken quite some time, mainly because I became side-tracked by other projects, but suddenly enthusiasm returned, and I bowled ahead quickly. The second photo, showing a portion of the quilt top, was taken indoors ... it has better colour.

One cot quilt left to complete; then I can make a beginning of The Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt ... I have the book and CD ... I am very enthusiastic!! But, and I blame this on my Mother who always insisted one job be completed before another begun, I needed to have a clear conscience that I had completed other tasks!

Happy Mothers Day!

A productive weekend

2011-05-02T15:19:00.000+08:00

Two weeks ago we received important mail ... a notice advising that the electricity would be off, for maintenance, on Sunday 1st May, from 9.00am until 3.00pm. What better reason not to even think of washing, ironing, or any housework involving electrical goods ... not that I bother chores on a Sunday anyway. I needed a Project, a project that wouldn't take weeks to complete.

Last week I downloaded a cute pattern from here:

http://tozzscorner.blogspot.com/2011/04/happy-easter-and-things-we-love-bom.html

and decided to fill in some of the weekend stitching. It didn't take all that long, and still feeling like stitching I looked through my files for suitable companions. I had already decided to make these stitcheries into a mug rug set ... a gift for whom I have not as yet decided.

I am pleased with the results; the mug rugs are stashed away in my 'gift box' until I gain inspiration as to whom shall be the recipient.

Time to Vote

2011-05-01T19:47:00.000+08:00

A talented member of our Craft Forum has entered a quilt in a competition. This quilt is soooo cool and smart looking it deserves your vote!

'Tis OK ... I have already voted, but a few more, or a lot more, would be most appreciated.

How to vote?

"If you have a moment, I'd really love your vote for Fresh Diamonds. Here is the link to the page:

http://quiltinggallery.com/2011/04/29/vote-now-quilts-charms/

Above is a quote from the Forum placed by Samelia's Mum, the gorgeous quilter ... so, if you have a moment, Samelia's Mum would truly appreciate your vote.

Good luck Samelia's Mum!!

Works in Progress and Completed

2011-04-25T14:15:00.000+08:00

Summer has gone, leaving behind the glorious cooler days of Autumn. Rain as yet hasn't fallen, perhaps in May?

With the onset of cooler days, and evenings, I find it is easier to knit, or sew, or dream of new projects.

One particular project that has been a work in progress [WIP does sound such a strange name ... work in progress gives a project that is taking longer than anticipated, for many reasons ranging from getting over involved in a new project, or a more painstaking methodology of creating, a reason for being slow] is a gum leaf quilt. In the magazine it was named "Gum leaves in the Pool, and worked in blues and browns. Blue hardly suits the place I have in mind for it, so ... I call this work "Gum leaves on the Ground".

Promising to knit a helmet and mittens for my little grandson in New Zealand, I have at last completed two sets, one blue and one white. A jacket that has been underway for more than two months is finally completed as well ... these will wing their way across the Tasman by the end of this week.

Today I really should be getting on with the Gum Leaves, as there are less than a dozen blocks to needle-turn appliqué, but ... isn't there always a but to keep the mind busy ... I have an idea of making two [at the moment] mug rugs, but this time in the shape of a hexagon. As well ... this project enveloped my thoughts just two days ago, [which does go to show that while my fingers might be a tad slow, at least the ideas are flowing], I really must attempt foundation piecing ... the fabric has been rinsed in anticipation of trying this method.

Thank goodness for cooler weather! Both mind and fingers function better when the blistering heat has departed.

On my list of must begin shortly is an apron for a dear friend back in New Zealand. I have an idea!

Priorities

2011-04-13T14:13:00.001+08:00

Recently radio commentators suggest that making a list, prioritorising projects, is the way to go.

Dear oh dear! I have a list, but the priority of each project differs from day to day, depending on my mood. For instance; while in New Zealand visiting my new little grandson, and his parents, I promised to make winter sheets for his bed. The winter in South Otago can be cool! I purchased some blue, for a boy, flannelette and have hemmed one; the other in order of priority will be sewn this afternoon. Of course hemming sheets should be a simple task, but it is boring, which is why one still needs completing.

There is a reason for all my procrastinations ... usually the word boring features. While nosing around my favourite fabric/craft store I happened upon some knitting cotton. Also, while in New Zealand, I visited an old friend who was busily knitting dishcloths. It was great to discover such a mundane, once upon a time essential task, being undertaken as a project. She had several balls, and parts thereof, of colourful knitting cotton and the bundle of completed cloths was impressive. The pattern was simple, one that I memorised easily enough, so, the ball of cotton quickly morphed into a dishcloth. The deep blue of the dishcloth contrasts well against the cot sheet.

Recently we attended a garage sale. I blame my partner for this as he has introduced me to the fine art of garage sale shopping, though I must state here and now I do have more will-power than him in purchasing temptingly displayed items; other folks unwanteds. This particular sale held no interest for him at all; he took one quick look and retired to the vehicle. The garage was full of pieces of fabric done up in colour co-ordinated plastic bags. I wish we had attended a few moments earlier! Some women were carrying large cartons of supplies. I fossicked around finally choosing two packets, one of which held, amongst other delicious pieces, a large fat-quarter of an autumn toned floral fabric. It screamed out to be made into something! Our couch is a donkey brown ...just made for an autumn-toned cushion.

I blame that cushion for the delay in completing hemming the cot sheets. As for my priority list ... well it should have at the very top a gum-leaf quilt on which I am making excellent progress, and once The Farmer's Wife quilt book arrives I will make every endeavour to hand sew [which means I can pick it up whenever without needing to use the sewing machine] a few blocks every week.

But as I say ... these priorities may change ... as does the weather. Who needs to live by a list?

Remember these?

2011-03-30T17:18:00.000+08:00

On the odd occasion a real treasure comes to light. Whilst visiting my cousin in New Zealand she decided some of the items saved for a rainy day were no longer relevant to her lifestyle ... in other words she had many articles that would forever remain UFO's; tapestries bought two decades ago, felt pieces left over from projects but which might come in handy one day. That day was not coming! A lovely length of tartan wool fabric lay at the bottom of a box and if tartan could speak it begged for a home. I rescued the tartan [at the moment it is winging its way across the Tasman as my suitcase overflowed seriously risking a 'Heavy load' sticker being slapped on its exterior], I also rescued a length of ribbon, the felt pieces along with a small item that sent me down memory lane.

When I attended Primary School, and that was not yesterday, many wool orientated crazes swept the playground. We made pom-poms utilising the cardboard milk bottle tops whose holes were the exact perfect size for pom-pom construction. We persuaded our fathers to bang four small nails into the tops of wooden cotton reels to enable us to 'knit' enormous lengths of narrow knitting which could be, if our mothers could be persuaded, fashioned into table mats. Oh yes, we should have spent the extra hour or two and sewn those multi-coloured lengths into table mats ourselves ... we didn't.

What did I rescue and bring home? Not a wooden cotton reel with four nails, though today wooden cotton reels are museum pieces with the advent of plastic, but a painted French Knitting utensil. She is rather beautiful, a little like a RussianMatryoshka maiden, apart from the four nails protruding from her head. Of course there is every chance this little maiden will spend much of her life reclining in my work box ... but ... perhaps one day I will need to use it. A table mat? Well, maybe not, but then again ...

A happiness butterfly

2011-02-13T08:13:00.000+08:00

Long time no post!

A wee grandson was born in New Zealand, and because he was premature I have been busy knitting tiny clothes, and sewing small gowns. His expected arrival was towards the end of February, and knowing that usually March was a pleasant month I had made clothes for the colder winter. A premature baby needs to be kept cosy ... my fingers have been busy creating small articles of clothing for this little lad.

The result? Little time to post a blog.

As I am heading over to meet this new grandson I am attempting to get ahead of myself! Not that I have fallen over my own feet as yet, but the possibility is there. My row by row Round Robin partner for row 2 kindly forwarded her journal early, thus enabling me to make her row before I depart these shores, and not coming back until the closing time for this row. Usually an extended trip away from home means I don't feel like rushing into essentials for a few days ... better, to my way of thinking, to get ahead. Despite the fact that the kitchen looks as though a cyclone has raced through [pieces of fabric, ends of cotton, lying all over the place], I have managed to almost complete the 2nd row [photo of one of the blocks]. Four blocks are finished, and the final touches should be completed by the end of today. Whew! Light at the end of the tunnel!

Several weeks ago I entered a competition in Handmade. I hd forgotten all about it as the requirements were to send in a favourite quote. I love quotes, and one in particular I find uplifting for all manner of occasions. The judges must have liked it because recently a large envelope dropped into the mail box. I was curious. I hadn't ordered anything. Ripping open the end I discovered a set of six stitchery patterns ... my prize for the quotation. Hopefully, at some stage during the winter, inspiration will settle on me, like a butterfly, and I will make use of this wonderful prize.

Oh the quotation that won this gift? "Happiness is a butterfly, which when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you. ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne"

Small pleasures

2011-01-25T14:19:00.000+08:00

As befits a New Year I am slowly catching up with small tasks that have accumulated ... many of which have nothing to do with stitching, and more to do with laziness and the hot weather.

As many folks seem to been bitten by the Mug Rug bug [say that fast!] the other day I made four, but already one is in the post as a birthday gift. The other three languish in the 'gift box' until I decide a suitable destination for them.

Last year I joined in a hexagon swap and today received another to add to my growing collection. This swap invites the imagination to a huge party ... where will the collection end, and more importantly, what will I construct from them all? 'Tis far too early to even consider what, or where!

My swap partner requested citrus for her colours ... lemons, limes and oranges? I hope these two hexis are what she is looking for.

A Small Triumph

2011-01-11T16:30:00.000+08:00

On a day when a huge area of Australia is struggling with the massive amounts of water inundating property and taking lives, and when a small part of Western Australia is struggling with a bush fire that is believed to be a case of arson, I have a small triumph.

The first row ... completed

Last night I completed by 1st row of my Round Robin Row by Row. While it doesn't look difficult, in fact this length of fabric almost added another grey hair to my head. But ... I kept on plugging on; my friend the Quick Unpick gave valuable service, and the final result is OK.

A close-up of my row

Today I have had a day off!

Do I have to?

2011-01-10T14:34:00.000+08:00

During last year I entered a Prim Swap and posted a cushion away to my swap partner. Unfortunately she has not been well, and it wasn't until recently that I received my swap from her. The wait was worthwhile!

A heavy parcel awaited me at the local Post Office upon my return from Christmas with family 'down south'. Not wishing to wait until I arrived home [a fifteen minute drive, but even that length of time would have aroused my curiosity beyond a reasonably level], I tore at the wrapping before leaving town. I felt a book ... and something soft.

The something soft was my swap ... a delightful hare dressed in a country style dress, heavily accented with felt flowers. Something in the back of my mind whispered, 'this is not a hare, this is a rabbit', but already the other part of my mind was whisking through the alphabet for a suitable name for this creature. For the life of my I couldn't think of even one suitable for a rabbit ... who has heard of Rebecca Rabbit, or Robina Rabbit, or Rachael Rabbit? Those names didn't begin to gel.

What about a hare name? Instantly Harriet sprung to mind. There and then, before she had even reached her new home, this creature had an identity ... she was a hare, and was henceforth named Harriet Hare.

The book included is proving invaluable at the moment. It has 501 quilt blocks! 501? Yes, 501! This year I have adventurously entered a row by row Round Robin. I hear you ask, what is a row by row Round Robin? Something to do with boats? Oh no! This swap will be carried out over the period of most of 2011. First I have to make a row of quilt blocks of my choice. [Please do not ask how I am managing! Two days ago were a major frustration as I strove almost in vain, to concoct a row of a block I had taken a fancy to that measured, when complete the compulstory 40½ inches. And no, it didn't. However, time was not wasted as I have the makings of a new cushion cover, and in the process learned a lot. I am making good progress now. But back to the book ... I chose a block from the gifted book.

As well the parcel had other goodies! Two candy canes [they didn't last long], a fat quarter of a rose pink rose fabric which I think would be shabby chic, and a little calendar ... all very welcome.

Harriet has a place of her own ... she reclines on our bed during the day and on the corner of the dressing table during the night. For the purposes of the photo she was forced to sit out in the sun in a rocking chair, much to her displeasure! Her expression shows how bored she was! I noticed her displeasure ... she is now back in her favourite place ... lounging on the bed, while I have another block to construct.

Season's Greetings

2010-12-22T08:36:00.000+08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS and Good Health and Happiness for 2011

A Challenge

2010-12-19T14:25:00.001+08:00

I am not a spontaneous person! Important decisions need mulling over.

In Our Craft Forum a new season of challenges are being issued; well one at the moment, though as the new year begins, I am sure there will be many more.

After considerable dilly-dallying I have decided to enter the Row by Row Round Robin. Last week I had no idea what a RxR Round Robin was. I made enquiries as to how this challenge worked. And, I received replies that sort of gave me an idea. A few web sites were offered as I didn't know the difference between Traditional and Paper Piecing. I looked, and decided I could tackle this Row by Row Round Robin.

It will be a case of try, and perhaps try again, but a challenge was offered, and I have accepted. Roll on 2011! Though I will confess I have already told My Man that life may be difficult for a few hours as I work my way through this challenge.

Bits 'n Pieces

2010-12-10T19:20:00.000+08:00

Christmas is drawing near. Unlike some parts of the world we have no snow, or winter. Instead the summer sun shines brightly.

Most of my Christmas shopping/making is complete, apart from those small 'stocking fillers', and it is those small items that have kept my mind alert these past few days. One day was spent flicking through magazines. I knew I had a pattern for a small tissue pack, and another of luggage tags. Of course looking through magazines is a task that sends the mind into a spin. All those wonderful patterns of items I must make. If only the days were longer and our time on this planet was not restricted to under one century.

I found the tissue pack holders. After cutting and sewing it became clear the tissues in the magazine picture must be a different brand to what I have. The holders were too wide and a tad too short. Two tissue pack holders later I had the correct measurements. I even managed to write the measurements down for future reference!

I had it in my mind to make a luggage tag as I intend to take to the air next year. Three different luggage tag patterns in the magazines to choose from. I chose one. It was not exactly what I imagined. The window just didn't look right!

I slept on it.

This morning I awoke with an idea. After measuring and cutting slowly the luggage tag began to take shape. My 'reverse stitcher' came into use more than twice! But ... any project worth its salt needs patience. I was happy with the first tag I completed. It was a vast improvement on the efforts of yesterday when I followed a pattern.

Why not make a second tag? No reason! A colourful fabric found its way onto the cutting mat. I chose a cotton to blend with the fabric, and began to sew. Oh dear! The sewing machine, which has given sterling sevice for three years, began to make a noise; not a healthy sounding noise. Notwithstanding the fact that I have had the sewing machine for almost three years, and that I had never cleaned it, I surmised that perhaps this might be the day to perform that task.

I admit here ... I am not mechanically minded. Once before I read the instructions of how to clean the sewing machine, and gave up. Today I once again found the instruction book, and handed it to Dave. I instructed him to read the steps out to me ... while I tackled the business end of cleaning a sewing machine. Screws needed to be undone. A lint brush was brought into use. Dave read out that the vacuum cleaner could be used. He hauled out the vacuum cleaner, switched it on, and I manipulated the nozzle end. What a lot of fluff! No wonder the machine made such a strange noise.

Putting everything together was not as difficult as I imagined!

Soon I had the second luggage tag completed ... it was a delight to work a quiet machine! We forget how they should sound, and as the fluff clogs up slowly, it is unnoticeable.

Lavender Blue?

2010-12-07T08:18:00.000+08:00

On our recent trip to Perth I purchased a bag of lavender. Two years ago I attempted to grow lavender bushes, but the heat of summer combined with our absence for a few days, meant the demise of those bushes. And I had such high hopes!

There is only one alternative if growing lavender fails ... buy some.

As there were a few FQ's in suitable lavender shades it didn't take long to construct half a dozen lavender sachets. Their perfume permeates the room. One of my long held dreams, only a dream I hasten to add, is to sleep on freshly laundered lavender perfumed sheets every night. As I have no desire to change the sheets every day, this remains a dream.

I will place two of these sachets in the drawer where I store the sheets. That way my dream is partially realised, and who wants to achieve a dream 100% anyway? One needs a dream.

Blue on blue

2010-11-17T14:21:00.000+08:00

Recently a lovely FQ of blue roses caught my eye. I couldn't resist it, though I had no idea how I would use it.

It didn't take long for inspiration to kick in. First I made a table mat; then a table runner. They are similar in appearance as the table mat didn't turn out how I imagined. I made a mess up of the centre ... it should have been set into the middle like the table centre. Never mind! I simply turned it around, and had I not told you, I doubt if you would have known.

I also made a hexi flower out of the left-overs ... much nicer than bubble and squeak out of left-over cabbage and potatoes?! The hexi flower is already winging its way across Australia as part of a swap, and when I went to down-size the photo, I found a piece of cotton thread draped unbecomingly across the middle. Therefore ... no photo suitable for here.

Now I have the unenveniable task of wrapping my little pieces of stitching in Christmas paper in readiness for the post tomorrow ... envelopes, wrapping paper, and customs declarations at the ready!

In actual fact what better undertaking on a hot day [temperature is 40 degrees inside ... whew!], than to get into the spirit of Christmas.

Yet more Aprons!

2010-11-15T08:11:00.000+08:00

I guess that if one likes making a particular item, then it stands to reason we keep on making them, albeit in different fabric and embellishments.

Christmas is fast approaching. Some people keep tabs on the number of days. Me? Suffice to know November is half-way through already! Once the calendar page is turned to December serious gift sewing is definitely late.

This year I have decided to send 'hand made' presents. The colours are chosen to suit the recipients. As hexagons hold great attraction one apron has three hexagons along the border ... below is a close up look at these delightful flowers.

Three aprons are ready for wrapping and posting!

Primitive

2010-11-12T10:04:00.000+08:00

Today is the day we open our Primitive Swaps. Sadly my swap partner has not yet completed my gift, but ... it will arrive. Of course the lack of a swap to open on 'the day' takes away some of the excitement of the day.

As I sent my parcel a wee while ago, I decided to show the cushion I completed for the swap. I hope my swap partner likes it!

A winner

2010-11-01T19:17:00.000+08:00

Recently I entered a give away here, and I was the winner of several lengths of lace. I am eagerly waiting on the post!!

Many thanks Rebecca for the giveaway.

Smell the Roses

2010-10-27T08:21:00.000+08:00

I love making small things! The challenge of larger projects tends to wear off quickly ... I have had a 'gum leaf' quilt for the couch on the go for several months. It is a WIP ... by this time next year it will be completed.

Table runners, place mats, and cushions are my idea of a small project. Even if one busy with household chores; washing, ironing, etc; it isn't difficult to begin a small project and complete it within a week.

On Monday, wash day [I even ironed the same day!] I completed a cushion for a friend who has undergone a double mastectomy and is recover from breast reconstruction, a major operation in anyone's book. I think she is incredibly brave and courageous and to honour that courage I felt the urge to make a 'small thing' to mark that bravery. Recently one of the Forum members recommended a site, that of course I had to have a peek at. A BOM captured my attention, and immediately I knew one of those blocks was simply the best for this cushion. Th e Contented Quilter's 'Take Time to ...' series includes one 'Smell the Roses'. As this friend lives in a male dominated household I decided to make a 'girlie' cushion.

We are heading south next month ... then I will make a personal delivery.

Table Runner

2010-10-23T18:54:00.000+08:00

Strike while the iron is hot, or when the mood comes upon one.

The Christmas fabrics simply screamed to be made into something. The last publication of Handmade had some inspiring Christmas projects; it didn't take long for an idea to gel, though as I progressed I did some minor tweaking.

What better than to make a gift for the sender of the fabric. I chose the holly fabric ... lovely crisp white, green and red ... the colours of Christmas. I had a small selection of other festive fabrics that I purchased some months ago, just in case an idea sprung into mind. Sorting them out took moments. I cut and sewed. It was when I was at the almost final stage that I realised the pattern in the book just didn't look complete enough for what I had in mind. Another look through magazines ... prairie points! Aha, a border of prairie points on the short ends. More cutting and folding before pinning them in place.

I have to confess I am rather pleased with the result ... a table runner for Christmas.

Now ... I am wondering if perhaps I might have time to make more!

A Surprise Parcel

2010-10-20T18:47:00.000+08:00

Slowly but surely I am working my way through my self-imposed list of baby knitting ... a singlet is wending its way to the prospective new parents. Singlets are not my most favourite item of baby knitting. My Mother, who it must be said, did not exactly like knitting, did volunteer to knit singlets; an offer gratefully accepted. My last child was born after her death, so I had to tackle singlets then ... I remember making a lemon one! Back then we didn't have the knowledge, via scans, of the sex of the expected arrival ... white, lemon, or green were the only safe options.

Today I received the most wonderful surprise! A friend in the UK sent a parcel, which in itself was exciting. Upon opening this parcel I discovered a treasure trove of fabric. Four beautiful Christmas fabrics, exceptionally good in quality, and one, which I must admit is my favourite, had robins on. Now my mind is racing with a suitable project for at least some of them!

As well there was a Fairy fabric, a fabric decorated with Flower Fairies. Ooohhh, I am indeed fortunate! I am not even beginning to dwell upon what that may end up as ... next year is early enough for such a brain teaser.

To Bear or not to bear?

2010-10-11T14:08:00.000+08:00

The construction of the little bear, or Large Ears, took much less time that Shakespeare did when writing his plays. To be or not to be ... how many remember learning that at school? There were many more lines ... they I have forgotten, or most of them.

One would think I had little to do when a few hours were spent creating a little bear. He was to be. After sewing the body, attaching arms, those large ears, eyes, and making a nose, this little bear seemed strangely unfinished. He needed clothes! Trousers and a scarf were considered suitable for Large Ears ... his ears, had they been sewn on his feet would have made wonderful skis.

Several days later it dawned that no bear would go skiing dressed in shorts and a scarf. The wind chill factor would have made any snow sport extreme [ly cold]. This morning, after hanging the washing on the line I sorted out some wool, large needles, and cast on. Twelve stitches looked enough! Not having a pattern, I knitted, increasing and decreasing as the mood dictated. After lunch I sewed the jacket up. Mmmm ... mmmm ... something didn't look right! It was dull.

An idea sprung to mind ... perhaps Shakespeare wrote in a similar way? Ideas springing into mind; ideas that he transposed onto paper until a play was born? Anyway, my idea was simpler. A crochet border on the jacket; maybe in a colour to highlight Large Ear's eyes? Contrasting, almost matching, buttons completed the outfit. Now Large Ears is ready for anything life may bring.

Another Apron plus knitting

2010-10-10T10:58:00.000+08:00

A busy person finds time ... or so they say.

I have been busy, and regretfully, haven't found time to take photos of my latest efforts; until today. Once again the apron bug has bit, and while I only show one apron here, there are three others packed away in my 'gift box'. Somehow I think aprons may well be the Christmas gift for 2010, for the girls anyway.

Recently I tidied my box of fabrics, only a plastic container full, and as such I don't yet consider it a stash. To me a stash implies many [100's?] of lengths of fabrics in glorious mix and not match colours. I don't think I have reached 100 items yet, though who is counting? I may be surprised!

While going through the fabrics combinations of colours suitable for aprons not only sprung into mind; they coerced my fingers to place them together in a pile. My apron pattern is extremely useful in that variations are not only possible, but important. Never let any of the recipients of my aprons be heard to say, "Oh, Mary, or Jane, received one exactly the same." No two have an identical twin.

Not only have I been sewing, but I have also been knitting. Spring has arrived giving us days already in the 30's. Almost too hot to knit, but I have a reason ... I am to become a grandmother once again. I love knitting baby clothes! To date two jackets with matching bootees are completed; I have a small pile of patterns I hope to make before the welcome arrival of the latest addition to the family.

Prim and Old-Fashioned

2010-09-22T15:42:00.000+08:00

My 'Prim swap 'effort is almost complete; all it needs are a few embellishing buttons to add to the authenticity. As this swap has some weeks yet to run I won't post a photo ... no sense in spoiling the surprise should my swap partner visit this site!

In the beginning I knew little about 'Prim' [Primitive], but after tentative enquiries and ready information through replies, I decided that I could do this. The use of Parisiene essence caused a few anxious moments. Once I discovered this product was simply gravy browning, in disguise, my enthusiasm for its application dimmed. The option of coffee I discarded. I drink too much coffee to warrant using it as a dye! Oh yes, there are some of us who are descended from that noble race, The Scots, and we have standards to uphold.

When a kind soul suggested using tea-bags, my problem was solved. After choosing a pattern [I decided upon a cushion, and that information my swap partner already is aware off, so I am letting out no secrets with that admission] I stitched, and I sewed. The finished article looked not too bad!

Yesterday I brewed some tea, strong tea in a bowl. After allowing it to cool I dipped a piece of fabric to check for colour. Mmmm ... I guess that is the shade I am seeking.

Dip the cushion cover ... dunk it again to make sure. Ah ... the colour is the correct shade, though I have no idea what that correct shade should be. Remember, I have never 'done Prim' before. Quickly I pegged the cover on the clothes line, squeezing a little excess moisture that threatened to drip, drip, drip onto my shoes. Two hours later the cushion cover was dry enough to iron. While ironing the thought did pass through my mind if a 'prim' item should be ironed. I like ironing, within reason.

I am not sure if I truly have fallen in love with Prim ... it may take some getting used to.

Last week the Mingenew Expo was held. Expo is a fairly pretentious word for what could more correctly be described as a Country Show. However, an Expo it is. And, in the true form of an Expo, many for-sale items were on display.

Rows of farm machinery; pens of sheep; tents housing displays for kit homes; a Police recruitment centre; displays of handbags and leather belts; all these and more covered a large area of the Mingenew Sports ground. There were food stalls; a caravan selling baked potatoes with a huge variety of toppings was especially busy [their product was scrummy!]

One enclosure held what could only be called a farmyard. Most of the animals were white ... sheep, dog, cat and rabbits, a guinea pig that had a brown splotch on its back, a duck, a white goose, a cocky little bantam rooster who, at 11.00am perisisted in crowing his 'good morning world' welcome, and two tiny black and white piglets. It wasn't only the children who were enthralled with this enclosure!

Inside a huge tent more displays enticed Expo visitors to spend. Massages; honey; several stalls selling wine; others inviting a taste of chocolate, or a sip of wine; the CWA held a corner spot selling aprons [$16 each!], cakes and biscuits, and home-made sweets; while further along contractors involved in the mining industry that encompasses this state toted their wares.

Outside a travelling sideshow, giving free displays [once upon a time this would have been held in a tent and a fee charged at the flap] of bare-back horse-riding, whip cracking, and shearing by blades. Blade shearing is old-fashioned, but this was part of the show. That the shearer-come poet-come raconteur from way back, only shore part of the fleece each session is beside the point.

One of his main skills was shearing a sheep blindfolded. In the beginning we marvelled as he related this skill. He was handed a black blindfold by his partner, made a great show of folding it into complete darkness, only to tie it around the eyes of the sheep.

Apron Swaps

2010-09-01T10:27:00.000+08:00

Today is the day! The beginning of September, Spring, and Wattle Day.

To me the most important is the fact that today, after showing great fortitude in not peeking, of opening my apron from my swap partner. When it arrived I carefully stored it in a bottom shelf of the hutch ... I hate bending down that far; the temptation was thus reduced.

I slept in this morning. The moment I entered the kitchen I made straight for the bottom shelf, removed the parcel which I had left in the postage bag. It was carefully wrapped in pink paper patterned with shoes and flowers. Very pretty. Had I been tempted to peek that paper would have caused major difficulties! I unwrapped the paper, found a selection of teabags, AND the apron.

It is soooo me! I have always preferred black as my base colour, and since my hair has faded to gold and silver, have taken to wearing red as a contrast. The apron has a black background, is covered with red cherries [scrummy looking!], and white cherry blossom, and edged with white ric rac. It has a sleek black lining. I love this apron!

The apron I sent as my swap effort is a cupcake apron.

P.S. I was about to bin the posting packet when I felt something else inside. A sweet little purse lay hidden in the depths of the bag!!!

Crazy or not?

2010-08-31T13:28:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I heard wonderful news. A dear friend has been accepted into a nursing position at the hospital where she did her practical training. That reminded me of a bag I made for her birthday, earlier this year.

I hummed and hawed about colour, and pattern. A magazine article demonstrated crazy patchwork, and as I had several lovely blue fabrics, all crying out, "Use me!" I decided to oblige.

Not wishing to have a bag without a defined back and front it was an easy matter to find a design to put on the front. This up and coming nurse loves her garden ... hence my choice of design.

The bag was duly completed and forwarded in time for the birthday.

A few weeks later I receive a telephone call. Evidently the bag was just the right size for textbooks; several of her collegues admired the bag, which of course is a one off.

Aprons and Hexagons

2010-08-22T18:44:00.000+08:00

Back to craft. The past week actually saw me sewing!

For some obscure reason I caught the 'apron bug'. Perhaps it was because in sorting through my stash I found [hiding under lots of other stuff] some reasonably sized pieces of fabric. Looking and wondering an idea emerged. These were just the size for an apron providing I supplemented them with contrasts.

Three aprons were completed mid-week. I am sorry to report that the third apron cannot be shown on this blog. That elderly Aunt Alice swears she not only designed it, but made the whole article. As she is slightly eccentric who am I to argue? To have a peep at it you will have to visit Aunt Alice's Secret Diary, but please, be careful not to be found out! She can be a right tartar when thwarted.

The Craft Forum runs several swaps, and while I haven't taken the opportunity to join many [I don't wish to find I have run out of time to complete a swap project], I have opted into the Flower Hexagon Swap. This entails the making of a flower hexagon and forwarding it on ... a flower hexagon doesn't take too much time, and is rather fun.

As it is many years since I constructed a flower hexagon I made a couple as a trial run, before tackling one for my swap partner. I fear a bug could be on the rounds, as several folk have reported the rampant spread of the hexagon bug! I will try to avoid such a contagious disease ... the apron bug saw me lying awake at night contemplating colours ... just imagine how the hexagon bug could affect one!

Wonderland

2010-08-16T19:35:00.000+08:00

This blog is a non-craft blog; instead I intend taking you on a small journey around this area. Nature presents us with a wonderful kaleidoscope of colour and texture that soothes the senses and increases creativity.

Yesterday we went for a drive, what once could have been classed as a Sunday Drive. You remember the Sunday Drive? After a huge roast lunch [a roast of beef, perhaps served with Yorkshire Pudding, roast potatoes all brown and crunchy, roast parsnip, roast onions, carrots and green peas, followed by jelly and fruit, and sometimes icecream. Does your waistline expand with the thought?

While winter has not completely left us, spring is knocking on the door. The weather is supposed to turn cold later in the week, and it was this promise of a few more days of winter, that sent us in the search for fire wood.

Recently the roadside trees were lopped mainly to improve visibility for motor vehicles, and the increasing number of trucks carting iron ore from a mine to ships. These trucks rumble past our place night and day, but as is the case with any noise that is repetitious, the mind learns to close them out.

Our main purpose was to locate suitable fallen trees that can be collected later. At the moment the verges are wet, small lakes have formed in depressions, their muddy waters providing a swimming pool for birds and a bath for creatures. Many trees had fallen; there is an abundance of wood suitable for firewood once sawn into sizes that will fit easily into the pot-belly stove.

We drove along the tar-sealed road turning onto a gravel road that would take us back in a loop to home.

Hardly had we hit the gravel than a wonderful 'picture postcard' presented itself. For once I had taken the camera! We stopped and I clicked. High on the top of the rise grain silos stood, like sentrys on guard; the brilliant yellow of the canola flowers making a golden carpet in the foreground. Australia is yellow and green ... I always thought these colours represent the wattle flowers, which are coming into bloom at this time of year, and the green, perhaps the green of the countryside in winter and spring. After capturing this photo I now wonder if perhaps the yellow is not canola!? I know it isn't, but sometimes it should be.

Half a kilometre along this gravel road another view caught the eye. Once again we stopped; once again I clicked the camera.

Having experienced a little rain over the recent weeks, with more expected this week, the wild flowers of Western Australia are beginning to make their appearance. According to those in the know the best of their blooms won't be visible until next month, that is if the promised rain does arrive. However at the moment there is a wonderful shrubby bush out in full flower. It is unremarkable for much of the year, but at the moment this bush, whose name I do not know [maybe you do?] frames a delightful view, make more delightful by the frame; a flummery of candy floss.

Cotton Pod

2010-08-11T11:00:00.000+08:00

Recently a mystery challenge was offered. I, like most, are intrigued by the word mystery, and combined with challenge, it was a challenge not to be missed.

I posted my self-addressed envelope, and after it was misdirected by the Post Office, the instructions, along with a pretty piece of fabric and matching buttons arrived. I read the instructions; they seemed simple enough to follow. Rather than risk messing up the pretty blue and green fabric I decided to make a trial mystery item. It turned out OK.

Next I worked on the blue and green fabric, which cried out to me for a little embellishment of lace.

The mystery item turned out to be a cotton pod, a simple enough structure that evolved from the designer having difficulty in keeping cotton tidy in her sewing basket. The cotton pod is an ingenious way of storing cotton; the pod can be made using a small piece of fabric and could be made to 'match' your sewing implements.

You are interested in making one? It is not difficult. The pattern, which is free, is available HERE.

Make one or two, or more!

It's a cats life

2010-08-07T14:34:00.000+08:00

Earlier in the week I acquired a pattern for a 'cat block', and after a trip to the city have purchased the beginnings of another project. While this will be on the back burner for a few days [or longer] my idea as to its final look are solidfying. At the moment I have no plan for the borders etc, it all depends on what I decide is needed. This of course makes for an interesting project ... it is one that will go which ever way the mood takes me along the journey.

One of the most interesting facets of any craft is the one undertaken with a sudden urge. Last weekend the construction of the pot holder gave a clear picture of how one can begin and complete an article in a short time; giving the creator a feeling of a job well done. A short sweet project gives one a fillip and pushes forward the idea that a few of these are worthwhile ... even though I do have projects awaiting attention.

While sorting through, or tidying up, my fabrics I realised I had enough for another pot holder. Not long after I first bought my sewing machine in an effort to become familiar with it, I made a pot holder, one that I find immensely useful. I remember at the time thinking that if I make it again I would do the binding different. Of course I forgot that stored information, and blithely followed the pattern. It wasn't until I began sewing on the binding I remembered. Too late! I had no desire to unpick half the binding, so plodded on. Now I have written 'my correction' on the pattern, for future reference. This pattern is particularly useful and adaptable ... I will make it again, and soon.

Australasia

2010-08-01T18:54:00.000+08:00

Today saw me celebrating, although in a very low key manner, two wins. One ... the All Blacks beat the Wallabies in rugby, which is a feather in the cap of the smaller nation. As I have spent most of my life in New Zealand it is not difficult to guess who I favour! That such a small country, population wise, should have such dominance in this sport is nothing short of incredible.

The other win ... Fremantle Dockers won the AFL Western Derby, hugely, over The West Coast Eagles. Least said about the score the better ... I felt sorry for Eagles' supporters.

I dislike sitting listening to football and not keeping my hands busy. Today I decided to combine Australia and New Zealand in a project. My 'pot holder' that we use to pour hot water from the kettle [boiling on the pot belly stove] into a cup of coffee needs washing. For some time I concluded I needed another holder for that express purpose, and today I sorted through my stash for suitable fabric.

A green background with ferns and kiwis was appropriate to represent New Zealand, and as green and gold are the colours of Australia, a plain gold fabric served to illustrate Australia. Green and gold together is just too Australian; a dividing shade was required. A beige paisley suited that purpose admirably.

While the Dockers demolished the Eagles I sewed. By the end of the game a new pot holder was completed. A small project, but one that profitably filled in the afternoon, and in colours that have some meaning for me will remind me in days and weeks ahead of the 1st day in August.

2010-07-30T13:07:00.000+08:00

My mystery challenge is turning out pretty good, and already I can see how I can make it just a little prettier, if prettier is the correct word. One day I just might publish a photo here, but no ... not today!

Two minutes ago I had a phone call ... My Man, after one night in hospital and for exactly what we are not yet certain, is on his way home. His PICC line is out and, fingers crossed, all will be OK.

A Mystery Challenge

2010-07-29T19:27:00.000+08:00

A Mystery Challenge was announced. I signed up, posted my envelope away, and waited in anticipation for the mail. The days wound by. No mail! Mail arrives from New Zealand quicker than from 'the other side' of Australia!

My daughter arrived from the southern city. As My Man has had several visits to the regional hospital, finally being admitted [again] today for an undefined period] he collected the mail before making one of his 'wasted' trips to hospital, thus my envelope with details of the mystery challenge didn't arrive until late.

This evening I carefully read the instructions. I could visualise how the article should look upon completion, but, not wishing to waste the lovely fabric included with the pattern and instructions, I have begun a 'trial article'. It is an interesting exercise making something one has no idea of how it should finally look ... though my visualisation is usually reasonably correct. And no, I am not going to post a photo of this mystery article, nor divulge what it is! Some things are best kept secret!

So ... as I haven't sewn for a few days, but instead have gone galavanting to the northern city; almost doing the 'tourist thing'. My usual visit to the city entails grocery shopping [essential to maintain life], or shopping at my favourite fabric shop [essential to maintain mental health ... boredom is boring, and doing nothing creative is boring], this trip allowed us to make a close encounter with a spectacular memorial that is extremely relevant to Geraldton.

We visited the Memorial to the men on board the HMAS Sydney who, on 19th November 1941, lost their lives when the Sydney was involved in an encounter with the HSK Kormoran. On 16th March 2008 the ship was found 112 nautical miles off Steep Point, WA. A memorial was erected commemorating the sixty years on 19th November 2001.

The memorial is situated high on a Geraldton hill, and consists of a dome that has a seabird for each of the 645 crew lost. A sculpture of a wife looking out to sea searching for any sign of her man is a poignant work of art; one cannot help but feel completely engaged with her obvious signs of anxiety ... a furrowed brow, her eyes are clearly pained, she wears around her neck a chain with an anchor and has a wedding ring on her finger ... her clothing is reminiscent of the 1940's. This memorial brings home the agony, and the utter futility of war.

Stitch in Time?

2010-07-20T13:47:00.000+08:00

The year is fast running through the hourglass of time; Christmas and 2011 are around the corner. The old saying, A Stitch in Time Saves Nine, has worn well over the years, though in today's modern, and too fast society, few make the initial stitch, and many profess to not have the time.

For a few days it appeared that my sewing table, which still neglects to show its true colours, so laden down it is, was becoming a mountain of projects through which I could see no end. Deciding to limit my time on the computer, a self imposed restriction that did work, I worked steadily at the QAYG project that I volunteered to undertake.

QAYG? Aha, there may be many out there who are unaware of that acronym, one that I was completely in the dark about in June. In July a glimmer of light shone through the dimness ... that was because the word was explained. Quilt as you go. Easy isn't it when told! The Forum decided to donate a quilt to a charity, and the members invited to tender their effort. Not being an old hand at quilting, but one willing to take a chance and learn I offered to do my block; a block for charity! We were invited to make one or as many as we wished. In the beginning I volunteered to make two, but once the first two were complete, and ideas still swishing around my mind, I increased the count. I have made five; and sincerely hope they are what is needed. Thankfully I am not the one to bind them together into a quilt! [I rather think if that were so I would need to purchase a wig!]

Above is my completed effort ... all that is left is to mail it away, and carry on with other projects that are screaming for attention.

Stippling and other Things

2010-07-14T11:45:00.000+08:00

Two weeks without a posting! I do have an excuse; correction ~ a reason, because a reason is more acceptable than an excuse.

Visitors, rain, the need to chase firewood; the reasons are endless.

The most important one is I have been busy. After consigning the Attic windows quilt to the plastic box that holds so much of my crafty items, and after watching a video that made free-motion quilting look like child's play, I bit the bullet. Not without some trepidation I must add!

The stippling is not perfect, but the more I do, the better I should become. Well that is what those who know these things say ... the old adage; practice makes perfect. I aim for perfection, but will be content with pretty good.

I have taken part in an apron swap, and while this particular item is now complete and ready for mailing, I won't post a picture here as these swaps are not supposed to be opened until 1st September, which is a whole season away! However, I will try to hold onto the suspense.

Last week the winter arrived, with a vengeance. Hearing the weather forecast over the weekend I made a decision ... do some washing on Sunday, which is not part of my normal routine. Monday promised rain and wind. While My Man laughed at me on Monday morning as I filled the washing machine almost before the sun had risen, that choice proved a wise one. By late morning the first drops of rain fell from a leaden sky; my washing was dry enough to rescue, and indeed it was only the heavier items that needed a little airing.

Thankfully we had 'chased' enough firewood to see us through, and although heavy showers descended upon us for much of the next day, and the rain gauge level continued to rise, reaching 74ml over three or four days, at least it was warm and dry indoors ... just the weather for a little concentrated sewing.

I must remember to tell the maid that she must make a bigger effort to keep the floor tidy during one of my sewing sessions ... little threads of cotton are not a pretty sight!

Today the bees are busy in the gum flowers, the two tawny frog-mouths are sleeping the day away in the shelter of a bent branch on the gum tree outside the back door, and the sun is shining.

Nothing Much

2010-06-28T18:49:00.000+08:00

The countdown to a visit from No. 3 son is on. It has been almost two years since I last saw him ... he is a busy owner/operator of a caravan park in the south west, and after two and a half years without a break, they took a fortnight off, headed east to the Gold Coast for a little R & R. Their visit with us is the end of their break.

My Man had a checkup with the surgeon last Friday ... no amputation! One worry less! The waiting for the antibiotics to do their trick was long, and dragging. We didn't allow ourselves to contemplate the options, which it now appears was correct.

Sewing is always on the go ... at the moment I am hurrying to complete another batch of eight hearts in a yellow theme. I have the cot quilt to back, though did buy some polar fleece last week. Once the 'visit' is over the sewing machine will take precedence again, especially as I have entered an apron swap, which sounds exciting! I have millions of ideas roaming the mind, but will need to bear in mind that my partner might have a particular preference. The draw for this swap is the end of the month ... not long to go!

As well I have undertaken to make some QAYG blocks; this will be a first for me. My box of magazines is extremely handy in my search for ideas, which I should write down as they pop into mind! Instead I turn another page, and what I have seen fades into almost oblivion. In the middle of the night I will wake up, a wonderful idea flashing across the brain, and in the morning that idea has flown out the window with the breaking morning. As for having a pad and pencil on the bedside table ... heavens! Who is that organised?

Perhaps I should be?!

My dear friend, Aunt Alice, has been gardening, and while she spoke highly of the petunias, even publishing a picture of them, she forgot the potted plants growing alongside the petunia bed. Tut, tut, Alice! Basil is useful and aromatic. Petunias are beautiful, but of little culinary use.

Success

2010-06-19T11:30:00.001+08:00

My Man has been home from hospital for over a week now, and while still having to attend Outpatients at the local medical centre, is making progress. Hopefully the massive doses of antibiotics, via the PICC line and Baxter pump will send the infection away ... for good! The diagnosis was osteomyelitis, something a diabetic does not want.

They say good things come in three's. Perhaps the rain that has fallen making the place clean and green to view is number two.

Certainly the third is the parcel that arrived in the post earlier in the week. Just before Christmas Handmade featured some lovely designs, ones that I determined were 'up my alley'. I stictched felt hearts, on a festive theme, and made a hexagon table centre, which turned out good enough to take a photo and send it to the magazine. Imagine my delight when that letter, with photo, gained the status of 'Star Letter"! That a gift was the prize made the win even better.

I waited, heady with anticipation, for my parcel to arrive. Days went by; weeks went by; and slowly my excitment changed to anxiety. Maybe gifts were only a carrot? Surely not. Handmade is a reputable magazine, and I had read letters from others who had received their gift.

Months later I sent an email, received a gracious reply apologising for the delay. There was a reason ... there had been a change of editors. The gift would be mailed forthwith.

On Thursday there was a small card in the postbox ... inside the Post Office was a parcel! It was my gift! Showing great restraint I waited until we arrived home before opening the parcel. What a delightful array of goodies were inside!

There were scrapbooking papers and embellishments, there was a wonderful wooden set of bag handles, a book on embellished applique printed in the USA and using a dime as one of the measurements [will have to find out the size of a dime!], there was a wonderful Puff Quilting Clip set, and a small embroidery of a rooster including embroidery cottons to complete.

I admired the articles many times, took a photo, and admired again, finally putting them away for future use. Though I must have a try with that puff quilting clip! And in the meantime my brain is ticking over as to the best way of using the bag handles ... maybe something rustic with some flowers [to match the flower decoration on the handles] to bring the bag to life?

Surely this is proof things do come in threes?

Square Dancing

2010-06-08T15:58:00.000+08:00

In the beginning I must confess I have never attempted Square Dancing. Once upon a time I flirted with Line Dancing; indeed one winter Line Dancing not only kept me warm, but improved my fitness; that is after I conquered the main steps, which are different to Square Dancing. Both, in my mind, should be performed in a 'country' type location. A shed with hay bales for seats springs to mind. Hay bales often have prickles in their makeup which entices the dancers to keep on the floor.

This particular Square dance does not take place in a barn. It is more of a sedentary occupation, but challenging to the mind and patience.

A posting appeared; was a challenge issued? Some proclaimed, loud and long, that those who had not tackled this particular Square Dance would be better staying in the dark. A challenge, whether it be imagined or real, is a challenge, and it is sadly not in my nature to dodge a new activity. How could Square Dancing bring grown women to their knees, metaphorically of course?

Not wishing to waste good materials I hunted out fabrics that combined well enough for the dance. If I failed ... yes I did contemplate failure ... the main waste would be my time. I downloaded the pattern, transferred the template pattern to an old Christmas card, one that was solid enough to take the main stage, and reading instructions as I went, proceeded on. So far so good!

Keeping in mind the dire warnings about difficulties, I tacked the pieces first. They fitted. I machined them, pressing as I went. Oh! It actually worked! Not particularly liking the chosen fabrics, and not desiring to make too large an item [I was only using scraps], I added an extra border, included a backing and batting, pressed and trimmed before adding the final binding. It wasn't too bad; then again I could see errors.

I had forgotten that binding should start half-way along a row, some of the points were cut off. Ah well, there was only one solution ... make another. In the process of constructing the Square Dance, which by now you will have guessed is a patchwork block, I used the walking foot. My sewing machine skills need practice; I am now the possessor of two table mats, which will allow another change in the decor of the table.

You haven't tried Square dancing ... look here for the pattern. http://www.quilterscache.com/S/SquaredanceBlock.html

You don't need a partner, and there are no promenades involved.

And Another, Plus Creepy Crawlies

2010-06-05T16:21:00.000+08:00

Yesterday we visited My Man in hospital. He is making progress, and with an additional 'procedure' it is hoped he will be able to come home. That he is beginning to champ at the bit shows, I am sure, that he is feeling better.

We, [eldest son and his lady, who were my 'taxi service'] sat talking into the night, reminiscing and looking at old photos when their little dog, who was bedded down in her cosy bed, started to act up. I thought she noticed an ant, but no. Instead a rather long centipede, at least 10cms long, with a multitude of hairy legs and a flatish body in a creamy yellow wended its way across the floor. Never had I seen such a creature, and I don't particularly wish to see another, especially inside! Eldest son acted promptly, trodding on it; it was then tossed out the door into the damp night air, as rain had fallen, gently, for a few hours. No doubt it was the damp soil that drove the creature inside. This morning I picked it up [on a shovel] and placed it in the bin. Now I wish I had taken a photo!

To make up for the lack of a photo of Mr Centi Pede I decided to take one of the second pin cushion I constructed. It is larger and at the moment has no pins stuck into it ... nor has it taken on the appearance of a voodoo doll! I may deposit this in the 'Christmas box', as two pin cushions is probably one too many. I love the fabric! But as I only had one fat quarter a pin cushion seemed the obvious way of using some of it ... ideas may spring to mind about the use of the rest of it ... in the meantime it stays in the box of stash.

Pin cushion

2010-06-03T09:08:00.000+08:00

After grappling with pins incorrectly housed in a needle holder and the 'wheel' thingy that they are purchased in, I bit the bullet and began a large project. A pin cushion!

I do recall owning several in NZ, but never thought to bring them with me when I crossed the Tasman. One can't cart everything; I left the kitchen sink behind, so a pin cushion hardly seemed a relevant necessity. I recall teaching children at primary school how to construct felt pin cushions; some of which were decorated with contrasting tiny birds. I wonder how many of those items are still lurking in the back of cupboards, as several children informed me, proud of their efforts, that the pin cushion was destined to be a gift for Mother.

I looked through a few magazines, but decided to just make one. While some pin cushions are a work of art, this was meant as a practical item ... pretty it up a little, and use it with ease.

I started last evening and stuffed it this morning; the result is satisfactory. As I did achieve a lot yesterday physically I am contemplating making another, and maybe another after that? One could almost mistake it for a cup cake topped with 100's and 1000's.

P's and Q's

2010-06-01T11:36:00.000+08:00

As My Man is in hospital with an infected diabetic toe, but thankfully is making good progress with IV antibiotics, I have chores that normally would be shared, to tackle. The chores included surveying the block, checking and disposing of weeds that persist in sharing our environment. Not that I blame them ... this is a rather nice place, especially now that the winter rains have arrived and the 'pasture' is green and ever so easy on the eye.

While raking leaves screamed for attention I diverted my exploration for a while and went weed hunting. Only three melons! Dug out and deposited in the bin! One 3-corner jack ... dug out with his feet exposed to the weather.

And several puffballs; the P's. Puffballs are the less attractive relation of mushrooms, puffballs are goblin rings; mushrooms, fairy rings. I am sure there were fewer puffballs last year. Perhaps that was because I didn't bother to remove them from their bed? This year I changed my tactics ... dig the out, and throw them in the bin, making it impossible [I hope] for them to reproduce. They are rather amazing to view though. Rather like, what I imagine, Martian homes resemble! As far as that goes, perhaps Martians are simply spores?

Now onto the Q's. I have caught a very addictive virus, the quilting bug. Though I do recollect way back in the annals of time that I did construct a 'grandmother's garden' quilt; had no idea what I was doing, but carried on regardless. I do remember, vividly, that I couldn't find my thimble and had a volcanic hole in my finger. It did heal, but the memory remains.

I drooled over quilts that I had seen photos of; work of a group of dedicated crafty ladies [crafty in the nicest sense ever], and wondered if I ever would have the nerve to make one myself. With the house empty and no-one to witness a display of temper [just in case it went all wrong] I purchased fabric; standing in the shop for ages trying to find fabrics that would work in with what was in my mind.

I read the pattern, read it again and again, and cautiously cut. I sewed, and amazingly the whole thing came together. Now I need to think on what colour backing I will use, though the foremost thought is pink.

There is a sad ending to this tale ... my mind is already racing ahead to what I might do next ... while my conscience is reminding me I do have U.F.O's ... [perhaps they come from Mars, exploding upon my little space on earth in a giant gust of wind?]

Pastels and other things

2010-05-24T12:40:00.000+08:00

The weekend came up trumps weather-wise; 16mls of rain fell, the winds blew strong, the grass is green, and the air smells clear and sweet. As is normal with all of life, while rain helped the growth of much, it was excessive for some of the older gum trees. This morning, as I wandered down The Avenue to switch on the water pump, fallen branches captured my attention. I pulled some to the wood-pile, others will need the extra strength of the tractor.

Last week I shopped [again], this time bringing home several Fat Quarters in shades of yellow, and a soft blue/green. Plus I managed to find a fabric with a white background and covered with the tiniest of spots in yellow, pale pink, and a deep pink; this provide the main piece on which to place the Dresden plates sitting awaiting a home.

But, first things first. Three or more months ago I began a throw for the couch, using a pattern that featured gum leaves. I chose a background in shades of brown with gum leaves in varying shades of green appliqued onto the browns. The first twenty squares went well! Then other projects captured my interest ... projects needing immediate attention! Against all my better judgements I left the gum leaves to wallow in a basket waiting for the time I would return.

Yesterday, the Dresden plate cushion complete, and only knitting staring me in the face, there was no option but to pick up the gum leaves and stitch some more onto their background. [I could have started another set of hearts, after all I do have all those Flat Quarters.] Amazingly the gum leaves are going well; perhaps it is wise to leave a project if interest wanes?

Books

2010-05-23T10:13:00.000+08:00

I have a discussion whirling through my mind; books, wonderful books that take us to places unknown, books that explore emotions and ideas that flit through the mind; to information tomes that are weighty in size and words. How do we personally categorise books?

At a recent book sale I purchased almost thirty books, novels, biographies; all books that I thought I would enjoy, or would give me food for thought ... one, The Boy in Striped Pyjamas, a small volume in size, but huge in all other ways. The cover was drab, the scrip disturbing. A discussion appeared regarding this book. My comment ... "found it different. I won't say I enjoyed it, as it was such a sad tale. But extremely well written and very readable" ... Another commented that they loved the book, and it was that comment that sent me to search my mind.

I didn't love The Boy in Striped Pyjamas. The story was excellent, the writing impeccable; it built up to a climax, one that we expected, but hoped to be incorrect in our expectations. I would recommend that book to anyone, with the rider not to expect to laugh, or even smile.

In saying that I had to explore my reason for not loving the book. It was the sadness.

Today the media concentrates on calamity. Sadness permeates our very lives and if we are caring folk at all, it makes it extremely easy to drift into a pit of despair. While I agree that we must realise that there is sadness, there is uncontrolled anger, it is my considered opinion that a high diet of sad reading material has a similar effect on our soul as obesity does to heart attack. Oh, I do read sad books such as The Boy in Striped Pyjamas, and I do not dislike such books. I simply do not love them. Love is a word filled with kindness and gratitude and caring; and while there was indeed a wonderful display of such emotions in The Boy in Striped Pyjamas, the over-riding sadness and certainty of that sadness simply cancelled that emotion out. Read The Boy in Striped Pyjamas yourself ... do you love it, or simply enjoy the book for telling a tale overflowing with sadness?

Of course the above begs the question, "What type of book do I prefer?" Once upon a time, when my hair was golden, not silver brushed with gold, I read widely, though upon reflection the choice was narrow. I preferred books that told real tales, biographies of people who discovered marvellous things, be that thing be land, or a discovery of the personal nature, or an invention. I read books about places; places I would have loved to visit, but never did; places that I desired to learn more about for obscure unknown reasons.

Why do some places attract one more than others?

Why does one book jump off the library shelf and not its neighbours?

Questions and more questions that may or may not have answers in books; but do we not search for books that add to our knowledge of how we personally desire the world to be?

Winter

2010-05-22T19:49:00.000+08:00

It has been a strange day. We had a quick trip into town for the usual weekend necessities ... newspaper, magazine and some meat. While in the supermarket the sky darkened, opened, and the rain poured down like all the buckets in heaven were being emptied at the same moment; the wind whirled the rain, the gutters overflowed; winter arrived in an instant. The greasy road and the buffeting winds made for a slower journey home.

A few kilometres from home we had to scoot to the other side of the highway as a huge gum-tree branch had fallen, blocking one lane rendering the road dangerous. For the final leg of our morning trip to town we had to avoid numerous small branches lying on the roadway. I wondered how many trees, or branches, had broken at home as it was obvious the wind was as violent there and the rain as torrential as in town.

The corner of our road was slippery, a common predicament for this country road. No trees appeared broken. We were lucky!

Hurriedly grabbing our shopping we hurried indoors, entering via the front door as the path was under water to the back door, our normal entry. The house was in darkness. No microwave clock showing its yellow time. The electricity was off. I walked down The Avenue checking that a branch hadn't fallen over our power line, but all was well. We telephoned the electricity company to be informed that electricity was off in our wider area; the estimation time of reconnection 2.30pm. Not a problem; we are used to electricity outages in the country. We have gas for cooking, and the lovely stove that burns wood for heating on these cooler days always has two kettles simmering; hot water for coffees. All is well.

There is one major downfall to power outages. We forget how much we rely on electricity. Thankfully there was no accumulation of clothes awaiting washing; the ironing was done. The activities one can undertake without electricity, on a wet and windy showering day diminish. Sewing on the machine was out; doing some hand appliqué was out, as I hadn't ironed the pellon onto the fabric. I couldn't vacuum, not that I needed to as that chore was undertaken yesterday, but the thought was there, mainly because I knew it was out. I couldn't listen to the radio for the football as I had planned.

I started a Dresden plate cushion last week but put it aside to concentrate on some more hearts. Ah well, nothing would be lost with the inclement weather ... I completed that cushion, pushed its inner in ... and took a photo. The Suffolk Puffs add that little extra touch to the corners. I am keeping this cushion! It goes well on the plastic outdoor chair, but ... I won't be leaving it outside in this weather with wind-blown rain dampening everything on the patio.

The electricity came on around 4.00pm.

Sunday Excursion into the Past

2010-05-16T15:28:00.000+08:00

Today, Sunday, is National Motoring Heritage Day. An exhibition of cars of yester-year was held in brilliant sunshine on the Spalding Cricket Oval in Geraldton. We attended.

Row upon row of wonderfully aged motors stood side by side on the grounds where in summer cricket balls hit the bat resoundingly. Today Holdens, Fords, Buicks, Chryslers, Rovers, an Austin 7 sports, and Tractors, Trucks, and Motor bikes held the attention of those assembled. I took photos ... to keep the memories of the day, and the cars of my youth, alive.

After wandering around the area of parked vehicles, and after peering at the paintwork, the fluffy pair of dice dangling from the rear-view mirror of a chrome trimmed black Cadillac, 1958 Fleetwood Special, left-hand drive, and admiring the beautifully restored upholstery we ventured further afield ... there were eldery motor-bikes, one similar to what my Uncle owned more years ago than I care to recall; trucks small in comparision with the road trains of that make frequent pilgrimages up the Brand Highway; tractors that bear little resemblance to the machines that are this day spraying wheat paddocks ... and further afield to where a tent housed a display of eldery items that we have almost forgotten about.

There were kerosene refrigerators, washing machines that while saving the housewife a few hours and hard work on wash day are a far cry to the pristine white models that grace our laundries today.

Two steps inside this particular tent stood a circular display of sewing machines; vintage sewing machines. Not a treadle machine in sight! All were hand wheeled models, some almost 150 years old. They would have been innovative for the housewife towards the end of the 19th century when a needle and thread was the norm. I can imagine the enthusiasm these machines were greeted with by those charged with the task of sewing for the family.

I look at my modern Janome and marvel ... the difference between those elderly sewing machines painted black, with gold embossing, a shuttle in the place of our modern-day bobbins, is as striking as is the difference between an early model Massey Ferguson and a modern bright green and yellow John Deere of today guiding the giant sprayers that look like a praying mantis with arms outstretched.

Beyond the sewing machine display a collection of household items were protected from curious poking hands in a large wooden open-topped box sealed across the top with chicken wiring. Heirloom china and Grandma's doilies had pride of place. I tried to take a photo of just one of the doilies; it proved difficult as the closer I tried to reach the more precarious the box was, moving [it seemed] with me. I contented myself with the above photo. I pictured the maker sitting by a kerosene lamp stitching after the household chores were completed.

Present and Past project

2010-05-15T13:02:00.001+08:00

The Dresden Plate exercise proved fruitful, and like the tube quilting, addictive. I find it unusual that none of the numerous magazine articles about addiction fail to mention craft addiction. Does that mean it is harmless?

Having sorted through my fabrics for colours that would be suitable on an indoor/outdoor chair as a cushion, I chose a golden yellow, a pale beige paisley, and a colourful blue/green for the dresden plate; and a simple square of calico for the background. In the beginning I had no idea what exactly I was making, nor how it would turn out. The dresden plate looked bare on the calico; needing some extra embellishment.

Over a period of three or four years I have attempted to make Suffolk Puffs. They look simple! No matter how many instructions I followed, or how careful I was, they were disasters; akin to my attempts at sponge cake making. [My first two sponges ended up in the bin, the next two were turned into a trifle, and no more have been made. I am speaking of those beautifully light and airy sponges consisting mainly of egg and sugar and a great quantity of air.]

Determined to not let a Suffolk Puff come between me and success I tried again. But this time I had back-up. I used Google! There were several postings on how to. One proved to be my saviour. One set of directions included the phrase, pull and twiggle it into the correct shape. Aha!! I had never attempted that! Before I had simply sewn, tried to tighten the cotton only to end up with a shapeless shape. This time it worked! Because? I pulled and twiggled it into shape. I made four Suffolk Puffs to represent flowers, and concocted eight leaves as colour and to accentuate the flower corners. The photo shows the partially completed cushion cover top, that I will get back to in the later part of next week.

While I have attached all the leaves, and one flower, I have been taken off that path for a couple of days, as I am making more hearts.

On the subject of hearts, just before last Christmas I made felt hearts, which were effective as decorations for the tree.

Dresden Plate

2010-05-10T15:41:00.000+08:00

Mother's Day has been and gone; I had two parcels to open, and some lovely gifts ... Rod Stewart's 'Soul Book', choccies, a winning scratchie [$5] and a X-word puzzle book; plus a lovely warm cardigan for the winter. As well the phone rang with well wishes from the family. I slept in, which is a real plus as sometimes I am up before the birds and that makes for a long day, breakfasted leisurely, wandered around outside chopping back persistent weeds before coming indoors to tackle a new project.

When in the city a week ago I splashed out on what was really an extravaganza! I had noticed a Dresden plate template in my favourite shop, but the price was too steep. I know my limits! However, when a few days later I received vouchers in the mail, one offering a 25% discount, I decided that while the template was still more expensive than I would normally consider paying for one item, its purchase could be justified by the discount offered. Before I could talk myself out of the 'bargain' the template was mine.

What to make from it? I took it out, turned it over, wondered exactly how it worked as the instructions were basic ... too basic for me ... a half a dozen words is not an instruction! On Saturday evening, my last project complete, and nothing too pressing on the agenda, I decided to try ... 'if at first you do not succeed, try, try again'; so I was brought up to believe.

I cut blades out ... the template is so simple to work! And the rotary cutter behaved itself confined as it was between two hard pieces of plastic. I cut and I sewed the pieces together, after sewing across the top to give a cute wee peak. At bedtime my eyes were becoming weary, my patience running thin, and the Dresden Plate was not coming together. I went to bed.

Next morning I wrote of my dilemma in The Forum. Aha ... shortly afterwards a kind lady told me of a web site that helped immensely.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcy_p4pryE4&feature=related
I had thought I had included too many 'blades'; in actual fact I hadn't enough. I cut and sewed again. By early afternoon one Dresden Plate was complete.

There is one downside to this tale ... this type of craft is terribly addictive, almost on a par with coffee! Feeling emboldened I cut out enough blades for two more Dresden plates, though had to manipulate the fabric for one colour that was on the short side. The marvellous thing about these templates is that you can pile the number of different coloured fabrics you require, on top of each other, place the template on top, and cut. All come out exactly the same size.

As well the centre circles are a breeze ... in fact I am exceptionally well pleased with my purchase of the Dresden Plate Template.

The variety of fabrics in my stash is short of what I require to complete the project, which might be a good thing as I think that I need to just look at the completed plates and decide what colour will go best with them. Then again it might be a better idea to take one to the fabric shop and hold it against rolls of fabric ... there is no haste!

Baby jacket completed!

2010-05-04T10:24:00.000+08:00

Two weeks after embarking on a knitting spree such as I haven't started for several years; a baby jacket is small and pretty; a pleasure to begin and finish.

The jacket with matching bootees is a pale lemon in colour [doesn't show up all that well in the photo] is now ready for the post ... which means that I can now begin another project! I am well pleased with the final result.

Sunday Morning

2010-05-02T10:25:00.000+08:00

On a beautiful, cool, calm Sunday morning, with no pressing chores waiting to be tackled, what better way to fill in an idle moment that take a walk? Walking for pleasure in summer is impossible; flies and the sap destroying heat combine, making a walk the last thought on the mind.

Not to waste time completely I set out, hoe under one arm as the never-ending fight against melons is a daily task, and now Three Corner Jacks, a menace of a plant that sticks to tyres and rubber soled shoes as they hitch a lift to a new area to put down root and reproduce in their hundreds. I circled the western boundary, cut across The Park, which is in reality a large paddock but with intermittent stands of gum trees does resemble a park, especially as the numerous bare branches provide a resting place for the myriad of birds that flock to this area, digging out several melons and one three corner jack. However this was not my main reason for taking a walk. Chores are for weekdays. Sundays should be relaxing, and as I fully intend sitting on my posterior, knitting so as not to be completely lazy, to listen to the football this afternoon, a walk is one way of compensating with a clear conscience.

I left the hoe near the back door, and set off once again down The Avenue where my eyes were drawn to the varying types of bark on the different species of gum trees. Such colour and texture! If one stops to give nature a second thought surely amazement is the forefront thought. All over Australia gum trees take root, send up saplings that sometimes grow into huge trees. That there are so many species is incredible. They are easily identified, so I have been told, and have scientific names that I do not know. I simply call them by what I observe.
Hence there is the rough barked gum tree in which 'my' tawny frog-mouths perch, and there are the white barked gum trees that have a wonderful silver/white bark. Once I made a wall hanging and not having a 'proper' hanger on which to attach it, and not having the patience to wait until we went to the city where I could purchase one, I wandered down The Avenue, found a suitable white branch, and attached the wall hanging, which incidentally was my first foray into this type of work.

This morning the sun was shining on the tall ancient overhanging rough barked tree at a corner of The Avenue ... what a superb picture just waiting to be captured! Barely three metres further on the silver/white bark of a different species called to me, 'Take my photo too!" I obliged.

I walked reasonably quickly as this little excursion was to regain fitness lost during the summer, and once out onto the lane beyond our boundary I couldn't resist taking a photo to the west, and to the east.

If it wasn't for the gum trees and wattles one could almost imagine wandering down an English country lane ... except of course this is Western Australia, where the skies are nearly always blue.

More Fabric!

2010-04-30T10:53:00.000+08:00

Another item of mail from my favourite fabric/craft shop dropped into the postbox early last week, and while I am well aware these 'gift vouchers' are a marketing ploy, I fall for them ... most times. I have been known to not actually want, nor need, any particular item, and toss them into the bin.

This time I succumbed [again!].

On a recent trip to this shop I noticed a Dresden plate template, and having viewed a fascinating video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcy_p4pryE4&feature=related

I decided to use the 25% off voucher to purchase a similar template. Another project for the future! They are piling up. I know that winter is imminent, so surely there will be more 'indoor times', and what else can one do on a cold, or wet, winter's day? Craft!!

I read about a 'caring hearts' project, and while I have not openly put my hand up to make some hearts, I have purchased suitable fabrics [photo]. This project is my next one ... I have some ideas with the lovely fabric I bought ... its simply [!?] a matter of replicating ideas on fabric.

In the meantime I am racing through the baby jacket ... it certainly pays to have another project screaming to be started; just as long as I don't find too many other 'must do' projects. My housework could suffer!

Sewing Machine

2010-04-26T20:24:00.000+08:00

While I am concentrating on completing the jacket and bootees for a new arrival I have, waiting in the wings, three pieces of fabric that are screaming out to be transposed into cushions and a table runner, using the tube quilting method which I find fascinating, and more importantly, I can do it. As I sit knitting my mind wanders [only on the return purl rows ... I need to keep tabs on where I am in the pattern!] to my waiting sewing.

I remember my first sewing effort. It happened at primary school when the class was instructed to bring a sugar bag and an assortment of wool, though any student who couldn't access wool was not to worry ... there was a box in the storeroom that held a mixture of colours. We pulled threads and X-stitched across the row, using several colours on the article, which when finished we proudly took home and insisted our Mother used it as an oven cloth. Some of the more eager stitchers made a second oven cloth ... I think I must have been eager.

A year later we made huckaback cloths; this time using a small selection of 'fancy work cottons'. I loved the stitching, but have to confess that I never hemmed that cloth until I was getting my 'box' ready for marriage. That cloth became a scone cloth, and was used regularly.

I remember sewing a dirndl skirt, red with elastic through the waist, and this was my first 'real sewing', as I used my Mother's sewing machine after tacking the seams at school.

This sewing machine was a vintage machine even then. It was a Singer treadle, folding up from a table that had wrought iron legs and treadle. Mum wasn't keen on sewing, but bought clothes were expensive, so home-made garments were the order of the day. Then I became the proud possessor of a doll ... several years after my favourite doll with a cloth body, arms and legs, but with a porcelain head, hands and feet, was fatally tipped from a pushchair. Daphne did not survive; my brother was unpopular for a long, long time! I was given the opportunity of receiving a 'walkie talkie' doll, but after closely looking at all the dolls on offer in the toy shop I chose a different doll; for one important reason. This doll, which was never named, had clothing patterns, and hair setting materials. She had long blonde hair, her eyes closed when laid down, and I spent endless hours altering her hair style, until, one day I decided to give her a hair cut. Dolls hair does not grow back!

The patterns were wonderful. I nagged my Mother to buy some fabric for an evening dress. I chose a blue taffeta for the full-length underskirt and bodice, and a pale blue net for the three layers of overskirt. That doll was one of the best dressed! I made dresses, panties which were a bug-bear with such tiny seams around the legs. Dolls clothes were easier to hand sew.

Once I began working I sewed my own clothes, suits, skirts, and summer dresses.

I left the parental home, and bought my first machine; another Singer, though this one was an either/or; either treadle or electric at the flick of a switch, and was housed in a cabinet that I painted to match the decor of the room I kept it in. Marriage and babies meant pyjamas with two pairs of pants to one top for littlies, dresses and fashion outfits for our daughter who started a trend for knickerbockers and matching jackets. Sadly that sewing machine developed a fault and by that time the local sewing machine salesman had opted out of repairs. An elderly aunt donated her electric sewing, a very ordinary Toyota [I think], that did not handle 'tough' sewing, nor delicate sewing. Slowly sewing lost its charm. I gave it away to a young friend when I moved to Australia.

Living where I am now meant I had time on my hands. The bundle of craft magazines grew monthly ... until I had to purchase plastic containers just for them. I decided to buy a new machine, and after reading up of several makes, decided; purchased a Janome, and have never looked back. How wonderful it is to have a decent machine that does more than what I want! Just contemplating sewing these days has me hurrying through housework and chores ... but at the moment I am knitting.

Promotional Material

2010-04-22T15:43:00.000+08:00

I am knitting. Now that sounds like a statement of intent, but I AM knitting a baby jacket in readiness for the expected arrival of another grandchild for My Man.

Knitting is one of the arts that many folks no longer participate in, which is I consider, as real shame. Not that I blame Australians for letting the craft slowly die out; the weather is too hot for the wearing of wool for nine months of the year, but those other three months a warm woollen garment is bliss.

Not knowing if the expected arrival will wear blue or pink I opted for safe lemon; a little jacket and matching bootees. Several months ago, whilst nosing around my favourite shop on the lookout for some white baby wool in 3-ply, I was astounded to not see any 3-ply at all. Last week there were several colours in 3-ply. I suspect wool is stocked in quantity during the cooler months.

Today, in the post, I received a large envelope from the above favourite shop ... I am a VIP customer, which means I get a discount on all purchases, but they can send as much promotional mail as they wish; though I hasten to add nearly always the promotional mail includes discount vouchers ... spend $100 and get 40% off! Or in today's dispatch, three vouchers, one for 25% off any item not on sale, or otherwise reduced, another for 20% off with the same qualifications, and yet a third with 15% off, and the above qualifications.

These offers are of course little more than advertising ploys. Who desires to miss out on such an offer?! If we were not told, we probably would make less frequent, but needed visits to the store. We most likely would not buy as much; their stock would stand on the shop floor longer; but who cares! Most VIP's for this store, which is Australia and New Zealand wide, maybe further afield, love just browsing. Fabrics can be touched, ideas form in the mind after a fondling visit, only to be followed by a return to purchase. Lovely little items, often in a 'sale basket' straddle the aisles. What woman worth her name as a shopper can resist?

There are decided advantages to receiving promotional mail ... incentives are forever presented to us; new stock is highlighted, and our creative juices may just flow faster than a stream as the imagination surges forth.

Plants and Planting

2010-04-17T20:04:00.000+08:00

After weeks of inactivity, due to the heat, I have finally made a start on tidying the garden, or what hopefully will be a brilliant display of colour in a few weeks. Sadly few of my plants survived the summer heat; a decision has been made; no summer garden from now on.

Our trip to the city [second time in less than a week!] meant that we had time to visit the plant outlet, and as well as buying several punnets of survival type plants, we also purchased some compost and other soil enrichners, and, because I liked them, a couple of small cream coloured pots. Those planters now are resplendent in the front of other pots, and are filled with that most wonderful of herbs, basil. It would be true to say that basil is my favourite herb: it has a wonderful flavour especially when eaten with tomatoes, it cleanses the palate, and the aroma is out of this world. One of my little tricks to increase my enjoyment of basil is to wander past brushing against the plants. Absolutely pure heaven!

I have planted petunias for the first time ever, but have been assured they can't fail. However I must confess that I can fail the unfailable! Petunias with an edging of white lobelia should make a splash of colour. In two tall green pots, that last year housed lavenders, something else that simply won't fail, but did, this year is planted with blue lobelia. I envisage the drooping stems covered in tiny brilliant blue flowers bending to the ground, thus giving the impression the pots are not there.

As well I have planted Dianthus, the same plant that my gardening aunt called Pinks. Tomorrow I have more Pinks to plant out, some deep red Pansies, if we can believe the colour on the label, and Alyssum in white and a deep purple. The soil and fertilisers are mixed and in the wheelbarrow in readiness for an early start in the morning. The watering will be carried out diligently; these plants will be cared for like a baby, and with a little luck not only will there be a colourful display outdoors, but there may be enough to bring inside to brighten the house in the dull days of winter.

Bonnets for the Past

2010-04-12T19:54:00.000+08:00

Just today my attention was once again drawn back to the distant past, to the time when Australia was settled by convicts shipped across the oceans all those many years ago.

I remembered something I had written in September 2008 ... ...

Once in a while Miss Serendipity crosses our horizon and if we notice, and catch, her, a new adventure along Life's pathway begins. Whether it is luck, or chance, or good fortune, or what is meant to be, the word matters not ... the outcome can enhance our day.

I have one vice. Not anything injurious to health, or especially expensive on the pocket ... I buy craft magazines; more than I can ever hope in a lifetime to complete even one project from each. As I wander around newsagents I pick up the daily paper, maybe the local weekly rag, and even the thrice-weekly paper for the region, my feet invariably lead me towards the magazine racks. Brightly coloured magazines that cover all aspects of daily living ... craft [my downfall], boating, cars, caravanning, woodturning, Sudoku, Crossword puzzle books, you name it, they are there ... I choose a magazine that has within its pages instructions on how to make [sew, embroider, knit, bake] small and sometimes larger items, mainly for the home. They also have interviews with interesting people who have fascinating jobs or hobbies.

Recently one of the craft magazines featured a story about a woman who has studied the life and times of Australia's convict women. Let me hasten to add that many of the convicts who were transported from mainly England to Sydney or Tasmania, had severe sentences imposed upon them. Seven years transportation for stealing little more than a loaf of bread, or a couple of handkerchiefs, from their lord and master ... the rich. Nearly all were poor, nearly all stole because of necessity. However Australia was a new colony and needed settlers ... convicts were considered a good bet. Packed into ships holding 100, give or take a few, sailing across the world to an unknown land, far from family with the knowledge they would probably never see their parents or siblings, and in some cases husbands or wives or children, the convict of the early to mid 1800's had little choice but to buckle down or perish. Most who made it to Australia buckled down!

It has only been in recent years that any consideration or thought has been given to them as people.

The magazine article focused on how modern woman could honour these early settlers who had no say in their destiny. She hit upon the idea of a way of recognition ... make a bonnet for each one. There were 25,226 female convicts transported. To date over 6,000 bonnets have been made; a selection of which were photographed and shown in the magazine. She set up a web site that included a printable pattern. Upon reading the article I was completely fascinated. You see, one of those convict women was my g.g.g.grandmother. Her son left Australia as a young man sailing to New Zealand where he became one of the earliest sealers and whalers on the southern coast. I grew up knowing about him through family stories, and had the satisfaction of being able to raise my hand in class and claim him as my g.g.grandfather when early local history was the subject.

When my g.g.grandfather died, aged 93 years which goes to show that a life of making do and hard work does no harm, his death certificate, of which I have a copy, stated his father was a soldier ... his mother unknown. Neither parent's name was entered. Because, until very recently it was not something to be admitted to ... one did not confess to having a convict for an ancestor. I did not know until 10 - 15 years ago when a distant relative researched our mutual g.g.grandfather.

Upon reading the article I immediately decided to make a bonnet ... to honour the memory of an unknown g.g.g.grandmother, a woman for whom life would have been a thousand times more difficult than mine. Making a home, raising a family ... all in a land that was an unsettled wilderness. Having a length of suitable homespun fabric I cut the pieces out, stitched, and added a lace trim. All the while my mind travelled back to how this Elizabeth may have felt, what she looked like, and whether she had ever owned a bonnet with a lace trim. There was a feeling of attachment to her, and while I will never know any more about her than I do now, deep down I know I have done something just for her ... and in that knowledge hope that in some small way I have helped to cross the generational gap and in some way we may be, just may be, bound a little closer in family ties.

A New Book on the Market

2010-04-11T10:57:00.000+08:00

A new recipe book is advertised for sale in the weekend newspaper. Nothing new about that! Daily, it seems, recipe books appear on the market bombarding us with new and exotic ways of cooking food that we have neither heard of, nor have in the pantry. Occasionally these dishes capture the imagination; we faithfully copy them into a book we started when a teenager as the beginnings of a glory box, and which is now splattered with butter, sugar, and other unidentifiable marks. Pages holding favourite recipes are clearly marked; not by a bookmark, but by greasy stains. The recipes, copied with such intentions, seldom have marks or stains; we have never used them, though the day might come when we will.

The recipe book featured in the newspaper did not belong to the genre of 'modern', nor Asian, nor 'healthy'. It sat in a category that we once all knew so well. This book had [so we are informed] few recipes for fish, or meat, or salads. The dieticians of today will no doubt express their horror at the contents ... cakes, biscuits, and puddings ... the type of food I grew up on. I hasten to add I did also partake of meat and fish, and vegetables ... salads in my youth consisted of lettuce, tomato, spring onions, and egg slices, fresh from the garden, or the hens, and dressed in a homemade dressing that my Mum cooked, and kept in a bottle for several days as it did have a lasting capacity.

While shop mayonnaise is handy, it falls short of this salad dressing recipe [or perhaps there is just a hint of nostalgia entering this blog].

Salad Dressing

1 egg
½ cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
4 tblsp sugar
4 tblsp vinegar
2 tsp mustard
2 tsp cornflour
Beat all together until smooth.
In pot, bring to the boil, cool.
Store in screw top jar in fridge.
To use ... add milk to reduce to desired consistency.

The recipe book reviewed contained recipes that the writer's Grandmother had collected, and in a fitting recognition of this lady, an edition was compiled, minus the splotches of butter and sugar, and if it was anything like my own recipe book, other indistinguishable marks.

I let my imagination roll back to my Mother's baking days, and indeed my own when the family was young and growing, and always hungry from running about outdoors, or swimming, or doing what children used to do a few decades away. Afghans, Belgian biscuits, Cockles that spread several feet when blown from the mouth ... not a good look I know, but fun to a child, Date square, Banana cake, Loch Katrine cake [for when there was a little more time to go to the bother, Chocolate cake, Armenian nutmeg cake for when we spent a day on the farm either planting or digging potatoes, Fruit loaf just in case visitors arrived, chocolate chip biscuits, Shrewsbury biscuits filled with raspberry jam, fudge square, or fudge balls that were favourites with the children and I suspect not so good for their teeth, melting moments and yo-yo's, chocolate jumble, and of course the ever favourite scones and muffins which were usually whipped up after a phone call informing me guests were half an hour away.

It wasn't until the children all left home that I stopped baking. I am thankful we do not have an oven here, as some cold mornings I get the urge to bake, but am stopped in my tracks with the realisation one needs an oven to bake.

A Fabulous Buy

2010-04-10T16:01:00.001+08:00

While I can recall my Mum ironing with the flat iron, heated on a coal range, I have nearly always not minded the chore of ironing. Even with small children it was commonplace for me to iron sheets, teatowels, and other items that I know many folded and put away. There was a feeling of satisfaction seeing neatly ironed garments folded tidily in the drawer.

As a young schoolgirl, with long hair that demanded ribbons [I guess that dates me a lot as ribbons are seldom seen today], I owned a miniature iron, heated on the coal range, that I kept expressly for ironing my collection of hair ribbons, and there were a few: almost every colour of the rainbow plus some tartan ribbons for the winter. Nearly every girl of my age wore ribbons in her hair ~ it was the fashion. In an effort to show our individuality some had plaits with two ribbons swinging at the ends; some wore a ribbon as an Alice band, others had their tresses gathered to one side held in place with a ribbon, while still others had a ribbon on either side of their head. Often which hair-do one subscribed to on a particular day depended on how much time the mother had to 'fix' the hair before the school bus.

Today we went to a garage sale, and I will admit here and now, that we are regular attenders of garage sales. The bargains are sometimes wonderful, other times we come away empty handed. Today I bought a few bits and pieces, and ... a mini ironing board. I have seen these used by crafters; admired them, but never bothered to buy one, as I guessed they were a tad expensive for their limited use. But this mini ironing board at $4 must have been a bargain.

Not having any particular craft project at a stage needing an iron, of course I had to start something new. I so enjoyed the tube quilting, and with a cousin having a birthday towards the end of this month, I decided to make her a table runner ~ at the moment it will be a table runner, though I am toying with the idea of joining four together, two side by side, and another two joined below. I will see how I go as at this stage most is simply an idea ... I have cut and sewn one square ... and used the iron!