the humming cat

January WIP Challenge - Walk in the Woods

2012-01-31T18:35:00.000+11:00

Walk in the Woods, a large single bed sized quilt for Cate. Sorry for the awful photos, will do a big blog post when her room decor is complete. Cate picked this layer cake out when we went Christmas Shopping at Ballarat Patchwork. I used nearly 2 layer cakes to get the desired size and left the blocks as a 10" square to show the prints off at her request.

I made my own bias binding for the curved corners, love the look and will definitely be doing this again. Backing was pieced using KAI dots and watermelon pink homespun, (both from my stash) and quilted straight lines and across the diagonal.

Squeak our woodland creature, always good for a pose, no foxes or hedgehogs in Ballarat.

This is my completed work in progress for AJ's WIP Challenge, more woodland delight to come as I finish Cate's room revamp.

Sheep Dog Trials

2012-01-28T18:17:00.000+11:00

So much fun, a great morning out. 5 dogs competing for the regional title, they had to take 3 sheep from the corner, bring them across the oval staying within the cone markers, go through an open gate, go through a double fenced walkway, up a ramp and off then over to another pen for the gate to be shut, all within 15 minutes.
First up, D'arcy, he sorted the sheep out in no time. Unfortunately for round 2 he just couldn't get them in the pen for the gate to be shut, round and round they went and he was getting hot so his trainer called him back.

Dog 2, Charlie. Another good competitor, very fast and keen to show off his sheep handling skills.

3rd was Sid, who was very shy and didn't want to go out, took some convincing to get him on the course. 4th dog was disqualified for going out of the marked area and 5th dog was a small brown Kelpie that was also very good.

Cate's pick was D'arcy. Reigning champion and happy for a pat. No idea who won, got to hot and after 3 hours I was ready to go home. will check the local paper for results mid week.

Cate would love a border collie and has plans of being on the course herself next year. We'll see. Oh and to quote the program, please don't to worry, with the lenient sentences handed out these days any dogs found guilty during these trials will only receive a slap on the paw.....

At the Park

2012-01-15T21:13:00.000+11:00

At the local park, having some fun. 2 more weeks of school holidays, will it ever end??

Sherbet Pips

2012-01-12T19:30:00.000+11:00

So cute and all mine, I have big plans for these little charms. Stay tuned.

WIP Wednesday # 2 Walk In the Woods quilt top

2012-01-11T23:35:00.000+11:00

Quite a bit of progress on the quilting for Cate's bed quilt. I had to stay home today for our couches to be delivered (anytime from 9am to 6pm) so I took advantage of the clean house and enjoyed the quilting process. Maybe an hour left of quilting then I can decide on the binding.

I'm having trouble with Muffin, whenever I quilt he lays on top, so cold here today I can't really blame him. I normally try to work around him but he's so heavy to push up and down. Choofed off the the bedroom today.

Linked up here for WIP Wednesday.

HST BOM - In colour Order block

2012-01-07T16:30:00.000+11:00

yeah I know, another quilt along, like I need any more sewing projects. I'm excited about this one, shouldn't take more than an hour a month to complete. Or 2 hours if you want to make more than one quilt like me. Sign up here.

Sew and Tell Friday # 1 - Christmas Stars

2012-01-06T17:44:00.000+11:00

The heat wave is over for now, it rendered me useless and took away my sewjo. I was focused working on Cate's single bed quilt, I have finished piecing the top and it's ready to sandwich but I can't use the spray glue inside (no ventilation) and when sprayed outside it dried so quick there was no stick, grrr. So I picked up my other WIP, the one I started Christmas night before Cate pleaded me to start her quilt.

Pattern is Sawtooth Stars, I have made them 12" square for a wall hanging or a large lap quilt, 5 rows of 5 so 25 green stars in total. It took a few hours to find enough green prints and get them pieced the right way up, only 2 left to complete then I can piece the top, sandwich, quilt and put away for Christmas.

EB Quilt Bee 2012

2012-01-05T23:36:00.000+11:00

9 Bee members, all ready to go. First up is AJ who has chosen the Maverick Star. She will send out 8 packs made up of quilt block design, fabrics of choice, any suggestions and tips, and then we will each make 2+ blocks using some of our own fabric and post back for AJ to make her quilt.

February - AJ

March - Bec
April - me
May - Denni J

June - Joy

July - Milly
August - Mands
September - Island Kylie
October - Helen

Interested in starting your own quilt bee? More info can be found here.

WIP Wednesday #1 - Walk in the Woods Quilt top

2012-01-04T17:58:00.000+11:00

After piecing Cate's quilt top and deciding it was too small, I added another row of squares all around and now just love the length it has added to the sides. I used nearly 2 layer cakes leaving just 12 squares to make a pillow or cushion with. Colours a tad off, quilt overcast here today, finally some cooler weather and I can get quilting.

Backing to be made up from my stash, grey kai dots and a watermelon pink homespun to run down either side. Binding undecided on, think it needs a spot or a stripe. Will sandwich tonight after dinner so I can use the dining table, then I can power through the quilting at night, heat is due to return early next week so I will try to get as much done as I can before then.
WIP # 1, linked up here.

Paralyzed in project overload

2012-01-03T12:16:00.000+11:00

yep, that's me, paralyzed in project overload. So wanting to keep on task but the heat is stopping me from quilting, so I get another project out, then think oh I might quickly finish that softie and then I might cut fabric for a new lap quilt and then quick as I'll have 5 projects on the go, a big mess and no focus. So some groups to help keep me on task~

Work In Progress Wednesday at Freshly Pieced. Every Wednesday I will link up my WIP, will have one post showing what I am working on and what's been accomplished. I am going to use this for my quilting projects only, and try to just work on one main project and have a smaller crafty one.

12 WIP in 2012. AJ set this challenge up, you can read more here and enter the competition if you like. I plan on posting a completed WIP from my side list on the last day of each month. If I stay on track I should finish 12 projects in 12 months and have something to show in 2012, woot.

Sew and Tell Friday, like WIP Wednesday but on a Friday. I am going to use to this group for projects other than my WIP list, mostly small quilt projects, softies, cushions, general craft...

And lastly I found this link, Fresh Sewing Day and Small Blog meet. The plan is to show your creations from the last month, a mini recap if you like? I will start posting on the last Sunday of each month, I haven't linked up yet as I didn't do much in December other than revamp my blog.

And seeing as it is summer here, I am going to make this summer sampler, not sure when but it's on the list!! One project to many? We'll see, I am yet to mention the quilt bee I have joined and the FQ birthday swap.

Walk in the Woods quilt top

2012-01-02T09:39:00.000+11:00

Cate's single bed quilt top has been pieced, I used all bar 2 of the layer cake squares. It looks a little bit small on her bed so I bought another one (before my fabric buying ban) and will add another row all around giving an extra 20 inches and some length at the foot.

I still want to add a small sashing in watermelon pink to match and will hunt down contrasting stripe or spot for the binding. Backing to be blue and I will make a matching pillowcase and cushions, I should have 18 squares to play with. I love this range, perfect for little ladies.

Early days yet, this may be my first finish for 2012. No idea how to quilt yet.

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T12:47:00.001+11:00

My resolutions? Well after last years fail of no chocolate and completing more than 6 quilts (really, how did I fail that one?), I might try them both again. But my main goal? Fabric restriction. Of course there needs to some exceptions~

Buying at a craft fair is ok
Homespun for a current project is allowed
Shopping from Bec anytime is ok
Flea Market Fancy pre orders are encouraged.

So who's joining me? 2012 is the year of the WIP so really, I won't be needing any new fabric anyway. I keep telling myself this. Over and over. While certain people laugh.

Fave quilt of 2011, Oliver's. Not that I had many to choose from. Other fave things; moving to Ballarat, land hunting, letting the kids experience so much more than we could offer them before and seeing the joy on there faces every.single.day. Happy 2012, here's to new beginnings!!

WIP Challenge

2011-12-31T13:10:00.000+11:00

AJ has set a challenge, 12 WIP in 12 months. A WIP is "work in progress" and I have alot of them. Rules in full here. Plan is that everyone will stay on track and some sewing rooms will be decluttered, yipee. Will link up my WIP with WIP Wednesday to keep on task.

My WIP List is on the side, in no particular order I would like to complete -->

1 & 2 - Castle Peeps, made using Mix Tape pattern, I made all the blocks and there's enough for 2 single bed quilts, I just need to sash them together, backing has been bought and I really want to see them finished and on the kids beds.
3 - Oliver's nautical quilt, (not that we live by the sea anymore), no pattern for this but I have a heap of fabric to play with, I made rows of flying geese to run parallel, not really sure why. No stress with this one, will be fun.
4 - Pink 9 patch, this was a quilt-a-long with Amanda Jean back in 2009, I'm not even sure where this is? Most likely to not complete, just being realistic, and if I do finish it (miracle or miracles) I will use as a teachers gift or donate somewhere.
5 - Huts, I really want to finish this one, the quilting will bring it to life and I fancy a bit of free motion. Looking forward to seeing this on my wall.

6 & 7 - Half Square Triangle quilts, I have 2 here that just need sandwiching and quilting, small size I could finish in a weekend? These would be make cute wall hangings or maybe a Christmas gift?
8 - Green Bento Box / half log cabin quilt, all the strips are cut and I think one block sewn?
9 - Neptune hourglass quilt, this was a jelly roll that I started, not to keen on finishing so will have to push myself.
10 - Black, white and teal quilt, this just needs the binding to be hand sewn down on.
11 - Pink and green squares, single bed top that just needs to be sandwiched and quilted then will be donated for a raffle prize somewhere someday.

12 - Queen Bed floral kit, the florals maybe a tad outdated but nice and bright. I bought the kit maybe 5 years ago?

13 - Oval Table Cloth. I started this on Boxing Day so will count as a WIP, my MIL asked for an oval tablecloth with an elasticated edge, plan to have finished for Christmas 2012.
14 - Another Christmas WIP, Santa Sacks. I finished Stuart's in time for 2011 but just ran out of time for the other 2. Promised the kids I would have done for Christmas in July.
15 - Placemats Modern Style. I bought the fabric and mapped out the pattern, yet t do anymore.
16 - Sock Monkey birthday party table decorations. Don't ask.
17 - Assortment of Softies, really need to finish the platypus for Cate and work on some smaller bunnies.
18 - Christmas Stars, another started on Boxing Day!
17 - Walk in the Woods. Simple layer cake patch quilt for Cate's bed, I hope this will be my first finish for 2012, started piecing it last night.
19 - Twiggy, Emma has been politely mentioning this quilt for some time
20 - Couch cushions, have a heap of upholstery fabric picked out, just need to cut and sew.
I know there's more, most on here are largish projects, I hope to meet AJ's challenge of 12 WIP in 12 months but don't think I will get 1 a month completed but here's hoping!

Walk in the Woods

2011-12-30T17:00:00.000+11:00

When out shopping for Christmas presents for my mum and sister at Ballarat Patchwork, Cate picked out a layer cake "Walk in the Woods" by Moda. I love this Aneela Holey print, I missed out on the Sherbet Pips bandwagon so hopping on now with Walk in the Woods. Fox anyone?

I was trying to find a layer cake pattern that will allow some prints to be used as a feature and others as border or in the background, while browsing flickr Cate unwrapped the layer cake and positioned her squares out. No cutting or piecing required, she wants them left big. And quilted in rows. And I can start right away. And she told me to tidy my messy room. Bossy boots.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T05:30:00.000+11:00

Merry Christmas to all my blog readers, I hope you have a happy day. Xx

Little Donkey...and some horses

2011-12-22T10:49:00.000+11:00

I found the dream spot to build my country mansion. Stunning area, just perfect.

Too bad the only ones who get to appreciate the lovely views are some horses and two precious donkeys. We need about 20 acres, and agreed we would get a pony, some alpacas and a dog. And lots and lots of cats. Now I need to add a donkey to the list. I had 2 bags of carrots with me (like all good country people), we really needed a 10 kilo bulk bag; have added to my shopping list.

Shy at first but happy to say hello, Cate starts pony lessons in a few weeks, she wants to ride but just enough to walk around, she plans on having a shepherd dog to round up her lone sheep?? Funnily enough I found her a riding instructor at the local patchwork shop, I wonder if I could pay her in fabric?

Another visit planned for Christmas morning, I've told her that Santa will NOT be bringing her a horse this year.

Quilted Christmas Cushions

2011-12-21T08:48:00.000+11:00

I made some simple quilted cushions for my MIL's couch, one is 14" and the other 16". I'm not sure why I made one smaller than the other?

Cate picked the fabric, reminds her of lollies. No linking up for WIP till the 4th of January.

Housekeeping

2011-12-20T11:01:00.001+11:00

I love checking out other peoples blog rolls. My blog list on the side is mostly craft but on bloglines I have a mix of home renovations, overseas adoption and guinea pig couture. One thing I don't subscribe to is any of housekeeping blogs, the ones that offer cleaning tips and how to keep your home ultra tidy and uncluttered. Tip #1 is to make your bed as soon as you get out of it, how do you do that when you have a cat who likes to sleep in? Automatic fail.

I came across one blog yesterday and the writer confessed that they used to scrapbook but don't have the time now as they need to keep there house tidy and manage there blog, yikes!

EBDQS5 - Little Apples

2011-12-19T12:49:00.000+11:00

I received my EB Doll Quilt today...love! I can't believe there have been 5 swaps, not that I have participated in them all. I find it hard to commit but this one had an extra long time frame which was perfect. Little Apples; love.

Made by Caz, its just the cutest doll quilt. The red, grey and aqua are perfect for my sewing room, I love this print range, its just a wonderful quilt, it makes me so happy.

The machine quilting is fab, I love the circles around the centre piece and the stippling is uniform, you would never believe Caz was not an experienced free motion quilter.

Thanks Caz, it's perfect. And thanks to AJ for organising another terrific swap. xx

Blog revamp

2011-12-18T17:40:00.002+11:00

I have revamped my blog a tad, special thanks to Emma for my new banner. Meet Electric Bunny, she's still being tweaked but ultra cute, made from recycled 100% wool blankets, so soft and cuddly. Still yet to make her offspring.

I've not blogged for 6 months, so much has happened, sadly not much quilting but I in short I made 3 outfits for the school play that Oliver was in, Cate competed in 6 dance competitions and sat her grade 1 ballet exam, the kids all celebrated another birthday and last month we moved interstate to the craft capital of Victoria... sunny Ballarat!

Half Square Triangles

2011-06-06T18:19:00.001+10:00

A productive 3 day weekend, my fingers are freezing as I type this at 4.00pm yet my kids are in shorts nagging me to take them to the beach. I've sewn 2 quilt tops using 64 half square triangles, I've made each one from the same fabric but changed the layout. Sorry for the bad afternoon light in the photo's, and a grumpy model.

Pinwheels~ And my fave layout, not sure of the name~Fabric is Sheri Berry Holiday, I have some precuts if anyone is interested, 2 of each print (32 x 5" squares) $12 + postage. Borders and quilting to come. Tutorial here.

Hmm where did May get to?

2011-06-04T22:33:00.003+10:00

Slack blogger I am, I seem to of missed a month. What have I been up to? With the help of some lovely friends we made a mini house quilt for my dear sister's 40th Birthday.I made this little house with the side verandah, fabric by Jan Mullen. The annual Quilt fair came, I told myself I didn't need to qo to and have had regreated it ever since, hence the new spotty FQ collection.
Cate's been dancing heap's and is now in the advanced acrobat class, so proud. She has her Jazz solo coming up in 6 weeks and I have to get started on her costume. Her reading's improved and she's still ahead of her peers for maths and science, mini engineer in the making. I've been busy repairing and re sequining 12 purple and silver leo's for Calisthenic's, I have also sequined one homeless Russian mouse costume and made a start on 40 furry mouse ears; all with looming deadlines.
Stuart has had 3 trips to the dentist and I have kindly been informed he may need specialist treatment, ouch.
Oliver went into hospital and had his grommit removed from his ear, all went well and we were only in for the afternoon.
I remembered my other little hobby; Scrapbooking and have stocked up on a new album, heaps of papers and just had 80 photos printed. I'm going to a scrap night and thinking about enrolling in weekly classes too!And that's pretty much the month of May for me!

Oliver's orange quilt finished.

2011-05-06T20:01:00.000+10:00

I can't beleive I finished this quilt top all the way back in July 2010. I sandwiched it in September then put aside and only just got myself motivated to quilt the darn thing!!Single bed size, it's been quilted across the width quarter inch apart lines, took forever, mostly quilted over the Easter long weekend and then a few more nights midweek. I used one and a half spools of orange, 13 bobbins went into the quilting alone.
Oh well, he loves it as do I, some of my fave prints are in this quilt. Will I quilt another one like this? Not on your nelly, mind you the quilting does look fantastic so never say never!

Christmas Quilt finished

2011-05-02T22:34:00.000+10:00

It's a tad odd that my first quilt finish for 2011, is a Christmas Quilt. Simple and cute, bright and Christmassy, I love it. Perfect to just hang over the back of the couch."It looks like Clown Vomit" said Stuart. Brilliant, just the affect I was going for, not!Quilted in a simple straight stitch from one side to the other, some of the stitches cross over one another. Backing in retro santas and red spot, love!!

Meekatharra Sewing

2011-01-23T18:24:00.001+11:00

I only took the basics away with me to Meekatharra; my sewing machine, rotary mat, ruler and cutter, some pins, thread, ergonomic unpicker, spare rotary blade, 2 quilt kits and a stack of Castle Peeps fabric I bought from Bec. First up, I sewed my Huts kit from Dyed and Gone to Heaven. Unfortunately I forgot my vlisofix so it's hutless in these pics, but I love the colours and I think it looks quite passable as an abstract quilt. I bought the kit about 3 years ago from the craft fair, the pattern could do with a little more instruction imo and more fabric really is needed, I had to make the smaller blocks using a scant 1/8th seam and was quite worried about running out. Also there are no set instructions on how to sew the blocks together in a particular order, so I would say that this quilt is best suited for an intermediate quilter who's up for a challenge. Next quilt, my squares. I bought this kit when I went to Melbourne so also a good 2 and a half years ago. I did buy 2 kits the same and gave one to my mum in a blue and brown colourway and mine was in the pink. When I was sewing it up I was a tad unsure about some of the prints but I think it has come together beautifully. Generous amount of fabric, there was enough fabric to make 7 squares from each print not the suggested 6, so my quilt is bigger and I have some quares left over for a matching cushion. I thought it would be for Cate's bed, but I think it suits an older girl so will put away for now and maybe when she's 10 pull it out and have it quilted. And from my Castle Peeps fabric, a while ago I was inspired by this quilt and I cut and sewed 116 mix tape blocks all 6" to make 2 single bed quilts and 4 matching cushions, photos to come. I bought the sashing yesterday amd have been sewing on and off over the weekend, I hope to finish the tops in the next 2 weeks, before the bunks arrive!

Happy New Year!! My finished quilts for 2010

2011-01-01T11:41:00.003+11:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful New Years and set themselves some new challenges for 2011, mine are to go without chocolate for 365 days (gulp), travel more, I also have some mini career goals and of course, more sewing! I set myself a personal goal to complete more quilts than last year, not hard as I only made 5 and 2 were doll quilts! This year I have managed 6, woot! I have 2 more that are fully quilted and just need the binding sewn onto them, and another that is sandwiched and I have started quilting; so I am hoping to have 3 finished quilts in the next few weeks.
In January 2010 I made Black, White and Pink All Over for a friends 40th, I love this quilt, it came together quickly and was mostly from my stash. A work college had a baby girl in February so Sea Life was made to match her nursery decor. April came, I whipped up a Disappearing 9 Patch for a 30th Birthday gift, if I focus I can make one of these lap quilts in a week, IF, lol. I also completed another baby quilt for my manager who had a son, that we are yet to meet (I think he's afraid to bring him into work as were all a little baby crazy!!)
In August I completed Stuart's Two Rail Fence I made this quilt from a free pattern on Mary's blog, I just love it and his fave colour is lime green so he's happy with it.In December I made another Disappearing 9 Patch for Cate's dance teacher, mostly the same as the other but I added some aqua homespun. I have found these are great universal quilts, so hope to make a few and put away for gifts, less personal but great for the time poor worker, and I find that the Amy Butler daisy chain print suits sea side dwellers.So there you have my 6 quilts for 2010. Peak sewing times seams to be whenever I manage to get some holidays and there was a big lapse from May to July when I was sewing dance costumes. All in all, pat on the back for me, I work full time supporting a family of 6, the kids have sport commitments nearly every night, I run a Guinea Pig rescue, volunteer at the school, help fund raise for our Bali sponsor child and I would like to dabble in the occasional market, so my aim for 2011 will be to complete eleven glorious quilts! Eleven!! (with 3 nearly done plus 7 = one more than I made in 2010, lol)

Christmas Quilt

2010-12-16T23:10:00.000+11:00

I started cutting up these fabrics for a quick Christmas Quilt. Have cut each print 4.5" wide by random widths to give a scrappy look, have started chain stitching them together with Cate's help.Patten is Chinese coins; semi based on this quilt pattern here.

Lap Quilt for Kylie

2010-12-11T17:26:00.001+11:00

Another finish for 2010, a disappearing 9 patch lap quilt for Cate's dance teacher Kylie. Cate had her test 2 exam this morning, and next Tuesday is the Christmas Pagent and then were officially finished for the year. I love this pattern, with the bigger blocks I can whip one up in 2 weeks (sewing after work) or in a weekend if I stay off MSN chat with Emma.Fabric is Amy Butler Daisy Chain, I didn't have enough so added an aqua homespun and also used it on the binding which I think looks quite nice. It came back in stock last week so I picked up a few more metres. More of these to come in the New Year, I want to make 2 for the living room couches and some matching cushion, will add to my very long list!

Catch Up Post

2010-11-13T20:59:00.014+11:00

Well I failed Blogtoberfest, lol. We have been so busy this past month so this will be a looooooong catch up post! Firstly, enjoyed the Subiaco Craft Fair, had good fun and sold lots of fabric. I bought a lovely bag, a bird pod and some delish tripple choc brownie, mmmm (sorry no photo's). So would I do this fair again? Probably not, the stall cost is too high and I don't think I am cut out with sharing a booth. I have not been put off craft fairs in general, more that the timing was not right for me as I have so many other commitments in October.
Cate had her dance competition on November 6, she danced her solo to Jellicle Cats, I had alot of trouble with sewing fur to lycra, my hot glue gun came in handy. Watching the other dancers, Cate's routine was too simple for the music and she forgot two small parts and not enough practice sessions were held, I think she only had 5 hours training in total? Nevermind. Her duo was to Beetle Ball, she was a grasshopper and her partner was a ladybug. They placed 5th out of 9 competitors, very happy, last year they came 3rd together with less compeditors.

On Thursday the 4th it was Cate's 8th Birthday, she loved her Sylvanian Families set, and rhythimic gym ribbon, but also enjoyed her new scooter, some dvd's, pink superman pjs and some Little Pet Shop snow animals. we had her party at home today, the balloons were a big hit! She invited 9 girls from her school and dancing troop, we played musical statues, pass the parcel, pin the horn on the unicorn (??) and ate lots of yummy food like fairy bread, little red sausages, mini cheezles and of course party pies.

Mini Comps

2010-08-07T19:16:00.000+10:00

Cate had her Calisthenics's Mini Comp last Saturday. We went to Perth on the Friday morning (taking the day off school and work), hitting Ikea hard, eating out and lots of shopping, catching up with friends and flaking by 4pm back at our hotel. Mini Comps are always fun, supposedly less stress than the state comp but all the same really. Cate is in Team 2 and is centre front for clubs, centre left for rods and aesthetic and free arm and she's in Team 1 for March. She's not lead a team before so I was super nervous for her but she pulled it off brilliantly and I am so proud of her. Results- March 1st Place; Aesthetic 3rd Place; Freearm 2nd Place; Clubs 1st Place; Rods 3rd Place. Overall we placed 2nd!! Woot!Family concert tomorrow, then 2 week's break from performing and onto State Comps. Most girls finish up then except the few who come back term 4 for solo's, duo's and exams. Netball finishes in 3 weeks as well, but we've started Rhythmic Gymnastics so that makes up for the gap, I need to take up a hand sewing project to counteract all the time I spend sitting in high school gyms.

Oliver's Orange Quilt Top completed

2010-07-11T14:37:00.004+10:00

and I love how it looks. Love, love LOVE it!!! Fabrics from my stash that I have collected over the past few years, 3 years ago I went to Sydney to visit Cass, then I went to Victoria for a week with Bob then I went to South Australia to visit Emma, hmmm, where to this year? Maybe bush to see Helen? The Kai honeycomb spots are my fave, I am going to use them for the binding as well. I only had a FQ so purchased another metre from Amitie, I did a phone order, super easy, great shop! The mini orange spots are a fat flat from Spotlight, I found 4 more so will incorporate them into the backing.Pattern from here, I slightly modified it as I has some 30cm strips of prints I wanted to use. The large rectangles are supposed to be 7.5" long by 3.5" wide, I made mine a quarter inch smaller so 7 and a quarter long x 3.5" wide, this allowed me to cut 6 pieces from a 42" x 3.5" strip. Oliver has requested straight quilt lines, no messy wiggly bits! Hideously boring I know, but quick and easy. I stocked up on wadding at the last buy 2 metres get 1 free sale, I just have to get some orange homepun for the backing. Back to work tomorrow so will start quilting next weekend hopefully.

Stuart's Two Rail Fence

2010-07-08T21:07:00.002+10:00

Stuart's new quilt, I finished the quilting a few nights ago, I must say I do like it, as does he so all good. Black, White and Bright Green, this pattern is called Two Rail Fence, check out Mary's website and blog for quilting inspiration, love her work.Made up mostly from my stash, but probably more has come from Emma's stash, and some greens came from from Helen and AJ, thanks guys! Single bed size, I was going to add side borders but like the look of it without. Plenty big enough, I quilted in a zig zag pattern on the black and green, love how it turned out.We walked about 300m to the beach to get some action shots, so windy today, a wild weather alert has been issued so not much luck with getting some nice flat quilt photos. But he had fun and is now curled up on the couch half asleep.

Sunday Sewing

2010-06-20T20:58:00.006+10:00

A quick snap of Stuart's quilt.I finished the top last weekend and finally got it sandwiched today, the weather was fantastic and the trampoline is a great surface to baste on, very happy with that family Christmas present. I have quilted in the ditch to hold it together and I am now quilting little pointy rows in the green, using a veregated thread it looks great so far, it adds dimention to the green and makes it stand out more, but I might also do in the black and white blocks too. We'll see, time permitting. It's gotten cold here in my sewing room so I have spread my sewing wings and set a trestle table up next to the dining table, moved my sewing machine and doubled my sewing space! I am loving the heater and close access to the kettle, the afternoon sun is fantastic and I get to watch TV with the kids; win win!

Bloggers Quilt Festival

2010-05-22T17:05:00.003+10:00

Welcome to my blog, thanks for stopping by!

I blogged about this quilt on my first post back here in 2006, it is still my fave quilt. I made this for Stuart's Pre Primary teacher for Christmas. I spent 10 weeks working on this quilt, at the time I was sewing on the kitchen table and I had to pack up and put away in between meals. The pattern is from an old Handmade magazine, the quilt was originally done in black and white prints, I much prefer my bright apples! I made 25 apples to symbolise each child in the class and used the class photo on the back for the label. Sewn together in Crazy Patch then machine stitch applique onto the backing piece. Green wonky log cabin strips around each apple then joined together to form the quilt top. Quilted in the ditch, this quilt is the biggest I have ever completed, it has a sleeve but can be used as a quilt or a wall hanging. This was the first quilt I gifted to one of the kids teachers, I have given away many more that you can see here, here, here and recently here. Thanks for visiting!

Perth Craft Fair 2010

2010-05-20T18:12:00.001+10:00

That time of year again! Last year I came back under budget?? And I bought a new sewing machine! And my mum bought a Happy Jack. This year I went armed with a shopping list and I am pleased to report that I did well, spending most of my money at the $3.50 FQ Stall. I am loving all these spots, perfect for the applique quilt I have in mind for Cate's bed. I was tempted to splurge on a quilt kit or buy some new patterns, but reminded myself I bought a kit last year that is still unopened, and I have so many patterns I already want to make. I found a few of my fave prints so stocked up, I was really after orange fabric but not much to be found. Still a little sad that Amitie was not there, and I can not believe that I forgot to look at the quilts! I bought a few birthday presents too, just wrapping them now to put in the post tomorrow. All in all a great day, even if I did go on my own. I was in and out within 3 hours and had some fun shopping in Myer for kids clothes, without the kids!

Orange, Brown and Blue quilt top

2010-04-26T20:07:00.001+10:00

A work friend is due in a few days with her fourth baby, she doesn't know the sex of her baby will be (I am leaning towards girl) so I was going to make both a boy and a girl quilt to be prepared. I love this brown and orange combo, but I don't think this quilt is boyish enough, the butterfly print is a tad girly, but it's not really girly girl so it looks like we may have to keep this one!!Fabrics include Heather Ross Lightining Bugs, Denise Schmidt Katie Jump Rope, and Amy Butler Lotus. The Heather Ross fabric was hard to stipple over, the fabric is super soft and it was like my needle couldn't get a good grip.All over stipple quilted in a pale grey thread, quilt measures 42" x 46", have thrown it in the wash and its now in the tumble drier so expect will loose another inch or so.Inspired by this quilt here, I just love it!

Excuse me Muffin,

2010-04-19T00:49:00.000+10:00

but I am trying to quilt! Finishing off my strip quilt, we might keep this one, someone likes the fish!

Cate's Notice Board

2010-04-17T00:47:00.003+10:00

I think I am quite crafty. I see something in a magazine and think I can do that. Or I see something at the shops and think I could make that cheaper and nicer. But sometimes my creations don't work out (like the button wreath that no one will ever see except Emma and she had to shield her eyes!). Sometimes my craft endeavours work out more expensive. Or sometimes they just cause me so much grief I think why didn't I just buy one!! For example, Cate's new noticeboard.To the non crafty eye it looks great, Cate loves it and she thinks I am super fantastic and "oh so clever".But for me, all I see is the stress it took to get the ribbon to sit right. I pinned it, and stapled it down then it moved or it twisted or just looked naff, then I ran out of ribbon so had to buy more, then the staple gun was pausing before firing and OMG the stress. So I had to get a man to do it. A man. A non crafting, couldn't care less, beard growing man. Humph.There's heaps of free tutorials to make your own, basically you cover an art canvas board with some wadding and top fabric, use a staple gun to secure and then attach ribbon across the board omiting the need for pins. We also added some self covered buttons and glued them to the ribbon and fabric so photos wouldn't slide through.Project cost about $15 to make, and a normal person could proberly complete in a few hours, it took me half a day and a glass of wine! Tutorial available here and here.

WIP Wednesday - 3 on the go projects

2010-04-15T01:36:00.001+10:00

Wet and windy here, perfect sewing weather. I am working on a few things at the moment, I can't seem to get stuck into any one project for long enough so I have 3 mini work stations. The kids have been hindering my progress, we've been to the movies, visited friends, had sleepovers, stayed up late watching DVD's and eating popcorn, made copious amounts of jelly, been clothes shopping, cleaned the fish tank...6 more days and there back at school! So some random WIP photos:
Strip baby quilt, sandwiched and ready to be quilted~ A smaller version of my Disapearing 9 Patch with a Twist~ Black, White and Bright Greens Quilt~ I hope to stipple quilt the strip quilt by the weekend and finish the disappearing 9 patch top as well. I still need more greens for the black, white and green quilt but no huge hurry, I am nearly out of wadding and unable to buy untill after the craft fair in May!

Disappearing 9 Patch Quilt - finished!

2010-04-11T13:04:00.011+10:00

I finished my Disappearing 9 Patch with a twist, the twist being I never rejoined them to become one big block! Sorry for the bad photos, the light was fading fast and my models were not helping. At our last house we had a great clothesline I could use to hang my quilts, here we have a tiny one on the wall, only good for a few beach towels so I have to rely on helpers.Fabric is Amy Butler Daisy Chain, I had 6 prints, half metre of each, ample fabric left over, as usual I cut to much. To make this quilt I followed the D9P tutorial here. In brief I sewed 9 patches together then cut down the centre, leaving me with 4 blocks. I have added a cream homespun sashing and then bound using the flower print with the most turquoise in it. I like the look of the blocks kept separate, I think it makes the fabric prints stand out more and it came together so quickly, a dedicated quilter could easily sew this from start to finish in a weekend. Each block is 8.5" square with a 3" sashing. Finished quilt 54" square. I pieced the backing using some left over blocks I cut too small and the matching cream homespun. I have quilted all over in a large stipple using 100% cotton, I went through 6 bobbin changes on the stippling alone, and one and a half spools of cream Guterman. Wadding is Matildas Own wool cotton blend, love how it washes. And I am happy to say, everything came from my stash entirely. Kipper gives it 4 paws up! This quilt is for my friend Tonian who recently celebrated her 30th Birthday, sorry it's a few weeks late.

I'm on holidays

2010-04-10T10:24:00.002+10:00

For two glorious weeks!!! Sewing list in no particular order~

DONE Disapearing 9 Patch - 20% done, need to complete and gift
Black, White and Teal Quilt - sew binding down, label and gift
Twiggy - top to be completed
Glace Stacked Coins - top be be completed
Hour Glass Quilt - blocks to be completed
Dance Leotards - 3 trial sizes to be made
Cushions - for the couches and floor
Scrapbooking - work on Cate's dance album
Baby Quilt for Mel

hmmm, this list should keep me busy for a while. The kids will be at school for the second week plus there's a long weekend for Anzac Day. The weathers gotten cooler here, hoping for some more rain. Muffin is enjoying the cooler weather, all that fur he get's hot easily. He likes to sleep sideways on our bed stretched out, but no room for anyone else, so as soon as I am up he's in.So naturally he is the reason I can't make our bed in the morning. Well that's my excuse anyway.

Fabric Buying Ban

2010-04-09T18:52:00.000+10:00

For the whole of April, that's right, 31 days, (lucky I had that big stock up on 31 March!) I am committed to not buying any fabric or craft supplies, no new tools or patterns. And, as I am feeling confident, I will also restrain myself from buying any quilt fabric (no mater how much on sale) and anything quilting related until the May craft fair. Dedicated? Crazy? Or feeling poor? Who wants to join me? It will be fun!

I need some greens!

2010-04-08T18:55:00.000+10:00

I am short on bright / lime greens! Needed for another project I am working on, does anyone want to swap fabric? Green must match this shade of Flea Market Fancy print. I could also do with some more whites with a black print? Fabric needs to be 2.5" x 4.5" minimum, 2.5" strips would be great. Let me know if you can help out.

WIP Wednesday - Disappearing 9 Patch

2010-04-07T21:39:00.000+10:00

Still working on this one, I am committed to finish it asap. All the blocks have been cut out, and I found my cream homespun for the sashing, just sewing them up now, hopefully the top will be completed by the weekend.No time to chat!

Some Easter Break sewing

2010-04-05T22:39:00.003+10:00

I never got as much sewing done as I hoped too over the 4 day Easter break, we have been out and about plus I wanted to get the kids rooms cleaned from top of the cupboards to under the beds. I have to go back to work tomorrow, but only a 4 day week then I am on holidays for 2 whole weeks. I wanted to get some of the boring house work stuff out of the way, like reorganising the pantry so things stopped falling on me, and sorting the linen cupboard so again, things stop falling on me.I started making a stacked coins quilt using my Glace Honey Bun, but thought I had better check with the intended recipient, and was told her fave colours were sea green and blue, so I have put away my stacked coins, pulled out my Amy Butler Daisy Chain and have started working on a disappearing 9 patch, with a twist (twist yet to be revealed!)I hope to get the top completed this week, and then start the quilting on the Saturday so I can gift it asap. My first week of holidays will be spent at home with the kids, we have planned a few things like sleepovers, trips to the park, a day in the city and maybe go to the movies. The second week, they will be at school so I am going to sew, sew, sew!!

2010-04-04T01:45:00.000+11:00

A beautiful Saturday morning, so we headed down to Pinjarra for a day out that included a trip to a car show. Bob wanted to look at all the cars *groan* so the kids and I went off to check out the free entertainment. Some things were free, like the face painting, but I still baulk at having to pay $5 for 5 minutes on a bouncy castle x 3 kids = 3 Fat Quarters at the craft fair!!Stuart had great fun on the Scouts climbing wall And I realised that Oliver is going to be a problem on the roads "in 6 years mum" (he managed to crash no less than 5 times into the inflatable bumper rail). A few hours later we headed over to the park for a picnic next to the Murray River, the kids loved the swaying bridge and floating sticks down the river. On the way out of the town I swear I saw a sign that said Quilts for Sale but Bob said the heat was making me delusional!

Happy Easter

2010-04-01T21:46:00.002+11:00

Cate and I made little Easter gifts for the teachers, and office admin lady. (Never forget the office lady, the one who answers all your phone calls, gets you much needed items from the Uniform Shop and adds them to your term fees, helps you with lost notes, missing hats, waives overdue fees... brilliant people are the office workers!) 12 Ferero Rochers tied up in celaphane with lots of decorative ribbon and a handwritten tag by Cate. We made 6 bundles (3 current teachers, principal, office admin and the netball coach!) and she had great fun handing them out.

Textile Traders craft night

2010-04-01T01:06:00.006+11:00

Held twice a year, this event is number one in my diary, a big must have for the keen fabric shopper. I was actually debating not going, I had an awful day, starting with spilling a whole cup off coffee over myself at school assembly, then loosing Stuart who was under my nose the whole time, then I lost my Visa Card so had to ring and cancel it ($15 replacement fee!!) and by the time I got home from work at 5.30pm I was over it all. However, knowing that all quilt fabric was $6 a metre for one night only, I knew I had to go. 16 metres later, some of my faves~
Amy Butler Daisy Chain Quilt Flannel to make Cate some winter PJ's Bright Florals and this mini forrest print, some is heading your way Cass I think I might start a self imposed craft buying ban untill the craft fair held in May.

Kings Park

2010-03-30T21:12:00.001+11:00

I took the kids to Kings Park last Sunday to meet up with my cousins and to say goodbye to my parents, who have now left for there trip around Australia. The weather was fantastic, the kids loved the freedom of running in the playground while I got to sit back and catch up with all my cousins. Easter break, school holidays and I have two weeks leave from work so we've planned to go back to the city for a day, Cate is desperate to have a ride on the Perth Wheel and I need to do some winter clothes shopping with them. Cate is wearing her hat made by AJ, lots of comments from family and the girl at the ice-cream kiosk gave it a thumbs up! After the park we went home via the Perth Upmarket, so many great stalls but we got there fairly late, around 3.00pm so had to zoom through, my fave stalls being Mokoh Design, ele-ahbaant and Two Little Banshees. The kids were tired out, next market is 27th of June so will head up sans kids!

See this bag?

2010-03-23T22:47:00.005+11:00

It was calling my name, but I was to slow and sadly for me it's been snapped up by someone else. And it was sold for a super bargain price, I am still sobbing over what could of been mine. Thankfully I have managed to track down the same fabric print (for an exuberant amount of dollars), hopefully Cass can make me a new bag, and maybe a matching purse, for a super bargain price!

Squeak and Rowdy

2010-03-03T20:17:00.000+11:00

There's a new Guinea Pig in the house! We named him Rowdy because he is, well, so Rowdy! He's actually more squeaky as in high pitched ear piercing squeals when anyone dares open the fridge or take something from the fruit bowl, but we can't have Squeak One and Squeak Two, so Rowdy he is. Born on New Years day, he is 9 weeks old and the "cutest little fella" according to Cate. Rowdy loves brocolli, cabbage and apple, spending time on the lawn and snuggling up to Squeak. Squeak has been welcoming to his new friend, perhaps a tad disapointed he is not a she but all is good in the hutch. Rowdy actually came from an Alpaca Farm so I was in my element when we went to go pick him up. Pet Alpaca's start at $450, guniea pigs $20 so if your after either I can recomend taking a visit to Amanda's Alpaca Farm. Poor Kippy is a tad jealous of all the attention being lavished on the new member of the family (she has mastered the art of sulking!) so were trying to spread the love. New Guinea Piq quilts coming up!

Sea Life Baby Quilt

2010-03-01T00:14:00.000+11:00

I wanted to make a baby quilt for a work colleague who is expecting her second baby girl. I also work with her mum so I asked her about colours she may like for the quilt and was told that the nursery is decorated in a sea theme. I was lent the wall hangings so I could match up fabrics, and it was suggested that a bassinet sized quilt would be perfect. The colours and style is so not me, (I don't like satin stitching appliques) but I accepted the challenge and came up with this 26" square quilt which I hope that they like.Using purple, aqua and white homespun for the blocks, I sandwiched and quilted in the ditch around each seam. Then added some orange coral for brightness and free motion appliqued on. Then I appliqued on 3 turtles using blanket stitch. The turtles are the same size and shape as the ones in the wall hanging (I photocopied and traced onto vlisofix first).Backing is a pastel spot, binding is the same purple spot I have used on 2 of the turtles. I hope that they like it and use it, I will gift it tomorrow. Onto my next project!

EB Craft Swap

2010-02-19T23:20:00.001+11:00

Last month I joined up for the EB Sewing Swap. Each person had to request 3 items and there partner got to make any one item. My swapee was Lisa, I actually requested her based on her likes and dislikes and colour choices. Lisa said she would like rectangle place mats or a boys DS holder or anything boyish or a table runner. Fave colours pink, white and aqua. Easy.

I decided to make a table runner, and bar the homespun everything was from my stash. I used some Amy Butler Lotus, Denyse Schmidt Flea Market Fancy and a variety of pink and white spots from Michael Miller, Windham Fabrics and some Fat Flats from Spotlight. Teamed up with a pink watermelon homespun, I bought all that they had left on the bolt so about 4 metres, Cate has bed sheets and a pillow case in this colour, delish!

Top is pieced with wonky strips alternating between the prints. Sandwiched with pellum wadding and quilted using a variety of decorative stitches. I used white 100% cotton in the bobbin and the quilting stitches look fantastic from the back, I think it could be used either side up.

Measuring 16" x 34", I hope Lisa likes it, cos I love it!! I also included some cherry FQ's and a homemade card.

Cat Cushion

2010-02-18T21:10:00.002+11:00

I made this cat cushion for Staurts class mate Amy-Jade, it was her 9th birthday a few weeks ago. I took some photos but accidently deleted them before I could download them, glad I did as Amy-Jade is a way better model with her cushion than our side shrub!

This one was made exactly the same as the dog cushion except I quilted the centre cat panal 1/4 inch apart with the cross hatching and it took forever. Looked great though, just took ages, has a real quilted feel to it.

Same 18" cushion insert but I made the last border a tad smaller for a more snug look. I think I am all cushioned out for a few weeks, but I bought the cutest Easter panal so was going to make some for thie living area, no doubt they will end up in Cate's room, last count she had 6 on her bed!

Horse Cushion

2010-02-16T20:27:00.002+11:00

Happy Birthday to Stuart's friend Sophie. She loves horses so we had to track down some horse fabric for her cushion, unfortunately most horses are brown and not too girly looking so we added some white on white print with purple and white spots.

She had a Pool party last Saturday and the kids had a great time. I was feeling a tad under the weather from some seedy coleslaw eaten the night before but 2 panadol, half a hot dog and some chips later I was doing fine!

New Library Bags

2010-02-14T20:21:00.001+11:00

Stuart picked out some Yoda Star Wars fabric a few months ago when I coerced him to come to Textile Traders with me. Textile Traders is next to Harvey Norman and he likes to go there to play the demo PS3 games so I think that's how I got him to come shopping with me. From memory the demo controller was not working so to keep the peace I let him buy a metre of this fabric. He couldn't decide what he wanted me to make with it, he was thinking pillowcase or a cushion but it was put aside and not thought of. Untill today. The kids bought home a note from school advising that no matter how old they think they are, no child is allowed to borrow a library book without a library bag.

So 2 new library bags have been made, one staring Yoda, the other a blue monkey swimming print. So simple, each bag is just 2 same sized rectangles (aprox .5m fabric used) and sewn together with a drawstring top, each bag took about 15 minutes. Here they are ninja kicking each other. Delightful.

Monday is library day, lets see what they bring home this week to read.

Back to School

2010-02-06T17:04:00.000+11:00

Photos a little late, but the kids went back to school last Monday. Oliver is in year 5, he assures me he has gotten taller but I just don't see it. He thinks his new teacher is great, loves how there's been no homework for the past week and is so happy to be back at school with all his friends.

Stuart in year 4, thriled theres a new boy in his class so thats 4 boys to 12 girls! He's looking forward to camp this year and loves all the party invites he's been getting. Homework, not so keen on but it's been maths only so he wizzes through it. (Don't let the uniform fool you, he came home missing a shoelace and his shirt covered in yogo!)

Cate is now in year 2, her class is choc-a-block full with 25 kids. She's happy as, plays with a mix of boys and girls but still has her one best friend. She is looking forward to joining the school netball team in term 2 and was back at her first Calisthenics lesson today.

Here's for a great school year for twenty ten!

Dog Cushion

2010-01-17T20:50:00.008+11:00

Our friend's daughter turned 7 today, Happy Birthday Alisha. Her party was held at the local Fun Factory, great for the kids and great for the mums as no mess at home (and there wedges are so yum!)

I made Alisha a cushion for her bed, Cate picked out the fabrics and helped me with the ironing. Made entirely from my stash, I used to make heaps of kids party presents, it's great when there lovingly recieved.

Alisha has a small dog called Waggs so the blue dog fabric is perfect. The centre has been quilted cross hatching half inch apart on the diagonal and I have stitched in the ditch around the sashings. Using the white with tiny spots for the backing as well, cushion size 18 insert (proberly could of gone with size 20).

We also bought her a set of buzz controllers with the Ace Race game for the PS2, these are so fun. Late party on a scorching 40+ degrees Sunday afternoon = take away dinner so win win all round!

My Sewing Room

2010-01-13T23:40:00.009+11:00

We moved house in November, same suburb just closer to the kids school. Very nice modern home, bigger than our last with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, ducted aircon, open gallery kitchen, computer nook, theatre room and a study at the front. Love the study, not that it's used for studing, it's my sewing room! I went from sitting on a pillow in an empty spacious room, computer on the floor and Muffin by my side to plastic drawers and tubs and boxes to eventually getting everything unpacked, sorted and in it's new place. The tubs have all been sorted, everythings labeled and I love the trestle table for sewing and cutting, and I love being able to turn from sewing machine to computer Bliss. Now I can mess it all up, lots of projects on my adgenda (thanks to my 54 week year!!)

Completed - Quilt # 1

2010-01-05T21:28:00.000+11:00

Yay!! I have 53 weeks left to complete my next quilt. Black, White and Pink All Over is finished, just need to make the label. I used up all my Moda pink spot on the backing and binding, I am a bit sad about that, from memory it was one of Textile Traders cheap $6 a metre pieces from a few years ago. Quilt # 1 for Twenty Ten ready to be gifted. Now, onto my next project.

Black, White and Pink all over

2010-01-03T16:07:00.001+11:00

After last years track record of two quilt's, I have wasted no time creating this black, white and pink all over quilt for our friends 40th Birthday. Pattern is based on Denise Schmidt's Hop Skip and Jump Quilt. Quilt looks great both ways, just deciding how to quilt it. I am thinking straight lines or an all over stipple, something quick. I don't think they have a cat, Kippy was in seek and destroy mode, quilt passed her test of destruction. I accidently cut some strips a tad short so saving them for a table runner or some place mats. Or a cat quilt. You can never have too many cat quilts. Or too many cats.

Happy New Year !!

2010-01-01T19:25:00.013+11:00

I have not blogged since November! Lazy I know, so much going on, blogging slipped to the side. Since my last post we have moved house (same suburb, just closer to the kids school), the kids graduated from Year 4, Year 3 and Year 1 with glowing reports. I completed 2 training courses in the city, Cate's now zooming around on her bike without training wheels, had 3 sleep overs and received the Year 1 Achievement award! We have also met "the Liam" (Mum and Dad's new caravan) Sung at Carol's By Candlelight Participated in the town Christmas Pageant
and Celebrated Christmas in our new home A bit disappointing crafty wise, I only finished 11 things, 2 of them being quilts and the rest smaller projects. I did get a few quilt tops done but there not yet quilted, and I have a few WIP that I hope to finish in the next few months. The year went too fast for me; with working full time, the stress of moving house and being on a few too many committee's. Less commitments this year I hope, with some holidays in March when Emma comes to visit, and 2 weeks off for the Easter break where were hoping to take a family trip, so until then its sewing and crafting when I can, starting from now! Happy New Year 2010!

Beach Fun

2009-11-15T14:13:00.003+11:00

I took the kids for an early morning surf, they were up and ready to go by 6am (if only they were this keen to go to Church!) Oliver's boogie board has faded from last years summer sun, apparently it now looks gay :rollseyes: They start school swimming lessons on Monday, Little Nippers next Sunday and then weekly swimming lessons untill February. And the nagging for a house with a pool has started.Can we have a pool Dad? Can we have a pool Dad? Can we have a pool Dad? Can we have a pool Dad? Can we have a pool Dad? And on it goes.

EBDQS - Red, White and Aqua Chinese Coins

2009-11-12T22:41:00.004+11:00

Last year I made this quilt for Xena's son Jaedyn, and the year before that I made this quilt for Ingrid's son William. This year my swapee was Leah who requested white, red, aqua, loves spots and wanted a quilt with strong visual design that could be used as a wall hanging with no lace. And no fussy old fashioned florals.I have a fairly limited Aqua stash, but some of my Flea Market Fancy matched beautifully with my Amy Butler Lotus reds, and I had large piece of red spot that that also matched the red tones and would show up my quilting on the back. I went with a Chinese coins pattern to show off the fabrics, and have quilted across and around the strips for effect.Sorry it arrived late Leah, I sent it express but should of allowed a few extra days to get from WA to ACT.

EBDQS - recieved Nocturnal

2009-11-08T12:36:00.010+11:00

My delightful Wols, made by Emma.When I went to South Australia, I asked Emma to show me the doll quilt she was making. Emma proceded to lump a pile of quilts on me, and said she was going to let her swapee pick. Well, her swapee was me!!! How fantastic is that!I had a choice of bear in woods, tree, tree, another tree, or my wols. Toss up between the bears and the wols, the wols won. Bears came a close second. Sounds like a football game, Wols v's Bears 1 nil.Emma's ETSY shop is here, she also does commission quilts. And I can vouch for her workwoman ship 100%, Emma's work is amazing.Thanks again Emma, I love it, oh and it makes a good cat quilt too!!

Secrets

2009-11-06T23:08:00.000+11:00

I am not sure what there planning, but these 2 get up to trouble all the time!

Happy 7th Birthday Cate

2009-11-05T00:18:00.006+11:00

7 today, and so grown up!Very happy with her presents, a Barbie and the Island Princess play set, new Dora DS Game, a much wanted skipping rope, some Charlie and Lola colouring books, hair accesories, scrapbooking supplies, new PJ's and my fave, a Lovelinks Petite bracelet. Cupcakes for school, Gluten Free of course, and we headed out to dinner with my parents to Cate's fave resturant...Hungry Jacks!!Happy Birthday Cakington!!

Pay It Forward

2009-11-03T22:43:00.000+11:00

I have a few openings available in my PIF. I recieved this lovely Yo Yo Christmas tree wall hanging from Selina, so I have 3 sign ups available.And I am participating in Helen's PIF so another 3 participants welcome. Sign ups below, everyone welcome, I have some great things planned.

Cate Solo

2009-11-02T09:46:00.001+11:00

Some pics of Cate at her Solo, she was competing against 17 other girls, half were state team so huge difference in skill. They were doing forward and backward walkovers, one handed cartwheels, leg splits in both directions...I was happy Cate remembered her routine!!The judges were pleased too, coments on her Critique Sheet included "Good to see flex movements"; "Lovely grooming"; "You tried very hard today and remembered all your movements"; "Nice performance" and the most positive "Work for stronger presentation as you show potential".Exams next, then a much needed break before we do it all over again for another year!

Cate Duo Costume

2009-11-01T21:07:00.001+11:00

These Lion costumes are great, Sarah did such a wonderful job. I helped pick out the fur, lol, and paid, I knew with my trip to SA, working everyday, the EBDQS and making Cate's solo costume I would not have time to make 2 matching lion costumes as well. Erin (girls coach) was thrilled with them too. Cate's duo partner is Hayley, there dancing to the Lion King song "Just can't wait to be King". They have been dancing together for 2 years now, another mum asked if Cate wanted to do a duo with her daughter and we had to politley decline, there's no seperating them!Comp was on Sunday, the girls placed 3rd!

Post 26 ~ Tackling the list

2009-10-26T18:44:00.000+11:00

I allowed myself an extra day to get my weekend list completed (wish it had been a long weekend). I got a few things done but still have a long way to go.

EB Doll Quilt Swap completed - nearly done

~~Cate solo dance costume - finished!!~~

~~Buy another glue gun - Bob did this for me~~

Neptune hourglass quilt - some done

Organise Cate's birthday party - never even gave it a thought!

Sew binding down by hand on Black & White & Teal quilt - tonight I promise

Return Library books - eeek!

~~Organise sewing area - done!!~~

Post 25 ~ Cate's Solo Costume

2009-10-25T15:22:00.001+11:00

I hated working the last school holidays, I should of been home having fun with the kids. Especially on Wednesday's, Cate had 2 dancing classes that Bob had to sit through.Solo and Duo competitions are on November 1st, only one more week of practice. Her last practice on Tuesday is a full dress rehersal, for her solo we have gone with a Christmas theme, dancing to "It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year". Costume is made from a deep burgandy velvet with silver dots all over, $15 a metre at Spotlight, leotard pattern by Butterick $13, (it is actually an Ice Skating Pattern number 6660), generous in size, Cate is wearing a 4, the skirt is attached and has a full twirl, I love it. I bought the fur trim in Adelaide from DanceFX, $6.50 a metre and the sequins from Spotlight $5 a metre, I sewed both on by hand and hot glue gunned the snowflake motif on the ends for extra security. I had to buy a new glue gun $8, and extra glue sticks $3. Not sure about the headpiece yet, she is going to wear a wiglett so will proberly just attach some little silver beads on wire that I found for $2 a packet.Present prop, I bought a $3 box and covered in a stiff silver brodergie type fabric that was $4 a metre and hot glue gunned down. I added a velvet burgandy trim $5 a metre and some red, green and silver curly ribbon $2. I glued them on in the centre and after seeing the pic above I have stretched out the ribbon to the edges and glued down to cover the silver, Cate has to shake the present and lift up in the air so want it to be effective from where the judges sit. I have not glued the lid down, its held on quite secure, Cate wanted to be able to reuse the box for treasures.Cate will be competing in the seven year old group even though she is still six (based on your age come 31st December), 17 girls in the solo section so some competition, the duo looks easier with 5 pairs competing and 5 places!

Post 24 ~ EB Doll Quilt Swap

2009-10-24T21:44:00.000+11:00

Sneak Peak of my EB doll quilt swap I have been working on. Just finishing it up now to have in the post no later than November 1st.My partner likes red, aqua and white, very popular doll quilt colours. Don't forget about my blog giveaway, your in the running if you make a comment on any of my Blogtober posts.

Post 23 ~ huge weekend ahead

2009-10-23T20:48:00.000+11:00

I have a huge list of things to get done this weekend, starting now.
In no particular order~
EB Doll Quilt Swap
Cate solo dance costume
Sew binding down by hand on Black & White & Teal quilt
Organise Cate's birthday party
Neptune hourglass quilt
Return Library books
Buy another glue gun
Organise sewing area (desperately in need)
...more to be added, no photo, no time!!

Post 19 ~ Fabric shopping with Emma

2009-10-19T19:15:00.002+11:00

Emma and I went fabric shopping allllllll day! From one end of Adelaide to the other we did travel in her BMW Stationwagon. I can't remember the names of all the shops we visited, but my fave was Tricia's Discount Fabrics where I got these half metre pieces of Sheri Berri Holiday I got some Alien prints for Stuart from Emmas local quilt shop And I scored the last Nancy Halvorson Christmas Panal from Quiltaholic's; Oliver looks so thrilled about this!

Post 17 ~ Workshop at Hetties Patch

2009-10-18T01:45:00.000+11:00

One thing you will not read about on Hetties Patch, is the fact that the shop owns 11 cats! Yep, you read right, 11 furry friends, something for me to aspire to (and one was even named Bob!)However, believe it or not, I did not travel to Adelaide to be surrounded by alley cats, but rather to attend Kellies workshop. I had a fantastic time hanging out with Emma, I nearly died with laughter when she snapped a machine needle, but then was so embarassed being told off in front of the whole class for not having my machine threaded properly! Kellie's quilts are just so bright and beautiful, Cate asked me to make Rainbow's and Lollypops for her, I will make an effort to complete it for her 8th Brithday (she's turning 7 in two weeks so I have plenty of time!)

Post 16 ~ Helen at the Airport

2009-10-16T11:45:00.000+11:00

I am off to Adelaide to meet Emma (hope she picks me up!!) My sister made this quilt in Homespun...go check it out!!

Post 15 ~ Betrayed Cat

2009-10-15T21:46:00.000+11:00

This is the funniest thing I have ever seen!!

Post 12 ~ Happy Birthday table runner

2009-10-12T10:24:00.001+11:00

I made this bright table runner to celebrate all the birthdays in our house over the next few weeks, I was supposed to be finished for Stuart's 9th Birthday in September but I ran out of time. Cate's birthday is next, November 4th.Nice and bright using my "Citruz Yarn Dyed Plaid" Jan Mullen fabric, not much of this left in my stash. I traced the letters onto vlisofix and secured with raw edge / free motion applique. I am not very good, hence I have justified my trip to South Australia to master the art with Kellie!I tried out some stipple quilted pebbles for the border which looks great on the backing, a bright orange spot. Measuring 16" x 43" it's perfect for our table.

Post 11 ~ Spinach-Cheese Swirls

2009-10-11T18:39:00.004+11:00

I am ready for round 2 of the CL bake off tomorrow. Savory Finger Food is the theme.Recipe here, yummo!

Post 10 ~ filler post

2009-10-10T14:46:00.002+11:00

oops, a day late! Snap shot of Muffin gripping on for dear life, he was not going to get off the ironing board and he's really not one to share. Luckily his tail did not get singed!

Post 9 ~ 10 reasons why we should move to Ballarat (Victoria)

2009-10-09T23:06:00.000+11:00

1/. Wide open spaces with room for a pony (need the Mercedes and swimming pool too!)
2/. Ballarat is the heart of Calisthenics.
3/.The chance of snow come winter.
4/. Ballarat Patchwork for all my shopping needs.
5/.Ballarat Quilters for some social fun.
6/.Amitie Textiles just down the road.
7/. Upholstery Gallery for something different.
8/.Ballarat Steakhouse, the best meal I have EVER had.
9/. We have the opportunity to go with very little disruption to the kids schooling.
10/. Why not??

Post 8 ~ For Donna

2009-10-09T02:56:00.001+11:00

Some Christmas Cheer.

Post 6 ~ Happy Birthday Oliver!!

2009-10-06T19:06:00.003+11:00

My baby is 10.
10 years old.
A 10 year old boy.
In my house.
Who would of thought! Still Pokemon mad, his fave present is his Platinum DS game and Poke Manuel. This is last years pokebook, I think we get our $$$ worth!Party held at our house today, perfect weather, all the year 4 boys from school plus mutliple sibling brothers = 12 boys plus Cate and her friend.
On a sad note it's was also Oliver's first birthday where he has not shared his cake with our Nan.

Post 5 ~ Happy Birthday Table Runner

2009-10-05T19:34:00.001+11:00

A sneak peak of a little project I started a few weeks ago! A birthday table runner. Sadly I am yet to finish it in time for the boys birthdays! Muffin seems to like it, it's Cate's birthday in November so hopefully it will be completed by then.

Post 4 ~ Double Hourglass Blocks

2009-10-04T16:09:00.003+11:00

I am sure these have a proper name, just not sure what it is, so Double Hour Glass blocks. Semi based on this tutorial here, I have made my blocks using a Neptune Honey Bun and 1.5 metres of white homespun. Each strip in a HB is 1.5" wide x 42" long and there are 41 strips in this HB. To make one double hourglass block, cut each HB and each white strip in half (so 1.5" x 21"). Sew one HB strip to a white strip then repeat so you have 2 strips, then sew the 2 together so you have 4 strips alternating. Iron flat. Then using your trusty triangle ruler, measure up and cut out 4 triangles. Match into pairs then sew together to become 2 bigger triangles. Then sew the 2 triangles together to become 1 square measuring 7.5" And then your done! Be careful with the seams, my centre doesn't line up neatly but I had an impatient helper, who desperetly needs a haircut! This one will be for Stuart's teacher for Christmas, 35 more to go!

Post 3 ~ The quilting is nearly complete

2009-10-03T23:04:00.002+10:00

Another hour or so should do it. Then to sew the binding on. Love it.

Post 2 ~ Happy Birthday Stuart!!

2009-10-02T18:23:00.005+10:00

Stuart turned 9 on Monday, a public holiday so we had a long weekend to celebrate in style. He's into Lego, and Star Wars, so Star Wars Lego makes a perfect present. He also got some DS games, a plush lego man, new bathers, PJ's and some clothes, less excitement there. Stu's party was today (I got a flex day from work so another long weekend!!), he invited 8 friends from school to come over for fun and games. We played pass the parcel, musical bobs, musical statues and had balloon races in the backyard (the irls team won!!) Stuart had a great time with his friends and yay, we get to do it all over again on Tuesday to celebrate Oliver's 10th Birthday!!

Post 1 ~ Blogtoberfest

2009-10-01T22:42:00.003+10:00

Everyone's in, its Blogtoberfest. I failed at "Post A Day in May" last year and haven't been game to try again! Here's hoping. Every blog post needs a pic, so here's one of the boys from about 5 years ago, I think Oliver's about 5 so Stu would be 4, Stuarts on the computer, showing his first sign of addiction / possesed-ness! Taken at our neighbours old house, glad to see someone is as messy as we can be (and they never even had kids then!)

Boo!

2009-09-29T20:41:00.000+10:00

Cate at the beach trying out her Halloween costume. She forgot her broom.

Stash Sunday

2009-09-27T23:36:00.000+10:00

Christmas fat quarter bundles, $20 each at Spotlight, I love them all!

Another Purple Patch - gifted!

2009-09-25T14:50:00.001+10:00

For Mrs Stubenrauch, Oliver's year 4 teacher. She won't be teaching term 4, she's off to have her first baby (secretly were all hoping for a girl!)Love how this quilt turned out, perfect lap size for mum and baby to curl up on the couch with.

Summer Strip Quilt

2009-09-15T19:41:00.000+10:00

This quilt was so easy, I have no idea why was a WIP for nearly 3 years!! Made using a Jelly Roll, all I have done is sewn the strips together and then quilted simple lines with my walking foot. I had to hang it sideways on the clothesline as it was too long! Matching backing and binding, very pretty, this bed topper could easily be completed in a weekend. Fabric is Sanctuary by 3 Sisters, so pretty and perfect as a summer throw quilt for Cate's bed, I think were going to keep this one.I machine sewed down the binding, huge no no in quilt world, but OMG it was done in like 5 minutes and looks fine! Plus I envision this quilt will be washed heaps so the extra security from being machine sewn suits us. Cate's been sick as for the past 2 weeks so its had plenty of use, and now that it's finished, I have room for some new fabric purchases, yay!

Stash Sunday

2009-09-13T17:05:00.002+10:00

Spotlight sent me as $10 gift voucher, no conditions, just spend me! So of course, spend I did. I originally went looking for some scrapbooking papers for Cate, she is making a dance album, so cute. Anyway, I love a cood clearance, and I do love spots, so when I saw some of my fave spots (to me they just scream Christmas!!) reduced to $3 a metre, I bought all they had left; 19 metres, yay!! I also bought 1.5 metres of each of these Vintage Pastels, I was thinking cushions but I always think cushions and do we have any? No. $5 a metre. Going to check out another Spotlight tomorrow, got to love a good clearance, did I already say that?

Black, White, Teal and...

2009-09-13T01:29:00.002+10:00

Tabby!! Kipper checking out my quilting, I think she aproves. I have quilted using King Tut variegated black and white, I love it, the colour varies aprox every 2 inches, would look great used in a close stipple. I have quilted in rows around the green centres, nearly finished. Handing it over to get it's binding hand sewn down (thanks mum!) and a photo label made and attached and then I can put away until Christmas. And, many thanks to Helen and Esther, they kindly sent me their green fat flats so I had enough to make the binding and a few little pieces were left over for the backing! Thanks again girls.

Flea Market Fancy

2009-09-08T16:10:00.001+10:00

Love love LOVE this fabric! There is a new blog that is dedicated to petitioning to bring Flea Market Fancy back, how cool is that! I bought this quilt at Ballarat Patchwork last November, Bob said I could bring back a souvenir from our trip, so I made sure I got something great! Labeled Flea Market Jumble #2 Bento Box pattern machine pieced by Emma Jansen and Machine quilted by Vanessa Dukovic in 2006. I have some FQ tucked away to make matching cusions or pillow covers with. The quilt has a hanging sleeve but no wall to hang it on so it's on our bed for now. There are several ways to show your support and help get this fabric range back on our shelves. 1/. Go sign the petition 2/. Add button to your blog 3/. Upload your photos of projects and stash to the blog 4/. Subscribe to the blog for updates. Spread the word!

Fathers Day 2009

2009-09-06T21:31:00.000+10:00

Fathers Day today, we took a day trip to Fremantle and had lunch with the family at Cicerello's (never mind there's one less than 7km from our house!)My dad got some nice pressies (Bunnings voucher, kids school photos in frame, cherry ripes, a plastic bag cutter - the gift that keeps returning) and I got my much needed Fat Flat from Helen, yay!! The kids had there first Cold Rock, Oliver had chocolate mixed with Crunchy Bar and Stuart had Lemon Sorbet with Gummy Bears, mmmm, yum, not! And we checked out the boats in the marina on the way home, Bob suggested we have a mini holiday and spend a weekend exploring the sights, must look into that. Back to work tomorrow, ugh!

Top completed

2009-09-05T14:26:00.003+10:00

Finished my black, white and teal green quilt top at exactly 11.59pm last night! I should of been in bed catching zzzzzzz but Emma convinced me to stay up and sew, there's a 1.5 hour time difference (between WA and SA) and she informs me that she stayed up sewing till 3.15am! This quilt came togther really quick, I cut all the fabric's out last weekend and just sewed them into blocks when I could, usually after work between 7.30 and 9pm. I joined all the rows last night, I was going to sew in a pattern but random tones looked better. 9 rows of 9 so 81 blocks in total, quilt measures 54" square (or 138cm), perfect lap size. Cold, wet and windy here with very little sun so the pics are not great. I had to double peg and lay on the ground to get a pic! I never managed to track down the green dots, trying to find a matching homespun green to use for the binding, nothing even remotley similar colourwide. Will sandwich and start quilting on Monday night.

Black, White and ...

2009-09-02T22:11:00.001+10:00

teal green!Alternating black and white squares with teal green centres, love it! Based on this quilt here, this one is for Cate's Year 1 teacher for Christmas, I hope he likes it.I am desperatly seeking some more of the teal green centre. I bought it as a "Fat Flat" from Spotlight about 9 months ago, I used 2 flats for the centres and would love another 2 or 4 for the binding. One flat has a small selvage reading "Polly Ann Blythe for Camelot Cottons", I have tried google but nothing :-( If anyone see's, please let me know, I'll be your best friend...

Sports Day

2009-09-01T18:56:00.000+10:00

First day of Spring for the sports carnival, the weather was perfect with just one shower of rain coming in at 2.20pm. I took a flex day from work to attend, the boys paired up and entered the 3 legged race, it was sooooo funny. The boys came 3rd. Cate was her team's captain, here she is starting off the leaderball, she's so competitive (read bossy!).