Blueberry Park

2012-01-24T14:04:00.003Z

I'm feeling virtuous today...I finished my taxes...whoop, whoop!!

I feel so self-satisfied that I've been being kind to myself for the rest of the day and doing a few things that I don't normally allow myself time for...

One such thing is creating an Etsy Treasury.

I love looking at treasuries - such a mine of undiscovered loveliness and I've found that making them is equally addictive.

It's a little like doing a Flickr mosaic...bringing all the things you've found and loved into one gorgeous space.

So here's today's collaboration of pieces that have been hanging out in my Etsy Favourites file of late dedicated to a rare calm mood I find myself in, thanks to a big item being crossed off the To Do List.

Click here for a closer look and for details of everyone included.

Apparently I also had time to change my blog header, but that could be more to do with the panic that picnik is about to go. How very dare it?? And how are we going to edit our photos without it?? Answers on a postcard please - or a blog comment will work too - seriously, I live on that website. I'm a little worried...

2012-01-23T16:50:00.005Z

I'm back!

I was really knocked for 6 following Top Drawer and it's taken me until now to be able to get moving again. I don't think that was helped by the fact that we had a rapid turn around and were back in London this weekend for a friend's Bar Mitzvah. Boy did it take all remaining energy last week to get us all packed up for that!

How was it I suppose you want to know...

It was fantastic!

I have several new exciting stockists including one in Australia...watch out, Brisbane, here I come! I also had interest from several other countries far and wide, so who knows where my things will be heading off to!

I have to say, one of the best things about the show was seeing and meeting all those wonderful Twitter peeps that I 'hang out' with.

I had a lovely visit and reorder from Stephanie over at Hawthorn Gallery. It was lovely to see Stephanie (and her Mum!) and to know my things are going well in her beautiful Gallery.

It was just wonderful to see Vanessa, Becky, Katie, Charlotte, Gabrielle, Caroline and Jane and also had a visit from the fabulous Phiona who was visiting. I'm not sure how people coped doing big fairs like Top Drawer before the invention of Twitter...so lonely!

Christmas was busy, Top drawer was crazy, so I am now looking forward to steadily getting into a calmer, but still busy, routine. I'm not sure life will ever be quiet, but with all these full-on events being over (oh and my tax almost done...) I'm very excited about what's in store.

2012-01-13T15:17:00.002Z

Do you like my new cushion??

I absolutely love it!!

It was sent to me by the lovely Kylie all the way from Brisbane, Australia.

Apparently Kylie owed me a gift.

I have no recollection of her owing me a gift and I still have no idea why she did, but when she kept insisting I chose a cushion from her Etsy shop, (some people can be very pushy...even when 10000 miles away!) I relented and chose this one.

How perfect is it in my bedroom?

And I hadn't even realised, until I saw this photo, that the red is a perfect match to my dressing gown, that's just peaking in on the left hand side!

Thank you soooo much, lovely lady and one day we will actually meet in person and enjoy a good old laugh and giggle and realise why we have become such great cyber buddies ;-) xx

p.s. thank you everyone for your lovely encouraging words re Top Drawer this weekend. i pack up and head off in the morning ready to welcome visitors at 9.30 sharp on Sunday. I'm mixed with dread and excitement and will report back in all it's glory later next week.

Have a great weekend x

2012-01-10T19:34:00.003Z

I'm just about there...

I'm just about done on all my makings for Top Drawer...

All that is left now is the huge task of building my stand and seeing if what I have planned actually works...fingers crossed I won't have to rethink the whole thing.

Also left to do is write up and print out all my bumph...you know, all the stuff that tells you all about me and what I do, oh and the all important list of prices.

I actually dislike this bit the most. Don't ask me why, I have no idea.

Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I'd rather be playing with pretty fabrics than be writing about them.

Either way it's 3 days to Departure and Setting Up Day and quite frankly I'll be mightily relieved to pull up outside Earls' Court, unload and get started.

I'm getting a little bit excited now and really looking forward to seeing a bunch of folk that are going to be there, some who I already know, some who I only know through the likes of Twitter and these pages.

And hopefully with all these lovely people I am going to meet, quite few will want to order my things for their shops...fingers crossed for that too.

2012-01-05T18:13:00.003Z

The sun shone today...I have proof...

Quite frankly it's been downright miserable here in the UK over Christmas and into the New Year, so to see a bit of sunshine while sewing today was more than welcome.

I think i paused for about 5 days after the Christmas craziness before being full throttle getting ready for Top Drawer. I actually only decided a few weeks ago to do Top Drawer and that was a mad moment of "help! It may be crazy now, but what am I going to do when the craziness goes away?"...make life more crazy obviously.

Most people plan doing a trade show for months, which is probably why they are downright more successful at it than I am.

Here I am cobbling together new designs in an attempt to look half-way professional and at least have a few things that look pretty, even if noone actually wants to buy them.

So I have a mad week ahead getting everything made, a stand sorted and get my butt down to London for a few days. I actually can't wait...and hopefully the sun will shine in more ways than one.

2011-12-30T17:04:00.003Z

It's nearly New Year...

...and I tell you something, 2012 is going to see me so organised, disciplined, calm, resourceful...

remember, you heard it here first.

We've had a week of visiting, having visitors and awaiting for the next lot to arrive and all that that entails.

No doubt it's been pretty similar for you too and no doubt you have been a lot more organised about it than I have...like not getting distracted by making a new quilt when really you should be getting the house geared up for guests.

On the other hand, this long holiday is all about having a break and spending time on doing things you love, when let's face it the speed of the rest of the year takes over and there's not usually much time for enjoying a quiet bit of guiltless sewing.

So, guests are arriving tomorrow and what am I doing? Making a new quilt of course.

I've had it on my To Do List for yonks to make a large hexie quilt. At the start of every winter when we all fight over the solitary quilt in the living room, I have it in mind to make a cosy pile of them to grab and snuggle under. Obviously I have these thoughts when I don't actually have the time to action that plan.

At least now though I am getting one quilt closer to quilting nirvana...

I had a lovely afternoon in my studio today, having sent the others to Tesco (they don't know they are born, that lot) and spent time, new CDs blaring, piecing together the quilt top.

I'm just awaiting delivery of this scrumptious flannel for the back.

Then it's a question of binding.

Do I play safe, below, and go for a coordinating fine stripe?

Or add a bit of wow, above, and use a zing of luscious Lotta?

I think you know which one I'll be choosing...

I hope this out of routine week has been a good one for you and you have had time to guiltlessly do something you love.

New Year's Eve tomorrow and I hope 2012 brings health, happiness and more guiltless pleasures xx

2011-12-20T16:04:00.003Z

So, last postal day today and First Night Chanukah. Could things have been any better planned?!

Chanukah fluctuates from year to year, the Hebrew calendar being lunar based, and sometimes it can fall as early as December 1st, which quite frankly is a right old inconvenience.

Imagine trying to fit in lighting candles every evening, getting together and exchanging gifts with family and friends, whilst everyone is still at school, I'm on that mega work roller coaster and not to mention being organised to have presents bought and wrapped in time.

When it falls, like it has this year, when the rest of the country is festive and celebrating, it makes such a difference to enjoyment levels. 8 days of celebration ahead to be had and relished.

I even had time today after last Post Office trip of the year, to wrap the children's gifts and make their little initial notices, so everyone knows whose pile is whose. Sometimes I think this is their favourite part of Chanukah...seeing what I've come up with each year. No pressure then or anything.

Then the wrap...

I like to be festive and cohesive, without being overtly Christmassy. not an easy feat I can tell you.

However this year I had a huge pile of all my screen print testing papers that I'd kept after each printing session. Perfect! Being a hoarder I knew they would come in useful for something, quite what at that point I hadn't quite worked out.

This obviously sprung Idea 326 for 2012 of what to screen print next...wrapping paper of course! Watch this space...

8 days of Chanukah is somewhat all consuming, but when it falls in the holidays it's 8 days of fun, fun, fun!

Consequently this is a good time to sign off for the festivities and I wish each and every one of you a wonderful Festive Season ahead, whatever you may be doing.

Thank you so much for your visits and comments throughout the year. I really appreciate each and every one of them, so I can't wait to catch up in 2012 and see what the new year has in store for us all.

xxx

2011-12-20T07:02:00.003Z

It's last posting day before Christmas for all UK based parcels today.

Quite honestly I didn't think this day would come!

I have been to visit my friendly PO ever day for weeks now and it will be odd - odd, but rather pleasant - to not be fitting that trip into my day.

One last trip today and one last parcel if you want to grab it for a little Christmas sewing.

Yesterday I had a request for a set of Scruffy Flowers (thank you, Carolyn!) and I now have the other half of the panels that I have made into a second set for one quick purchaser.

If you are UK based, it will be in the post and on it's way to you today...if you are abroad, it will still be on it's way to you today, but may (doubtful) not reach you in time for Christmas.

It's right here...

(If you would like a different pack today, just give me a shout)

2011-12-16T20:24:00.003Z

Hello, me again.

I feel I have been bombarding you all with blog posts a little more than is necessary at this very busy time, but I needed to ask you a question, or two.

You may have seen my previous post today about my scrap bags and the update not that long later to say they had sold out so quickly.

This got me thinking.

It seems that giving a selection of fabrics is possibly more appealing than buying separate larger pieces.

So what I'd be interested to know is, would you like to have a mix of fabrics available? Say, quarter of the size of the larger panel, but in 4 different colours? Perhaps you would like a pack of both designs in 2 colourways?

I'd still offer the full panels too but I obviously want to be able to give you what you want and by the way the scrap packs go, then maybe a mixture is what you are after too.

I really would value any feedback on this, so thank you in advance and as I said earlier today...

Have a great weekend!

2011-12-16T13:55:00.004Z

I'm feeling a little bit pleased with myself.

My studio gets completely out of control at this time of year. Stock for fairs gets dumped. Fabric stashes can be seen all over the place, with scrap pieces strewn across the entire room.

So with things quietening down a tad this week, no more fairs to get ready for and orders slowing down a fraction, I actually got on with tidying up the place.

It's always a very daunting task, but so satisfying when done.

I won't actually say it's been done. We are talking at least 3 months worth of dumping going on.

But I can certainly see the light and find things.

Which for you means, i have organised my screen printed fabric scraps and made 3 lovely bundles of great pieces for you to have lots of fun with over the holidays.

I've listed the Scrap Packs here so, if you are planning a little holiday sewing, go grab a pack!

And who knows what else will be listed when the rest of the room gets cleared next week!

Have a great weekend x

Update:

All gone!!

It appears that you peeps love scrap bags and they sold out in record breaking time!

Hopefully there will be a few more very soon ;-)

2011-12-15T20:21:00.004Z

This little baby made a star appearance today...

Front Page on Etsy no less!!!

...or so I was led to believe. Unfortunately FPs aren't universal and so I didn't actually see it, but the traffic to my page made me realise something was happening and then the lovely Erika informed me that it was indeed Front Page from where she was viewing.

Now I am sure this isn't anything to shout from the rooftops about for a lot of peeps, but this was my first (of many, I hope) and so definitely something to celebrate in my book.

2011-12-15T13:20:00.005Z

I blame Florence for distracting me today.

There I was happily taking things a little slower when I read her blogpost and suddenly realised I had to make Ruby an apron for one of her Chanukah presents.

So bang went my "I'm in control" day and enter "crap, I have to make this now" day.

I know Ruby will be delighted because she's been nagging me for a new apron for ages.

The problem is that one apron wasn't too much trouble (apart form a bit of unpicking because you are making it up as you go along - my usual style - rather than following a pattern), the problem started when I realised my nieces needed one too.

Well, they obviously don't need one and I do actually have other gifts ready for them, but they are all coming up over the holidays and since it usually includes a bake off session, then clearly, they do actually need one.

So what started off as my first slightly slower paced day in a long time, has ended just as crazy as the rest.

And I blame you, Florence!

2011-12-14T11:22:00.005Z

Today it is all about Pink!

I'm not normally a pinky person but I had a request for my fabrics in pink and so last week the pink paint came out and I have to say...

I love it!

The pink I used is a fab hot pink, not girly sickly, sugary and the colour works so well on the crisp white linen. I'm particularly pleased with how the colour has taken on the triangle design - really crisp and clear.

Last night I got a making...as it's one thing seeing the fabrics in panels and quite another how it looks made up into things.

A few pleat and pencil pouches later and it was pretty clear that perhaps I like pink rather more than I thought.

I stopped myself sewing so that I could list a few pink panels for you to purchase and use in your own creations.

Go right here for them...as well as the pink made up pieces.

2011-12-13T09:58:00.004Z

I'm not entirely sure why I choose the end of this busy time to start playing around with new ideas.

It has probably got something to do with being on the roller-coaster treadmill of fulfilling orders and not having time to be creative.

Maybe it was a need to stop and do something creative for a moment.

Whatever the reason, I came home late Saturday night from being at We Make London, which by the way was fab, and felt the need to DO something.

It was fantastic to finally meet fellow exhibitor Louise from EdwynUK and Nicky from Mrs Sew and Sow. Thank you so much for making the trip, Nicky.

I also had a visit from a dear friend that I hadn't seen for 7 years...crazy but true.

All that aside the Fair was fantastic, a hall full of brilliant talent. I just wish I'd had time to do some of my own Christmas shopping! Thankfully Nicky has done a great post on the fair and snapped the essence of it, so head over here to take a look around.

Maybe it was being surrounded by so much talent that got me wanting to stop and do something. So I hadn't been home long and an idea that had been burning in my head on the 4 hour journey home, just had to be executed. I wouldn't have slept if I hadn't!

The polka dot pouch was the prototype for a pleated pouch that I wanted to try, but it actually turned out really pretty. I wanted to see if the shape worked before I cut into some precious woollen felt that I had been hoarding for some time - since last winter I think!

A few pouches later, including obviously one of the screen printed variety, and I could relax.

Although there are a couple of variations spinning in my head, which if I don't try some time very soon, I may just explode...

(new pouches can be found right here...)

2011-12-08T09:54:00.003Z

Busy, busy, busily getting through my To Do List.

Yesterday was all about printing bags and labelling.

I'm getting along fairly well...until my stapler broke and now I need to go out and get a new one so I can finish off packaging the mirrors and magnet sets.

That was a tiny glitch in the preparation process.

What was slightly more problematic was forgetting to make a whole load of zipper pouches.

I think I'll be up quite late tonight.

I actually only really popped by to let you know that Lynne over at Lily's Quilts is hosting a giveaway on her blog...go check it out...I think you'll like it...

Back to pouch making...and stapling...and kit compiling...and...

2011-12-05T11:37:00.003Z

Hello and a happy Monday to you!

I am busily making for Saturday and one thing I'm getting going on this morning is lots of craft kits, Flower Brooch Kits in particular.

This, like last time, is creating heaps of off-cuts that I just can't bear to throw. I know last time, many of you offered to take them off my hands and so I have listed them here for those that are still keen.

Whilst I am generous to a fault, I have taken the liberty of charging a very small fee that literally covers p&p, along with any Etsy and paypal charges. There are about 100 cut outs (life's too short, I haven't actually counted) so plenty of fun to be had.

Update:

Sorry, but this one has been snapped up...if you would like to put your name down for the next one, just let me know.

2011-12-03T13:46:00.001Z

This time next week I will have been to London and back again for the We Make London Christmas Fair.

I am very excited about taking my wares down to Battersea and am frantically trying to get enough made to make it worth it.

As well as making plenty of pouches, craft kits, pencil rolls, notebooks and needle/pin sets, I'm trying to get the packaging for my new mirrors and magnets sorted.

This will also be the first public showing for my magnets and mirrors, so am obviously rather keen to see how they are received.

I've been busily sewing little pouches for the mirrors, after all, all good pocket mirrors need a little pouch.

If you do live nearby and fancy a trip to the fair, with over 80 Designer/Makers it should definitely be worth your while. I'm very excited myself to see some of the other makers and their work and planning on doing some Christmas shopping of my own. Hopefully I'll have time to have a look.

As well as all these wonderful stalls, the We Make London team have put together a fantastic prize draw, which includes my Yellow Triangle Mania Pouch as part of the amazing First Prize loot. Check details out here.

It should be a fantastic day and please come along and say hi if you do come visit. I'd love to see you!

2011-12-03T13:37:00.003Z

GIVEAWAY WINNER!!

First of all thank you for entering and a big thank you to Courtney, from Seamstar, for donating the prize...

And now onto the winner...

drum roll please...

Number 26: Dawn from pop-i-cock!

Unfortunately my computer crashed so I have no visual evidence of Dawn being the chosen number from Random.Org, so you'll just have to take my word for it!

Hope you are all have a great rest of the weekend - me, I'm being shlepped round town doing some Christmas shopping...

2011-11-29T21:48:00.005Z

I'm on a mission to buy all handmade for gifts this holidays.

My main source of inspiration as ever is Etsy. Throughout the year I have marked a lot of gorgeous things that I have had my eye on for gifts and now I've started purchasing.

It's such fun!

As an Etsy seller, I know the thrill of selling handmade as I am aware that most customers are looking for something a little different and special, so it is always where I head to when I am looking for something a little different and special.

As an extended family we have 15 nieces and nephews and as a consequence we have a £15 limit, which makes selecting even more fun. We also stick to gifts just for the children.

So here's what I have found so far...

Pretty gold necklaces for the teenage girls (I'm quite eager to get one of these for me too...) from the immensely talented Cindy of Edor Jewellery.

The teenage fellas are all getting a pair of cufflinks from Zinc White. I first met Paul and Lidia at Saltaire Fair and I love their quirky jewellery, particularly these Initial Cufflinks. I have bought a lot of these for gifts over the months since i met them!

The pre-teen girls are all getting a goodie box of one of my notebooks, pencil pouches and a brooch similar to this one below by Elizabeth Pawle.

I'm ear-marking one of these for me too ;-)

The challenging remaining is the pre-teen boys...I'm really stuck on this one so if you have any bright ideas and can point me in the right direction, I'd be really grateful. I'm determined to succeed in getting everyone a handmade gift this year.

I think I've done pretty darn well and hopefully the recipients will be equally delighted. There really is an amazing selection of handmade gifts out there, so I open up the challenge to you...

Can you do a handmade gift list?

2011-11-25T09:19:00.003Z

Christmas shopping officially starts today, so to kick start yours enjoy 20% off everything in my Etsy shop until midnight GMT tonight! Simply enter BLACKFRIDAY in the coupon section at the checkout.

And watch out because I may be restocking as the day goes on...

Don't say i'm not nice to you...

...and speaking of being nice, don't forget to enter my giveaway too...

Have a great weekend everyone!

2011-11-24T19:02:00.005Z

A giveaway...and a new toy...

...actually the new toy is the reason for the giveaway.

A couple of weeks ago I invested in a Big Shot machine. I'd been after finding a way to cut fabric shapes out for ages, for the particular purpose of cutting flowers for my Flower Brooch Kits. My Flower Brooch Kits are far and away my most popular kits and up until now I have been buying cut flowers (not of the fresh fragrant variety) from a lovely lady in US.

But I have been wanting to make my own for obvious reasons and up until now any cutting machines weren't suitable for fabric.

Enter the new Big Shot machine...

The Big Shot has revolutionised my kits by the fact that I am in control of my stock of flowers, cutting as I need and not having to worry about temporarily making the kits out of stock while I wait for more flowers to arrive from across the pond.

And it's so darn quick and easy to use!

If i haven't lost you yet, here's the fun bit...the giveaway...

I obviously needed something to cut and coincidentally just at that point Courtney from Seamstar came along and almost the very same day sent me a swatch card of all the delicious new felts she was carrying. They are 30% wool and really beautifully soft and vibrant.

I put together an order for the ones I thought would work well for my kits and a day later I was cutting and combining to my heart's content.

Courtney was so taken with the selection that she decided it would be perfect to make a specific bundle with this selection of fabrics. And here's the giveaway part...Courtney has very generously offered one of you, my lovely readers the opportunity to win a set of this bundle, here on my blog. All you have to do is leave a comment here on my blog and you will be in the draw to win a fat 1/8 of each of these 6 luscious felts. I'll be leaving the draw open until next Friday 2 Dec so if you fancy some felt, just leave me a comment and a contact email and you will be in with a shot.*

Also...

...as i was cutting out all my flowers I was left with all these. Now I am known for my inability to discard anything and am convinced there is something that can be done with these 'stencils'. But, for once, I am going to resist the temptation to hoard them. Unless someone thinks they can do something wonderful with them they are going in the bin. If you can't bear the thought of that and know exactly what you would do with them let me know and they are all yours! The first person to say they want them can have them! Again, just make sure you have an email that I can get hold of you via.

2011-11-22T16:12:00.005Z

With all the sewing I've been doing of late, It's hardly surprising that I am left with copious amounts of scraps.

Altho it would be a misnomer to call this a bag of scraps.

Leftovers it is but, apart from the few strips on the top, the smallest piece is about 20 x 20cm...hardly a scrap! And the largest is probably about 25 x 30cm. And not only that, together there must be almost half a metre of fabric here in total.

So if you have been eyeing up my fabrics but want to get a closer inspection, or quite fancy a selection rather than one big piece, this is the bag for you!

It's available right here and as I said, the rate the sewing is going in these parts, I'm pretty sure there will be plenty more pretty soon...

Amendment: Wow, that was quick!...it is now sold, but hopefully be more very soon ;-)

2011-11-21T17:01:00.002Z

I had a lesson in "Never Ever Give Up" last week...

Out of the blue I got an email from someone who had seen me at BCTF 2 years ago...yes, that's right, 2 YEARS ago!

The lady in question had kept my details all this time and finally was ready to place an order!

At that time my work was quite different to what I offer now, but the thing she was most interested in was my cards. I don't really offer these wholesale anymore but was quite happy to do so for her - I would have felt too guilty not to after all this time.

And because it's been so long since I've done a batch of these I had fun today doing the order.

I pulled out a few of some new fabrics and it actually felt like I was doing something completely new and different - although that could say more about my memory of a goldfish and I'd completely forgotten about ever making them!

I particularly enjoyed using one of the Lotta fabrics that has been sitting on my desk waiting to be used. I'd promised myself that I couldn't cut into any of them until there was no more work waiting ie not before Christmas, but since this was work, I could legitimately use it.

A few finishing touches to the cards is needed and then 2 years later, off the order goes in a matter of days. I just hope she finds the wait was worth it.

2011-11-18T23:24:00.002Z

Same, but different...

same patterns...

...different products...

My new notebooks with Triangle Mania and Scruffy Daisy are available in the shop now!

And to reward you with your patience for keeping looking at these same patterns, next week, in conjunction with Seamstar, we have a giveaway.

Have a great weekend and see you then!

2011-11-17T22:31:00.003Z

Ok, you can be forgiven for the sighing, yawning, groaning of Scruffy Daisy and Triangle Mania overkill going on in these parts.

But just bear with me...here's a combo you don't see me using every day...

a little grey...ok, you see plenty of that, but a little red?

And a little grey and red?

Together?

(Or at least in the same blog post)

It's getting rather wintery and Christmassy (darn, I said it) around these parts.

Seeing these two together is giving me ideas...and only time will tell whether they are good ideas, or not.

Fancy a little grey and red yourself? (or the accustomed teal and yellow?) head over to my shop where I've made a whole new section for all these lovelies...

2011-11-15T12:19:00.002Z

After the busy weekend I spent some time yesterday fulfilling my obligation to Handprinted: a fabric swap, that Leslie over at Maze & Vale had organised.

Calling it an obligation makes it sound like it was unenjoyable, which would be so untrue. It's more that I had signed up, I had committed, I had to fulfil that commitment come what may.

I had so many different ideas with what I wanted to do, but unfortunately time was not on my side. The pieces were supposed to have been mailed yesterday and actually, I'm damned pleased with myself that, only a day late, I am back from the PO having mailed them!

The 'brief' was to produce a Fat Quarter - or thereabouts - of hand printed fabric. Naturally I was planning on screen printing something, but as I said, time won on this one and I didn't manage the time in the studio.

After a failed potato printing experiment I opted for my second favourite fabric printing method - freezer paper.

With my die cut flower to hand I set to work with cutting out flowers on the freezer paper with my new Big Shot machine (more on that another day...including a fab giveaway...watch this space...)

Then it was a question of producing a piece to each of my group's preferred colours. I could have done them all the same. That would have been so much easier.

But when did 'easier' = 'more fun'?

So here we have 4 different panels heading off to Australia, Canada and the US, hopefully to be used in all sorts of crafting projects. I can see them being used as a big pillow front, or maybe cut into individual patches for embellishing.

Who knows? But it's going to be fun waiting to see ;-)

Check out what everyone else has been up to here.

2011-11-14T16:05:00.002Z

Me and my big mouth...who'd have thought I'd be able to keep it shut all this time?

Way, way back in August I was asked by the lovely peeps at Fat Quarterly to take part in a design challenge.

Obviously, I had to be the sole of discretion and not spill the beans ahead of time what I was up to. I was absolutely thrilled to be asked to be in fat Quarterly and having been given the go ahead today and had a quick sneak at Issue 7, I have to say, it is FAB!

Not only am I really really pleased with how beautifully they have presented my contribution, but it really is a beautiful issue, aptly titled "Colour".

I won't spoil it by telling you too much about it, but you can see the whole article in issue 7.

If you are a subscriber you may already have had a flick and seen my little piece, as well as all the other gorgeous contributions, but in case you aren't a subscriber, I can highly recommend you go straight here and get yourself a copy.

Although you will have to have an ounce of patience as it isn't available until tomorrow. But hey, if I can show patience all these months, you can for one more day!

2011-11-14T07:54:00.003Z

I'm rather pleased to have this weekend over with to tell you the truth.

Arts Trail was really lovely to be part of even thought sales weren't as I would have liked.

And the same goes to Otley Courthouse. It's always great to catch up with fellow makers, but the whole weekend, in preparation and execution has taken it's toll - along with the rest of crazy life - and I'm feeling rather run down to say the least.

However no rest for the wicked at this crazy time of year and my next big thing to get ready for is We Make London Christmas Fair. I'm really honoured to have been accepted on this and very excited about being there. There will be quite a few new products I'll be taking with there - including my new stitched screen printed notebooks - and hopefully some of you southerners may make it. Would be great to meet you.

First on the agenda this week is getting fabric printing and more covers for the notebooks printed, but if you like yellow (who doesn't?) these are in the shop now.

2011-11-11T22:31:00.003Z

It's that time of year when I can hardly breathe. I know I haven't helped myself with all the swaps I signed up to in October but, quite frankly, when Mr Postie delivers such a beauty as this, it makes it all worth it.

This week I received this fab pillow from the wonderful Siobhan, all the way from Sydney.

And how perfect is it?

Siobhan pieced together a fab wonky star with her own fabrics in such a perfect way...

...the teal is the exact same shade as my new curtains, not to mention the front door...

...the grey links in with the walls (see a sneak below the windowsill)...

...and what about the shot of pink to pull in my planters outside.

And if the pillow itself and the gorgeous plump feather filled inner wasn't enough, check out these fabric pieces Siobhan sent with the pillow.

Just as soon as I start breathing again I'll be playing with these.

2011-11-06T20:21:00.005Z

How was your weekend?

Mine was rather fab.

I spent it with these 3 lovely ladies below walking up and down the beautiful Northumberland beaches in the amazing November sunshine.

35 years ago, almost to the day, we all met and spending weekends together is oh so special.

And it's set me up good and proper for the week ahead.

I have not one, but 2 events this weekend and consequently will be busy, busy, busy making pieces to take with me.

The first event is a 2 day event...The Headingley Arts Trail, run by The Bowery. I'm going to be at number 4, 5 Victoria Terrace with 8 other artists. I'm really looking to meeting the other artists. I'd love to see the rest of the trail, but I'm not sure I'll get around.

On Sunday I am at The Otley Courthouse at their Designer Craft Fair. There is due to be a wide range of bespoke handmade products gathered at this fair.

If you find yourself in the area this weekend, do pop along to one (or both!) of these venues. It's a perfect opportunity to do some unique christmas shopping and do stop and say hi - I'd love to see you!

2011-11-03T18:14:00.006Z

My Creative Space...

My creative space, as is of no surprise to you I am sure, is full of my screen printed fabrics, various lining fabrics, pouches in progress, made up pouches and last but not least...scraps.

I have several big fairs coming up and consequently there is a lot of pouch action going on. I love coordinating my screen printed outers with various lining fabrics. I had a big delivery this week from my lovely aunt in US, who always acts as my go-between for bringing me fabric over. More of that another time, but one fabric is just perfect for linings...Cloud 9's The Banks in Ocean is just beautiful. Like all Michelle's fabrics, they look and feel even better in real life and this one is no exception. Simply love it.

Anna Maria Horner's PAstry Line Voiles are another fave at the moment that I've told you about recently. not only are they so exquisitely buttery soft, but the colours are so perfectly beautiful.

I particularly love the yellow (well, duh!) but the pink is equally gorgeous.

I had a commission this week for a larger pouch "big enough for my knitting whilst on the move" requested the customer. Hope this does the job! Because it is so large (about 40cm across the top) I put a wrist handle on it...I quite like the feature.

And when all the cutting and making is done, this pile of scraps is what I'm left with. I'm really not sure what to do with them, but I definitely know I can't bear to put them in the bin.

Want to see more Creative Spaces? Head over here...

p.s. i meant to say, for all you lovely people who have expressed an interest in purchasing some of my fabric, I'm listing some bit-smaller-than-fat-quarter panels in my Etsy shop and there will be more added as i go... so head over here to see if anything takes your fancy...thanks for your encouragement, lovely peeps x

2011-10-26T21:06:00.004+01:00

Triangle Mania!

I think I'm rather enjoying this one.

Is it wrong to say that?

This design and I spent quality time together in the design process and we developed a mutual respect and understanding.

It goes without saying that I tried out this design in my 3 favourite colours. It would have been rude not too and quite frankly you would have been disappointed with me if I hadn't. Or on the other hand, maybe you would have been quite relieved.

Not only did I print onto fabric, but I also wanted to see how the design looked on paper. I'm thinking the design would work well as wrapping paper. I'm not totally sure I'm ready to print such big scale, but hey, a girl's got to keep dreaming.

2011-10-25T19:30:00.002+01:00

So, I took my designs to the screen printing studio today. I know this isn't the design you were thinking I'd be showing you, but all in good time with triangle fever (ooh, I think I've just named it...was wondering what to call it!). I want to sew some of it up before I show you the fruits of my labour.

Suffice it to say, I am rather pleased with the outcome.

I'd also like to introduce to you Scruffy Daisy...

...in grey...

...bright blue...

...and red.

Scruffy Daisy is the result of another doodling session whilst Ruby was off last week and this really is one of those occasions that doodles do come alive in the screen printing process. I won't ever profess to being an artist and consequently my designs will never be perfect pictures, but what I hope they will be is quirky, eye-catching designs.

I printed the designs on individual pieces of fabric ready to make into various items and also straight onto tea towels, which I think work pretty well. If you think so too they are available right here. I'm hoping to get some sewn up into napkins too. And also table runners. The possibilities are endless...

I've had a few enquiries about my fabrics and whether they are available to buy. What do you reckon? Would it be something you'd be interested in?

2011-10-24T21:35:00.003+01:00

I am just about done.

I have to say this design has taken longer than any other design to date. Maybe that's a good sign...maybe it will all be in vain.

But tomorrow I am taking this little baby to the screen printing studio and turning it to life.

In my minimal experience things always come out completely different when turned into a screen and actually printed. You'd think you can imagine exactly how it will look, but it always gives me a jolt of surprise.

I'm very excited about it. All I have to do now is decide which colour??

2011-10-20T20:37:00.002+01:00

doodling and pattern designing...

One of the disadvantages with Ruby being off is not being able to get down to proper work. I am a little bit stressed to say the least with the work piling up.

One of the pluses, however, is having time to sit and doodle. We have both been doodling lots this week and I have the start of several designs that, come studio time next week, will be tried and tested to see if they translate.

I have a couple of new product ideas up my sleeve that I'm hoping at least one of these designs might tick the boxes with.

Roll on next week...

2011-10-19T12:59:00.002+01:00

Something old...something new...

old design...new fabric combination...

what do you reckon?

stick to linen or freshen it up a little?

2011-10-18T12:19:00.003+01:00

I have just signed up for yet another swap.

It will be the last one this year and if you even vaguely see me hesitating around a sign up for another, you have permission to shoot me.

But this one I couldn't resist...it's a handprinted fabric swap for goodness sake!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of 'meeting' Nic, when she kindly left a message on my blog and in turn she introduced me to Leslie who is running this swap and she thought I may be a tad interested.

How right was she??

Whilst I promised myself, after signing up for this swap recently when really I shouldn't have (I know...I have ZERO will-power), I wouldn't sign up to any more this year - I have work to do for goodness sake - I really couldn't resist this one. Consequently I am very excited about it.

Now then , lovely readers, sign-ups are open until this Friday (21st) so if, like me, you have zero will-power and think it would be fun, do pop along here and sign up too. It's really going to be such fun. And if you don't think hand printing fabrics is your thing - too technical, don't have the right equipment - my mosaic here includes some fantastic fabrics printed with nothing more than a potato.

Yes, p-o-t-a-t-o, I tell ya!

1. block printing on fabric, 2. Wiksten Dress from Wiksten Tank + Dress Pattern, 3. 200/365, 4. Screen Printed Cotton

2011-10-16T21:13:00.004+01:00

Do you like orange?

I printed some of my Framed Flower fabric in a burnt orange colour. I wasn't totally sure how the colour was going to turn out as I had to mix it. The orange I had was far too bright. I was envisaging Halloween and pumpkins here ;-)

Then came to lining...

I don't have too many orange fabrics and certainly not lining fabrics (I tend to use soft Tana Lawn or AMH voile fabrics) but then this Liberty fabric jumped out at me in my stash and I just LOVE it!

I know it's not just orange, but the splash of orange really pops out and I absolutely love it.

Whilst these pouches have gone off to a stockist I'm definitely going to be printing some more fabric in this colour...

...I just hope I know how to mix it again.

Note to self: Write down paint 'recipes'...

2011-10-11T09:24:00.004+01:00

One of the wonderful features of the sewing machine I am currently using is all the pretty stitches it has.

Whilst I could go crazy and incorporate most of these into projects, I am being very refrained (bet that made you laugh - me? refrained?) and just rolling with one at the moment.

I've up-dated a pouch I previously made, with the limited stitches I had on my old machine, with this circle design.

I just love the simplicity of the stitch. It has just enough detail to make it interesting, without being too fussy and over-powering.

I'm sure I won't be able to be refrained for that much longer and you'll get to see some of the other stitches this machine can produce, but in the meantime these are available here and here.

2011-10-10T10:33:00.004+01:00

It's fair to say Washi tape has the looks, but does it have any substance? You know what we say about all looks...

It's all very well possessing some of this pretty stuff, but what are we going to do with it?

I wanted to share some of my favourite images from around the web of fab things people have made with washi tape just to illustrate quite what a wonder product it is.

From simple but effective greetings cards to prettying up your keyboard, washi tape certainly has an amazing repertoire of uses. It is such a stunning decorative item, in so many available designs that no crafter should be without a few rolls. Not that I have shares in Washi tape (blimey, I wish I did) but I really think you all need some. If you are still not convinced, go check out the zillion other examples on Pinterest of stunning uses that clever people have come up with and THEN tell me you still don't need any.

Question is...what are you going to make first?

1. sweet notecard

2. decorative homewares

3. mini bunting

4. fab brooch

5. coolest keyboard

6. pretty pegs

7. cocktail sticks

8. more pretty bunting

9. neon noticeboard

2011-10-09T19:48:00.003+01:00

I know I may be a little late to the party, but I have yet another addiction - Washi tapes.

I decided last week that I needed something to jolly up my orders. I've had a little change over from my long-time use of turquoise tissue paper to white. Don't ask me why. It was one of those split decisions at the wholesaler checkout.

So now more decisions were needed...what colour tape should i get?

To be fair, anything was going to go with white tissue, but have you seen how many washi tapes there are out there?

The first must have was this cross stitch effect red on white tape. I just love it.

And this red dot, below, was rather irresistible too.

I can't tell you how much I love washi tapes, but those of you that know my addictive personality will have a pretty good idea quite how much.

I was mightily tempted by this pair...maybe a refreshing addition in the spring.

Have you fallen to the charms of Washi tapes yet?

2011-10-07T18:18:00.002+01:00

Thank you all for your invaluable feedback on the European Pouches. I really do appreciate it. And I think it is fair to say that the stripes win out. Even Matthew, who normally has an opinion all of his own was in agreement with you all!
So it is only fitting that the winner should be in agreement too...
RANDOM.ORG
Min: Max:
Result:
65:
Congratulations Julia! Please get in touch with where you want your pouch sending.

2011-10-06T10:36:00.004+01:00

This is my last full child-free week until November 7. How crazy is that? With the way the Jewish festivals have fallen this year, Ruby, being at a Jewish school, breaks up on Wednesday for 10 days. She goes back the day the boys break up for 2 weeks...yes, 2 WEEKS!!

Of course I am panicking just a tad about the stock I have committed to get to stockists by end of October, knowing I have just 4 more child-free work days before then.

But I am also panicking a little about other commitments I have made, like this Flickr Pillow Swap. As usual I got off to a flying start, but as usual if the project doesn't get completed in that time, it tends to sit to one side when other things jump the queue. I hate letting people down and as pictures were being posted about completed pillows I glanced to my half-finished one in one corner of the studio. So last night, as I was spurred on by something - guilt, most probably - I finished the pillow. I had so many more plans for this pillow that time wouldn't allow but hopefully my partner will love it and won't think there is anything missing... I've also included a few nice surprises to soften the blow.

You'd think I would learn and not commit myself to any further challenges on my time...but oh no, I've just signed up for this...

p.s. thank you for all your advice on fabrics for the European Pouches...I really appreciate it...and if you haven't done so already, you've got until tomorrow to give me your opinion and enter my giveaway x

2011-10-03T21:55:00.004+01:00

Giveaway time!!...

...in exchange for a little advice please.

I've been working on a new design today at the screen printing workshop.

I have had a request from one of my stockists for some more male oriented pouches and hopefully this design fits the bill.

However I got a little print happy on a variety of fabrics and now I'm at a loss as to which work best...

...and that my lovely readers is where you come in.

In exchange for a spot of advice as to which fabric you think works best, your comment will be entered into a draw to win a pouch made up in that fabric.

Do you like the striped or checked shirting?

Do you like the Klona plains in red, blue or grey?

Or is your favourite my signature linen?

I really would value your opinion on this, so just leave a comment and I'll enter you in the draw, which will take place at the end of the week. Please make sure you leave a contact email so I can let you know if you have won.

Thanks and good luck ;-)

2011-10-02T20:43:00.002+01:00

It was the Reetsweet Fair at the Leeds Corn Exchange today...

You know what they say...Location,Location, Location...

...and this sure is one of the best locations for a fair that I have ever been to.

The Corn Exchange has had a revamp in recent years and it really is a stunning building.

It hosts one of my favourite restaurants in Leeds, occupying the whole of the ground floor and with views up to the entire building, it really is a beauty of a place.

Consequently, it lends itself as a craft fair venue. It's such a beautiful setting for visitors to wander around and what better place is there for exhibitors to show off their wares?

To be honest, I have done better fairs in terms of sales. I have been places with a better footfall. That aside and for all the reasons above it was a good fair.

I met some great people, particularly one lovely lady that announced excitedly "I know you, I read your blog!" She was very excited to see my things in the flesh and couldn't resist one of my new totes here below.

And to be quite honest, that's one of the things I love about what I do and why no fair is ever a dud fair.

2011-09-28T11:22:00.003+01:00

I don't know about you but I rarely make something for me or the home because I want to. There's normally a zillion other things that NEED doing.

It's more a case of "oh my g-d, I need THIS and I need it NOW!"

(I really should have taken a before shot to illustrate EXACTLY how much I needed to.)

It's Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, starting tonight and I have 24 for dinner...hence a lot of table cloths needed ironing. The makeshift ironing board cover that I put on a month ago (because the old one split) was not doing the job with ironing super-sized cloths, a tricky job at the best of times.

So with shopping still to do, lots of dinner still to make, not to mention the rearranging of the house to seat the aforementioned 24 people, I set to making a new ironing board cover. I know I could have just grabbed everything and gone to iron them at Mum's - hell, she'd have probably offered to iron them for me if I had - but no, I had to have a new ironing board cover and NOW!

Have you ever made an ironing board cover?

It's one of those really gratifying projects. It's pretty quick to do and with a little consultation of this tutorial, the whole thing was done in way less than half an hour...far less time than it would have taken me to take the whole lot over to Mum's in the first place.

And what's more, now I have a pretty - and functional - ironing board.

One day I will sit and make something for us because I WANT to...

2011-09-25T17:09:00.004+01:00

A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to get my hands on a copy of a book we have all been waiting for, The Liberty Book of Home Sewing.

If, like me, you are a Liberty fan (Liberty's of London was on my Must See in London List when showing Ruby the sites of London earlier this year, for goodness sake), then this book will not disappoint.

From the minute you hold the book in your hands, with its beautiful fabric covering, to the flicks through the first fabric printed pages, this is a Liberty Lover's joy.

However...I then have to admit to an initial disappointment, as I impatiently flicked through the pages, thinking it was dark and uninviting.

The trouble was, I delved in so quickly, I didn't savour any of it and thankfully I very quickly realised my initial reaction was oh so wrong, and what I had in front of me was a beautiful, broody, evocative and indeed very insightful sewing book.

The book does not forget that it is essentially a sewing book. It is full of a comprehensive list of projects, the projects themselves which are exquisitely styled and photographed and entice you to want to make every one of them.

What else defines a good sewing book? Well, obviously clear step-by-step instructions are a must.

I love the hand drawn illustrations that go alongside the instructions. I'm a bit of a sucker for pictures to go alongside recipes in cookery books and I expect the same with sewing books. The projects are full of illustrations making following the instructions very straightforward.

Like all the best sewing books, there are detailed descriptions of basic sewing techniques, again accompanied by lovely hand-drawn illustrations.

And just when you are ready to take a breather from all the excitement, the final pages will have your heart racing even more...a glossary of beautiful Liberty fabrics to feast your eyes on.

So do add this book to your sewing library and I implore you to take it slowly.

Don't do as I did...go make that cup of tea...sit down when you have time to savour it and then slowly, slowly take pleasure in the visual feast and be safe in the knowledge that this book isn't going anywhere and it will be one you will return to for many years to come.

2011-09-23T19:20:00.002+01:00

...on a cushion roll...

...this one is now in the shop...

...it's the end of the week...i'm very tired...have a great weekend one and all. x

2011-09-22T10:51:00.003+01:00

I'm feeling a little bit overwhelmed and under pressure at the moment.

Not only is this my first proper Christmas with stockists wanting handmade pieces in time for the Christmas rush, hence I have a LOT of sewing to do, but also we seem to have a crazier than ever schedule at the mo. I keep waiting for life to calm down. It somehow never does. One of these days I will fall off this treadmill...

In the meantime it was all go in the sewing room yesterday, finishing off my new Vintage cushions (see, no sympathy with myself - 'new' products? at this time of year? crazy girl).

First up was hand making the binding for the envelope back. I love making the binding for cushions...a little pop of colour showing it's face.

And then, hey presto, cushions finished. I'm not actually delivering these for another couple of weeks, but I did need to finish them off having started the fronts last week.

And besides...if I didn't, how could I justify cutting into these latest arrivals???

So crazily busy at Blueberry park Headquarters and yes, life is a tad more stressful than I would like, but I am aware at the moment that my stress is all good stress - getting orders out on time, getting my children to all their clubs, activities etc, doing a job that I love - and long may that be the case.

2011-09-21T22:25:00.002+01:00

Sewing has got underway with the new linings, starting with the gorgeous AMH voile. This fabric is so beautiful to work with. It feels like silk. Just gorgeous.

The rest of my fabrics have been pouring in this week, including these much awaited for dotty oilcloths for my washbags. Mr Postie handed me 4 envelopes and had the cheek to ask whether I was expecting anything else...he should know better than that...of course there are still more to come.

I have been waiting for these oilcloths to arrive from US for EVER (a week is forever, right?) and so when they arrived today, it was washbag making mania at the ready.

They are as fab as I had hoped and am delighted with how well they work with my screen printed fabrics.

These are the start of another batch of goodies getting ready to make their way down South to another of my lovely stockists.

Hope Stephanie likes pink...

2011-09-19T20:55:00.004+01:00

Fabrics galore...lovely, lovely fabrics...

I've had a bit of a fabric binge this weekend and the most exciting thing about it is waiting each day for delivery day and see which ones have arrived.

First up to arrive today was this little selection from M is for Make. An email pinged in on Friday evening from Kate about a 20% off weekend sale, so I quickly went for a look...well, it would have been rude not to.

Considering what an amazing selection of fabrics Kate has, I think I was pretty refrained. I actually made a conscious decision to look for fabrics that I could essentially use for my pouch linings and not be swayed by all the other beautiful Must Have fabrics in my stash. Shock, horrors, I know!

So with my focussed brain on, straight into the basket went firm favourites of Kei dots and Cloud 9's Shards from the Cut Out and Keep collection. You can never have enough dots and Kei dots are my absolute favourite. I just love Shards and Cloud 9 fabrics run out so quickly - it would be criminal to be without any of this in my stash.

Next up, a couple of Anna Marie Horner's Pastry Line Voiles. If you don't know Anna Marie Horner's Voiles, you should get acquainted. They are beautifully soft and silky, and this design has been on my wishlist for a while and perfect for pouch linings.

Another fabric line that I've had my eye on is Sara Morgans' Feedsack. They have a wonderful vintage vibe that will pair so well with so many fabrics. An essential. A staple. A must. Just gorgeous.

Last up was a little frivolity... What?? You didn't really think I could be totally focussed and unswayed by a beautiful fabric.

Another fabric in Kate's store that I have had my eye on for a while is this gorgeous Nani Iro yellow and grey dot. So while no-one was watching, I quickly slipped it into my basket, akin to a chocolate treat at the supermarket. Hey, I'm only human and let's face it, you'd have been disappointed with me if I hadn't. Wouldn't you?

I'm very very happy with all of these and have already lined a few pouches with the Pastry Line Voile and they look just perfect, so generally some very sensible business decisions.

In the meantime, I wonder which will arrive tomorrow...

2011-09-16T23:14:00.004+01:00

I had a little bit of playing time today.

Well, that's not wholly accurate. I was asked for some more cushions this week from one of my lovely stockists and since I hadn't made up any yet with my screen printed fabrics, I wanted to have a little creative experimenting time.

It can be quite stressful 'having' to produce something, but actually there was no stress involved today.

I knew I wanted to keep the cushions quite simple, but yet when they are sitting on a shop floor things have to have a 'look at me' factor. I picked out my pile of vintage fabrics, a pile that's dwindling rather too rapidly and set to work.

I like to put things in situ for a while after I've made them - on a bed, on a shelf, somewhere I can pass by and see if they catch my attention. And I have to say, these do. I'm really pleased with them and just as soon as I replenish my vintage fabric stash , there will be more of these heading into my shop.

And the best bit of all? My work really is playing!

2011-09-15T20:02:00.004+01:00

I'm playing along with Our Creative Spaces today. I keep meaning to play along as it's such a lovely thing to see what everyone is up to and I love WIP pics.

It doesn't normally work out that I am actually creating on a Thursday, let alone have a moment to blog that I am. But this week, as you know, I have been working on my Flickr swap pillow and today I had a little time to not only do a little more, but also have time to join in Our Creative Space.

I'm at the stage where I have finished piecing and now just deciding which colour thread to quilt with. I'm actually thinking of using all of them.

Coincidentally, Ruby has been working on her own creative space too...

2011-09-13T21:13:00.003+01:00

Today I have mostly been playing...

I had a really productive day yesterday, but today I couldn't settle on anything, so instead I started picking fabrics for the Flickr group swap.

Now I'm going to go play some more and turn them into a pillow...

...and tomorrow I SHALL be productive and do some work.

2011-09-12T17:05:00.004+01:00

Last year when it was Samuel's Bar Mitzvah, Matthew treated himself to a new tallit.

It is customary for a boy to get his first tallit on his Bar Mitzvah and so Matthew's was rather old now...as was his tallit bag.

Tallit bags are normally very traditional in style, made of velvet, with gild writing. It's very hard to get something more contemporary and modern. So when Matthew bought his sparkly new tallit (actually my Mum bought it for his birthday as she was taking Sam to buy his for his Bar Mitzvah) I decided to make him a sparkly new bag. Obviously this wasn't going to be velvety or gildy.

Matthew now proudly carries around his trendy tallit bag and gets lots of compliments.

Then, as is often the case, the tallit bag was in the right place at the right time and just when a friend needed a Bar Mitzvah present, they happened to see Matthew's tallit bag and commissioned me to make one.

Hence the new Personalised Tallit and Tefillin Bag Set was born.

I must say I am really pleased with these (as was the commissionee) and especially how well the Hebrew writing came out and particularly, as luck would have it, that I happened to have a silver fabric paint.

I realise this is a rather niche market gift and probably none of you, my lovely readers, have even heard of tallit or tefillin, let alone have use for them, but maybe one day when you are invited to a Bar Mitzvah, you will remember where to find the coolest gift.

Oh and if you happen to have any Jewish friends who would be interested, please do spread the word ;-)

2011-09-08T22:22:00.003+01:00

It's amazing how much one can get done in a very short space of time.

Now that the children have gone back to school, it was full speed ahead preparation for the Saltaire Maker's Fair.

I was in the screen printing studio on Tuesday and then it's been all systems go sewing for the past couple of days.

I'm really really looking forward to the Fair, more than any other that I have been part of.

I've visited Saltaire Art's Trail before (the Maker's Fair is a central part of the trail) but never been in a position to apply let alone be accepted.

I'm certainly not quite ready yet (it's fine...there are still 48 hours to go...at least) but I've been working damn hard these last few days to make sure there will be plenty on my table to peruse.

There will be lots of new stuff, lots of old faves and hopefully lots for everyone.

Look forward to seeing you there!

2011-09-06T21:13:00.004+01:00

Another Flickr group Swap, another mosaic...

Another Flickr group Swap, another mosaic.

I have to admit one of my favourite things about a new flickr group swap is seeing everyone's mosaics. It's the Flickr equivalent of an Etsy treasury...all those delicious pieces all together.

It's so inspirational seeing work that I wouldn't normally notice...colour combos that wouldn't ordinarily enter my radar.

Having said that, my mosaic is looking rather predictably me, don't you think??

Go check out all the other delicious mosaics right here.

2011-09-04T07:58:00.007+01:00

I've always had a bit of a thing for crocheted pieces...

...whether it's cosy colourful quilts...

...or fun crazily impractical accessories...

...or a little detail on pretty clothing...

...and especially a present from a lovely blog friend.

I am however resisting the temptation to start yet another crafting hobby, even if it involves collecting a pile of colourful accessories...

Let's face it, I struggle to keep up with the crafts I already do.

Seeing the work of talented crocheters doesn't help with the I-so-want-a-go-at-doing-that syndrome.

Emma Lamb produces exquisite work (above and below). There's something about crochet that's different from than knitting. Maybe it's the shapes, maybe it's the stitches...whatever it is, I just love it. It oozes vintage nostalgia, even it's modern pieces.

Then there's my good friend Kylie.

She certainly achieves a modern take with her crochet work...

Her triangle cushions are stunning and her pixilated work is just awesome. Both are on my one-day-I-will-treat-myself list.

What crafting activity are you resisting trying??

2011-08-31T20:06:00.002+01:00

Every now and then I shock myself and sit down and yearn to do something a little different (different for me in any case).

I'm normally quite a simple kinda gal..simple needs, simple likes and that particularly applies to my sewing tastes.

But every so often I see something that inspires me and gets me wishing to try something a little different. This also coincided with me being asked to produce a piece with something a bit more than my usual minimalistic style.

I can't say too much about the above piece and the project. I'm not even sure I should be showing even this fuzzy glimpse, but, hey, it's my blog right? And you'll know soon enough... (suffice it to say I'm just a teensy bit excited about what it's for...)

In the meantime, while I was in this crazy phase, (I know, wild, huh?) I also played around with some of my pieces of fabric, just to see what happened and how it would turn out.

There isn't really much more to show than this. It's merely time out from my usual to spend some time creating something that I wouldn't normally.

I really should step out of my comfort zone more often...I do enjoy it so.

2011-08-29T21:19:00.002+01:00

I applied and am delighted to say was accepted on to the Saltaire Arts Trail Makers Fair.

There is a teensy problem in that it is less than 2 weeks away and it is STILL the school holidays and consequently I have very little stock so far.

I am sure I will have enough to take...if I don't sleep much between now and then, that is.

It's a well renowned and reputable craft fair, so I am honoured and excited to be part of it.

If you fancy a day out it will be a lot of fun.

If you do make it, please come along and say hello.

It will be wonderful to see you.

2011-08-27T14:53:00.003+01:00

WARNING:

Do not adjust your screen...the following blogpost is brought to you in black and white...well, grey anyway.

Following my screen printing session this week, I was drawn to making up some pouches in grey.

We have Wave in Grey...

and we have Hexie in Grey...

I don't know if it's just my mood this week, or my usual affinity with grey, but I'm rather liking them.

If you are drawn to more colour yourself, next up will be something with a bit more zing...

(For all you mutual grey fans, the first are in my shop...the rest to come very soon.)

2011-08-26T12:56:00.004+01:00

I have had a lot of amazing advice about printing onto fabric, so thank you all for that. I'm eager to try them out.

I'm also very eager to do it this way...

How to print onto fabric...

2011-08-24T19:01:00.003+01:00

It was my first trip to the screen printing workshop today since the summer hols began, so I was filled with anticipation and excitement to get in there and try out a couple of new designs that I've been working...

~ hexie and leaf ~

~ waves ~

But it didn't all go according to plan...

There was...

...the good...

...the bad...

...and the downright ugly...

I learnt 2 things today...

...first was to make sure the squeegee is securely at the back of the screen so that when you actually print a good piece you don't go and ruin it by the squeegee flying off the back when you raise the bed;-(

...second, use a little masking tape to secure lightweight fabric in place and prevent blurring.

One thing I have been struggling with when printing on fabric is this blurring and I haven't been able to work out how to prevent it. Today Gina (remember my guru who knows everything?) was about so I asked her how I could stop it. I don't have this problem with paper or heavier fabric, so I knew it was all about the fabric moving, but my brain wasn't engaging as to how I could stop it happening.

All it took was a secret ingredient - masking tape - and my blurring days were behind me (I hope).

Quite frankly, I'm disappointed with all you screen printing aficionados for not sharing this little secret with me.

2011-08-22T09:20:00.003+01:00

I love commissions. Even little ones that merely involve an old fave design redone in a different fabric.

My lovely friend Roz requested a zipper pouch set in an owl fabric for a friend's birthday that is involved with this.

I had the perfect fabric and am absolutely delighted with how it's turned out. The fact that it is a flannel works beautifully. They are so tactile.

That clever designer at Cloud 9 has come up trumps yet again and hopefully the birthday girl will be just as delighted.

ps as a consequence of the commission, my pouches are now available to purchase in this fabric here and here.

2011-08-20T18:02:00.003+01:00

I have just discovered a gorgeous range of fabrics by Sarah Jane. I'm not sure why my finger wasn't on the pulse with these as they are just oh so perfect for my Pencil Rolls.

They aren't widely available in the UK, in fact I have only found them here and here. Perhaps you know other stockists, so please share if you have.

I just love this range. It's so quirky and fresh and fun, with a lovely vintage edge. I often find it harder to get good girl deigns as, for me personally, they are too sugary sweet and girly girly, but these have such a fun element. The hopscotch design is just fab - such fun and I love the balloons with the bunny and little girl hanging on for dear life!

It's equally hard to find good boy designs too - more because there just aren't as many fabrics designed for boys.

But again these are just perfect. They aren't overly glaring and again, have such a humorous, quirky edge to them.

The paper aeroplanes is such a fab design and I think the rocket one will be a huge hit with little boys everywhere. I think they may edge their way into more than just my pencil rolls...

These fabrics are just a few of the range and I'm dying to get my hands on this one, that I could only find in the US, as it will be just perfect for the rolls...I think only about 4 more sleeps til it's here...

ps these pencil rolls are based on the original design by Manda over at Treefall Design

2011-08-18T07:26:00.005+01:00

My new Moo cards arrived yesterday.

Don't you just love those clever people at Moo?

2011-08-17T13:27:00.002+01:00

I wonder where I get it from...

Grandma recently moved into a care home. She absolutely hated being on her own after Grandad died earlier this year. She didn't need or want any of her possessions with her and so sent us all round to give everything good homes.

Not only was there a beautiful old oak chest of drawers for our bedroom, but I laid claim to some of Grandma's threads.

My sister caught site of the boxes and immediately we recognised where we both get our sewing and storing addictions from.

Unfortunately because she is as addicted as I am (even if not as productive - she has a 'proper' job) I did agree to split the collection...

...I did manage to procure the yellows and greys however ;-)

2011-08-15T20:28:00.003+01:00

It's my favourite time of year, but at the same time not.

I love summer and I love long lazy days when we don't have to rush from activity to activity, endless hours of deadlines.

But juggling this with working is no fun.

I think a lot of us are the same.

Working from home means many interrupted weeks of trying to keep on top of work whilst not really having the proper time to do so.

My kids are getting older, which does mean they can be abandoned to keep themselves occupied. But guilt, coupled with knowing that means hanging out in front of the electrics for hours, soon gets me attending to them rather than getting on with the piling up work.

Tomorrow we are going out for the day.

No work, no neglecting children, just summer fun.

The day after we'll be back to neglect...

2011-08-12T14:36:00.009+01:00

Rather than bore you all senseless by posting each aspect of our trip to Israel separately, I'm doing one intense whistle stop tour of a few of the special moments that we had.

Then it's over.

Back to real life.

As I told you last time, we spent a good deal of time on the beach. This was mainly spent on our local beach (top pic) but we did venture a little bit further up the coast one day to Caesarea. Caesarea is an ancient port city with an equally ancient aqueduct that runs along the beach.

Our beach visits also included pizza delivery directly to the beach when we went to visit family a bit further up the coast.

You would be forgiven in thinking this was just a beach holiday, but, despite the incredible heat, we did fit in quite a bit of sight-seeing. The highlight of which was our mini road trip down to The Dead Sea in the desert.

The drive down alone was incredible, with the vast desert scenery, along with camels roaming around.

One of the main reasons for heading down to this area was to climb Masada. Masada is an ancient ruin where the Jews took refuge from the Romans and was the site of the monumental suicide rather than falling at the hands of the enemy.

The ruins themselves at the top are incredible (and I'm not generally a history nerd) and well worth the climb to visit.

It's traditional to climb early to get to the top to see the sunrise. So we set our alarm for 4am, having to be at the base for 4.50am at the latest. The kids were absolutely brilliant and rose to the challenge of the experience.

In normal conditions it's not really a difficult climb, a mere 2km snake path to reach a 500m height, but when you are doing it at over 30 degree heat, that's where the challenge comes in! Coupled with knowing you've a timetable to keep to...no point going to all that effort if you miss the sunrise!

(Having said that, you have missed it because I've forgotten to post a pic of it...will do as an amendment after!)

Needless to say, Ruby and I took it slower than the boys, as depicted by the pic above...they literally ran up the whole thing!

Fortunately we got up in time to see the spectacular sunrise and it was more than worth the effort. This was definitely one of life's incredible experiences.

Whilst this area is all desert, there are several wonderful springs and pools and we were rewarded later that day going for a mini hike to bath in them. Absolute bliss!

Masada is down by the Dead Sea and we went for our customary float. It is such a weird and wonderful experience being in this viscous sea.

Yad Vashem is the world's living centre for Holocaust research and the Jewish People's Living Memorial to the Holocaust. It is a must culturally and educationally to listen and learn that this never happens again.

I couldn't post a trip to Israel and omit a reference to Yad Vashem.

Jerusalem is a beautiful beautiful city, full of evocative sights and smells, from the Arab Shuk, to the Western Wall and everything in between.

We were obviously there at an extremely hot time (temperatures rising to 40 degrees) and sight-seeing is definitely not the easiest thing to be doing, but it would have been beyond rude to not show the children, even a little, around Jerusalem.

Ruby had her birthday in Israel. Being an August baby she's very lucky, at the tender age of 10, to have celebrated her birthday in various locations around the world. This one, arriving into double figures, was incredibly memorable.

(More on my baby turning double figures and the effect on my psyche another time...)

And so we near the end...back to Tel Aviv and in particular the beautiful old port of Jaffa, beloved to be the oldest in the world (mind-blowing), we as a family have lots to consider.

Whilst it figured as a beach holiday, it was oh so much more and hopefully provided us with many wonderful memories and experiences that we will treasure for a long time.

2011-08-10T09:48:00.002+01:00

We are back!

We had the most incredible 2 weeks in Israel, visiting family, friends, unbelievable places and doing a lot of this...

...reading on the beach.

Israel is a vibrant, hectic, colourful, noisy, sensory-overload of a country and they sure know how to enjoy life.

This is the more peaceful end of the life we enjoyed while we were there. I'll be back soon with more...

2011-07-24T22:30:00.002+01:00

It's turning out to be a really lovely summer with lots of little vacations.

We were at my cousins' last weekend. They have just moved back into their newly built place in the middle of the countryside. It was stunning and such a treat to be hanging out there...swimming pool 'n' all!

Then this weekend we stayed in this stunning hotel, courtesy of my parents - we all went to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary. I'm not sure I have been so pampered in all my life. If you have an excuse to do something special, I highly recommend it.

And no sooner are we back than we are getting ready for a vacation to Israel. I am very very excited to be going. We are visiting family, friends and generally looking forward to hanging out in the sunshine for a couple of weeks.

I have presents at the ready (including this), been making pretty, lightweight skirts for Ruby, a dress half way made for me, and then fresh, pretty bags for our smalls...

I think we are ready for take off.

2011-07-22T09:19:00.004+01:00

Ode to Kate...

Sometimes very special people cross our paths in this world of blogging (not that all of you aren't special to me, oh lovely readers). Every now and then we meet someone who we click with, even if they happen to be thousands of miles away and we have never actually met over a real cup of coffee or glass of wine.

I've introduced you before to my kind and clever pal, Kylie and I think I have introduced you to another Aussie friend of mine, Kate.

Well, Kate and I were chatting, as you do - for that hour cross over in time difference, one of us was up with our kids, the other was trying to put them to bed - about Flickr group swaps and the like and before we knew it we decided to have our own little swap.

By the fact of what is coming to me and what I am sending to Kate is true testament to the fact that you don't have to physically see people to know people. Kate has got it absolutely spot on with what she knows I will love and I'm pretty sure I've got it right with her too. When Kate posted the cushion pics last night (obv I didn't see them til this morning), I gasped at the sight of them...that was even before the realisation sank in that the cushion was for me.

The hoop at the top, by the way, is something I did for Kate a couple of years ago now, in a Flickr Group Swap we were in. Apparently it takes pride of place in her kitchen. I'm pretty sure this cushion will be taking pride of place in my home when it arrives.

2011-07-21T18:14:00.004+01:00

Fabric has taken on a whole new meaning since I have been screen printing.

I'm trying to steer away from all the beautiful patterns that once sucked me in and spat my bank cards out. I'm obviously working towards using mostly my fabrics. There is however always a need for all sorts of fabrics, so I'm in little doubt that my shopping days are over...just possibly curbed at the moment.

One thing I am in need of is good base fabrics...good textured, varying coloured fabrics that will work well in taking the ink, as well as being the right weight for different projects.

I have quite a thing for organic fabrics too, so when Rachel announced arrival of all her different organic fabrics, i was pretty sure I'd find some that would work for screen printing.

It's obviously hard to tell by just looking at them. How they take the ink is one of the important factors. So armed with my swatches today, I spray mounted them onto paper and set out to print.

It's quite interesting to see how the different fabrics take the ink and the different colours too. I used a dark ink because if they work well with this then they are going to work well with any.

As well as the coloured fabrics, I tried a good range of white ones. I'm going to need a real good look at these to narrow down my choices, but I was really pleased how they worked out and am pretty sure I have found some good dependable base fabrics for screen printing.

And organic too...

2011-07-19T17:47:00.002+01:00

I am feeling a little anxious about heading away for our summer holidays pretty soon and being absent from the screen printing workshop.

Really. It's a big concern.

And then not only that, but how am I going to get in there when we get back while the kids are still on school holidays?

As I said, Big Concern.

I have booked in a session this week, which I'm hoping will enable me to get my fix before we go.

But then, what about time for sewing with it all?

Vacations are supposed to be exciting aren't they?

Quite frankly, I'm rather keen on sending them all on one and staying behind to have my own vacation right here...

Is that very wrong?...

2011-07-18T22:02:00.002+01:00

The sewing into napkins is now complete and what a lovely activity it turned out to be. To be honest I anticipated making them to be rather fiddly, but was more than pleasantly surprised to find this was not the case.

I'm not sure why I should have expected otherwise, as I have had this revelation with almost all, if not all, sewing activities I have done. I always envisage something to be more complicated and thus annoying than it turns out to be. I am self taught and consequently forget I am quite competent.

Because this was so enjoyable, I sewed away making quite a few sets of these...all of which are now sold and gone on to their new homes where I hope they will be enjoyed by their new owners. I desperately need to get into the workshop this week to print more.

I have put a couple of sets of the not quite perfects into my Etsy shop if anyone fancies a bargain set.

2011-07-17T21:23:00.002+01:00

White Stuff is my number 1 shop of choice for everyday wear. I do probably over buy from there...preferably in the sale as it is quite pricey. That said, the quality is fantastic, the pieces so wearable and the attention to detail is just breathtaking.

And that's not just with the clothing...

White Stuff labels just get me every time.

This latest one on my recent purchase is case in point...

The retro design is just perfect. It goes without saying that the aqua/red combo is a winner in my book.

And would you take a look at the safety pin...

White Stuff pay attention to every aspect of design...no bog standard pin for them.

2011-07-14T18:57:00.003+01:00

Forgive me for harping on about screen printing as much as I am.

It's partly because I am so loving it and partly as my own diary and record of what I am printing and where my journey is going.

My journey is moving at quite a pace and if I don't keep a note of it then, like anything, it's so easy to forget how it has been developing.

Today I went into the workshop for 4 hours - 4 whole fantastic productive hours. I produced so much stuff today and just about all of it I'm very excited about.

I experimented with some new card designs - more about those another day - and I also worked on a new stitch design, as well as trying out Framed Flowers in different colours, all with the idea of turning into napkins.

What do you reckon?

I have to say, I'm loving this green ink. It's so zingy and fresh. At the moment there isn't a place that is calling out for green in this house, but I'm racking my brains as to where it might fit in, because I sure do have to have me some.

Tonight I will mostly be sewing up some of each into napkins...can't wait to see how they will turn out.

2011-07-12T20:51:00.002+01:00

I've been involved in a Flickr Group Swap this month...Pretty {Little} Pouch Swap. Since I'm big into making pouches at the mo it seemed the perfect group to be in. I don't do many swaps, but this one tickled my fancy - a nice small project, a quick time frame, and quite frankly nothing better to do with my time (and if you believe that you'll believe anything).

I love swaps. Actually that's not wholly accurate, but it's been quite a while since I've been involved in one, so at the moment I love swaps.

I love meeting new crafters. I love browsing the group and getting a feel for what everyone likes and fabrics they enjoy using.

And I love the opportunity to create a one off piece for my partner, using fabric combinations, designs that I wouldn't ordinarily be justified to find time to try out.

With the summer holidays upon us, it was decided that this would be a rapid turn around swap, which suits me just fine. Most of you know my character flaw of being all-consumed by a current project and consequently I made my partner's pouch in next to no time.

I used one of my new hand printed flower patches, some of my favourite blue palette fabrics, a little embroidery, all sewn together in a new (for me) shape pouch.

I'm pretty happy with the result and will just have to wait to see if my partner is too.

If you want to see what the rest of the group is up to, take a look right here...

2011-07-11T17:31:00.005+01:00

It seems like a long time ago now that I was obsessing with Freezer Paper as a printing method, but since doing the Screen Printing Course it took a back seat. Not only did it take a back seat, but I wasn't sure if there was going to be a place for it now that I was screen printing.

Having invested in a fair size roll of freezer paper, I was a bit cross with myself for being so flitty with yet another craft.

Today I learnt that there is definitely still a place for freezer paper printing.

It goes without saying that screen printing is perfect for producing quantities in a way that just doesn't work with freezer paper.

And in contrast freezer paper is perfect for one offs. The time and expense of producing a screen for just one print obviously makes little sense.

So I was delighted to remember my stash of freezer paper that I could use to personalise this commissioned cushion. I used to embroider the details but with my recent penchant for printed fabric I really wanted to find a way of doing this.

I was very pleased to discover that freezer paper still has a place in my crafting...particularly since I have one mighty large roll.

And you never know, Jo and Fran, I may even need another one day soon...

2011-07-10T19:30:00.002+01:00

Please let me introduce my screen print design Numero 2...Framed Flower...

I obviously had to trial it out in one of my colours of the moment, but very soon, it will be available in other colours too...I'm awaiting a delivery of LOTS of inks this week. VERY excited...

The first item I've made up is this little pouch and lined it with one of my new vintage fabric acquisitions.

I hope you like Framed Flower and if you like the pouch, it's for sale right here...

2011-07-08T23:51:00.005+01:00

I was led astray today...

I'd been wanting to get Orla Kiely's book Pattern ever since it came out last year, but couldn't justify the £25 price tag, merely just because "I had to have it".

I met up with my good friend, Manda, today for a quick coffee and her beady eye caught site of it in the half price section at Hobbycraft. As she quite rightly said, I'd be crazy not to.

As I always listen to her, I didn't need much persuasion to grab it and pay for it before I could change my mind.

Since buying it I've hardly been able to take my eyes off it.

As you can imagine, being a self-confessed Orla fan, it is music to my senses. It is, as you would expect, every pattern Orla has ever designed, along with fantastic pages of swatch inspirations of all her ranges ever.

I am such a fan of everything Orla (yes, I would be quite happy to be seen driving around in one of her Citroen's) that my children can recognise an Orla design from miles away.

I apologise to anyone out there who may see themselves as the style guru of the 21st Century, but I'm sorry, you are wrong, it is she, Orla, who is the one and only Queen.

I haven't had chance to read all the interesting prose behind the Lady, but have dipped in and am mesmerised and can't wait to read from cover to cover. This isn't just a picture book.

Besides all the incredible photographs in here from swatch choices to billboard adverts to blogs depicting Orla usage in our own homes, this picture below drew most attention in our house, with comments of "Mummy, wants that one. No, she wants that one. But she's already got that one."

Whichever one that one is, there is always room for one more Orla bag.

Personally that one more would be the grey and blue, top left.

Which one would you choose?

And if you don't already have this book in your possession, i can not instil strongly enough the need to find a friend to lead you astray and acquire it pronto.