Stitcherydo

House Building

2012-02-05T15:29:00.003Z

This week there have been two houses built. All the pieces came from the scrap bag and Wendy may recognise the ones on the right as they came from a rummage in the scrap bag that she gave me. I know they were meant for the doggy pillows and yes, I know, I am shameless but, the real scraps have gone into the pillow. Honest!

Total houses built - 7.

Quiltmania is my favourite magazine and I just had to make this little pouch from this issue. It took a bit of humming and arrghing and some head scratching but eventually it worked out and I am thrilled with the result.The pattern is a log cabin formula and is made of folds of fabric. The fabrics were a gift from my friend Pat last year and high time they were used. I can see lots of possibilities with this little bag and may be making a few more. The hardest part was fitting the little zippers onto the zip itsself. Fiddly. Inside though, it is finished beautifully as per instructions.

Down at Cawsands the other weekend I found this beautiful hydrangea in a churchyard. It was a blustery day and this flower was rocking about so I am amazed to snap it so well. The petals had gone skeletal and looked quite beautiful. They look like handmade lace.

The bedroom is at last finished and no I didn't lock my husband in there or the builder for that matter. The builder/decorator did a great job and we are pleased with our new look room. I patiently waited my turn and over the months the doubt kicked in and I thought my choices of everything wouldn't work, but it does. Phew!! The kitchen too is now neat and fresh and I am on a mission to de junk my house.(Not my sewing room though).

I did sew together quite a few hexagons but thought that they would save for the grand reveal. One day that will happen.

Hope that wherever you are you are staying warm/cool and enjoying some stitching.

Scraps

2012-01-25T14:32:00.005Z

They say that nothing good ever comes from staring at the bottom of an empty glass but as I finished my Babycham there at the bottom of the glass was a hexagon. Who would have thought to look there for one. The more I looked the more I saw as they graduated in size down the stem of the glass.

Talking of hexagons. I am still plodding on and still have many more to sew but I am halfway there.

Today I have been indulging myself in a little bit of scrap sewing. Selvedges to be more exact. I had all my scraps neatly stored in a box and of course now it looks like an explosion and I am wondering how I am going to get them all back in the box and shut the lid. It also has not made even a little dent in the mass. This probably will be a wallhanging.

Two more Farmer's Wife blocks which brings the total up to 13.

Block 12

Block13.

This was definitely an unlucky number. I discovered that the sizing is completely out on this one. It has gone back in the box until I have the will to put it right and continue. Lesson learned - check the size before stitching. It is so out that no way can I even fudge it.

All the small blocks for Dancing Dollies are done and there are 3 very excited girls waiting in the wings to make their debut on the blogging stage.

Total housebuilding stands at 5. These 3" blocks really do make the most of tiny scraps. Now I knew why I was saving them.

DIY of a different kind. My new bedroom. Well, it will be in a few more days. By the end of the week I expect it to be completely done, new curtains installed and all shipshape. Meanwhile, everywhere else looks rather untidy and will need an early Spring clean.

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

I Love Sewing

2012-01-08T10:30:00.003Z

Just before Christmas I spotted this little decoration in a shop and it had to come home with me. I think it will look good in my sewing room against the red wall.

This week I have been working on a little bit of secret sewing. I cannot show you the whole thing as it is a sample for Barbara Chainey's new pattern book which will be out later this year. Hope the stitching will pass muster. Thank you Barbara for sending me pink fabric.

Edit - the stitching won't be appearing in the pattern book, just the patterns. Barbara will be using the samples to show what the patterns look like made up.

I have also been catching up with the border blocks for Dancing Dollies. This pattern is a delight to do and the colours are just so cheerful. The dollies are still awaiting to make their debut but all in good time.

One more house to add to the collection. There is no pressure to make one a day which is just as well as I have only made two this week. It uses up the smallest of scraps proving that you shouldn't throw them away.

The other day we went to Dart's Farm Shop and we managed to wander into the alcohol section. As you do. As I turned a corner I gave out a gasp and a ooh in degrees of delight and I heard this voice say " Are you alright Madam?" There in front of me was a little crate with the words RETRO Drinks and my favourite tipple of yesteryear - Babycham. Haven't seen these for years but they are still being made and here in Somerset at Shepton Mallet. So, a few bottles came home with me. Yesterday we had a little drive out to Budleigh Salterton on the East Devon coast and there in a Bric a Brac shop was a Babycham glass. Perfect. Quite a collector's market for vintage glassware. Hmmm, Cheers.

Happy Stitching, hic!

Love Shirley.

Building Houses

2012-01-01T19:34:00.004Z

A new day and a fresh new year and I have started it with a new project. If you want to join in then the details can be found at Jeanneke's blog. I am not sure yet if I will make all 366 houses and if I can stitch them all on time but I will have a jolly good try. They are tiny blocks and I am hand stitching them. One down, 365 to go.

A few days ago I managed to finish this pair of socks. They are for my sister and only 10 months late. I am sure she will be pleased to see them though.

No resoultions this year. I fail miserably to keep them. What I have promised is to just go with the flow of things and to not worry if things don't go to plan. Does it really matter how many UFO's I have or how many more I start? One thing is for sure I am going to enjoy every stitch and I am also going to enjoy seeing everyone else's stitches and maybe with a more relaxed attitude some of those projects will become finished ones.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

I Believe...

2011-12-30T11:55:00.008Z

Father Christmas was most kind and generous to me this year and the festive time has passed peacefully and with love.

My friend Judith made me this fabulous cushion. I love it and it fits so well in my home.

This is honorary quilter Pip the dog at Kate's in her festive outfit. Pip mostly sits quietly at our gatherings until she hears the rustle of paper and she immediately thinks it is food and then she visits us one by one in the hope that we will feed her a scrap of something tasty.

Just before Christmas I was lucky enough to win a lovely pack of fabrics from Vreni at Oops-Lah blog. What a fabulous service from the postal offices on both sides of the world. It came from Singapore to Taunton,UK, in 7 days. Amazing. Thank you Vreni, I shall think carefully of how to use it and maybe next christmas I will have something finished.

My Christmas tree twinkling away. Well, what did you expect? I love the pink baubles.

I am plodding away still at the hexagons and this is progress so far. Almost half way and many more plain hexagons to prep yet. Every one made takes me closer though and one day it will be done. Just as well this quilt cannot talk as it has had my most private of thoughts lashed into it this year and I hope that next year it will have lots of happy thoughts sewn into it too.

Sarah bought me a new charm for my bracelet. It is a tiny pair of scissors and they actually open and shut. Rachel gave me a lovely gift box full of yummy things, chocolates, alcohol, perfume and much more.

Stina put out a lovely tutorial for a mystery bit of festive stitching. I followed it very well but just didn't get around to finishing it. It is going to be a pincushion.

I have planned that next year will be a year of many finishes and starts. I have so many things that need just a little bit of attention and many things that require ongoing care and a lot of work, some may get it and some may not see the light of day. I am not going to worry about it and will just go with the flow of it as I see fit. On the list of starts though, phew! where to begin. I have Sue Daley's Antique Sampler kit ready and waiting, I also want to join in with the Building Houses From Scraps project not to mention all the patterns that I have bought and want to make. It is going to be a busy year at Stitcherydo but I am looking forward to it and what is more I shall look forward to seeing what every single one of you fantastic blogging buddies will get up to.

Happy New Year to you all.

Secret Stitching

2011-12-13T16:45:00.004Z

Apologies for the lack of posts recently and thank you for showing concern. I have been feeling under the weather and have a course of antibiotics to get through and still feel a bit rubbish. I have had an infection in my nose that has been immensely painful and swollen, at least the face looking back at me in the mirror now looks like me. Sarah's comment was that Rudolph would have been very proud of it. (Hmmm, one less present for her methinks).

I have been stitching and cannot show just what in case certain girlies are viewing. No peeking now.

This pattern is by Mandy Shaw and took a lot of fiddling for a small project. I am pleased with the result though. I hope the new owner will like it. Cannot show you inside as it contains a few surprises.

I found a new use for the humble hexagon and again I cannot show you what it is but the pattern is by Gail Pan.

I am trying to make myself feel a bit festive with this delicious smelling candle from Yankee Candles. It is Kitchen Spice. Love the smell of this one.

Tomorrow we have our last sewing day at Kate's and we are having our Christmas lunch. All the presents are wrapped in readiness.

My fingers did a bit of tap tapping on the send button and I bought another Trish Harper pattern. I am such a fan of Trish's work and would like to make all of her patterns. I am not forgetting though that I still haven't finished Camelot or the Dancing Dollies. The New Year looks to be a very busy time for me with so many projects to manage. Trish's patterns can be found at Broderie.

Hope that wherever you are you are managing a bit of stitching time. Not always easy with so many things to do in the run up to Christmas.

Love Shirley.

Lush Knits

2011-11-25T08:55:00.003Z

A few weeks back I went to the Autumn Quilt Show at Malvern with Kate and Margaret. It was a great day out, did a spot of shopping and saw some lovely quilts. Sadly, we are no longer allowed to show you them but this display I loved and have permission to show you.

These mini quilts are the brainchild of Sandie Lush. Sandie is one of our top quilters and has won many awards for her craft. These little quilts are made to look like sweaters and you really do have to see them up close and personal to appreciate the attention to detail. All the quilts come with labels that say Lush Knits and are sewn in to the neckband.

I bought a couple of patterns from Sandie and she said to me "Shirley, I do need to see those patterns made up and finished", before I could reply there was a very loud guffaw from Kate and quite a few heads turned to see what was happening. Did I say that Kate was my friend!!! Thankfully Sandie didn't set me a deadline or a challenge.

Outside of the hall I managed to capture the fabulous colours in the trees.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Drum Roll, Please!

2011-11-21T07:55:00.007Z

It has been a long time coming but, at last, the Little New York Beauty quilt is FINISHED. Now that I can stand back and look at it I can say that I am pleased. It languished in a cupboard for such a long time simply because I didn't have the courage to continue the machine quilting that had been started way back when...
It is never going to win any awards but I have learnt a thing or two and that is I CAN machine quilt - maybe not expertly, AND, that you just have to relax those shoulders and just do it. Because of all the dense quilting in the middle the border looked so wavy that I wondered how I would ever get it to lie flat. Luckily for me that Anne Baxter came to my rescue and gave me some sound advice - put the binding on first a little tight and then quilt narrow straight lines framing all around the border. I also gave it a shot of steam on the back when it was done. It worked a treat. Thank you Anne.

Anyone wishing to see it in the flesh will have to go to Dotty Dolly to see it hanging up. Don't look too close though.

I woke up the other morning with this idea in my head that just wouldn't go away and so had to commit it to paper and then fabric. So far, so good. It is all ready for some hand quilting. I have just drawn all the feathers straight onto the fabric freehand so I hope this works and doesn't look a ridiculous mess when it is finished.
I have noticed that there are a few plain fabric projects creeping in and I just have to stick my neck out here and say watch this space as I predict that it is going to be a big trend. This is my contribution to the new trend. The star is made of shot cotton for a bit of sparkle and shimmer.

On Saturday my husband said that he would take me down to Cowslip if I wanted to go. Didn't need asking twice I can tell you. Jo and her hardworking team were holding their Christmas Fayre. It was such a lovely day there, the sun was out, the food in the Cafe as good as ever and lots of stalls to tempt you to part with your money. The added bonus was lots of Christmas themed quilts dotted around the place to sigh over.

This purchase had to come home with me. I loved its shape and can imagine it filled with sherry and sat on a tray with some yummy mince pies when my family come over.

Now this bit was really exciting and I almost missed it.(I apologise here as silly me forgot to take her camera but if you want to see what it was like at Cowslip you will have to wait for the Christmas Special as Kirstie Allsop was there on Friday filming for her show). Jo had Petra Prins from Den Haag and Wagenmakers and also Mary Koval staying there and both with lovely stands. Of course I had to indulge, it would have been rude of me not to, these came home with me. I would have loved more time to see Mary's beautiful antique wares.

Also indulged in the shop too. Added a few greens to the stash plus a few more brights and some hand quilting thread.

It was a super day and it always fills you with a good sense of wellbeing after a visit there. Just as well it isn't on my doorstep though as my purse wouldn't stand the strain. Well done though Jo, hope to see you again, soon.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.

There was a little girl.......

2011-11-15T19:35:00.003Z

Who had a little curl,
Right in the middle of her forehead,
When she was good,she was very, very good,
But when she was bad, she was horrid.

This is Violet. Violet is the leader of the troupe. Woe betide those girls if they step out of line. She likes things to be just so and expects things to be done her way. Or else!!

There must be something in the name Violet that means trouble. I am thinking of Violet who will thkweam and thkweam until she is sick and also the bubblegum blowing Violet in Willy Wonka who liked her own way.

The four patch blocks for the border are done. This quilt is just full of bright and happy colours that say FUN.

The ripple blanket is growing. I am enjoying making this. The only colour I don't like is the grey. In real life it is an oatmeal colour but against the lavenders it looks grey. Maybe against a different colour it will be more true.

It always amazes me just how colours behave when set against each other and how different they can look. My personal preferences are for the strong but pretty shades of pinks and lavenders. You may have noticed. Sometimes though it is good to challenge yourself and try other colours. I would find it hard to work with sludgy, sombre shades. What shades could you not work with?

One of my favourite plants are Heuchera's. I love them for their colours and because the leaves are just so interesting. The flowers are fairly unassuming.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.

Autumn Inspirations

2011-11-01T12:21:00.005Z

Today I managed to get my act together and sit and do a little bit of free motion quilting. It is not my thing and this quilt will never win any awards but, somehow the process has grown on me. Nothing has been marked or drawn and it is done totally by a huge leap of faith that it will turn out ok. There are many wobbly bits but a blind man would be pleased to see it and I will learn with practice. Hopefully then a few more quilts will get finished. Apologies to Debby and Joan who will have to wait a bit longer to hang it up in the shop.

The ripple blanket has grown a little bit and is now less christmassy looking. I am thoroughly enjoying making this. It looks more autumnal now. There are more greens and pinks to add and then I may mix all the shades up again or even add a few more to the mix.

This is my inspiration for the colour scheme and this large cross stitch picture hangs on my wall.

I am not too fond of the yellows and golds that abound in the Autumn but this is the colour in my garden.

Michaelmas Daisies by the wall. In past years they have given a wondeful display but this year there are literally a handful of flowers. Love the colour though.

Japanese Maple - Bloodgood, hanging on in there and the colour is amazing. A sharp frost and the leaves will be gone.

I don't know what these berries are. They are in my neighbour's garden and hang over my fence. At the first sign of snow they are invaded by Fieldfare and they strip the tree bare. They must be so delicious or the birds may just be so hungry. In the Spring this tree has the most prettiest apricot coloured blossom. The berries are about an inch wide.

Sedum - I love them when they turn this deep burgundy. Amazing to have all this colour still now that we are into November.

The Dancing Dollies are busy practising ready to make their first public appearances. They are not quite up to it yet. Patience.

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

Dancing Dolly - Cora

2011-10-18T09:12:00.004+01:00

It is my great pleasure to introduce to you the first in the line up of dancing dollies.

Meet Cora.

She looks a little nervous making her debut but I have assured her that you are a friendly bunch and there is nothing to worry about. This is such a pretty quilt to be making and anyone else wishing to make it can find the details from
Liz at Broderie. The pattern is by Trish Harper.

A few weeks ago I had the great pleasure of spending a day at a workshop with Anne Baxter. It was a small class and the most relaxing one I have ever done. We were making a cushion with Friendship Stars block. I chose christmas fabrics in the hope that for the first time ever I will have something to contribute to the festivities. As you can see, I have not got very far and it has yet to be made up into a cushion.

Whilst I am on a christmassy theme I have been indulging in some crochet work. I learnt how to do this as a teenager but never really got the bug for it. For some time now I have been following Lucy at Attic24 and if you have never been and had a look then go there right this minute. Lucy's blog is the most colourful and prettiest ever and I have just had to give in and have a go at making her Ripple Blanket. I have chosen an acrylic yarn called Special by Stylecraft. It is ready available, cheap and also quite good to work with and for a first venture didn't want to spend too much money on something that I might not really enjoy. After several false starts and some not very succesful counting I have now got the hang of it and I am loving it. It looks christmassy but it will fit in my home all year round.

Anyone reading the comments on the last post will wonder what on earth Michelle is commenting on. I have been experiencing great difficulties grappling with using different laptops whilst my new one gets up and running and writing that post was the most frustrating ever and I managed to delete the post just as it posted. Michelle however, was quick off the mark and managed to read it and posted her comment before it all disappeared. Here is what she commented on.

Here in the UK we are gripped with Downton Abbey. It is a fabulous tv costume drama set in the early part of the last century and charts the changing fortunes of the Earl of Grantham and his family and staff. It is superbly acted and the costumes are a delight. At a recent craft exhibition they had a display of a selection of costumes from the first series. This tv show has won many awards and the costume designer too was a well deserved winner. We are now in series two and at the end of the First World War.

I live very close to the hospital and a regular visitor is the air ambulance. There are several and today it is the turn of the yellow helicopter. They look so tiny that you wonder how they fit all that medical equipment in and a patient and crew. We have to be thankful for the sterling work of this service and hope that we never need it. They are funded on charitable donations.

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

Daisy chains

2011-10-03T08:54:00.007+01:00

My hexagons have been sadly neglected of late and they have been patiently waiting their turn to come out of the dark place again. It is time to get a move on and start assembling them in some order and so now we have the first row of daisies. I am calling them daisies because that it what they remind me of. I sat in the garden in the sunshine and stitched away. Still a lot more plain colours to sew.

Camelot - Block 16.

The last block is finished. All I have to do now is add the little cornerstones and then they can be assembled. This is a big quilt and there is still a lot of cutting out to do in readiness for the borders. Lots of half square triangles. Inspiration took a long time to hit me with this one but it found me eventually and I am pleased with it.

Here in the UK, or at least, most of the UK, we have been basking in glorious unseasonal weather. The temperature has hit the late 70's/80's and so we headed off to our favourite destination - St. Ives. We arrived at Tregenna Castle Hotel just in time to see the end of the rugby match and see England through to the next round of the World Cup. Tregenna for me is the place to view St.Ives, from it's elevated postion it looks right across to the far side of the harbour and it never fails to make me sigh and feel that sense of wellbeing. The light here is just so special and no wonder artists the world over come here to paint it. We walked all the way down and that is no mean feat but, oh dear! the walk back up.....

A little visit to GJBeads to stock up on things that I had no idea that I needed.

After lunch we headed for the beach and laid out the towels, kicked off our shoes and just relaxed, ah! bliss.

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

UFO's and other sightings

2011-09-20T15:43:00.006+01:00

I am glad that you all enjoyed the exhibition at Come2Quilt. Here are a few extras.

Now, I did warn you that my quilts would be of the unfinished variety and I jokingly said that I would just stack my boxes in a corner.....

I am not owning up to how many boxes I have but let me say that this is a selection. The basket on the top is Kate's. The project hanging out of the box is mine. Hope you aren't counting.

I had Jiminy Cricket on my shoulder all weekend and she goes by the real name of Debby from Dotty Dolly. I kept hearing my name and she kept telling everyone that she was going to hang it up in the shop. I have a deadline to finish this now. Thank you Debby. I am not quite sure yet what for. I left it for ages before I took the plunge to machine quilt it and then part way through I just decided I didn't like it and wished I hadn't started but now after seeing it again I will attempt to get it done for the deadline.

I started this quilt in 2002. It is a pattern that was published in McCalls Quilting magazine and is by Robert Callahan. I love the colours of this quilt and again I got fed up with the quilting and it has remained unfinished. Wendy also loves this quilt and I have left instructions that should anything happen to me then this is her quilt. Just in case I should be worried about banana skins left in my path and unseen objects on stairs I have left a codicil that she may have to finish it herself. That should ensure my safety!!! There is a little album block on this quilt and I decided to make it into the label. All the details are on there including the date 2002 - 2003. It was the early days and I was optimistic about finishing. When I finally do finish it I will add a postcript to the back saying "THE END".

The Kaleidoscope Quilt is still waiting for inspiration for the border. The eureka moment hasn't happened yet.

The other quilt belonged to my mum. When my mum died last year we decided to drape the quilt over her coffin as she loved it so much. At the end of the day the Funeral Director handed the quilt back to me but before he did my sister and I had a laugh to ourselves as we heard him berating one of his staff for being covered in fluff and not knowing where it had come from. Mum would have had a laugh at that one too.

Gifts From The Sea by Verna Mosquera. I loved every minute of making this quilt. It was such good fun. It is all sanwiched together ready for quilting one day. I may have to get my act together and just quilt,quilt,quilt or I send them off to be finished. At least then they will be done. Wendy and I made this one together but unlike me Wendy finished hers. Maybe I should be very worried about my safety!

Even Kate's car had a makeover for the weekend and was used to fetch and carry people from the parking in the field to be delivered up the bumpy drive. These good ladies are from Apple County Quilters.

In the last post I told you about honorary member Pip climbing into one of the displays.... She is looking at David (Kate's husband) as if to say "well what else is it for?". We are like a secret sisterhood from an Enid Blyton story with Pippi the dog as the seventh member.

Well, I am off to quilt,quilt,quilt. Ces't La Vie.

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

Come2Quilt Exhibition

2011-09-16T08:07:00.006+01:00

WARNING - PHOTO HEAVY POST

Last weekend saw us holding our first exhibition of work at Come2Quilt. The weather forecast was not promising as we were on the tail end of Hurricane Katia but we braved it, changed plans somewhat and the show went on. We had planned that the quilts would be hung out in the garden and so instead they mostly went indoors and in the marquee. For anyone who has never put up an exhibition before you think that it will never get sorted but all of a sudden it comes together and the hard work pays off. We were hoping to raise some money for St. Margaret's Hospice.

The exhibition was titled "I have started so I will finish" and we had to finish things that we had abandoned etc. You will note that I haven't shown any of my work, it is for another post. My work comes under the unfinished category. It was good for people to see all the various stages of a quilt coming together and something which you may want to do for your own shows.

Kate at the entrance. Wendy and Sue in the background.

Wendy's beautiful quilt that she made for her daughter's 30th birthday. Margaret's Drunkard's Path quilt hiding the tv and Kate's beautiful chair.

Honorary member Pip who climbed into one of the displays of a quilt in a wicker basket and fell asleep.

Pat's Japanese quilt made as a block of the month from Antique Angel. We all helped to sandwich this together and tie the blocks. It is still a work in progress and is a huge quilt.

The back of Margaret's beautiful waistcoat.

Steve, brother to Kate, Margaret and Hilary. Steve makes fabulous stained glass work, a talented family.

Steve's blocks. The top right one came home with me.

Wendy's Insanity quilt being used as a curtain in the Nursery section of the marquee. Wendy is hand piecing all those tiny hexagons using her inklingo swaps.

Rosemary's Avocado Cat wall hanging.

The perfect place for Margaret's triangle quilt up in the roof of the marquee like a kite. Given how windy it was we were lucky that it didn't take off. You may notice all the bunting and Rosemary's hexagons flowers growing up the tent pole/strap.

The tombola stall. This always goes down well at any event. People like to have a chance at winning something and there were some great prizes. Wendy's husband Dave really, REALLY wanted that bottle of whisky. What did he win? A lovely hand made card that his wife had made!!!

Margaret's Flower Garden. I love this for several reasons. It is beautiful, my colours and hexagons. Need I say more. You know my passion by now.

Overview of the marquee.

This quilt was made by Pat and is lovingly known in her family as the testicle quilt. Pat bought a pack of worn and washed fabrics and one of the fabrics when cut up did resemble all these male wobbly bits and rather than not use it she kept it in and we all love it. It has caused much hilarity ( sorry chaps - payback time). One of our visitors was Judi Mendelsohn from Patchwork and Quilting Magazine and I was telling her about this quilt. Her reply was to tell me about a tv programme that she had been watching where one of the contestants was a laughter therapist!!! and she said why would someone pay to learn how to laugh when all they had to do was to belong to a quilt group and laugh at a testicle quilt. Best therapy I know of. Thanks ladies. You are all wonderful.

One of the things that was intended to amuse any children or bored husbands was a Splat the Rat. If you have never come across this before here is the gist of it. A length of downpipe at an angle, drop a "rat"(in this case a patchwork one) down it and then at the other end as it emerges from the hole you have to hit it. Kate put on food and drink at the end of the show and we had a game of this when we had finished eating. I am telling you now this is such good fun.

My husband.

Me.

We will be giving St. Margaret's Hospice a cheque for £600. Well done to everyone involved for making it such a super weekend. The atmosphere was very much like a village fete and people stayed for ages just chatting and enjoying tea and cakes. What could be better?

Happy Stitching.

Shirley.

And the winner is......

2011-09-10T19:59:00.002+01:00

Thank you to everyone who left me a comment on my 100th blog post. Names were written down and put into a bowl with the chance to win one of my beaded thimble holder necklaces.

The lucky winner is Frances from Quilting Owl.

Well done to you Frances. It will be winging it's way to you shortly. I hope you will like it.

Have lots to show and tell soon.

Happy Stitching

Shirley.

Blog Post 100

2011-09-03T14:11:00.004+01:00

It has taken me quite some time to reach this milestone for lots of reasons and ones in which I won't delve in to. I even missed the milestone of being a blogger for 1year but, at last, here it is. Hurrah! Hurrah!

During this time I have had the pleasure of seeing all your beautiful work and had some lovely "conversations" with you and feel that you have become friends. I have even had the luxury of meeting some of you and that has been a delight I can tell you. Hopefully in the future there will be many more meetings, conversations and your fabulous quilts to ogle and admire. As women we like to take the time to listen, encourage and nurture each other along the way and also aid and abet each other in starting lots more projects. That is all part of the fun.

As a little thank you to you for staying with me and making life more pleasurable I am having a little giveaway. I don't want anything from you other than a comment and one person will be the owner of this little thimble holder. It is in my favourite colours and I make no apologies for it but if you would like to have it then you know what to do. I shall announce the winner on September 10th.

Now that I have the lovely Dancing Dollies pattern I am eager to start it but feel that I have to crack on with a few other things first. What I did do is cut out all the pieces ready. All I need now are the backgrounds which will be with me soon I hope. Several of you have told me that you have seen the real quilt up close and personal and I am envious. Trish Harper, you are one talented lady and I am pleased to have met your acquaintance even if only in the virtual sense.

Block 15

Today I found inspiration to cut out the last block. It has taken me some time to do this as whatever I picked up I just couldn't find the energy to make it happen. Well, I am back on track and have also started to cut out all the other little corner posts and outer triangles for the border. This is one BIG quilt and I did think that I would reduce the size of it somehow but having had a good play this morning I have decided to keep it as the instructions and I am excited now to get on with it. I think it will be some time before I can call it finished but I am enjoying the process all the same.

Some of you will be pleased to know that order has been restored to Stitcherydo HQ and it is now all shipshape and bristol fashion.

Happy Stitching and good luck.

Love Shirley.

p.s. anyone in the vicinity next weekend do come and see Kate's exhibition in her house and garden. It should be a good weekend. All proceeds for St.Margaret's Hospice.

Work in Progress

2011-08-23T16:05:00.007+01:00

How do you work? Are you neat and tidy? Do you sit in chaos? This is my work in progress. My neat and tidy room looks like an explosion in a fabric shop. Luckily I haven't shown you the other side of the room with the wardrobe doors open and fabrics spilling out of the boxes. Am I sitting in there sewing amongst all this chaos - no, I am sat downstairs in another room where it is tidy -ish. I have been auditioning fabrics for the remaining blocks of Camelot. There are just 2 blocks left to stitch and then on to the borders. One more to cut out hence the riot of fabric everywhere whilst I decide on colour choices.

Block 13

Block 14

Remember a few posts back I was stitching yo-yo's? Are you wondering what has become of them?

Brooches. Hand dyed blanket and buttons complete the look.

A little bit of fundraising for St. Margaret's Hospice in September.

I had a lovely surprise in the post last week from Maggi from To Dream To Stitch as a little consolation for not being able to meet at Festival of Quilts. Maggi chose a very pretty pack of pale teal fabrics to co ordinate with my pink fabrics and they are gorgeous. There is also a lovely pack of buttons in the shape of a teapot and teacup. We will have that cup of tea Maggi and sometime soon. Thank you once again.

We have been away for the weekend to Torquay in Devon. When we set out it was in heavy rain but as we arrived the sun came out and turned glorious. Off we went for a walk down to Anstey's Cove and there we sat on the beach with a glass of wine. Ha! nice and relaxing.

This is Babbacombe. It is very steep and was a strenuous walk down there through a cliffside garden. Luckily there is a cable car to take you back up - or down. That would have been the sensible thing to do.

On Sunday we went for a mammoth walk into Torquay via the coastal path. This was such a strenuous walk but well worth it as the view once you reach the top is just so amazing. The whole of the English Riviera set out in front of you.

The reason we went away for the weekend was this. This photo was taken 30 years ago on our wedding day. Here we are all looking very young. My sister and Mick's sister as bridesmaids and my Mum looking very glam in her hat. The weather was a dark and wet day hence the photo looking dull but we all had a lovely time.

A close up of the embroidery around the skirt of the dress. I designed and made it myself inspired at the time by an embroiderer called Sue Rangeley. The flowers were painted with fabric paints and padded, embroidered and then beaded. Around the flowers are lazy daisies. It took me many months of sewing.

I have also been working on a little something which I will show you next time. Stay posted.

Happy Stitching

Shirley.x

Annual trip to Cowslip.

2011-08-07T10:35:00.012+01:00

Warning! - photo heavy post.

This week we went to Launceston in Cornwall for our group's annual trip. It is always well supported and a fabulous day out. It never disappoints.

First stop is Cowslip Studio run by the delightful Jo Colwill. I have mentioned Cowslip before and ladies( and any gents reading this)this place really does have to be on your agenda if you are in this part of the world. The views are magnificent, the food delicious and there are fabulous quilts to see and you can shop. Everywhere you look is a feast for the eyes. Jo tries to involve everyone and there is something on the agenda at all times of the year. Cowslip will soon be on Facebook so you will be able to follow them and plan your itinerary around it.

This is the entrance and it is always inviting and luring you in to see what is beyond. The garden is a delight and a proper cottage garden. The cafe is also at the end of the garden.

You can sit in the cafe and look at quilts on display and sit on lovely patchwork cushions. The food is cooked on an Aga and the food is all locally produced and organic.

Inside, the shop is packed to the rafters as you can see. I have fallen in love with both of the larger quilts. The one on the left had me buying lots of fabric to make it. The quilt on the right is being offered as a class with my lovely friend Sue from I sew Quilts. It is a popular class.

This year there were two exhibitions showcasing very different styles of work.

This is from the Garden Designs by Susan Denton. This quilt was fabulous. I hope that when you click on it you will be able to see the lovely quilting. Appropriately this exhibition was hanging up in the barn.

This wallhanging is the work of Dee Anne McCoull. It took Dee several months of non stop hard work to complete and is her interpretation of the devastation in Japan. It is an amazing piece of work.

After the delicious lunch we then head back into Launceston town centre to visit The Flowerpatch Quilters exhibition. Again this is a delight. It is a large group and therefore they can manage to produce a lot of work each year. They also showcase the exhibition with beautiful floral displays.

This very simple quilt is the work of Jo Colwill and features her trade mark quilting of her cows. I thought this one was just so lovely in it's simplicity.

I think this quilt also belongs to Jo but I wanted you to see the exquisite quilting on this. It was long arm quilted by someone local. Jo has the details if anyone wants one like it.

Beautiful display of apples.

Chooks on guard, doing what chooks do.

There were so many quilts and only so much space to show them. Hope you enjoyed the visit.

These were my purchases. Plus one or two more that I haven't shown.

My itchy little fingers also did a bit of clicking and I am the proud owner of this pattern by Trish Harper. Keep them coming Trish I love your work. The pattern can be bought from Liz at Broderie.

Finally, I had a lovely surprise through the post the other day all the way from Australia from my lovely blogging friend Elyte. Thank you for thinking of me Elyte and I shall put them to good use and not use them as dusters as you suggested. I am thinking bag so that I can put those lovely buttons on it.

Do leave me a comment as I love to hear from you. Many of you tell me that you read my ramblings.

Happy Stitching

Frankie - The Blogging Budgie

2011-08-03T15:45:00.005+01:00

Some of you have asked me about my dear little friend Frankie. He is a real cutie and such a good companion. He is 8 years old now so, getting on in budgie years. He talks a lot, usually when the tv is on and you want to listen to something but, never when you want him to say something when you have visitors. He talks mostly in my voice but then goes into a much deeper mode - my husband. He has quite a repertoire of words, nursery rhymes, whistles and tunes and sometimes I swear he is reciting whole programmes of nonsense. He knows the tunes and sings along to Match of the Day and to Strictly Come Dancing but to be quite honest, they could be the same tune. I am hoping this works as I have not tried it before. So, here goes.
Please note what we are researching and that he isn't paying too much attention. I get by with a little help from my feathered friend. Sometimes he has friends to stay. This is Charlie and Frankie. Frankie is not amused you can tell. I loved this quilt. This photo was taken a few years back at the NEC. I have no details of the maker. Happy Stitching Love Shirley.x

Hurry - Last Chance

2011-07-30T09:47:00.003+01:00

This is your last chance to win a slice of the action.

English Patchwork and Quilting magazine are offering this fabulous prize to win a stitching break at my friend Kate's Come 2 Quilt sewing retreat. All you need is a copy of the magazine and the special code and you can enter online to try your luck at winning this prize. You will need to get to Taunton under your own steam but once you are there you will be treated like quilting royalty. The competition close on the 31st July so hurry, hurry, hurry. If you win then I promise to come and sew with you.

The giant pizza is being made by Kate.

Good luck.

Love Shirley.

Drunkard's Path

2011-07-26T08:02:00.006+01:00

I promised Kate that I would try and finish something for her forthcoming exhibition in September at Come 2 Quilt. The big decision was which box to open first (oh there are so many) or, more to the point, which project would be more easily achieved. I eventually decided on a drunkard's path project. Drunkard's Path is my all time favourite block. It fascinates me. There are so many variations and so many names for the same block. This design came from McCalls Spring Edition 2007?!!!! I know. I know.

After a bit of unpicking, some blocks had been sewn the wrong way round and therefore abandoned with lost hope. It didn't take long to put it right and all blocks were stitched together and borders made. This quilt is for Sarah and Olly. Sarah asked if it could be made a bit bigger and I am in the process of adding another row. The blocks are 14". Sometime this week I have to make the really big decision on how to quilt it. I think I have a plan.

Being me means that I save the scraps. Someone said to me that the way I made my drunkard's path blocks wasted fabric and so to prove a point that with a bit of careful thinking it doesn't. I make my blocks using a method of paper piecing. You cut out two squares of fabric and lay a paper template over the top and tack through the layers just above and below the curves, then you cut away the top layer to reveal the curve underneath. Now this is the really clever bit, with a pin/needle you turn under the curved edge just 1/8" and stitch the edge down. Remove the paper and trim the back. It may sound like a complicated way of stitching this block but believe you me it works brilliantly and is so easy. Does any one else do it this way? I also have a plan to use the spare curves that were cut away.

Back to the scraps.

This little pile of cut out corners were put right sides together
and trimmed on a 45 degree angle. Being a big block there were decent sized angles to play with.

As you can see, the only wastage are those really thin straggly bits and they can go in the doggy cushions.

All those scraps have now become this .... ta da! A cushion top to go with the quilt.
The unusual setting happened by accident as I sewed the rows on the wrong way round and I decided that I liked it so it stayed put. I haven't measured it but it is about 15".

This week has been quite productive and I have also completed block 12 of Camelot.
That means now just 4 more to go.

Valentina has put together all her blocks and it looks fab. Do go over and check it out and also leave her a get well message. She has been very ill but is thankfully on the mend.

The 12 blocks together.

Hope you stayed this far and if you did enjoy your sewing.

Love Shirley.x

Hurrah! A finish.

2011-07-15T14:44:00.005+01:00

It isn't exactly a quilt but a finish is a finish nonetheless and my sewing room in now fully painted, curtained, everything in it's place and fully functioning. It seems a pity to get in there and mess it up. I just go in there to sigh and think how lovely it is.

On Wednesday I met with Sue from I Sew Quilts. I was lucky enough to win this beautiful book by Clare Kingslake as a giveaway and as Sue was visiting friends near to where I live we met at the garden centre for a cup of tea. We were so busy talking that neither of us even thought to mark the occasion with a photograph. I already have my eye on several projects. Sue also gave me a copy of a book by her friend Orlando Murrin which has some delightful photographs and yummy recipes. Thank you all for your kindness and generosity.

Last year I fell in love with this quilt on the cover of Country Homes and Interiors. I thought that the blocks looked quite large and as it is a well known block, drafted my own at 15" and here is block 1. Won't need so many of these to make something lap size. Nice and easy and so satisfying.

My mum used to read Woman's Weekly magazine and I buy it myself now and again. My friend thinks it is so old fashioned but I don't think so. Well, they are in for a challenge and to mark their 100th birthday they are asking readers to knit a pennant in order to break a world record for the longest knitted bunting. I have made my effort. The closing date is September 19th if anyone is interested. The pattern was in the craft special that is currently on sale.

I have been doing some cleaning( yes, I know but it had to be done) and cleaning should come with a health warning. As I have sciatica again and a blocked nose the moral is housework is a pain in the bottom and don't move the dust.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.x

A Farmer's Wife and Daughter

2011-07-10T10:23:00.002+01:00

It has been a long time since I made any blocks for The Farmer's Wife quilt and as you can see I managed to make block 11 - Broken Dishes. It seemed a good opportunity to tell you a little story that is interesting and appropriate for this quilt.

Last year at my mum's flat I came across this diary. Mum said that she bought it at a book sale at Keele University some years ago and that she bought it because it was of local interest. I didn't get to tell her all that I found out. My sister in Law Sandra is also interested in geneaology and she did a lot of research for me.

The diary belongs to Anne Burnett Hambleton and is dated 1883. She was born in 1865 the daughter of a well off farming family. By looking through geneaology web sites discovered that she married her cousin Arthur Hambleton, also a farmer. They were a well known and prosperous family from the Butterton area of Leek, Staffordshire. We also learn that they married in London in 1889. We wonder why. They went on to have at least two children.

The diary cost 1 shilling and could have been a Christmas present. The writing sometimes is difficult to read, sometimes written in ink and much neater and other times in pencil and scribbled. It has some interesting entries and things that we take so much for granted.

It appears in the diary that Anne lived with an Uncle and at this point we don't know why, but this house was quite large as it had a billiard room. She mentions that she had a wash in the newly installed bath and that she had her head washed as opposed to a hair wash and that she was allowed to wear her hair up for dinner. Her Uncle had promised her "some pretty , gold things" for her next birthday. Imagine her excitement at watching a magic lantern show for the first time. Here we are with all our technology and I am able to tell you all this and I wonder what she would have made of it.

Most of the entries in the diary tell of her studies assuming at this point that she is still a student. Anne went away to school and was living in Birkdale, Lancashire in 1881. We know that she was musical and sang in recital's at the town hall. She tells of receiving 3 valentine's cards, 2 of which she thinks came from male family members, the other is a mystery beau. I also think from the diary that she may have had a crush on someone as she mentions him only by initials and mostly she saw him at church. She also tells of paying 7/6d for a pair of shoes. A princely sum of money. I think she also had a little streak of mischief as she tells of being told off for mocking a teacher.

The burning question for me is, did she meet William Morris? She certainly moved in such society and William Morris was a frequent visitor to the area. Still a lot more to find out. They have a lot of family papers in the vaults at the local museum so, if and when I find out anymore, I shall let you know.

This means that I now have a plan for my Farmer's wife blocks and I shall dedicate it to Anne Burnett Hambleton - A Farmer's Wife and Daughter.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.

Birthday Treats

2011-07-06T16:12:00.003+01:00

Monday 4th July was my 52nd birthday. I had a lovely day with some nice gifts and a trip out to Becca's Quilt Emporium with Sarah.

Some people get cakes. This mum was given a very pretty tiered cake stand. Can you see cakes?!!! No! Not even an oatcake. Look again. Yes, they are potatoes. Dug up fresh from Olly's veggie patch. Thanks Olly, I appreciate the effort that went into growing and picking. I also had some lovely bath products which have been used and are divine. My favourite perfume, necklace and a lovely little cushion from Rachel.

My birthday treats from the Wednesday girls was a surprise. I had a hospital visit with Rachel last week (all is well) and I went to sewing later and so completely forgot about a birthday celebration. I was spoiled and thank you ladies, you are all such lovely, thoughtful people and you make me laugh.

The cup and teapot were from Wendy along with some lovely vintage buttons and some ribbon. Pat gave me the lovely bundle of fabrics and thread. Margaret gave me the wooden spoon and a pattern for the lovely cupcake wallhanging. You Aussies may recognise the beautiful hand towel as it came from a shop in Melbourne and came home with Rosemary. They also gave me some other fabrics and buttons. Yummy muffins baked by Wendy for us all to share. Kate gave me some bath oil and said that she was making me something but hadn't finished it yet.

Yesterday Kate gave me my present. It was a most lovely surprise and thoughtful present Kate and it is perfect for my sewing room. You will have to click and enlarge to appreciate it in full. I have not decided yet where it will eventually live but it definitely marks out that room as my territory now. Still tidyish shelves but things are creeping in on the tops of books rather than being put away.

My husband gave a beautiful orchid. I hope I will be able to keep it going. I am not known for my green fingers.

I have done a little bit of sewing just in case you were thinking that I have given up. This could become an addiction. Simply take one charm pack, make a card template, cut out a circle and turn a small hem and gather the thread. Fasten off. It looks like a littel mob cap. You need to tweak it a little to flatten the shape and distribute the fullness. When the pattern tells you to use quilting thread they tell you for a reason. I used ordinary thread and it broke when I gathered the first one. Quilting thread - much better. I have a few ideas for these little beauties. You will have to wait and see.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Hot Pants

2011-06-30T07:55:00.004+01:00

If you need a good idea for using up those leftover pinwheel blocks or indeed any other blocks for that matter then check out what the best dressed legs are wearing. I spotted this in a magazine whilst waiting for an appointment and just had to bring the page home with me. Of course you will then need a matching jacket and bag.

Kate is in finishing off mode ready for her up and coming exhibition in September and behind her is a quilt based on a Navajo Blanket. It comes complete with a dream catcher.

Yesterday at sewing we had a new recruit in the form of little Raya seen here with doting mum Wendy.

On Sunday we decided to take a trip and headed for Woolacombe on the North Devon Coast. The sand there is lovely and soft and it has good surfing waves. On the way there part of the road had been closed for maintenance and we were diverted through the country roads. The scenery was spectacular and well worth the detour but on route we passed a village that was holding some sort of fun day - The Rackenford Scarecrow Olympics. Various scarecrows were placed around on seats and in gardens and then we spotted one running, one hurdling, swimming and even one pole vaulting over a hedge. That in itsself was funny but just as we were leaving the village and it never entered my head to get my camera out of my bag ,doh!there was a pole dancing scarecrow clad in leopard print lycra. My husband piped up with the comment - "now that would be worth watching". Tickets anyone?!!!

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Keeping Records

2011-06-21T17:34:00.006+01:00

Some time ago I was given a lovely little folder as a gift from the secret santa at my sewing group. It is a thimbleberries book and inside it has pages in which you can record the details of the quilts you make with a space on the opposite page for a photograph. I know with digital technology it is easy to store these things on computers but this is just such a lovely idea. There are pictures of quilts throughout the pages and at the back there are plastic pockets for storing bits of fabric etc.

In this photo you can see Sarah holding a little baby quilt. All the details are recorded on the page and is a great reminder of something made and given away as a gift. It is easy to forget dates gone by and as you can see this one was made in June 2003. It is also a visual reminder of what you have made and how your work has progressed over time.

My secret sister Nicky (we have so many quilty things in common that I think we must be related) asked me about quilt labels this week and I thought I would show you this lovely book that I have. It is by Barbara Baatz and is an American School of Needlework publication. It is full of lovely iron on transfers suitable for a variety of quilts. The transfers can be cut out and are meant to be ironed on to polyester or poly/cotton mix fabrics to make them colourfast and washable. What I tend to do is iron them lightly onto cotton fabric and then go over the outline with a permanent pigma pen and even do a bit of colouring in. You could of course embroider over the lines or add applique. There is plenty of space to record the essential details that are a must for future posterity. Think of how we long to know more details of who made those antique quilts and your ancestors or future custodians will be very glad that you gave them that information. You can of course make labels lots of other ways and keep it all very simple, after all, it is the information that is the important bit. All that work on the front surely warrants something interesting on the back too.

Camelot Block 10. The perfect piece of fabric for some lovely fussy cutting. The template was a perfect fit for this fabric and pattern.

Block 11. It looks very pale but isn't as pale as the photo. This means that there are 5 left to go.

My mum gave us two lovely rose bushes called Silver Wedding 5 years ago and they were duly planted. One flourished and the other became quite sad looking. My husband lifted it and replanted it and we thought that it wouldn't survive but the other day I suddenly realised that this lovely flower had appeared. I am so pleased. The other bush is much bigger and has produced a huge amount of fabulous, delicate scented flowers.

This beautiful chaffinch has been nesting in the hedge by the window and it has been a pleasure watching it flit in and out with tasty morsels for the baby. One evening I heard a thud against the window and stealed myself to look expecting to see a dead baby bird but no, it was just sitting on the window ledge looking at me as if to say "what happened". By the time I grabbed my camera it had recovered and flown off.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.

Thou Shalt Not Covet......

2011-06-13T16:27:00.006+01:00

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours fabric, particularly when she is wearing it. This is Pat's shirt (yes, she is wearing it) and she is very lucky that I have not cut a square out as in the patchwork adverts, you know the one. Husband is asleep in the chair and wife has cut out bits of his shirt and is quilting them whilst her friend looks on. I adore this fabric.

We have been to St Ives this weekend for a little bit of rest and recuperation. It would be churlish of me not to call in the bead shop and buy one or two or three, ok, more than a few things. Someone has to keep them going. Well, I wasn't alone in there and that shop is really an Aladdin's Cave of sparkly bits and pieces and I would like to challenge anyone to come out empty handed. The woman before me at the till said to the assistant " when I come in again later don't say - back again?, you haven't seen me before, right!".

The weather on Saturday was lovely and hot and we sat in our deck chairs watching these Cornish Luggers or fishing boats. This one just let down its sail as I clicked the camera, the sails are traditionally a reddish canvas. The bead shop is just behind those boats on the opposite side of the harbour. Honestly, I WAS watching the boats.

Progress on Camelot means that I have passed the halfway stage now. All the templates are ready and waiting. The pieces for block 10 have been prepped. It takes me so long to decide on colour combinations and even then when I have cut them out I make changes.

Block 7

Block 8

Block 9

A bit of a finish in the knitting department. Remember the yarn I bought at the Quilt Show at Malvern? well, it has become a very colourful shawl. Beads have been added at the edge and are knitted in. I was told that the ball of wool would knit the shawl and I ran out before the end. Rather than buy another ball I just undid a few rows and added the beads and held my breath that there would be enough to finish it. I finished with about 6"s of yarn to spare. I am not that fond of the colours but wanted to see how it knitted up and the pattern was very easy. The pattern came free with the yarn and is Noro Kureyon. ( Details in previous post). I am sure that I have something more suited to my taste in my stash and will definitely make another one.

My niece Megan has taken up patchwork and is busy making hexagons for a quilt for her new bed. She is well and truly hooked. As we live so far apart lessons have been conducted by email and phone and I am impressed with her keenness. According to Meg, today's Daily Mail newspaper says that quilting makes you happy. Now we already knew that didn't we. You can see a bit more on her blog. When her exams are finished then hopefully she will post a bit more.

Sorry, for the long post. I must blog more often and then I won't need to write such an essay.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Retail Therapy

2011-05-26T15:53:00.003+01:00

Just in case you have forgotten who I am let me tell you that I am still around, not achieving very much, but keeping up with you all when blogger isn't messing me about. I have tried to leave messages but somehow after a frustrating time it all goes to pot.

Well, I have finished block 7 of Camelot and as you can see they are coming along nicely. I do hope more people will give this project a go as it is fabulous. It will really test your piecing skills. My favourite is always the one I have just finished, so, on to the next one.

On Sunday I went to Quilts UK at Malvern with Kate and Margaret. Unfortunately there were notices around saying that photo's could not be published in any shape or form so cannot show you the winning quilt. Instead I will just have to show you the spoils from the retail therapy bit. Spoilt for choice and really not needing anything other than pins this is what I came home with.

A very pretty jelly roll pack

A pack of fabrics from Worn and Washed ( I love this stand and will happily stay at it all day just sighing and stroking the lovely used fabrics that Kim makes into such pretty quilts). In keeping with the worn and washed and recycled fabric philosophy Kim used old embroidered tablecloths as backings for some of her quilts. A great way to use up these items that we no longer seem to have use for and they can be bought fairly cheaply from a charity shop or car boot sale. I shall certainly be looking at these things in a new light.

A small bundle of wool fabric and a star pattern from
Madeleine Millington.

I had to have my little fix of Japanese books. I love them even though I cannot understand a single word. Luckily the diagrams and photo's are so good that it only takes a little bit of thought to work it all out. The other book is by Kathleen Tracy, The Civil War Sewing Circle.

Have already earmarked a few projects to do. This is only page 1 and look at all those scrummy hexagons. I know I am obsessed. A lot of the items in these books are small and therefore it seems a good opportunity to use up some of those scraps that I keep hoarding.

I also bought a ball of Noro Wool from The Knitting Parlour and had to start it immediately. I won't tell you what it is yet. It definitely isn't socks. It is unusual to see a knitting stand at a quilt show but I cannot pass it by without buying something as it is so good.

Barbara and Chris you were missed this year not having your stand in its usual place. I do hope you will be back again next time.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Nicki's Wedding

2011-05-07T12:17:00.006+01:00

Today is the wedding of my daughter's close friend Nicki. They have known each other since primary school when Nicki used to call every morning always with a beautiful, beaming smile. Her smile today was radiant. Along with a street full of well wishers we stood outside for photographs.

Admiring the back of the dress which was heavily laced and ruched at the bodice. At the side was a large sequined bow which was echoed with a smaller bow on the opposite side of the dress at the shoulder. She looked beautiful.

Rachel, one of 8 bridesmaids. Looking equally as beautiful.

All 6 of the older bridesmaids and the two flower girls.

Inside the car with proud dad Stuart and that dazzling smile. Off to meet her beau.

Wendy now has the borders on Laura's quilt and that little strip of green is the perfect shade. Kate helped and it is now sandwiched together ready for quilting. The outer flowers are going to be added afterwards. It is going to be so pretty Wendy and I love it. The pattern is from a Material Obsession book.

Margaret is working on a quilt that she fell in love with after seeing it in an Australian magazine. I cannot remember the name. This is one of the blocks. Very fiddly little pieces but so pretty.

Camelot - Block 5. For more inspiration and a glimpse at the beauty of these blocks then visit Valentina who is doing a wonderful job.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Activity at Stitcherydo HQ

2011-05-02T10:32:00.004+01:00

Come and take a peep at what is happening behind the door.

Daughter no.2 finally removed her furniture and her bedroom became my sewing room. A luxury I know, but it still has to function as an occasional bedroom. It has been painted and has new furniture. I have made a bold statement with the deep red wall and soon a sofa bed will join it all and it will be a pleasant place to sit and sew. This room has beautiful views towards the Quantock Hills. It isn't quite finished yet and still a work in progress but definitely on the list for a finish this month. In my capacity as Ribbon Cutter Extraordinaire I may invite a few guests and declare it open.

Blocks 3 and 4 almost complete and I am thinking about block 5. These blocks take some thinking about. Colour, how and where to best use it, plus which way to sew a seam and the direction in which it will lie so that it will lie flat, taking care not to stretch all those bias edges. As I am making these blocks I am stitching little bits of my friends into them. The blue/green stripe fabric points in block 3 are scraps from Pat's husbands shirt (scraps destined for the doggy cushions and rescued), the green fabric given to me from Val. A memory quilt of sorts.

You may remember me showing a little bit of this hexagon quilt last year. Well, after 40 years in progress Pat (with the pearl earring) has finally finished it. Well done Pat for such perseverence. There are a few Pat's in our Tuesday group and to distinguish them Pat with the pearl earring came about from a self portrait mini quilt where she depicted herself with said earring.

Congratulations to Mary (Tuesday sewing group)for winning this wonderful raffle quilt at a Quilters Guild sewing Day. It is beautifully made and I hope that clicking on a close up shows the detail.

Finally, I would like to show you this wonderful piece of work that stands outside the Art Department at the Somerset College of Art and Technology. It is by a very talented young man named Ben Plaw, aged 18. Ben is now at Bath University studying Fine Art. It is made from pieces of stainless steel and has been treated to get the rusty look. The brief was to make something to represent overcoming struggles and is partly inspired by The Angel of the North. It is meant to represent braving and battling the elements. I love it and I am thrilled at seeing it everytime I pass the College.

Happy Stitching everyone.

Love Shirley.

p.s. Now didn't the Middleton's do well with the marriage of their daughter Kate to Prince William? The whole day was just a brilliant spectacle and a happy and joyous occasion. It was a much needed escape from all the doom and gloom and destruction that assaults us. One thing our Royals do well is to put on such pageantry and they didn't disappoint. A perfect day.

Camelot teaser

2011-04-15T08:16:00.003+01:00

A little teaser for block 3 of Camelot.I am loving every minute spent on making this quilt. Let me tell you though that I think the hardest part is choosing fabrics and it took me most of the afternoon to put together and search for colour combinations. I may yet take out the centre circle and redo it as it is not my best work but I am pleased with the colours. I have prepped the templates now for 6 blocks so that I can get going.

Having decided on my colour scheme I had to do a bit more shopping and a little stop at Dotty Dollies and online at Sunflowerfabrics.com. A rummage in a huge bag of scraps from Pat that is supposed to be destined for the doggie pillows unearthed a few little pieces of treasure. No matter how large the stash there never seems to be the right colours. This was supposed to be an exercise in using what I had. I am digging deep though and finding all sorts of things in my stash that I had forgotten about.

My friend Janet has made the most beautiful quilt for her friend. As it is a gift and not yet given I will just show you one of the blocks. The whole thing just moved me to tears it was so lovely. Janet has such a good eye for detail and wouldn't you agree that the basket fabric is just perfect.

The stash of hexagon diamonds/lozenges has grown now to 79. This week I bought a bolt of cream fabric so now I can start making a zillion hexagons to start setting them in. Still have quite a few more diamonds and lozenges to make though. I hope this will be my contribution to our quilt exhibition next year which will be on the theme of "Diamonds are a girl's best friend". We did think of the Olympics as it will be 2012 but it is also the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and thought it much more appropriate. The jelly roll hexies are on hold at present till I find the right shade for the background. Having bought fabric for them and deciding against it I want to go back to my original plan. Have plans for the ones I have already prepped though. My mind is working overtime on ideas.

Happy stitching

Love Shirley.

Camelot - block 2

2011-04-07T07:56:00.005+01:00

Block 2 of Camelot was a little more tricky having to set in those circles. I also changed the middle cross a little to take advantage of the fabric and match the stripe which I used in block 1. It did lie flat though without the help of spray starch and I am pleased. Having discovered that I have more than one or two bits of black fabric with pink in them I now have a plan - sort of! I am enjoying the challenge. Hand piecing allows you to be so much more accurate.

Pat has recently returned from a family wedding in New Zealand and came back with this quilt kit. It is all lovely fabrics with a New Zealand theme and it is looking good.

Kate is indulging in a little play with a fabric panel and attic windows. One of her guests at her quilting retreat was making something similar and she was quite taken with it. It looks very effective.

This next photo is of a reflection of the ceiling in water in Salisbury Cathedral. Now you know I am no photographer and those of you who know how to use your cameras properly will do a much better job. It was quite fascinating. The vessel holding all that water is a font installed in 2008. If you wish to see more fabulous photographs of the Cathedral then click on the link above.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Camelot - Block 1

2011-04-01T16:51:00.003+01:00

Here is the first completed block of the beautiful quilt Camelot by Trish Harper. I have hand pieced the block and loved the challenge of all those parts coming together. The only bit I did think may be a bit tricky was the setting in to the circle but it went in very smooth and I wondered why I delayed doing it. I also used a little bit of spray starch to prevent the circle from stretching as it was being sewn. One thing that I am quite often unsure about is which way to press seams and which way they should lie. Sometimes you want a shape to stand out and with a lot of seams coming together it can be quite bulky and so I went with what lay the flattest hoping that it would still work. We shall see.

This week I have been indulging in a spot of machine piecing. Occasionally even I need to do something that is a bit faster and this had me all excited. I bought a jelly roll last week at the quilt show and got a few pounds off the price because it looked a bit raggedy and it was the last one. It is just so pretty but you will have to wait a bit longer to see what it will make up into.

Valentine's Hearts by Cupcake Cottons. It is the first and probably the last time I shall do a border in this manner. It looks very pretty but fiddly. It needs a bit more quilting but essentially finished. Yeh! My contribution to all the glorious red and white quilts that are being shown around the world. I wished I could have seen them up close and personal. A big thank you to Sue from I Sew Quilts for sending lots of lovely photo's.

Now, I did just mention that I was at the quilt show at Westpoint and, I forgot my camera even after Elyte sent me a message telling me otherwise. Sorry Elyte. Lucky that Wendy took hers and sent me some photo's via e-mail.

The next two photo's are a little bit different for quilts and are by Sandie Lush. Sandie has a whole series of quilts in the shape of sweaters and the textures she creates really do resemble the knitting. When all hung together the quilt names read like a knitting pattern. They even have labels advertising Lush Knits. There are quite a collection but the famous one that she did and you may remember seeing it is the giant cricket sweater. These quilts appeal to me because many moons ago I toyed with the idea of doing a degree in knitwear and yes, Sandie is a knitter.

This quilt is by Dilys Fronks. It was part of a collection of quilts by Dilys who is renowned for her garden gate quilts. One day I am going to have to make one. This I just thought was beautiful.

Having bought the background for the hexagons and buying something that was so totally unexpected I am having doubts. I think I shall just wait and see if I like it any better when I have made a few more flowers. No more pictures now.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.

Looking Up

2011-03-25T16:32:00.005Z

After looking down and seeing hexagons at my feet I looked up and saw this........

I have passed this hotel so many times on route to Sidmouth and have never even glanced at it until the other day and saw the amazing roof tiles. My husbands comment was that the cost of the roof must have been very expensive as the slate is difficult to cut in a square let alone a hexagon. I also had another thought and at 10pm had to go outside and look at the front of my house and... yes, there below my window are hexagon tiles! Doh! Now why did that one not cross my mind sooner.

Take a good look in the box. There are 120 flowers in there, 1 jelly roll's worth. Also completed are 99 centres for the next batch of plain flowers. I may not be showing these again for some time so take a last look. Phew! I have loved every minute of making these and never tire of them. In stitching them they have had my darkest thoughts, tears, memories, good and bad and they have seen me through and out the other side. It is stitching in it's purest and simplest form and sometimes it is the best way to help yourself through a difficult day. I know there are many out there doing the same and it also tides you over until inspiration strikes to move on to other things. I make no apologies for this.

The weather has been so glorious and according to the weather report we are actually warmer than parts of Spain. Woohoo!. Rachel and I went to Sidmouth and sat on the beach. Rachel made herself a little bit of beach art.

Rachel.

Wednesday was all hands to the pump helping Kate to get ready for her first visitors. We also helped Wendy to celebrate her birthday with the usual opening of gifts and eating little pastries called yum yums. Pat was late getting there so we ate hers. Yum, yum. Sorry Pat. We even sat outside and had lunch. How good was that for March.

Last but not least. My friend Sue Lewis (on the right - friend Sue Marsh on the left)
had a lovely birthday gift from her daughter. Sue fell in love with the quilt on display at Cowslip Studio's in Cornwall and her daughter decided to take her back there to buy it. Sue said imagine her disappointment when it said sold on it and then for it to be handed to her as a gift. I hope my girls are reading this. The quilt was much admired by all of us at Apple County Quilters. What a lovely birthday and what a great treat.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.x

1-2-3 .....100, Not Out

2011-03-10T14:59:00.012Z

A few posts back I showed you a photo of a manhole cover in the shape of a hexagon and asked what else was out there in this shape. Valentina from Valentina's Corner sent me a photo of a loaf of bread and I came across this one again literally under my feet. Have you guessed by now what it is? It is the step machine at the gym complete with rubber hexagon mat and the 1-2-3 brings me nicely to the next photo.

I have reached the 100th jelly roll flower and that means 20 left to stitch. Incidentally that also means there are 120 hexies left in the box. I think I have reached a decision on the background fabric and the more I look at it the more I like it.

I thought I would try and show you how I am assembling these flowers as I think this is the quickest way and I have a whole lot more to get through before I am done.

I start with the centre hexagon (green) and then join the first outer hexagon to the green and then I stitch the others to the last one stitched - so only the first hexagon is stitched to the green at this stage. You will see from the photo that when they are all joined it looks like orange peel.

Now you are going to join them to the centre green hexagon. Tiny oversewing, taking the needle just through a few threads and not through the paper.

Stitch the next free side to the green side.

And the next.

Nearly there.

Last one. Fold the flower in half and join the last seam together.

One completed flower. Easy when you know how. Cannot do them any other way now. Try and see how easy it is and it is neat too.

Yesterday I could have cried with sheer delight. If you want to see this chair properly then you will have to go and stay at Kate's Quilting Retreat. Kate made the clamshell pad and revamped this old chair into something so gorgeous. Wendy and I wondered if she would miss it and we would have had to fight it out as to who would get it. It is going to live in one of her bedrooms. Sadly not mine or Wendy's.

Wendy is making this quilt for her daughter Laura. Lucky Laura. It is so pretty. Such loveliness going on yesterday.

Happy stitching

Love Shirley.x

Stitcherydo-dahs

2011-03-02T15:45:00.004Z

I fear that my blog title sometimes doesn't live up to it's name. Not a lot of stitchery has been achieved of late other than a handful of hexagons and I really do mean a handful. I do however, have a few things to show today. Hurrah!

My love of beads equals my fabric stash but thank goodness it is on a much smaller scale or there would be no room for me to live here. This is my latest offering, a gorgeous bracelet using cubes, seed beads and drops. It was a quickie and I love the colours, plus it was very simple.

Valentine Hearts now has its borders and is ready to be layered and quilted.

My sister chose this yarn for her socks. I was surprised as I wouldn't have chosen it for her and would have chosen it for myself so there may be a bit of sisterly rivalry going on here as to whether she gets them or not. The yarn is Wendy - Happy Feet and it is my favourite to use. It knits up well, washes well and, more to the point, feels good on your feet.

Because of the lack of sewing I thought I would show you an oldie. This little crazy patchwork heart was made in a workshop with Anne Baxter many moons ago and it is one of my favourite things. I beaded the edge and also added a few beady bits that were lying around after practising.

Finally, my cactus plant has been in a sorry state. I repotted it last year and it suddenly bushed out. It hadn't flowered for a long time but this is a bit spooky but co-incidence I know. My sister in law gave me a lovely poem and photo of my mum and I put it next to the plant. My mum loved gardening and do you know ever since the photo has been there it has produced a flower a week. As one dies off the next one comes out. I talk to mum and the plant every day and tell her well done for making the flowers come out.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.

Out and About

2011-02-23T20:01:00.002Z

It is a while since I last posted something here but fret ye not. I have been out and about. Last week was my sister's 50th birthday and so I went and spent a few days up in Stoke. One thing I didn't do was take my camera and so have no photographic evidence to mark the occasion. My niece Megan (Megan papier on my sidebar - I need to learn how to do a link) has a blog and if you have the time perhaps you would pop over and leave her a word or two of encouragement. She is 17 years old and a great girl. I am biased of course because I love her. Meg has posted a little about her Mum's birthday. I took my sister to the theatre to see Jason Donovan as Captain von Trapp in the Sound of Music. He was great and we had to keep snatching the spy glasses off each other to ogle Jason each time he came on stage. We also enjoyed a delicious meal beforehand plus a little drop of vino.( Well, a bottle to be exact but we won't mention it!!!). Maria was played by Verity Rushworth better known as Donna Dingle in Emmerdale. She was a real sensation and in my humble opinion better than Connie Fisher.

I also had the great privilege of visiting Barbara Chainey for a delicious lunch of the local delicacy of cheese and bacon oatcakes. I also had a private viewing of a selection of her antique quilt collection housed in her tardis - sorry, cupboard. Some absolute beauties and I came away with a few ideas I can tell you. Thank you Barbara for a lovely day. This blogging medium is a fantastic thing, putting like minded souls together. Again, you can check out Barbara's blog.

On Saturday we met Sarah and Olly down at Lyme Regis in Dorset. It was one of those gorgeous days when you feel that spring is here, when the sun comes out and you think Oh Thank you, thank you, thank you for the bit of warmth on your face and it makes you feel so good. I would like a bit more of that please.

Mick and Olly on The Cobb Harbour. Golden Cap in the background. Lyme Regis is famous for being immortalised in the film The French Lieutenant's Woman. When you see Meryl Streep staring out to sea, well, this is it.

It is also famous for it's fossils.

Today at Kate's we celebrated Pat's birthday with the usual exchange of presents and tea and cake. Pat has just returned from New Zealand and brought with her lots of goodies to show and tell. Sorry, didn't take any photo's in the excitement.

This is a section of Kate's quilt hanging in her studio. It is amazing and is hand painted and appliqued with shells and you may just see some of the wording on it. It is just so soothing and beautiful.

Wendy has been working on these little beauties for some time now and were from an inklingo swap. I think she has now hatched a plan for them and it was a treat to see them again. Those diamonds are 1" and therefore 2" hexagons.

Just a little burst of colour from Kate's threads hanging on the wall.

Finally, are you still with me? not fallen asleep? This is a bit of my offering. Work in progress. It needs its borders adding and scalloping. This little project is from Cupcake Cottons. I walked past their stand last year at Malvern so many times that eventually I gave in and bought this kit and may have to buy another one this year. They are a great new business venture and have such great fabrics and kits.

I need to be making decisions now on that background fabric as I am 2/3rds of the way through the hexagons and before I know it they will all be done. Decisions, decisions.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

I Love Stoke on Trent

2011-02-09T20:29:00.003Z

A few weeks back I was sent this fabulous book by Barbara Chainey. It is called The Lost City of Stoke on Trent and is by Matthew Rice. (Talented husband of Emma Bridgewater). Those of you who have been paying attention will remember this is my place of birth and my occasional references to it.

Inside it has fabulous little paintings and drawings like the one shown and chronicles the lost heritage of Stoke on Trent and the buildings that made it a once world famous centre for excellent pottery. You will notice from the cover that there is a huge untapped resource for patchwork designs from the pottery tiles alone. Thank you Barbara for the gift. It has given me great pleasure reading it and my head is buzzing with ideas for that Potteries Heritage Quilt. Thank you too for the pink fabric.

At Kate's today we celebrated Rosemary's birthday with tea and yummy cake. There was also a bit of sewing to be shown off.

Kate has been making this lovely little heart quilt, beautifully quilted and covered with red buttons.

Rosemary finished this pretty little cot quilt for a friend. One thing I love about Rosemary is the fact that she chooses the most prettiest fabrics for whatever it is that she makes and I sit there secretly coveting them, well, quite openly really.

I wanted to show you a close up of the baby in the pram because it is so cute but the photo is rubbish.

The little wall hanging is also by Rosemary and again note those pretty fabrics.

I even had a little bit to show and tell myself today other than hexagons. This little project was started many moons ago after watching a programme on Quilters TV with Eleanor Burns. I made half of the blocks, promptly put them away and found them the other day minus instructions. Eventually I managed to work it out and put them together. It needs a little border and then the outer border. A soon to be finished project. Yeah!

Finally, The List. I can honestly say that it has been a hit this month. I managed everything on it except for item 13. I am happy that I didn't get to item 13 as that one gets me into such trouble. One other thing is that I have decided not to do the Civil War Blocks. Having done 2, not liking my fabric choice too much and not wanting to start again with another set of fabrics I have abandoned them. I may do a few more at some point and make something smallish with them. I am enjoying seeing what everyone else is doing though. I haven't produced a list for February, just doing my own thing as and when I can this month.

These socks are destined for my niece and they took an age to finish and I was glad to see them done.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

As I was going to St.Ives......

2011-01-31T20:22:00.004Z

No, I didn't meet a man with seven wives or indeed any cats but we did have a lovely weekend at our favourite place. The best place to view St.Ives is from Tregenna Castle Hotel. It just takes my breath away every time.

Down on the Harbour slipway was a man making these beautiful, traditional Cornish willow crab pots.

Much photographed and painted corner of the beach. The sand here is so soft and the light is just special. I may be repeating myself here but it is true.

The Sloop Inn is a very old building and in the warmer weather is crowded inside and out. Quite often there are men singing and I don't mean the drunken variety but more of the kind singing sea shanty type songs.

On the walk down and still in the hotel grounds is this lovely little spot with a waterfall. I love the sound of the water rushing down. It isn't really a grand waterfall but such a peaceful spot.

At the top of the waterfall all the way aroung the wall were pretty little snowdrops. In a few weeks the daffodils will be out too.

Now, I apologise for this next photo and as you can see I have started to notice hexagons in all manner of places. Eyes down, trying to get my breath back after the long haul back up the hill and I realised what I was standing on. A hexagonal manhole cover. It even has the word challenger on it and grade A. Here is a little challenge for you. Where and what is the most unusual hexagon you have found. I did notice another one today and will show that later when I have taken a photo of it. I did say that I was a little obsessed with them. Even my husband has started to use the word and take notice of hexagons!!!

A little detour on our way back took us to Fistral Beach at Newquay where we spent a pleasant hour in our Toyota Celica mobile conservatory. It was way too cold to be walking on the beach and in the car behind glass it felt very warm and snug. Mick fell asleep while I read my magazine and watched the surfers. Yes. These mad people were actually in the water pretending that it was the height of summer. Let me tell you, it was freezing cold out there.

We also saw lots of these down there and as you can see these two 6" fabric beach birds are much quieter. I was asked way back if I had considered making one of the beach birds face the other direction. I did it. Just have 10 more to do.

This month I have worked steadily on the list and even managed not to succumb to item 13. Report to follow shortly. Have I managed to finish it?........

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.x

January's Klosjes

2011-01-22T19:42:00.003Z

So far, so good. The re-introduction of The List is proving to be a good idea. I have been a little crafty with it and while it looks pretty comprehensive some items are ongoing and if I have done just a little bit of it then I can tick it off as done. Ha!

One of the items was 1 dozen Klosjes and as it is Saturday here they are. I had forgotten just what a pleasure it is to make these dear little blocks and now I wonder why I abandoned them. Life, hexagons and just plain starting too many other things I guess. Well, I am back in business and I love them.

This little beaded thimble holder has gone to a good home and I know that it is going to be well loved. They are lovely to make if not a little fiddly but well worth the effort, decorative and with a practical use. That background should be a pale pink so don't know why it is orange. The beads are a dark blue and pale grey.

I still cannot stop making these and now the total stands at 60 flowers. That is halfway of the 120 that I need. I am still thinking of the background and at Kate's last week we had a little play with Wendy's hand dyed fabrics trying out different colours and shades. It is amazing just what happens to these flowers when you use certain shades. Some colours just made them look really dull, while some made them pop out of the background. Still love the teal though.

Half a dozen diamonds now brings the total to 54. I am not buying anything for this quilt other than the background. Every diamond has to come from my vast stash.

This week I have been busy trying to tidy and sort out my sewing space. I have shelves now and the cupboards are semi organised. Cannot show you yet as it is still work in progress.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

When Friends Meet...

2011-01-12T21:55:00.008Z

Today was the first meeting of our Wednesday Quilt Group and a new venue. This was my gift to Kate for her new sewing studio and retreat. It sums up how we feel in this group. I hope all of Kate's guests leave with the same warm feeling.

In my career as Ribbon Cutter Extraordinaire it was my great pleasure to perform the honours in the grand opening at www.come2quilt.co.uk and as you can see it was decked out in suitable pink ribbon. Do check it out. I will even come and visit and make you a cup of tea.

I declare this venue well and truly open - now can we have that champagne? I can appear at a venue near you now that I am fully fledged in ribbon cutting. The eagle eyed amongst you will notice that I am showing you both sides of me.

How many quilters does it take to operate a camera?

We had a great day and I can assure anyone thinking of booking a place at Kate's Retreat you will have a truly lovely relaxing time. It is also a very comfortable and pretty home and I am proud of what Kate and David have achieved with all their hard work.

Whilst we sat there enjoying our champagne a pheasant wandered into the garden and throughout the day we sat and watched a wide variety of birds on the lawn and feeders.

Just inside the hallway is this little beauty. Those hexagons are about 3/4" and with the little splash of pink it looked so pretty. What can I say? I well and truly love those hexagons.

Kate gave me a present for doing the honours. This duck is a savings duck. Can you see the £ signs in the duck's eyes. I save my £2 coins for when we go to Malvern in May and now I have somewhere to put them. Following on from the Potteries Dialect lessons this came with a label saying "ay up duck". One of the conversations we had was how much we should put in the pot for stitching at Kate's. I suggested that she buy another duck instead of a pot and we should call it - "pay up duck"!!!!

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.x

New Year's List

2011-01-04T21:08:00.002Z

I thought I would publish the New Year's List. No, not the one where they dish out medals for great achievements. This one is more the kind to help me get myself back on track and try and achieve something in the way of sewing. I certainly wouldn't be given a medal for services to patchwork and quilting as I fail miserably sometimes on that score. I wonder if they give them out for making hexagons!!!! I am sure that The Queen and I would have a nice little chat on how they are made.

Here goes...

1. Beaded Thimble necklace
2. Pink hexagons - continue
3. Diamond Hexagons- continue
4. Mini Quilt - When Friends Meet
5. Civil War Blocks 1-4
6. Rachel's sweater - continue
7. Charlotte's socks
8. Cross Stitch next word of Romance
9. A Dozen Klosjes
10. Harriet Tubman - Block 1
11. Hearts and Flowers - carry on with centre medallion
12. 2 Beach Bird blocks
13. Anything Else!!!!

That I think is called a Quilters Dozen and item 13 gets me into so much trouble because I get to that number before I do the others.

Well, I have made the first block of the new Barbara Brackman Civil War Quilt. I decided to hand piece. Why? I ask myself. It literally has taken me all day to finish it. Took it to sewing this afternoon and realised when I got home that I had sewn the middle pinwheels on the wrong way round. The first set of fabrics took some persuading that I liked them and I decided that I didn't. Just changing the medium shade fabric made it work better so I shall stick with the fabrics I have. They were a bundle I bought quite some time ago, saving them obviously for that special occasion.

I have to show you this new mug I had for Christmas off Sarah. It is by a company called Moorland Pottery. I was born and bred in Stoke on Trent where the worlds best crockery was made. I say was made, as not very much of it is made there these days. This present both pleased and amused me. It is called Stokie Ware and has a duck on it. We are famed in Stoke for saying "ay up duck" - meaning a greeting - hello. One that we all use is " up Anley Duck" - meaning - Hanley, the Town Centre, all roads lead up to it and Duck is added to everything. Aitches are dropped and added where they aren't supposed to be for example Arold, with is orse and is harrow in is and. It is quite an amusing dialect and from time to time I will give you a little insight to the Potteries Dialect. Barbara Chainey is a posh pot whereas I am more your seconds pot. Barbara and I hail from the same area and have had a few laughs over our heritage. One thing we have is a good sense of humour.

Yep, I definitely qualify for this one - a Stokie born and bred. What was so amazing is that it was bought here in Somerset nearly 200 miles away.

Thank you to everyone for your concern over Mick's fall on his back. He is quite mobile now and while not pain free yet it is improving daily. He is a big, tall bloke so I suppose he had a long way to fall and that ice was solid.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

New Year - New Start

2011-01-01T14:45:00.004Z

Forgive me. Today I am feeling a little peaky. I was determined to see in the New Year and be rid of the old one. Don't get me wrong, 2010 wasn't all bad, in fact some truly great things happened. Events somewhat overshadowed everything else and I almost melted down. I miss my Mum more than I could possibly have thought or known but life has to go on for everyone else and in this New Year I plan to sort myself out.

I missed my blogging anniversary. I started blogging in December 2009 and rambled on to myself for a while and then all of a sudden all these wonderful people entered my world. It has been truly amazing, even meeting a couple of you. I met Sue (I Sew Quilts) and Elyte (Tea,Fabric and Other Things) and it feels like you have all become such friends and I have valued all your comments, your words of wisdom and comfort for which I thank you all enormously. I am looking forward now to seeing what the next year brings. I have a few new projects planned but have not forgotten the old ones. There are many unfinished things lurking in cupboards which need some love and attention and I shall do my best.

The cold, snowy weather brought the Fieldfare back into the garden. My neighbours tree has the most delicious berries, at least from a birds point of view and within a day they had stripped it bare of it's fruit. They really shouldn't be in our garden but I guess they go where the food is in abundance. It was however a great relief to see such green grass when all the snow melted. My husband fell over on the ice on Christmas Day and badly hurt his back. A week later it is getting easier for him and the Doctor says it is just badly bruised.

A little bit of floral cheering up.

The pile of jelly roll hexagons is growing and now totals 34. I am playing with background colours and this pretty pale teal is calling me although not yet definitely decided.

I am sure that my finger will hover over the buy button way more than will be good for me because as you will all know by now that I have no willpower or self control and someone has to keep the Economy going. I fear that I will not be alone.

May 2011 be a very happy and productive one for each and everyone of you.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Snowbound

2010-12-20T12:29:00.002Z

Britain is still gripped in this icy blast and unusually for us here in Taunton we have a lot of snow. We have lived here 21 years and this is the most we have seen. Everything grinds to a halt. Planes are grounded, food and supplies cannot get through and we are not done yet. It is so cold too with temperatures not getting above freezing. Outside there is at least 8-10 inches of snow and many roads are impassable. Lucky that Santa doesn't need to rely on the roads to get through. Olly's parents are due back at Heathrow today from Australia!!!!!

You would be forgiven for thinking this was a very poor attempt at icing the Christmas cake but no... underneath all that snow is my car. Going nowhere. Shanks's Pony is the transport of the day.

The frosty smoke tree from last week is covered in snow and my neighbours bird house looks very festive peeping out of the hedge.

Just to show that I have been doing something sewing wise I thought I would give you a glimpse of a cross stitch sampler that I am stitching. I used to be very passionate about cross stitching but when I discovered patchwork it took a back seat. This one has me wanting to stitch again though. It is from the Historical Sampler Company.

All hexagons prepared and ready for off. I am toying with the background colour and have tried a few colourways. I think I know what it will be. I also now know what I am doing with the diamonds and the total now stands at 48.

What will we do now that Strictly Come Dancing has finished and the Fantastic Kara and of course her dance partner Artem are no longer on our screen? It has been sheer pleasure to watch this series of Strictly and common sense prevailed and the right couple won. Apart from the dancing it has been touching to see this young couple fall in love over the weeks and I have to say I shed a tear or two. My daughter when she reads this will say " Oh Mother". I can't help being sentimental. It is who I am am.

Wherever you are, stay safe and warm.

Love Shirley.

Hexamania

2010-12-09T09:17:00.002Z

I am both sorry and glad to report that I am still gripped with making hexagons. I have titled it Hexamania because that is somehow what it feels like. Why is it that at 7.30pm you feel so tired that you feel as though you want to nod off in the chair and at bedtime the light bulb has switched on and you are wide awake? There is nothing for it but to carry on making these darn things. I now have plans though.

This is what a whole jelly roll of hexagons looks like. I am beginning to wonder if I am a little OCD ish. I am naturally a messy person but like order in my sewing. As you can see I have made a good start on the centres. The rosettes are going to be pieced randomly and as of yet I haven't decided on the background. The jelly roll makes 120 flowers and I think I may need 121 so will have to add a few extras.

I have been playing with settings and found this web site that offers free downloads for graph paper - PrintFreeGraphPaper.com

It prints a page full of tiny hexagons - 5 to the inch and is a great way to play with designing. I love to colour in with watercolour pencils. I have given you a tiny glimpse of what is going to be a big project for hexagons and one which will be for Christmas in the future. I am busy gathering reds. I cannot decide which setting to use for the present project but I am leaning more to the design in the bottom left corner. Maybe finding the background fabric will be the decider.

Hexagon Diamonds - total 42.

A few weeks ago I found this beautiful bedding whilst out shopping with Sarah. I couldn't get it out of my head so went and ordered it online. It is destined for the spare room and a new colour scheme of this pinky red. Very French looking. It is a project slightly on hold until the girls decide what they are doing with their funiture etc. but is something to plan for after Christmas.

The Big Freeze continues although it is mildly warmer - freezing instead of below freezing. This is the smoke tree in my garden. On the way to sewing Tuesday afternoon the landscape had been transformed into a winter wonderland and guess who had left her camera at home? In some areas of the Country the pavemants are so icy that you are unable to stand up on them. My Brother In Law had to drive the kids down to the school bus stop 300 yards away. Shame!!! Nice try kids.

Will try and post something other than hexagons next time just incase you are a little fed up of them.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.x

The White Stuff

2010-12-02T15:21:00.005Z

Parts of the UK are knee deep in snow but here in Taunton this was what it threw at us overnight. Just a scattering. Looks like someone has sprinkled icing sugar but boy is it cold out there. More is forecast and set to stay cold and we have only just begun winter. Looks like it could be a long one.

I am still busy with those hexagons. The diamond/lozenge stack has now grown to 42 and I love making them. I came up with a very interesting setting for these diamonds but I am keeping it to myself for a while as I have another idea to make the most of it. I could be prepping hexagons for eternity.

Almost at the end of prepping the hexagons cut from a jelly roll. I make that 720 hexagons. I have decided to make each rosette/flower using different fabrics. With the addition of the pretty green fabric purchased at Dotty Dolly's the other day I think it works a treat. They remind me of those little daisylike flowers that grow in abundance in the walls of the Cornish countryside. I am sure someone will tell me what they are called.

This little bird sleeping on my chair flew in from my friend Kate and was made by her daughter Charlie who has a shop on Etsy called Pipkyn. Isn't it lovely? It looks so at home. Thank you Kate, I love it.

Yesterday we had our Wednedsay meeting at the garden centre and had a christmas lunch and exchanged our gifts to each other. Fortified by a glass of wine and lots of food we didn't want to move from our seats. As you can see there are some lovely gifts there and I love them all. I love my friends too, they are a great group of ladies and such good fun.

The little blue suede purse came from Kate and she called it a hexagon purse. Inside it was a travel kit of paper hexagons, fabric, thread, needles and a pair of scissors. What a great idea. All ready to go. Just need somewhere to go!!(preferably somewhere that is warm and not full of snow).

Kate has her website up and running now for her new business venture
http://come2quilt.co.uk/
Should you wish to come and have a sewing holiday then Kate will make you very welcome and you will have a great time. I might even come and say hello too.

I hope that wherever you are reading this you are keeping warm/cool/dry. Our silly celebrities are doing revolting things deep in the Australian Rainforest and the hosts of the show Ant and Dec came out with this wise crack - Australia have had so much rain recently that they were renaming the country - Britain!!! I can't begin to think why they need to put themselves through such horrible things just to save a flagging career. Take up quilting Guys. It is much more fun and no one will make you eat various body parts of kangaroo.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Plodding On

2010-11-15T14:09:00.005Z

Hello out there. I am still around and have been checking in on you all but just haven't had the will to do anything more. Still on with my hexagon therapy. There are now 32 diamonds. They are keeping me sane - just.

There are lots more prepped in my box of tricks. Hmmmm, looking pink again.

In my grief and hexagon mania I realised that I could get 18 hexies out of a jelly roll strip and before I knew it I had cut out the whole roll - yep, enough to make 120 rosettes. I bought the jelly roll at a show some time ago and didn't know what to do with it. I am thinking of green centres and possibly a reddish background. I am not sure yet whether to make up the rosettes mixed or be conventional. We shall see. I prep these in the small hours until I drop off sleep. You know how it is sometimes?!!!

I received a lovely package through the post last week from Frances Leate at The Quilting Owl Blog. In it was a lovely selection of pink fabrics and a little pack of papers to make the lovely pincushion. I decided to make it in christmas fabrics and did a spot of fussy cutting. It turned out quite well. Thank you Frances and Peter, it was really kind of you to do that for me and I love your e-mails.

On one of my walks in to town down by the river all these swans were just swimming majestically with the ducks. There were more but I couldn't fit them all in.

This cheeky chappy posed for me. I think he was hoping for a bit of food as I was sat at a picnic table trying to photograph him and in the end he took pity on me and came right by my feet. I know the grey squirrels are supposed to be a pest destroying our native red squirrels but I like them.

Finally, this morning, on the frozen lawn was a lovely green woodpecker. He just turned his head slightly as I snapped and so you can't see his red crown.

Once again, I would just like to say a big thank you to everyone for all your kind wishes, thoughts and poems. You are all just great.

Love Shirley.xx

p.s. Dotty Dolly's had a customer in their shop the other week from New Zealand and when asking her how she new about them she said that she had seen it on my blog!!!! How Amazing. Do let me know who you are.

Tea, Fabric and Elyte

2010-10-28T09:10:00.003+01:00

Hello everyone. I would like to say a very big thank you to all you lovely people for your kind words of comfort this past week. It has been a terrible week in all ways. On top of the shock a viral illness hit me with the force of a sledgehammer.

One really lovely thing to happen this week was the opportunity to meet with a fellow blogger. Elyte and I realised that we had so many things in common that when she said she was coming to the UK for a holiday I hoped that she would fit us in her itinerary. A very big thank you to Keith for doing this for us. We had a lovely few hours together and chatted away like we had known each other for ever. The Internet is truly an amazing concept.

We exchanged a few goodies. The tin contains yummy biscuits and the design is from Emma Ball who is one of my favourite artists. How clever of Elyte to guess this. Plus some lovely fabrics to play with.

I have been sewing hexagons again this week. It is the only thing I can concentrate on. Hexagons are the sewing version of comfort food and in times of severe stress they should be the order of the day. The total lozenges now stands at 16 with another 6 ready prepped. I don't have a plan for how many I need, I shall just keep going until I declare it enough.

Sarah just happened to look out of the window the other day and said that there was a pheasant on next doors roof. I tell you we get some odd things appearing in our garden from time to time. We are less than a mile from the town centre and a short drive away from open fields and I guess these creatures just get lost on route. He certainly shouldn't have been in our garden.

Once again, a very big thank you to you all for your kindness and support. You are the best.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.xx

Mum

2010-10-19T15:29:00.003+01:00

As you will know from a previous post that my Mum was recently diagnosed with Alzheimers and had also been having some tests at the hospital which were all good and positive. It is with such great sadness that I have to tell you that today my mum passed away. It is a great shock to us all and we will miss her so much. The only comfort at present is that she and her family have been spared the onslaught of this terrible illness.

The above photo is Mum's quilt which she loved and the other was taken at mum's 70th birthday party and is of my mum and my sister and brothers and myself.

Shirley.

Sarah Morell

2010-10-17T09:05:00.004+01:00

This week I took the plunge and started the Sarah Morell quilt. I have been gathering a few fabrics and watching and learning, waiting for the right moment to start my own masterpiece. This quilt isn't for the faint hearted but nothing ventured, nothing gained and I am not one to shy away from a challenge. This is the centre of the medallion block and as far as I have got. There is still quite a bit of work before this block will be finished. Only another 60 - yes 60, blocks to go.

Having finished the little sweater for Rachel I have now started something a little warmer for her. She may get it in the summer!! The yarn and pattern are from Bergere de France. Whilst I was knitting I was suddenly aware of the pattern in the ball of yarn and thought it interesting. Inspiration is everywhere that you care to look. In this I see a log cabin set on point.

I am still in love with hexagons. I am re-using the papers from the kaleidoscope quilt and using fabrics only from my stash. It will be just very simple and lovely I think. Sometimes they are the best. I can cut out and sew and stitch whenever the urge takes me.

Yesterday we went for a drive down to Dartmouth. It is a beautiful place on the River Dart in South Devon. This photo is at the River mouth looking towards Dartmouth Castle. It is also where The Mayflower and The Speedwell docked before sailing of to America. They started off together from Southampton but the ailing Speedwell needed repairs and didn't make the journey. This is what they would have set sail to. Dartmouth is also home to the Naval College.

On the opposite side of the River is Kingsbridge. It is steep and pretty and you cross via the ferry. It was also home to Agatha Christie, famous for her crime writing.

This lone swan was majestically swimming in the harbour, just waiting for some attention and no doubt a bit of food.

There are some fabulous buildings to look at and again the inspiration is there if you care to look.

How about the Mayflower as the centre medallion and all those applique blocks?

How about some English Paper Piecing?

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Lone Pie

2010-10-05T11:17:00.002+01:00

This week I managed to make the sum total of one pie. That makes the total 11. Yesterday I found this little cookery book at the garden centre and thought it very appropriate. Amazing what you can find when you get a theme going.

All the hexagons are now finished on the kaleidoscope quilt and this is where I have come up against a brick wall.

Plan A - could not get anymore fabric. I had the idea that I could fussy cut more shapes to make a border. This would have worked brilliantly and I still have it in my head that this is what it needs.

Plan B - did not have enough of the left overs to do something creative for the borders. Again it would work but still did not have enough fabric.

Plan C - still thinking about Plan C. Maybe Plan C is to carry on searching for some more fabric and then I can carry out Plan A and even add Plan B. We will see.

Sunday morning we woke up to quite a breezy day. I heard something fall and when I looked out of the window there was the giant sunflower - gone. As you can see it was uprooted like a tree. It had been quite magnificent.

Saturday's post bought a lovely package from Elyte in Australia. Elyte's quilting group are the Bluegum Quilters and they were focused in the Australian Patchwork and Quilting magazine. In November they are holding their exhibition and Elyte sent me the magazine and a few little goodies. Notice the lovely pink fabric and some pretty wooden heart buttons. The fabric is from a range called Under the Australian Sun and Elyte tells me they are gum blossoms. Also there came with the magazine a dvd on perfecting bindings and borders. The quilt on the cover of that is to die for and on my ever growing wish list of quits to make. Thank you Elyte. I am so excited because I am going to meet this lady sometime soon when she comes to England. Counting down the number of sleeps now Elyte.

I also enjoyed reading about Frances Leate(Quilting Owl blog) and her amazing studio. Frances is responsible for me joining in with Pies and Tarts. Well, I am of course responsible for my own actions but Frances makes the most yummy of pies and I just couldn't resist. No will power, I am afraid.

Last week I also finished a piece of knitting that I was quite pleased with. I cannot show you the results as no sooner had I finished it, Rachel whipped it away and wore it. Several of her friends have put in requests. Fat chance girls. You may be waiting a long while in the queue for finished items. Let me just say that it was a pink and pretty little sweater. She is after all her mother's daughter!!!

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Pie Supper

2010-09-24T16:05:00.004+01:00

There has been a bit of activity in the Pie Department this week and 4 more have been added making a total of 10. I have lots cut out ready for prepping for when I get that urge to stitch a few more. They were a nice, easy way to relax this week as I sat with my mum. I know there are quite a few who have indulged in Pies and Tarts and Gisele from Art Escapes and myself are about to launch a new club so keep a lookout for an announcement and anyone wishing to join us can show their produce.

On my return home yesterday there was a package waiting for me. Inside was this lovely pack of pink fabrics from Gisele. They are her leftovers from another project and very kindly donated to yours truly. They are just so pretty. Gisele also made for me the beautiful pink pincushion and can you see that it is a little pie? The accompanying card is a snapshot of a sunset in Jersey. Now, what shall I make with those gorgeous fabrics?!!!! Thank you Gisele for your kindness and generosity. It is much appreciated.

Also waiting for me courtesy of Manor House Publications was the latest edition of Homespun Magazine. Guess what this issue is all about. Yes, it is called The Pink Issue. It must have known that Gisele had sent that parcel as they arrived at the same time. Is there a conspiracy? Lots of lovely projects in this issue to get me thinking. Mind you, thinking gets me into trouble as I plan yet another project. I love the quilt on the left.

As I just mentioned I have been looking after my mum this week as she had to go to the hospital for some tests and to pass the time we played a game of I Spy. Now, we were scraping the barrel a bit as this room was devoid of anything interesting to look at and so we were having clues like screws, nails and even a hook on the back of the bed!!! desparate I know. Well, try playing I spy with someone who has Alzheimers. We were crying with laughing as mum kept forgetting what clues we had already had, although most of the time she did very well with it. It is a wonder they didn't come and tell us to be quiet. Luckily Mum's test was all clear and one less thing to worry about.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.

Counting My Blessings

2010-09-17T16:35:00.003+01:00

Today I received my prize from Rae Ann at Cutie Pinwheel. You may remember I won it as a prize giveaway. The pattern is by Lori Holt and is called Count Your Blessings. It is lovely, I know I shall enjoy stitching it. Hopefully I will be able to do both Rae Ann and Lori proud. Rae Ann also sent me a beautiful pattern that I had admired on her blog. The real prize of course and the real reason for feeling so blessed is making the acquaintance of Rae Ann. I do hope we get to meet one day.

I also had a phone call this week telling me that I had won a bag in a raffle at a quilt show. Last weekend My husband took me to Weston Super Mare to see Weston Quilter's Exhibition. Now this is a great show and well worth a visit, once you have negotiated the traffic along the sea front and followed the diversion which brings you out at exactly the same spot you started!!!! There is a lot of regeneration going on along the sea front which hopefully will be a good thing. It needs smartening up. The raffle was a good idea. Buy a ticket for £1 and put the ticket in the bag that you want to win. Ta da! It is made of wool felt, has a lovely novelty lining of sewing items and is beautifully made. A fabulous prize I think you will agree. Can a girl ever have too many bags? Guess who forgot her camera?

Union flags are everywhere at the minute and this is my version of a pattern downloaded from JustHands on TV. The pattern is by Anne Baxter. I have adapted it slightly as Anne has made her cushion square and I want mine oblong. It is for my niece Meg. The brief was to use her colours for her new bedroom. Now I haven't seen the new bedroom yet but I have got a wallpaper sample. Hope you will like it Meg. I am informed that you can only call our flag the Union Jack if it is hoisted on a ship, otherwise it is the Union Flag. Didn't know that before till after. I found a few threads from my stash that will do for some big stitch quilting.

Now, please feel free to have a good laugh. I did. I have permission to show you this. Wednesday was my youngest daughter's birthday, she was 25. Olly, her beloved decided that he would make her a cake. I offered to buy one!!! Time was really short and off we went to the supermarket to get the ingredients as he was also cooking tea for 6 of us. Sarah was picking me up on her way from work and Olly phoned to say could I delay her for 20 minutes. When we arrived at their house. Rachel and Olly were in hysterics. He made the cake but forgot that it needed time to cool down and hastily slapped all this lemon icing on that promptly melted. If you click on it you will see that he also put cocktail sticks in it to stop the layers from sliding off. It was funny. The icing actually was quite nice. Tea was delicious and we had a great time. Thanks Ol. I also bought balloons which were put up. I did take photo's but I think Blogger may take me off air if I show them as they looked a little rude. They are in actual fact animals but in the semi darkness - well, what can I say. Take my word for it.

Roses most definitely are my favourite and these were cheap and cheerful from Tesco. They really brightened up the room this week and cheered me no end. I even hope to have a quilting design drawn up from them.

Happy stitching

Love Shirley.x

Dotty Dolly

2010-09-07T13:44:00.007+01:00

Dotty Dolly is a newly opened patchwork shop in the next town of Wellington in Somerset. It is owned by Debbie and Joan who both have great stitching credentials and both being trained teachers. Local stitchers will know them for their lovely hand dyed threads and fabrics which they used to sell at local shows and craft fairs.

When we went to Cowslip a few weeks back Debbie came with us and I jokingly said that If I could come and cut the ribbon I would give them some free publicity. Word came back to me that there was some ribbon waiting to be cut. Today I fulfilled that obligation and let me tell you that I could get used to this celebrity lifestyle and I am available for other such functions. Sorry to have missed you today Joan if you are reading this.

The shop is painted plain white and is light, bright and airy. Lots of pretty fabrics to entice you with more coming in soon. I was pleased to see Mettler threads on display as they are my favourites for quilting with Gutermann coming in shortly. It has only been opened less than a week and so is just getting off the ground. One thing is guaranteed, Debbie and Joan have great flair and have great plans for both beginners and the more experienced stitchers. I am excited about this venture and can see that I shall be a frequent stalker, sorry, visitor!! If you are in the vicinity then you will get a lovely warm welcome. Parking is good and if you are coming this way for a holiday then come off the M5 at junction 26 and follow the signs to Wellington. There are some lovely little shops to have a browse at and also a new Waitrose.

Telephone 01823 660879/www.dottydollyquilting.co.uk for more information.

Of course I couldn't leave without a few purchases.

On Saturday we went to St Ives in Cornwall. It is my favourite place. It always makes me feel just so relaxed. The light here is special and a haven for the artists that flock here to paint. It started off dreary and damp but then the sun came out and we sat on the beach later. This is looking at the harbour area.

This is Porthminster beach and is a beautiful place. We stayed once out of season and I was the only one on the beach leaving just one set of footprints on the soft white sand.

There are lots of little back streets to wander around with lots of art galleries and cafe's to savour and the views are to die for. This street sign made me smile. There was another small sign on a wall that said that the area was a alcohol free zone. I wonder if you have to sneak alcohol in through the door in a brown bag!!!?

Just in case you have got this far and wondered if there is any actual sewing progress then this is 10 blocks of the Farmer's Wife Project. It hasn't made much of a dent yet in the box of fabrics and charm pack. I was putting off making the Bird's In The Air block as the pieces were tiny and pressing them proved a bit of a tricky one. I think pressing is so important as it can make or break a piece of work.

Frankie loves to look out of the window and watch the birds in the garden. Just look how he climbs onto the frame. He looks like a feathered version of Kilroy was here.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.

Hearts and Flowers

2010-09-03T08:41:00.007+01:00

I first discovered Kim McLean quite by accident whilst browsing for something else. Kim has the most amazing talent for colour and design and I immediately sent off for several patterns. It is this pattern though that had me itching to stitch and over the months I have amassed quite a collection of bright Kaffe Fassett fabrics along with a few other Westminster fabric designers. This is Hearts and Flowers from Kaffe Fassetts Quilt Romance book. You may remember way back that I had been prepping hearts - well they were for this quilt. Unable to decide on a background colour or even what to choose for the centre hearts I eventually took the plunge. This lovely shade of lavender appealed to me and I bought a bolt from a show. I am hoping that the whole finished article will resemble the gaily painted bargeware or gypsy clothing. Well here goes at least. Kim's patterns can be bought from www.gloriouscolor.com

The border consists of lots of fussy cutting to get a flower motif in the centre of each shape. If it worries you about wasting fabric doing this then let me tell you that not much goes to waste. There are lots of opportunities to use those smaller odd pieces for some of the other shapes. There are a lot of small circles and leaves to add to this quilt. I have drawn the design on the back and I am tacking over the lines (slowly I may add), then I am tacking the applique pieces over the shape. I am needleturning the edges down and removing the tacking stitches as I go. I don't know if this is how Kim does hers but this is the one for me. I do try lots of other ways and it depends on the type of project to which method I use. I just like needleturn the best. There are lots more Kim McLean quilts being made over at http://gloriousapplique.blogspot.com/ and you can follow the progress over there.

Earlier in the year I was sent some sunflower seeds as a small gift as I participate in a block of the month with Buttonberry.(Down in the Garden). I say participate loosely as I a haven't actually stitched a block yet!!!! Well the sunflower seeds were planted and this giant is still growing. It now must be nearly 9ft tall.The leaves are ginormous and with a tiny flowerhead. The other flowers are much smaller.

We were also sent another little gift in the shape of Nev the garden gnome. The lovely Lisa and Emma have asked for photo's of Nev doing exciting things so he may pop up from time to time while he embarks on this adventure. As you can see here he is scaling the sunflower. No mean feat for someone who is only 2 inches tall.

This rather odd shaped hot air balloon was overhead yesterday teatime and it appeared to be struggling with the height and literally was just skimming the roof tops. The previous night we had one that resembled an ice cream cone. August sees the hot air ballon fiesta at Ashton Court, Bristol and we often get a few drifting our way. The warm good weather has brought them out again. August was officially a very wet month.

Here is an interesting little snippet for you. You will have to do a little research and google Princess Anne at Ascot/Ladies Day. It seems my sister in law Gail had the same outfit as our Princess Royal. Gail, if I may say so you looked terrific in your outfit and the hat was a knockout. Gail was sent the clipping from a newspaper after the wedding with a note attached saying, "if it is good enough for Princess Anne then it is good enough for our Gail".

Leek in Staffordshire is full of lovely buildings and this black and white timbered one is in St. Edwards Street. Leek is also full of antique shops and quite often pops up on tv programmes. It also has quite a stitching heritage. The Leek Embroiderers at one time were quite famous for their reproduction of the Bayeux Tapestry. William Morris was also a frequent visitor to the town as he was friends with the Silk dyer/manufacturer Sir Thomas Wardle.It is his wife Elizabeth Wardle who was a member of The Leek Embroiderer's Society. There is a lot of information out there if you want to learn more. Leek is known as The Queen of the Moorlands being on the edge of The Peak District.

I managed to do most things on my little list and completed 3 blocks for Farmers Wife, 12 klosjes, added quite a few hexagons to Kaleidoscope and managed to sew a few pies to their backgrounds. I have also acquired a serious condition for which there is no known cure and I am suffering greatly. I also suspect that there are quite a few of you out there with it too. It is called Quiltus Interruptus and has been identified by Janet at Quiltsalot. It's characteristics are having restless symptoms of the fingers and mind and only eased when they are occupied in a new project having abandoned a previous project. It is an affliction with which I shall have to live with for the rest of my life. It is hard, I know, please don't feel sorry for me. I am enjoying myself.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Festival favourites and shopping

2010-08-21T13:44:00.008+01:00

On Friday I went to the Festival of Quilts held at the NEC in Birmingham. I believe it is now the biggest quilt show in Europe. It was extremely busy, a good sign for the show and the traders but for visitors and for myself it was a little too uncomfortable. There were, however,some fantastic quilts on display and this is a selection of my favourites. I gave up after a while as trying to take photo's became impossible. I wandered off and had a look at the Trade stands and met some very nice people, Petra Prins (NL), Lynette Anderson(Aus), Michelle Hill,(Aus)not to mention all the usual traders from the UK.

This was my absolute favourite. Apart from it being in a colour very pleasing for me it was exquisite. How big do you think this quilt is? Let me tell you it was only about 12 inches at the most and the sheer skill in the piecing and the quilting was just mind blowing. It well deserved it's first prize for miniature quilt. This is by Kumiko Frydl.

Delectable goodies and calorie free. Made by Greta Fitchett of Derby. Lots of ribbon, lace and yoyo's.

This exhibit was entitled Lavender Bag and it smelled as divine as it looked. It was just beautifully stitched. There was even a fabulous beaded stopper to keep the lavender in the bag. Made by Heather Allson of Woodstock.

Loved the interpretation of this square in square block and the fabulous border. Apologies for not knowing who made it.

Somehow, my camera just couldn't do this one justice. I tried several close ups and the view finder looked great but the actual photo just didn't match up but maybe if you click for a close up it shows it up better. Apologies again for not knowing who the maker is.

Again you are going to have to click on this one for a close up as the detail was really impressive. Made by Louise Jessup, Ashford.

I think I may have a bit of an obsession for our feathered friends. I wished I could have taken this one home. I hope someone can tell me who made this quilt.

Now then. Anyone who hails from Stoke on Trent will immediately identify with this next quilt. They are to the landscape as engine houses are to Cornwall. Once the centre of excellence for the world's most amazing pottery these bottle ovens sadly are in decline along with the pottery industry. Where there once was thousands of these, there are now only about 50. Are you taking note here Barbara Chainey? Ideas for our Heritage Quilt? Art lessons at school always consisted of drawing and painting bottle ovens and our art teacher Mr. Turner!!! could always be heard saying "yellow ochre and black". We all could also paint roses and rhododenrons.

If you click on the photo there is a map of streets of Stoke on Trent and embroidered on the edges are the 6 towns that make up Stoke on Trent. The worded fabric contains names of past and present pottery firms. Check your cupboards ladies, I bet you have something in there from my home place and you never know it could have been made by one of our relatives. Made by Maureen Poole of Wrexham and called Potscape. I love this quilt.

Petra Prins was charming and I got to see the Sarah Morrell quilt by Di Ford. It was every bit as amazing as the photograph I have and Petra kindly spent some time helping me sort out a few fabrics in readiness of starting this fantastic quilt. There is a lot of fussy cutting and broderie perse and the colours are darker and a departure from my norm but I am excited at the prospect of making my own version of this quilt. ( See I Sew Quilts for a pic of Petra's stand).

A few more bits to add to Hearts and Romance. Is anyone keeping count here how many projects I have?!!! Makes life interesting and I should never get bored, or is it that I get bored easily?!!!

A few patterns that will come out of hiding at a later date.

Frankie and Luey are trying to get acquainted. Luey follows Frankie around like a lapdog and does whatever Frankie does. Frankie doesn't like his space being invaded and I think is a little jealous of the attention this little visitor is getting. Had to take this photo though. Frankie has had a chew on one of his feathers hence the odd angle of the rogue feather sticking out. I think you can tell he isn't amused.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Chocolate background

2010-08-19T20:34:00.004+01:00

I am so loving making these Pies and Tarts and with the glue stick they are ultra quick and easy to prepare. Wendy brought along her hand dyed fabrics and I think I cleaned her out of this shade of chocolate brown. I have all 100 background squares cut out ready and quite a few segments. I think now I can add some creams into the mix.

The block in the bottom right corner has been finished and cut to size. The others are yet to be stitched down

It has been some time since I started The Farmer's Wife Quilt but now there are 3 more prepped ready for the off.

I have made myself a list this week of things to do.

I always seem to add more than I can manage but at least it makes me try.
On the list are:-
3 Farmer's Wife blocks
3 Pies
12 klosjes
Sew Pies to background
Plod on with the hexagons for Kaleidoscope.

Last weekend I received a package from America courtesy of Rae Ann at Cutie Pinwheel and Stash Manicure. Rae Ann and I have shared some lovely emails in recent months and I was quite touched with her thoughtfulness and kindness. Thank you Rae Ann. I do hope we get to meet one day. My mum's auntie Gwen married a GI and went to live in Texas after the war and Rae Ann has done some research into that side of our family tree. The information was sent in a very pretty folder which you can see in the background. There was also a pretty little notebook, ideal for me as I promptly put it to good use and used the graph paper at the back of the notebook to jot down a block pattern I had seen in a book. The pen is great fun. There was a very pretty fat quarter in a rose fabric and also a delicate china spoon.

Love the pom pom. I think Rae Ann knows that I like pinks.

Meet Frank. He is 8 years old and is a real cute bird. He chatters away and keeps me amused although sometimes I wonder if I am the one amusing him. He has quite a repertoire of words and voices. Mostly it is my voice that I hear but occasionally he switches to deep voice and I hear Mick speaking, usually it is to say "stop biting" with a few swear words added on the end. He must be in crisis at times as he says " cheep, cheep, cheep" and "quack quack".

This is Luey and he is still a baby. He belongs to my daughter and her partner's family and we are looking after him whilst they are away on holiday. They have eyeballed each other but are not too keen on being nice yet. Mostly they sit staring at each other on the top of their cages. Luey doesn't talk. I hope that I can get him to do something this week.

Tomorrow I am off to The Festival Of Quilts armed with a long list. I hope I find what has so far been eluding me and that is suitable fabric to start the Sarah Morrell quilt. I am excited at seeing the quilts too. Watch this space.

Happy stitching

Love Shirley.

Laura's wedding

2010-08-10T19:33:00.005+01:00

Friday 6th August was a happy day. It was also the first wedding in the family of the next generation and we travelled to Leek, Staffordshire for the event. Our beautiful niece Laura married her lovely Chris and oh dear, here I am crying yet again just writing this. I did warn them that I would cry and I did, so did a few others, the bride included. Laura was just so happy, it was one of those joyful, teary days.

A little adjustment of the head dress.

Their two dogs came too, just to see their mum and dad. I did wonder that they might be on guard duty either side of the church door like a pair of Staffordshire pot dogs. They are rescue racing greyhounds and thoroughly pampered.

My Sister-in-Law Gail looked fabulous and she started me off crying the second she arrived in the church. Her outfit looked like Jane Austen had been updated to 21st Century and I am sure she would have loved it too. Proud dad Phil (Brother-in-Law) even had a tear or two, David (Nephew and brother of Laura), Laura and Chris. Chris's mum Fay too looked very elegant in Navy and white lace.( sorry, haven't got a photo of Fay).

This is me and mine. I wore a black and ivory silk spotty dress with pink accessories (what else), Sarah standing behind Mick and myself, Rachel stood with Olly and Rachel's other half Justin sat next to Mick.

The Reception was held in a Marquee and looked fantastic. Very pretty pink and green bunting and chandeliers.

The table plans were set out with jars of yummy sweeties and as I clicked the camera out shot this hand belonging to Neil, partner of Sister-in-Law Sandra.

The wedding cake with its cup cakes and doves.

The table centres had teapots filled with roses and teacups with the table number attached and filled with chocolates. We had a fantastic time and it was great to see everyone.

The sum total of my sewing for the weekend was one pie.

Enough prepped for 5 more pies. Lots more cut out ready and waiting.

I had a bit of a mishap too at the weekend for which I am suffering. I managed to fall down the stairs in the middle of the night and bruised all up my right arm and the small of my back. The stair didn't escape injury either as that came away. That was fixed much more easily. Managed a bit of stitching today but I did ache quite a bit.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.

Cowslip

2010-08-04T20:42:00.006+01:00

Today we have been on a trip. Every year we hire a coach and go to Cornwall for the day. More to the point, we go to a tiny portion of Cornwall called Launceston. First we start at Cowslip Workshops at Newhouse Farm, St. Stephens.

Cowslip is the brainchild of the lovely Jo Colwill. It is set on a working dairy farm and is in the most idyllic setting. Not only do you get a fabulous exhibition,but there is the well stocked shop and a wonderful cafe. All the food is locally sourced, organic and cooked on the large Aga. On a good sunny day you can sit out in the garden and have refreshments. It was a little wet today but it didn't spoil a thing. Jo herself is a kind and gentle soul and so inspirational. Everywhere you look has her style stamped on the place - even the loo's.

This is the entrance to the shop. It is packed to the rafters with such pretty fabrics and everything you could possibly need. It is not very big but every inch of space is filled and with our party today it was busy.

This entry leads to the gallery on the left and the loo's on the right and up the garden path to the cafe.

The seat outside the shop has this amazing view of Launceston Castle and the town nestling below it. We have been there on a sunny day and seen the buzzards swooping around. With such wonderful views how can you not be inspired?

There are lots of little nooks and crannies filled with pots of pretty flowers. Jo must have done this one especially for me. Love the pink pot.

We had two exhibitions to look at today. The quilts in the barn were by Charlotte Yde and contemporary, with printed images and lots of machine quilting. I apologise but I didn't take any photo's.

The quilts in the gallery were by Jo's students and most of these quilts were made showcasing the fabulous Rouenneries fabrics. I am sure you will agree that this range by Moda has been very popular. I didn't take any names so cannot tell you who made which quilt. Apologies for this.

This Toile quilt was my favourite and I could have taken this one home with me. Sue Watters from I Sew Quilts is running a workshop at Cowslip on Toile Medallions which I believe is fully booked. Having seen what is on offer I am not surprised. I don't know who made this quilt. Sue may know and tell me.

Beautiful Log Cabin quilt, simply quilted with hearts in the centres and big stitch quilting.

This little cot quilt was adorable, again simply quilted with big stitches with a floral motif. Jo does Country Style so well.

Once we have had lunch we head back into Laubceston town where we visit Flowerpatch Quilters and The West Country Embroiderer's exhibitions. More photo's but maybe for another day.

On a final note, a few nights ago we had a lovely sunset. All the clouds turned a fluffy pink.

Of course today I had to buy a few things. You will understand that I am supporting the local economy. My bag was the smallest though. Honest.

For all you ladies planning a trip to the UK this HAS to be on your destination list. When you get there tell Jo that I sent you.

Happy Stitching.
Love Shirley.

Pies and Tarts

2010-08-01T17:19:00.005+01:00

I have given up sewing for today. My fingers are sore and at times I cannot feel the needle and thought it time to give them a little rest.

Yesterday, being Saturday I thought I would spend the day catching up with the much neglected Klosjes but that was before the post arrived. I have shamelessly stalked Frances at Quilting Owl blog to ogle her beautiful Pies and Tarts blocks that she has started. Well, I found the starter pack available here in the UK at The Quilt Room who plan to do it as a Block of the Month and my itchy little fingers just wouldn't wait. They are English paper pieced and with my latest best product, the glue pen, preparation was simple. I have enough papers to make 10 large Pies and 10 smaller Tarts. I have decided on a colour scheme of Plum, beige and green, with any shade inbetween from my stash.

These are the first 4. Three from yesterday and one today that proved a little difficult. Maybe it will feel better later.

Can you see what Kate taunted me with on Wednesday? If she was my friend like she claims she would have given me that selvage!!! It is a lovely piece of fabric from the V&A and she is making a small wall hanging with clamshells. That selvage is going to be incorporated into the border. It will be lovely Kate. All joking aside she did give me a little piece of selvage with some wording on it, just waiting for that next project. I have one in mind.

We went to Barrington Court for Sunday Lunch again today and sat in exactly the same place as last time. Of course this time I had to take my camera out to snap this little section of the fireplace. You see, inspiration is all around and nothing under the sun is new, you just have to give it a new twist.

This week I prepped a few more clamshells and tried again with a little project that I have in mind. I will tell you about my idea, but not just yet. I have used some beautiful soft grey hand dyed fabric from Wendy and some of my Liberty prints which are a lovely soft Cotton Lawn.

After Lunch we had a nice wander around the gardens and found the yellow courgettes growing. We had them at lunch and they were delicious. They try to use as much veg and fruit from the walled garden as they can.

My favourite book as a girl was The Secret Garden and I imagine this door leads into another little garden. Didn't see a robin though.

Just had to take a photo of this sunflower. Loved its colours.

Wandering around the back of the gardens I spotted a sign that said Patchwork. Joy! Oh Joy! Ladies, anyone in my vicinity reading this can now visit Barrington Court and do patchwork shopping at the same time. Hopefully this will be a good venture for her. She is also going to be selling fabric at Somerset County Quilters on a Monday evening I believe. I am sorry to say that I didn't get her name. My husband was happy as he stood outside having borrowed a pair of binoculars and watched the owl nesting in the hollow of the tree outside. I came away with a few fat quarters which you can just see in the pies and tarts pic.

Klosjes total 121.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.

hexagon prep

2010-07-27T20:27:00.002+01:00

I mentioned that I sew my hexagons on the back of the patch with a back stitch and today I have been asked how I do this. I don't know where this originated from but I learned it from watching a video on quilterstv.com by Pati Shambaugh. Pati uses plastic templates which are her unique design and you can buy them from her. I use good old paper of a good thickness. I drew out a sheet of hexagons on graph paper and had a whole load photocopied so that anytime I want to do hexagons I have ready prepared papers. Just have to cut them out.

I always add a straight grain line to the papers as I find it helps to keep them all in the same direction when piecing them together. I also pin on that line in the centre.

Now fold over the top edge above that line and finger press a crease. Fold over the next corner and make a mitre, use your thumb to hold it in place. Put a knot in the end of your thread and make a stitch through the layers of that corner. You are only going through the fabrics on the top of the paper and not through the paper itsself and the other side which is the traditional way.

Take a back stitch at the corner to secure it in place.

Go to the next corner and turn the edge over and finger press the crease and mitre the corner again. This time you are just going to make that stitch in the corner. You will have a long stitch over that seam.

Again take a back stitch through the layers at the corner.

Repeat until you have secured all the edges. You can go back to the very first edge and do another back stitch but I don't think it is necessary, but I am always prepared to revise any ideas. The stitches keep the paper quite secure. Remove the pin. You can also remove the pin at the last edge if you think the template has shifted a little, it prevents it from bunching up.

On the right side you will have no tacking threads but a perfectly prepared hexagon.

I would keep the paper template in place until it is stitched and surrounded by other hexagons. The paper is easily removed.

Preparation is very quick this way. It is not the only way to stitch a hexagon and I would say try them all until you find the one that suits you best. Hope this helps.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.

Spools

2010-07-25T15:25:00.006+01:00

Reading Valentina's tale of her cruise holiday reminded me of the mini cruise that my husband and I took last year. Daughter no.1 is a travel agent and is always asking us if we would like to book a holiday!!! It would be cheaper to just give her some commission and not go on the holidays. Well, we decided to go on a mini cruise for 5 days to Cork,Ireland. Not one of our better ideas. It was the largest ship by Royal Caribbean at the time. Large ship - lots of people - big noise!! As we were checking in I didn't want to go. It was the height of the flu epidemic and I caught a horrible cold on board and didn't want to get out of bed, the weather was wet and dreary. The ship itsself was fantastic and the company at the dinner table in the evening a real pleasure. There is lots to do if you are so minded or you can just relax if you wish.

The highlight for me was finding this work of art on deck 10. I had to look twice because I couldn't believe my eyes and I so wished that I had thought of this idea. I apologise once again for the photo's but you will understand that These are taken from the brochure which I stole from our cabin!! Guess who didn't take her camera away on holiday?

This was by Devorah Sperber and inspired by the still life surreal paintings by Magritte. It consists of a staggering 20,800 spools of thread suspended on 148 1/8" stainless steel cables. The cables were staggered behind each other. Ladies (and Gents) you would be amazed at all the different shades in this piece of art work. It was fantastic. I cannot give you a guide to the size of this except to say that it was HUGE and hanging in the stairwell. As I sat with my sewing in the library (nice quiet place), thinking that I didn't have the right shade of green for my applique....... wondering....... knowing where the right shade would be....... Lucky there was a big gap between us.

This is one of my favourite books at the minute. It is sheer pleasure to pick this up and just ogle unashamedly. It is Japanese and no, I cannot read it but the pictures and diagrams are excellent. So much inspiration. This one has lots of quilting ideas too.

My eyes were drawn to this pretty little bag and so ages ago I cut out all the freezer paper shapes and the other day got round to cutting out all the fabric in soft greens. Like the clamshells it is not an easy shape to stitch down. If you didn't get those shapes in exactly the right spot then off they went at a tangent. I solved the problem by using Roxanne's glue baste and stuck them in place. It has worked a treat. Now all I have to do is sew them down. I realised mind you that I have mirror imaged the piece of sewing compared to the diagram. I don't expect it will spoil the bag. I shall make the flowers in pinks. What else!!! I am a big convert to the use of glue, not that I will use it for every occasion, but on this one it worked a treat and saved a lot of frustration.

Progress on the hexagons is coming along nicely.

I am not tacking the fabric over the papers but making the tacking stitches on the back and backstitching the corners. It holds in place really well and the papers just flip out when you are ready. I love doing hexagons this way. I find it really relaxing. I am easy to please too.

Hopefully the next time you see this it will have all its background filled in. Haven't decided on the borders yet, but it may have a little bit of red in it.

Klosjes this week 3, total 118.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.xx

What quilt are you?

2010-07-18T08:45:00.005+01:00

Karen Griska at The Quilters Muse blog is running a competition for anyone interested and wants to join in. She asks "If you were a quilt - what would you be?" You have to make the quilt and send her a photo, you can check out the details at her site. I have given this some thought as to what I would look like if I was a quilt.

I would be one of those quilts that is warm and cuddly, has a bit of pink,is fun, bulges a bit in the middle and has threads dangling off it somewhere. Something practical but pleasing to look at. Now in my minds eye, what do I wish I was? Ahh!! I would be perfect, of course. A wholecloth,made of silk, beautifully handquilted, beaded with crystals and a showstopper. Hmmm! I think this quilt was made by Sandie Lush and well deserved its prize and I can only dream of being it or even making it and owning it. The photo is a section I took myself at The Festival of Quilts a few years back and it doesn't do it justice. I hope that by clicking on the picture you will see what I mean. The quilt is called Crystal Dreams.

You can see what I am at www.sandielush.co.uk so much better. Sandie is my heroine. I love her work.

What I want to know is What quilt are you?

OK. I have reached the end of the metre of fabric and have managed to make 25 flowers. It wasn't easy I can tell you. There is a teensy bit left but I think I did exhaust all possibilities. There are 3 more flowers to finish off and then I can assemble them all. The format will be simple to show off the individual flowers. For the background I am using a piece of Wendys hand dyed fabric. It is maybe a bit contraversial as it is quite a dark colour but to me it said yes.

This flower is my favourite.

A close up of what it will look like with Wendy's fabric.

Progress report on the clamshells - a section 15" square. I like the effect of this.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Clamshells

2010-07-10T19:58:00.004+01:00

Naughty,naughty Sue-Anne gave a link the other day for Brigitte Giblin and her downloadable patterns. It is so easy, point, click, pay, wait and hey presto a pattern appears. No waiting for the postman/lady and no flight in a big, silver bird, so no postage. I think I may end up penniless though at this rate because I also downloaded the gorgeous hexagon bag pattern as well as the downright fabulous clamshell baby quilt pattern. I am thankful to Sue-Anne for the link and it is me that is naughty. Naughty is my middle name.

To save some money ha!ha! I am challenging myself again to use what I have although I did have to go and buy fabric for the plain clamshells. That is allowed under my rules. All these fabrics are in a box and are left over from another quilt(not yet shown - tease), so rather than put them away I am using them for this quilt. So far I have prepped 30. I gather that stitching them together can be difficult, trying to keep them straight. I have hatched a cunning plan. I like graph paper and drawing, so have produced a whole page of clamshells with the intention of pinning it to a mount board and then I can pin them in place over the graph and with my new glue pen bond them together ready for stitching. I have not tried his yet so will let you know if it works or not as the case may be. The curved edge is stitched down over freezer paper.

Progress report on the fussy cut hexagons - 13. I am a little less than halfway through the metre of fabric and there are still more possibilities to work out yet. I was fascinated as a child with kaleidoscopes and I guess this is kaleidoscopes for grown ups. I am loving it.

Klosjes total - a shaming zero. Again.

Today we went to Sidmouth on the East Devon coast. This is the Connaught Gardens. The tea room here is fantastic, the food is good and there is a tantalising glimpse of what is through that archway on the right. It is a lovely spot to just sit and be. On a Sunday through the summer there is music at the bandstand and the deckchairs are out.

Yep! this is it. I love this view. Whatever the weather, we have been here and it is still the most beautiful scene. Today it was shrouded in sea mist but cleared to be very hot.

Whilst we were having lunch this baby robin kept hopping about waiting for us to drop a crumb or two. You can tell he is a baby as he hasn't fully developed his red breast and he still has his spots.

After lunch we walked down to the beach and had a paddle in the sea. It was most welcome and cooling. We walked all the way to the end of the bay until we could go no further and then we turned back.

This is the view coming back, looking towards Jacobs Ladder and the building on the cliff top is the tea room.

This butterfly bush is outside the bedroom window and as I was in there cleaning, yes, CLEANING, there was the most heavenly perfume wafting in.

Mick was out watering the plants this morning and spotted this frog. He was hiding under the tomato plant. We don't have a pond, neither do our neighbours, nor do we live too close to the stream so where he is living we do not know. He seemed to like the shower from the watering can. I can only assume that he has a mate hiding somewhere too.

Happy Stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Viewers Choice

2010-07-06T17:16:00.006+01:00

We have a winner. I did not show this quilt from our exhibition as I was saving it for another post but events preceded me. This quilt was made by Janet Kittow and was voted the Viewers Favourite. I hope you will be able to click and see a larger version and the detail. It is a redwork quilt and made for her brothers Ruby Wedding and was also contributed to by her sister. I did mention Janet in a previous post as her work is always so lovely to look at.

Janet sporting her lovely rosette and not wanting her photo taken. I did not take a photo of what she was working on but watch this space as she was doing something equally as delightful in blues. Well done Janet, it was so well deserved.

We were given back the voting slips as people had written comments on them. On one of mine someone had written would I make a quilt with Morris Minors on it?!!!

I have to include this little clip and I apologise for it being slightly out of focus but this was one of the comments left in our visitors book. It has made us so proud. Watch out Tracy Emin, we may not have a famous name but we know how to make a quilt worth seeing!!!

This lovely hexagon quilt in the making is by Pat Sumner and she assures us that it has been on the go for 50 years. I hope to take along my collection at the 50 year mark. Ha! Ha!

Look what landed in my bird bath. I have some wonderful friends who are completely batty but I LOVE THEM. This pink rubber duck came from Sue Lewis for my birthday and is called Darling Duck. Isn't it a bit of fun? Bath time will never be the same again. Thank you Sue.xxx

This calorie free cake is in actual fact a little crochet box and was given to me this afternoon by Ann McLaren. Thank you Ann it is lovely and thank you for thinking of me.

I have been busy making a few more fussy cut hexagon rosettes and the total is now at 10 with 3 more cut out ready to be sewn and I am not quite half way through the fabric. Some of you have asked to see what the fabric looks like that I am cutting up. It is called Flutterby by designer Tula Pink for Moda. It comes in other colourways. Kate asked me how much fabric got wasted in the process. I have to say there is some but, not as much as you think. The fabric is actually quite a clever design and the repeat motif is reversed and so you can get the same shapes out without too much wastage. I like to think that it isn't all going to go in the bin as the doggy cushion is now almost full and it will all have a new purpose.

Happy Stitching

Shirley.x

Fussy cutting

2010-06-30T17:49:00.005+01:00

I bought a metre of fabric with the intention of seeing how many flowers I can fussy cut out of it. So far I have 5 and have realised that you can cut the same patch again and turn it upside down and it will look different. It isn't as easy as it looks though as getting the seams to match can be a little tricky.

Following the exhibition I decided to seek out another old project that is lurking in the darkest depths. This little cot quilt is a good half way quilted and I don't really know why I abandoned it. It took me ages to locate the thread, lucky I still had it as I could quite easily have used it for something else. Anyone else do that? The pattern is by Sandie Lush and the fabric is a very soft cotton sateen. The mistake I made(typical quilter pointing this out)was that I noticed part way into the quilting that I had drawn the design onto the wrong side of the fabric. It isn't really noticeable unless you know that the right side should have a soft sheen to it. I used a watercolour pencil for the marking as per Sandie's instructions and of course having been in a cupboard for so long the markings are just about visible so I am having to re draw as I go and I really do need good light and my glasses. (Barbara do you know what you are letting yourself in for?!!!)

As it is my birthday on Sunday the Wednesday sewing girls gave me my birthday presents. Wendy gave me a Singer Sewing Machine. How lucky am I? It made me laugh as it is for a 6 year old and is battery operated. I shall test it later to see how it works. When I get my new sewing room up and running I shall have it on display for a laugh. Today was a pink day.

You may also note the very posh rubber gloves. They are of course pink, edged with fur and sport a pearl ring on one of the fingers. I love them Wendy. I have had some nice pieces of fabric, beads and a new book to get into, a little box for bits and pieces and the prettiest bag from Rosemary which will go lovely with my new dress for my nieces wedding. It cheered me up no end today as I am still feeling under the weather.

Happy stitching.

Shirl.x

Quilt Show Review Part 2

2010-06-28T07:41:00.004+01:00

Day two saw us equally busy but with a much slower start. The afternoon was almost manic. We put it down to the WAGS coming in not wanting to be part of the England Football fiasco. ( WAGS - wives and girlfriends, usually a prefix for footballers partners). I think we could have carried on until much later in the evening we were so busy. It was a good, happy, relaxed atmosphere with lots of chatter. Visitors were asked to vote for their favourite and you could hear conversations like " oh! difficult. Do I vote for the one I think has the most interesting quilt or the one that I could take home and live with?" Of course I offered to slip a few fivers to try and win this award. Not yet decided. Ann took the box home with her to count. I don't yet know all the facts and figures, but we did well and a decent check will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

The raffle quilt was won by Abigail Marsh, daughter of the promoter. At least we know it has gone to a home that knows about quilts and it will be loved. I also made a document of all the details involved with what went into the making of the quilt. Things like the challenge details, who made which block, costs, who was responsible for the making up and quilting. It is something that I think should be done with any quilt made for charity. Hopefully it will be a good provenance to stay with the quilt for future generations.

This is the stage end of the Village hall and we made a banner to fit across the top of it. It was very fitting this year as the theme was apples.

This cushion is by Ann McLaren and I offered to take it off her hands at the end of the show. I love it and it will go very nicely in my home. Anytime Ann, I shall be waiting!!! Ann is a very talented embroiderer and runs The West Country Embroiderers group.

This Japanese style quilt was made by Joyce Turner. Joyce loves hand piecing and is a hand quilter and always produces beautiful work.

This quilt is quietly understated, gentle like Juliet Heaton, the maker, and has some lovely quilting on it.

A playmat, made by Vaila Croudace. Lovely little quilt Vaila and so cheerful.

Janet Daniels's version of our challenge blocks. Janet is on a seaside theme at the minute and I thought this looked quite nautical. It is great Janet. There were a few finishes for this challenge and I will show them at another time.

Ann Eckley's Civil War quilt and her first quilt although she is a much experienced stitcher these days.

Vaila's quilt made in a workshop with Anne Baxter. Love the use of red.

Janet Daniels - Autumn leaves. Janet likes things with a mathematical working out and interlocking shapes.

Janet Kittow standing next to a quilt by Mary Edwards. Janet is the most hardest working woman I know. Before the quilt exhibition she was up at 6.00 am on a quad bike rounding up her cows for milking, and off to milk them again after the show. Somehow in between she produces amazing quilts.She also has the most loveliest temperament of anyone I know.

I couldn't do full justice to Wendy's beautiful seaside quilt so here is just a small detail and this block is my favourite - the jellyfish. At least Wendy finished hers. Mine is still un quilted but I do promise that it will be started sometime soon. I want to handquilt mine.

Last but not least this little hexagon beauty is by Sally McCann. Love it Sally. It is all Liberty fabrics.

Hope you have enjoyed seeing a few more of our exhibits.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Quilt Show Review

2010-06-26T20:37:00.011+01:00

It was a colourful sight that greeted us on arriving at the village hall this morning and there would have been no doubt that something was happening. There was bunting galore, in every colour possible and beautifully made and doing well in the days extremely strong sunshine. It has been a scorcher today with a steady stream of visitors throughout the day.

The exhibition was organised this year by group members Ann Eckley and Sally McCann,I hope you will agree with me that they did a great job. It is no mean feat taking on this task and only possible if everyone does their bit and helps out and of course without the fabulous quilts there wouldn't be a show to put on. Well done to everyone for all your hard work in making your quilts and all background efforts behind the scenes. Those of you out there that have done it will know.

Some of you may recognise the fabrics in this quilt as they were bought Down Under and this quilt was made by Marilyn Mann. I love the colours of this quilt and have had to go back and keep looking at it today.

Another fabulous quilt again by Marilyn. It was machine quilted at Step by Step patchwork shop by Marilyn using their facilities and machine.

Every year we have a tombola for which we collect, make and donate all sorts of bits and pieces. We had a rota to help out and this afternoon it was the turn of Kate and myself to run the tombola stall. We had a small crowd of people all wanting a go at winning something. We had a little patter going and as game show hostesses I can safely say that Tess Daly your job is safe. It ran like this " come and have a twirl with Shirl" as we spun the tombola tub. One chap's eyes lit up. I don't know what he thought he was getting but his prize of a can of deodorant put a stop to it. Ha! This photo shows from the left Juliet Heaton, Pat (with the pearl earring)Sumner and Ann McLaren.

Sue Lewis loves blue. It is a great quilt Sue. It was sent away to be gammill quilted.

These two dodgy characters were lurking in the vicinity of a campervan quilt and could be heard muttering something about matching cushions. I think it might have been aimed at me but it went over my head. Olly, I have a suitable bowl and I have sharpened my scissors ready for that haircut!!

Sarah Covey works amazingly hard on behalf of the quilt group and the Pot Luck table did a roaring trade today. We had everything on there from fabric, to thread, to books and lots of cross stitch kits which sold very well.

This lovely work in progress belongs to Sally McCann. I think it was started as a project from the internet. The colours are so soft and pretty and I may have to sneak it home with me.

The secret to a long life apparently is cider and you have to say the little poem like Pam Ayres.

Sheppey's Cider Farm down the road loaned a few bits and pieces for the display and that lit Olly's eyes up as he asked how much for the bottles of cider.

A trug full of delicious fabric apples.

I hope you have enjoyed the days review. There will be more this week as there is far too much to tell you in one go. Keep posted.

Love Shirley.x

Apple Cores

2010-06-25T11:33:00.011+01:00

This is my own quilt exhibition or rather my entries into our patchwork group's exhibition. It is this weekend and is in the process of being set up now and ladies, if you hurry, you can get a flight and come and see us, there is time. We will look after you.

This quilt was finished at gone midnight last night. It has been in the making for a long time and I finally finished it - drum roll please.I have called it Apple Cores and it is hand pieced and hand quilted. It is also a scrap quilt and a one patch quilt. You ladies of a certain age will know what I mean when I say hand quilting a large quilt in a heat wave when you are having a hot flush is not a wise move and it has been a hot week with the weather set to last. Maybe this is last years barbecue summer that we waited for.

This cushion is a pattern called Bullseye and was made in a workshop with the delightful Anne Baxter. If you get the chance to go to one of Anne's workshops then do because Anne is wonderful company, talented and generous to a tee, both with what she has in supplies and with her knowledge.

Remember all those little jars that were filled a few posts back now? They are on the sales table and this quilt is hanging up behind it. It looks very colourful. Again, only finished yesterday. Why, oh why do I leave things till the last minute?!!!

The next two quilts are the same but different colours. It is such a lovely quilt to make. The pattern is called Paradise Hearts and is from Sunflowerfabrics.com. I am not sure if it is still in print but you can always email them and check.

One of the challenges that I set our group was to make a quilt the size of a quilters ruler 24"x6". The theme was water. We had some great entries and this was my offering. It is called "Little Snapping Turtle". I enjoyed making this as it was a great excuse to add a few beads and buttons. It was another very wet year and Kate's entry made me laugh as she did a roadsign just poking out of the water and she machine quilted the poem Dr. Foster went to Gloucester all over it. My daughter's boyfriend who is a marine geographer told me that those little turtle's live on that seaweed. Of course I knew that!!!!!

Remember when I knocked off the head of the very pretty and unusual geranium at Barrington? Well, it is now in full bloom and looks beautiful.

Missing from the mini exhibition are Gleanings and Penny's Run to the Sun. You have seen them in the last few weeks but they are at the real quilt show.

Anyone who is in the vicinity and fancies a day out do come and see us. We are at Bradford on Tone Village Hall, Wellington. Saturday and Sunday, 10.00am - 4.00pm. Refreshments are available and there is a pub across the road should you want something more than cake and tea. We will be only too pleased to see you. All monies raised is going to Macmillan Cancer Support.

I promise not to forget my camera and will take lots of pics of the day. It is looking good there. Are you sure you can't get here?!!

Enjoy your stitching.

Love Shirl.xx

Gingham Buttons

2010-06-17T12:57:00.012+01:00

There is a new quilt shop in town. It is situated in Corfield Hall at the back of the church at the end of Hammet Street and is one of a few select departments within. Do go and visit Pam as she is working hard to get her business up and running. A web site is in the process of being constructed but if you google gingham buttons handmade'ns then you should find it. If you plan a visit then Pam's number is 01823 350034 / 07912 734658

Pam is selling Moda fabric, lots of jelly rolls, layer cakes charm packs as well as bolts of fabric. More is on order and she is waiting for the books to arrive. You can also sell your work through the shop, the details you would have to discuss with Pam. If you are at a loose end on a Thursday evening then you can go in and sit in with the craft sessions and have a cup of coffee.

Pam is also selling work by other crafts persons and if you have anything to sell then you can get the details from the shop. These little delights are calorie free and will even make your purse lighter should you buy one!!

Should you require some light refreshment then there is a great cafe at the back of the hall.

For you armchair visitors this is The Parish Church of St. Mary Magdalene. It is situated in the centre of the town at the end of Hammet Street.

You cricket wives who sew whilst the menfolk watch the innings your ears will prick up when Somerset County Cricket Ground is mentioned. The cricket ground is near to the church and when the ball goes up in the air you will see this church tower. You will know then that I am not too far away. There are several churches in the vicinity.

It is a most magnificent church to look at and if you come and visit, deposit the menfolk at the cricket, give me a shout and I will join you for a cream tea.

Just to let you know that "Gleanings" has been featured on Karen Griska's Selvage blog and can also be seen at the on-line quilt museum under selvage quilts. I am thrilled and truly honoured. Thank you Karen.

Happy stitching.

Love Shirley.x

Gleanings

2010-06-15T19:06:00.006+01:00

At long last a FINISH. Tadah!! I have worked hard these last few weeks trying to get this done for our group's exhibition next week. I am calling it "Gleanings". It measures 65" square.

There are several definitions in the dictionary but this one I think is very appropriate. It means :- to gather, collect and accumulate information and material, bit by bit. I am not quite sure it means fabric, but hey, the description fits.

I am also calling it "Gleanings" because my friend Val kept giving me little bags with her scraps in and as she gave them to me she said " more gleanings". Thank you to all my friends for saving me all your scraps. I am now thinking of what else I can do with them as this can just go on indefinitely. I also liked the idea of calling it "Cover Stories" or "Bedside Reading". It was also an exercise in using what I had. I didn't buy a single thing for this quilt. The wadding was leftover from a project long abandoned and Wendy gave me some of her leftovers in exchange for some of the backing fabric. The backing fabric also was from the same abandoned project. The sashing strips were hauled from out of my stash.

Last Saturday we went to Beer in East Devon. It is a very pretty, unspoiled seaside town. The weather was magnificent and turned out much hotter than expected.

This little boat was just bobbing along....

Then we walked right over to the other side of the bay and watched a gang of teenagers giggling away, catching crabs. It was so very pleasant to just sit with a nice pot of tea, bliss.

For such a warm sunny day it was very quiet. I can only assume it was because England were later playing their first World Cup game. Oh Joy!!! The only thing for it is to stitch the time away.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.x

Can You Tell What It Is Yet?

2010-06-09T08:09:00.011+01:00

As you all know I like to do a bit of knitting occasionally. I am not an expert by any means but I do like to do something once in a while that is a bit different. At the quilt show in Malvern there is a stand called The Knitting Parlour and she has some lovely stuff. I spotted this pattern and thought I would have a go. It is an old pattern dated 1968 by Elizabeth Zimmerman. It is knitted all in one piece and she gives you little pep talks at certain stages just to ask if you are still following!!! I managed - just. The next one will be better.

Have you sussed what it is?

When you have finished the knitting the pattern says to pass it to a friend and challenge them to make a garment out of it. I took it to Apple Quilters and had a bit of fun with it.

This is what it turns in to.... a very sweet liitle baby jacket. I have just to sew up the shoulder seams. That is the part I hate and luckily for me my friend Jill loves that part so she does it for me. Next time I will use something much more appropriate for a baby jacket!!

On Sunday we decided to go to Barrington Court. It is a National Trust property near Ilminster in Somerset. The weather forecast was a bit iffy and it kept clouding over as if to rain. This little display greeted us. I am not sure why as there was nothing there to say what it was for. At least it would have come in handy.

This is my favourite part of the house and gardens. There are roses around each archway and they are quite beautiful.

The inside is fascinating too with all that old timber on display. It is a work of art in it's own right.

There are two houses standing next to each other and I am not sure the reason why. They are very different in style. This one has the most interesting roof. At first glance they look like chimney's but they are not.

I love this oval window. The perfume from the roses was just divine.

This fence post is so old and weathered that you can see every grain line.

Remember me saying that I am clumsy, well... Mick sent me off to pick up a geranium at the plant sales. It was a very unusual pretty colour and the only one. At first he said no as it wasn't cheap. As I picked it up I managed to knock off the only flower head on the plant and had to very sheepishly hand it over at the pay desk. Luckily there was another flowerhead forming and in a few days will have a pretty flower again. The rain held off and it turned out to be a very pleasant day.

I haven't very much to show in the way of stitching at the moment. Believe me though, I am working very hard to try and finish some things off and then I will have my own little on-line exhibition. Things are coming together now at Apple County Quilters and there is a bit of excitement in the air. I am sure Ann will do a great job of the organising and setting up. Having done this role I can tell you it is no mean feat. Anyone in the vicinity can come and see us at Bradford on Tone Village Hall, 26-27th June, 10am till 4pm. All proceeds are to go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Klosjes total 115.

Happy Stitching

Love Shirley.x

EDIT - Sorry for the confusion, I have written this post badly. I knew what the baby jacket looked like as I had seen the sample and there is a tiny picture on the pattern. The mystery is to give it to a friend and confuse them. The piece of knitting really is a very odd shape. A bit of mystery knitting sounds like a good idea though. Rolf Harris used to have a saying when he was indulging in his artwork "can you tell what it is yet?"