beccasauras

Made in Blueberry?

2012-01-25T17:36:00.000+11:00

So I started to sew it all together last night, couldn't work out at first what was wrong with this section (stand on your head if you aren't sure teehee). As it was a scrap/ from the stash quilt I didn't want to buy any fabric, so I have used 2 different types of white fabric- one was earmarked for another quilt, and one from the stash.

I think I love it now. Wasn't sure with all the peicing, was it balanced etc, but when I stand back, I'm happy, and that's all that matters, isn't it?

She was a pretty good helper with this one, my Little Miss, she wrote on all the pink post-it notes I use to keep track of the different sections! I was thinking of using this as a couch quilt, but as you can see by the size, it may need a bed!

I couldn't let this one go when I dropped into the oppy today to look for shirts for work. Chenille? Tick. Coloured pattern? tick. $10? Priceless!

It's huge, def in too good condition to cut up, another bed cover! I sure bowed down to the op shop God's for this one, I feel I've been waiting my whole life (ok, a few years) for one like this!

I had a visit with Nikki as well, and will show you what Auntie Wilma gave her when I get a chance!

Advice needed!

2012-01-24T18:24:00.001+11:00

OK, I don't ask for it very enough, but I thought I'd put it to the punters!

This vintage quilt was rescued from the Early Parenting Centre's bin years and years ago; a colleague I work with now had rescued it and stashed it at home. Now she's me and my sewing craziness, she wondered if I'd like it!

Er, yes please!

It's got gorgeous colours, and looking a bit ragged to use as a quilt or play mat again.

The backing is like a jacquard bed spread fabric, which has shrunk.There's no batting or quilting in sight.

I felt a bit selfish keeping it, and I make enough of my own for me- I suggested I unpick the backing and sandwich with a wool blanket, batting and binding, and hang it on the boring brick wall in the Maternal Child Health Centre I'm temporarily working in.

Any other suggestions?

Using it as a play mat etc would mean it needs washing- there won't be many volunteers for that!

I did think of cutting it up and redesigning, but as it's a donation to the centre, my time on it needs to be minimal!

any opinions?

Blue....

2012-01-23T19:53:00.001+11:00

Wow, where has this week gone?

Everything's blue around here lately- partly hanging on since Xmas, topped with reduced work available for a casual worker, therefore less money. Stress gets you so down you can hardly talk. Well, for me anyway.

I had a break from Twitter, so I didn't drag everyone else down in my blue. No one noticed I was gone, which was both good and bad I guess! It did make me feel better, forgot about my own predicament for a while I guess!

Anyway, have been busy sewing to keep me busy, calm me down and not stress about things.

Some cutting....

piecing and sewing....

I helped a pal de-stash got a lovely little extra....if you haven't seen Leslie's amazing fabric, go now!!

The Little Miss got lucky too- Jodie had spoilt her, and given us her next sewing project! (And both parcels arrived on the same day, lucky coincidence!) (PS Jodie- she loved the Monty and Pearl card the most I think, I have one on the fridge and she was soooo happy to have her own. Simple pleasures, huh?)

I 'Libertied' my letters Santa bought me....

and have finalised my 'oilcloth swimming tote' pattern.

These will be for sale soon!

so, yep, lots of blue, but still some good things to carry me through. Always a work in progress.....

Somebody stop me...

2012-01-16T18:40:00.001+11:00

Well, no, you don't have to stop me, now I've decided to do it I can't wait!

I was making a little belated Xmas present last night, and lamenting on the amount of blue scraps I've got!

See? bursting out of the box. Plus the blue folded fabric that's too big for the scrap box.

So I've gone and printed the pattern and am joining along with Chelsea and a few other friends in the quilt a long. Of course, using my favorite quilter's pattern may have been the clincher.....

Stuff i've been up to.

2012-01-14T19:26:00.000+11:00

I really didn't think I had any unfinished objects (UFO's) going on, things that I carried over from 2011. While my friends were rabbiting on, I was chuckling away thinking how bloody clever I was- er, oops, a closer inspection revelead a few!

I ummed and ahhed over this one; I orginally wanted an oilcloth backing, to use as a picnic rung. Cost the better one of me on that. So I'm busy away with a cure for this one. I'll keep you posted.

and I had a little cushion to finish off for the kid. I had the fabric cut out before I did the Little Apples one!

The lump near the cushion is a cat under the quilt!

the pattern was one I'd ripped out of magazine, so I can't tell you where I got it, sorry!

goes beautifully (if not slightly camouflaged by all the Sherbert Pips going on!)

I really like the backs, too!

The Ink and Spindle experience!

2012-01-08T19:07:00.000+11:00

So when my little sister got married last year, just before they left on a 6mth around the world trip I said I wanted to make her a wedding quilt, and asked her what fabrics she liked. The response wasn't very good for my bank balance. So I thought I'd leave the making until she was away, and then she could use it once she was back, rather than have it in storage for 6mths. Oh, and I ummed and ahhed over a quilt or doona cover- in the end the quilt won!

Then I realised she was back in a couple of weeks! Time to get my butt into gear.

So first step was buying the fabric. Jess had given me a few of her fave prints, then I went in and saw the lovely girls and got help picking 8 different fabrics. My plan was to go all choppy choppy and do rectangles/squares, but....

a trip to Ballarat Patchwork sorted the pattern out.

I also picked up the cotton/linen blend for the background.

Fusible interfacing wasn't in the budget that week, so I spray adhesive-d the circles, stuck them on and raw edge appliqued.

Basting, quilting and binding was a lovely way to spend Xmas- it's a beautiful weight fabric to sew with, and felt beautiful. I felt really lucky to be able to sew with it!

I love getting it done by the skin of my teeth! Just enough!

Ta-da!

Yep, this one came down the beach too!

My little sis and very hairy brother in law arrived back Friday night, so we gifted them the quilt yesterday. Thankfully, she loved it! phew!

(I would have a home for it at my house haha)

Oh, and I have about half of the fabric left! By changing the pattern I scored well!

a few tops

2012-01-08T17:36:00.000+11:00

I've been a bit inspired by this lovely lady and her top and dress sewing frenzy- I've been hanging to try the 2 tops she talks about!

So this is the 'Not Sorbetto top', actually a Simplicity 2938. I made it in a 16 with the normal size seam allowances, 5/8 inch. In a wearable muslin!

I then made it in the fabric I wanted, a vintage Ken Done doona cover. This one feels a bit tighter- maybe not as much stretch? Still cute!

I then went back and made a Sorbetto top. This was a 14, but I made the seam. allowances on the sides 1/4 inch.

AND I got my directional print (Hollie Hobbie) right!

The only thing I don't like about these 2 different patterns- the tops ended up too short, even though I only used a 1/4 inch hem. I like the length to sit on my hip, being short-waisted is a pain! There is bias binding around all the sleeves and the neck of the Sorbetto; the 'Not Sorbetto' has facings.

They both seem similar, but they are also really different. Not sure what ,y fave will be yet, hopefully will get some wear out of them!

I had a cheeky kid take the photos today.

Warning- don't trust them. I was asked to turn around so she could a shot of the back

of my top....grrrrr!!

The last few days

2012-01-06T19:52:00.000+11:00

So having time off over Xmas and New Year's means I still have no idea what day it is, despite a full day back at work today! Here's a bit of what happened over New Years.....

LOTS of reading. All the birthday and Xmas books have been read.

and of course, more sewing! I really can't believe I got 2 quilts done over Xmas and NY with this naggy sewing girl....

May I introduce....Snorkle!

Made from Jodie's pattern Pickle.

she's not being rude, just mimicking Snorkel's tongue

I went backwards on those steps! Instructions great (well, I read them anyway) and I gave her some help at the end (I can spot o UFO at 50 paces!!)

We spent the 40 dgree Celsius day on New Years Day public holiday down at the beach, so much cooler!

and sucking on ice cubes at Portsea Pub

Snorkel came too, of course.

Happy New Year! It's a Hoot!

2012-01-02T21:35:00.000+11:00

So I finally finished my quilt I have spent most of the year on (it seems).

Fabric bought in April (whole fat quarter collection). Picked a pattern and off I went.

It stalled...got picked up here

with New Year around the corner, I got it finished! There was something weird about it

hanging around till 2012!

So, I picked the 35 degree New Year's Eve to baste;

threw in some spare blocks and some stash pink;

and sat under the air con and sewed!

I finished it on New Years Day, evening, and had a beach day the next day planned (BEST

place to cool down in 40 degree heat! Swam for the first time in about 2 years!). So.....

oh, and a gratuitous gorgeous daughter shot!

More projects

2011-12-29T19:41:00.000+11:00

We got this book a while ago, and as soon as we did, the post-it's were put in!

She pulled it out yesterday and picked her first (of many) projects.

A cute little softie!

The thing that amazes me about kids and sewing is a bit like everything they try- NO FEAR! They don't procrastinate, worry it's not perfect, think about for ages etc. I've told her about a seam ripper, but she looks at me like I'm stoopid!

So she threw herself into this one too.

There's no hand sewing happening- she's more a Sharpie face kind of kid!

I knew my Echino bat fabric would find a use one day!

and felt is very forgiving on the sewing machine. Even the opening was machine sewed!

My project for today was her first nightie (but I had to say no to her on the machine today, haven't figured out how to do my own stuff while teaching yet, I know it will come!)

She saw this at Spotlight for $3 (bought with my free $10 voucher, yeah!) I thought I

had a nightie pattern in the stash- nope!

I channelled my skills and turned out a pretty ok 'pillowcase' nightie.

I cheated as it wasn't a pillowcase!

She likes it , I think, wasn't too sure how to finish the top, I muddled through it.

And I wanted to show some bags I made as pressies- so fun to make, the hardest bit

was picking the colours to go together!

the bottom 2 I made as a teacher gift and Assistant Principal gift!One had

choccies inside, and the other a hand made purse. I made one for Cam too, but forgot the photo!

I started with the tutorial over here, then bought Jeni's great pattern- lots of clear picks, and she worked out the sizes for heaps of bags, and tell you how to work out custom sizes too. they are fully lined, too- bonus when you have lots of fabric to ~~use up~~ enjoy!

It's been busy....

2011-12-27T18:51:00.002+11:00

So I finished up work and have had my first holiday in a long time. OK, no holiday, that got cancelled as the broke feeling was coming along....

Murray had a birthday, turning 4! He got a bath for his b'day, and loved rolling in the

forest in the backyard!

He got a chop toy which he's loving.

We got a Xmas pic (I have to re-scan the Santa photo)

And he grudgingly gave us a Xmas pic.

Xmas Eve saw the girl calling the reindeer's...

and Xmas morning saw the benefits of that! Santa arrived!

with a stash of Littlest Pet Shops and Zhu Zhu pets.

I thought longer term- and the fact I was sharing my baby! And teaching my Little Miss some skills seemed like a good idea at the time. Might not be very cool in the playground, but luckily we don't care what they think.....

So today we sat down and had a lesson in threading...

and of course had to sit together while we did it...

I was in charge of the rotary cutter, she was in charge of fabric and stylin'.

And she turned out some pretty impressive drawstring bags! There will be some hand stitching on the little darker squares.

Perfect for storage for all the Littlest Pet Shops she's acquiring.

Yep, styled all by her!

The first of many adventures!

Hope everyone had an awesome Christmas and best wishes for 2012.

More good things

2011-12-20T19:32:00.000+11:00

I'm not expecting much good stuff over Xmas, it's pretty quiet around with no family, so I'm enjoying the last few weeks of nice/good things!!

The delightful Cathie gifted my lucky girl this yummy Ginger house!

we decided to renovate on the way home (ie I gave it to the kid to hold) so I don't

think there'll be much left by Xmas!)

I've cleaned out the girl's wardrobe, and had 2 boot loads of clothes and toys etc I've been (crazily) holding onto to drop of at the oppy. So I allowed myself this beauty....

and these gorgeous shoes!

The word on the street on Sunday was that Sportsgirl had these great shoes half price! a quick call to my closest one had me travelling into the city, to have it pay off with these! For $40!

Also, have started chopping up my Ink and Spindle fabric. Can't show too much here in case the surprise is blown...

Sewing stuff

2011-12-14T20:16:00.000+11:00

I finished a few things off this week, have to happy about that!

I had a friend ask me for a round make up purse, and gave me a large one as a idea. She wanted it smaller than the one she had- so I scaled it down a bit and made the round one. She then asked for a rectangular one, which is a bit bigger than I think she wanted, but should fit a hair straightener!

Lined in green and clear vinyl, easy to wipe out spills! I made a little jewellry roll to go with

them, but forgot to take a picture!

I found these fabrics in the stash, so started a little quilt for the couch. Yep, I really did

mean to make a wall hanging, of course!

I was catching up with Tinniegirl tonight, and hadn't been to her new place yet, so made

a little belated housewarming pressie.

It's the Flip Side Pillow, tutorial here.

I also picked up some new fabrics for a special quilt; if there's a chick in Africa reading this,

look away now!

mmm, can't wait to get into this lot!

Sunday snippets

2011-12-11T18:06:00.000+11:00

knitted bunting!

It's taken 3mths to clean this bugger out!

and I didn't cry!

playing along over here.

Kris Kringle 2011

2011-12-08T19:30:00.000+11:00

I joined a swap a little while ago, over here at this girls' blog. I liked the idea of the whole 'secret' bit- we didn't know who we were making for, you found out once you were finished making! Well, I didn't cheat, that's for sure!

So here's what I made. I got the pattern from here after I saw them at the NCB Xmas Party (thanks Mel!). after I made them the girl and I said to each other that we'd like to keep one they were so cute!

And her's what I got in return! How lucky was that! In a Liberty print, I think.

Clare (blogless I think) also sent this gorgeous bunting. Her card said that she'd bought this fabric in Amsterdam on a recent work trip, so I feel extra special she used on me! Well, someone she didn't know, really.

Hopefully Clare is reading this so she can see I LOVED THE GIFT! Thanks!

My Creative Space

2011-12-08T19:14:00.000+11:00

Sneaking one in for the last of the year! I haven't missed too many I hope, I like that you

can drop in anytime for a play!

So the last few nights have been cutting and fusing....

Ta Da! They managed to be finished by tonight. I love my Echino one, perfect for our summer holiday by the beach! And I love that my girl has the spunkiest hat in school (lets hope it doesn't go 'missing' for 3mths this time)

See over here for more spaces....

Her Birthday Part 1

2011-12-04T19:26:00.000+11:00

So a kid having a birthday on a Tuesday, in the middle of a full week of work was not what I call practical! and I din't want another big party, so planned some fun things for the Sunday before it.

We were lucky enough through Girl Guides to receive some free tickets to an advance screening of this movie. I knew nothing about it, and wasn't sure if the girl would like it, but- AWESOME! The only thing it doesn't have is romance, but as the 'tweenie' movies of boy-meets-girl are already are hit in this house, I was kinda glad! Jokes, action, thrills, we LOVED it, so do yourself a favour when it hits the screens!

The we headed home for 'afternoon tea' with a few close friends.

Preparation began last night...

sewing is my love, not baking anymore, but I realised I have a young girl to teach, who's a willing student....

and then the cutting!

2 sleeps until she's 8!

Ta Da!!! I have seen many of these in blogland over the year, and knew I had to try it. Mild panic last night had me ring my pal for advice- thanks Cathie!

I had a pavlova too, hey, why not?

I decided to give her an early treat, the (god damn) softie she's wanted for yonks. I had to buy a new printer to make him, as there were no inkjets at work, and my old one wouldn't work with the new laptop. Jodie's instructions were great; I still managed to stuff up the first one, and was so happy the 2nd one made it!

(excuse the blue food colouring finger, that's nothing compared to the day before!!)

that says "you're awesome-sauce', by the way.

Stayed tuned for more....

The one where I got it right for a change....

2011-11-27T14:13:00.001+11:00

With all my moaning about what i'm NOT allowed to make the girl, occasionally she believes in me and I get it really right!

We were shopping one evening after work in a chain store (Cotton On Kids for you nosey parkers out there heehee) and we phone a pair of full length summery overalls. My poor kid, being of average size, didn't fit into their tiny size 8's, unless she wanted a front wedgie every time she wore them.

I had a hunt online and found this pattern- problem was, all sold out in Oz, luckily Ebay came through with the goods and I bought a copy from a seller in the US.

SO when it finally arrived, we had already been through the stash and knew we need to purchase fabric (doh!) and this nice voile from Spotlight was perfect! In her fave colours!

this is what I got when I asked for a smile

I wasn't sure about the size- she was anywhere from a 10-14 on the pattern!! I made a 10 with 1/2 inch seams, slightly smaller around the waist so 'front wedgies' will NEVER occur! And plenty of room to grow!

She wore it today (weather hasn't really been permitting this week, but she didn't care today) with her white Saltie sandals, and I was the proudest mumma ever!

Note: She has asked for a skirt one now, and a long skirt one (?maxi dress style), but without the ruffle. Better get cracking!

Makeover part 2

2011-11-24T19:34:00.000+11:00

I was going to split this post up, but have been pretty busy lately (and a poor blogger), so decided getting it all out of the way at once is better! I have a few more tips I learnt along the way, will save them for later.

So I decided that I HAD to put the furniture up my own- hey, I've lived on my own for 6 yrs, I hate admitting I need help for anything! So this is how I moved the bookcases....

pulled them into the room and stood them up (or something like that).

The desk was the longest to put together, about 2 hrs, I did that first so the bookshelves took about an hr each.

I found a clever idea for the huge drawers (kitchen drawer divider);

and moved a few of my older features around.

Getting an opinion from a friend (who I think should start charging for her great ideas) I decided to purchase a smaller ironing board from the oppy (found this just after my decision)

I bought a think new cover from Big W (the retro one was paper thin and no padding!)

Here it is in action- can I just mention THE LIGHT~dark furniture begone, I 'have seen the light'!

I still want cupboards down the bottom to hide all the ugly crap.

This space will be used for a custom made cutting table for my height

as long as it all fits up here!

No fabric was harmed in this makeover.

Gifty McGifterson

2011-11-24T19:02:00.000+11:00

So I had a little birthday...remember? I thought i'd share some handmade pressies from me mates.

B Fab put on Twitter she wanted to make this- so I offered she make it for me- yippee! In my new fave Terrain fabric. I think it's a Melly and Me pattern. I forgot, was too busy staring at it's cute puffy ears!

Also, this is what the surprise from Cam was! What an amazing job she's done, I'm pretty bloody lucky to have a friend like her!

The back is so neat, but it unfortunately sat on my bed for about 5 secs before the stinky cat's fur covered it. Grrr....It will be coloured side up from now on!

Then on Sunday I hosted a crafty catch up with a few friends, due to the rain the day before, where we did a Kris Kringle. It was definitely a (happy) coincidence I scored more MsCurlypops stuff!

Here it is in action, with my specialty- tuna casserole! My 2nd love only to my child. (and to hear her say how much she loves it is music to my ears!)

I'm a pretty lucky girl!

When it's all about me...

2011-11-16T19:56:00.000+11:00

which lately, it has been.

But first, before I get to the birthday, here's a sneak peak of the sewing room. It's coming along...

Sunday afternoon saw me ~~saving sanity~~ filling boredom by getting my helper in. Off came the old Dymo labels ( that were sticky taped on as they didn't stick well to this kind of plastic)

and on with the new. I had most of these boxes anyway, originally paying $2.98 a box from Big W, they hold 3 patterns each. I went back for a few more, reduced to $1.98 each. Now THAT'S what I call a bargain...

And they completely fit in with my obsessive compulsive side!

And then on Monday it was my birthday. Filled with extra lovely tweets and texts and Facebook messages from all my bloggy and some real life friends; guys, without you I would be in the corner rocking in the fetal position, my big bloggy family are the bomb!

Dinner was with a girlfriend and the kiddies; they made me feel spesh with drawings and cards, and lots of hugs from my main man Jai.

yummy cakes which I chopped up and shared;

and some awesome shopping skills from the Little Miss. Thanks to 2 awesome friends that picked her up and took her shopping, she then wrapped by herself, wrote on the card etc. I've trained her too well!

(ok, I may have shown her which books I wanted, she ain't that good yet!)

So, another older, lots of stuff undone (I really wanted to clean the fridge out last year, hmm, maybe this one) and a sense of who my family is and getting on with life without the old stuff around my neck. Still hate birthdays though!!

Sunday snippets

2011-11-13T19:11:00.001+11:00

OK, so not today's snippets, but the last few Sundays I haven't posted in!

Or just a collection of pics making me have a smiley Sunday!

Babies sun hats have been finished off;

the kid keeps getting longer legs;

this little lady has come to live here; I haven't thought of a name yet, any ideas?

and out with the old- this trusty old cabinet has seen me improve my sewing by miles.

Now off to help someone else get creative! Listing here.

Joining over here with Tinniegirl

Makeover Part 1

2011-11-12T21:26:00.000+11:00

Have had plenty of things to blog lately; just lost the blog-jo for a while. But am back with my latest project.

I decided for my birthday this week to give the sewing room a makeover, a bit more professional and sparkly, with great ideas from MsCurlypops. (Thanks for letting me be a 'copycat from Ballarat', Cam).

so here's the before (very tidy, too)

there's lots of stuff done on the floor in here, which isn't the most comfortable all the time!

When I saw Ikea had free delivery this week, I thought I was meant to shop! Unfortunately, 2hours in a queue and missing the delivery due to a 'not my fault' error means I may pay the $35 next time....

but they finally arrived!

the room was cleaned out;

helpers enlisted;

instructions carefully read (what sort of idiot would do this anyway?)

Of course, this instruction was completely ignored- I NEEDED to prove I could 'do it myself'

stay tuned for part 2....(don't hold your breath or anything though)

Op shop score.

2011-11-04T12:59:00.000+11:00

I went and gave blood again today, and generally feel very proud of myself. It's so easy I don't know why I think I'll chicken out- the people there are LOVELY, free snacks after, and I found out new news today- they are really low on Anti D, which many women (including myself) need after they have their babies (among other things). So I'm going back in a month to donate plasma. I have a few friends that really need our help, so I'm doing whatever I can!

Afterwards I thought I'd treat myself to the op shop- and was greatly rewarded- the op shop gods were happy with me!

Books (am continuing to collect Richard Scarry, more for me now) and groovy runners I have admired before, for $6 they were in my basket!

Vintage Pyrex, zips and buttons, a pattern too for a friend.

Buttons were in my fave colour, not sure where they are going yet.

a (practically) new hoodie for the girl, and a t shirt for me!

Half price t shirt means it was $1.50.

Want a closer look? Pristine condition, size 20 Bonds tee (will fit for a while, I HOPE!)

I love the band aids on the guitarists fingers- such a tough look, as is all that blow dried hair! I was a huge fan, still am. Ahhh, happy days!

My Creative Space

2011-11-03T20:03:00.000+11:00

Well, I didn't mean to just....end Blogtoberfest, I didn't realised I'd missed the last day till now! Oh, well, I'm happy with my effort, had a great time, and have Tinniegirl to thank for it! Cheers, matey! I also won a little giveaway which was lovely.

This Creative Space has me opening the Nikki book, and cracking on with some hats....

see here for more spaces.

Blogtoberfest 30/ My Place and Yours

2011-10-30T18:34:00.000+11:00

One more day to go, right? And we are not only over Blogtoberfest, but the Novembarians come to have birthdays. But more on that later.

I'm joining in with Vic again this week for her meme.

I took a shot of 'where I sleep'. How it usually looks, or, err, how it looks for pics (bedlinen

all made by me)

Cos this is how it normally looks

And the best bit about where I sleep? I'm sometimes joined by this little girl, I get to roll over and kiss her yummy cheeks, and think about how blessed I am....

see here for more places.

blogtoberfest day 29

2011-10-29T20:42:00.000+11:00

Went on a road trip.

Too tired to speak.

My Creative Space

2011-10-27T20:49:00.001+11:00

A few newbies- need some new summer shirts for work!

(this camera has a 'food' setting, bizarro!)

See here for more spaces

blogtoberfest day 27

2011-10-27T20:20:00.000+11:00

So, even though it's 10 days later, I haven't rehashed a post from 10 days ago- I've added to it!

I bought a new camera (yay!) and can show you the middle cushion.

Yep, I have as much scrap denim as chenille- finally they meet and provide comfort- ahhhh!

and yay for me continuing to Blogtoberfest despite the serious handicap of no camera!

blogtoberfest day 26

2011-10-26T19:20:00.000+11:00

After a busy day of work, I stopped in to see some friends at a new shop.

oooh, these friends would look lovely on one of my walls....

It's a great spot, near lots of shops, cafes and general good stuff.

Look who I bumped into! Luckily Liz had her camera (still having issues) so we got a quick snap. My new Ikea skirt got a look in, too! (well, I was wearing it. That would have been odd!)

head over here to find out more!

blogtoberfest day 25

2011-10-25T22:14:00.000+11:00

I'll definitely be back properly when I sort this camera issue out!

Meanwhile enjoy these pics of my cutie a few years back, as always loving the water.

She's looking

forward to lots more swimming this summer!

blogtoberfest day 23

2011-10-23T22:13:00.001+11:00

There were lots of cool photos for todays post.

I promise.

They somehow got lost when I upgraded the iphone's software. Bummer.

So here's a link of what I was into today.

Love it. Love the stuff.

blogtoberfest day 22

2011-10-22T23:55:00.000+11:00

I had a little stop in Ikea today (do you know you can enter the Richmond store throughout the checkouts (illegally), hit the bargain corner FIRST, then back track? And that there is s shortcut from candles to textiles?)

I picked up this fabric (you cut your own fabric and weigh it at Ikea, I cheated and bought a precut piece someone had cut, weighed and rejected)

and by tonight, an A line skirt.

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy.

blogtoberfest day 21

2011-10-21T19:53:00.000+11:00

I left it too late to post last night, so thought i'd better do it earlier tonight!

Thought i'd share my oppy gains I got today.

A vintage plate for $6....

to go with the smaller one I already had!

and.....ta da! 2 Jamie Oliver's hardcovers for $4.75 each. To add to the collection of cookbooks I might feel like using one day. At least 99% of them are op shopped!

A spot of oppying was what I needed after (gladly) joining in on Cam's roller coaster today- see over here for her amazing story, and over here to sign up to be one of the angels that gives life. (And tell your family too!)

blogtoberfest day 19

2011-10-19T19:26:00.000+11:00

The girl is mighty impressed with her new summer sandals.

Wearing (and resting) after school

Can't wait to get me a pair! Got these from here if you're interested (paid for, of course!)

blogtoberfest day 18

2011-10-19T09:43:00.000+11:00

Trying to craft on the couch can be a frustrating experience.....

posted a little late, I fell asleep while waiting for the pic to upload to blogger last night....too slow! grrrrr

blogtoberfest day 17

2011-10-17T22:59:00.000+11:00

I decided a few weeeks ago the couch needed new cushion covers.

As you do.

So the old ones have been off and the nude cushions are getting and bit chilly.

They're a bit brighter than I thought or wanted.....love this style over here....

but I got six backs out of denim off cuts.....four fronts to go!

Please excuse late night iPhone pics.....full time work and broken camera are the only excuses I have!

blogtoberfest day 16 Self Portrait challenge

2011-10-16T22:56:00.001+11:00

I'm joining in over here, how about you?

PS I did one of these last year too....

blogtoberfest day 15/ My Place and Yours- On The Shelf

2011-10-15T17:35:00.001+11:00

I'm very excited to be joining in with Vic's old/new/re-given meme.

I was having a bit of a tidy up, and saw the chance to make this shelf up (actually the top of a cabinet, but hey, you use what you have)

all my fave vintage stuff from oppys, and I believe a vintage recipe file I received in a giveaway from the meme host herself!

see over here from some more followers of the meme.

blogtoberfest day 13

2011-10-13T21:43:00.000+11:00

I was too lazy tonight (and it's too dark) to take a pic, then I remembered my funny Royal Melbourne Show pics.

there were dready sheep;

basketball game scams;

a great ride (that she can go on alone while I stand and mind the bags);

the most wanted showbag in then history of the world;

and the vrafts. Buy then, our feet were soooo sore, so it was a quick whip around. The double wedding quilt in 1930's print;

amazing crochet;

this one reminded me of Lara's vintage crochet Friday!

We finally found a seat- and watched a spin-a-long. As always, spotted a blogger....

blogtoberfest day 12

2011-10-12T16:55:00.000+11:00

I have a crazy friend....

who knows if anyone wants Liberty fridge magnets, it would be me!

Now the kitchen is prettier, does that mean I have to spend more time in it?

blogtoberfest day 11

2011-10-12T16:47:00.000+11:00

OK, so I just learnt to LOOK at the date before I post what Blogtoberfest day it is- I was thinking I'd posted for the 11th, but no, I'd missed the 10th! Doh!

So yesterdays pic- one I actually found today. I think one of the pets is supplementing it's low calorie diet.....

R.I.P Mousey

PS It's obviously time to cut the back grass!

blogtoberfest day 10

2011-10-10T20:22:00.001+11:00

On the way to camp on Friday, we stopped in for a quick 'howdy' to a few friends.

Nikki had organised the most amazing idea....

image

Every corner of the studio/townhouse was utilized; lots of yummy food (ensuring leftovers for Nikki of course). Typical bloggers and sewers, Karen, Lara and I all had girls in the Jump Rope Dress! So cute!

I also got lots of cuddle of this little girl, and coveted her outfit; her adorability doesn't come through fully over the blog. She's a cutie patootie!

My girl had a ball, and the 1/2 an hr turned into many; can't wait to do it again, so I'm off to blunt my scissors haha

blogtoberfest day 9

2011-10-10T19:51:00.000+11:00

Last night proved too much for me- I hit the hay and still don't feel rested! (Yep, took me only 9 days to have to use a Blogtoberfesty excuse haha)

Our camping adventures may be over, but here are a few fave pics.

Campfire on Saturday included MANY marshmallows;

flying fox on a wet Sunday morning (twice)

and a few last bounces with some well-made friends

If anyone wants to try all this out, it's only an hour from Melbourne; Shane was the host with the most, and will happily answer any enquiries. Go Mount Morton!

blogtoberfest day 8

2011-10-08T16:17:00.001+11:00

trying new things.....rope swing where she went to the top of the trees- twice!

As always, very proud of my amazing kid!

blogtoberfest day 7

2011-10-08T16:11:00.000+11:00

We're away this weekend- a camp with other single parents, lots of kids and activities,

and a break from real life.

Wasn't going to miss Blogtoberfest though!

blogtoberfest day 6

2011-10-06T23:05:00.000+11:00

Only day 6???I have heaps more still in me teehee

Today I got a sneaky oppy jaunt in, on the excuse of dropping some items left at work (babies clothes)

I picked up (clockwise) a new doggy blankie; vintage sheet top (after trying it on at home found it it was kid's size- ouch!); belt; 3/4 pants (had to go up in size- double ouch); and and a knit dress/top for the kid.

blogtoberfest day 5

2011-10-05T23:09:00.001+11:00

So after the success of my bathers attempt earlier I wanted to get a bit ,ore lycra to play around with.... being tricky stuff to sew and all.

So on a crappy day at work I headed in my lunch break over here.

I did have a reason though, I have a real custom order for a bather's set! I'll let you know how that goes. It's what the orange is for; but I have plenty left, so if these colours take your fancy and you want some age appropriate bather/togs/cossies/swimmers for you kids, send me an email!

Don't worry, there was always time to stop in at the oppy down the street and pick up this great sheet to go with this pattern. Nice!

Day 4- Alpaca's!

2011-10-04T23:18:00.001+11:00

One of our favourite animals is the alpaca; we got to meet some at the Royal Melbourne Show on Sunday!

This owner happily let us have a pat of.....

this week old baby! She was making the 'humming' noise they do, really odd! And their fur is 'dry', not lanolin-ey like a sheep.

Mum was very protective, of course, but also happy to let us gaze and admire....

bub decided to have a quick feed! (the midwife and mini-midwife were mighty impressed!)

there were soooo many to admire! Gorgeous animals!

The girl and I have been this alpacary a few months ago, Glenda is lovely and is so happy to take you on a walk to meet her animals. She has midwife-d most of their babies! I can't wait till we're up that way again soon to see more cutie patooties!

Blogtoberfest'11 Day 3

2011-10-03T23:01:00.001+11:00

OK, squeezing in a quick one, as I almost fell asleep and forgot...

I haven't shown off my bargain shoes yet- $35 when I originally wanted them, $15 when I

found the LAST PAIR in MY SIZE.

Pity I have no where to wear them; but they make me happy :)

Blogtoberfest Day 2

2011-10-02T22:56:00.000+11:00

Oops, nearly missed Day 2!

Had an exhausting day at the Royal Melbourne Show today,a bit of slow craft and chocolate eating this evening and haven't even uploaded pics yet!

So here's one from rainy day Saturday (yesterday)

A new colour- gone back to dark from the bright red, which is still pretty noticeable though.

So I'll call it a dark auburn!

I'm loving it!

Blogtoberfest'11 Day 1

2011-10-01T23:15:00.000+10:00

Phew, made it in on day 1 in the nick of time!

I have been trying for most of the day to post, but the computer has been playing silly buggers. As my camera has broken (again) as well, this isn't a good start to the month of blogging, but I'm forgetting all those troubles and jumping right in!

Luckily I have some shots from last week of stuff I've made....

First up are bathers for the little girl. I'm a bit tired of hunting and hunting for appropriate ones, and trying to buy then out of season is a pain; in season is expensive! Rathdowne Remnants has such cheap prices (and precut pieces so you don't even have to stand in line to get your fabric cut- sweet!). I walked out of there with a metre of each colour for $12.75 TOTAL. Add in a $5 pattern up to size 14.....

I cut the rashie vest off her old one, and left the neck nice and loose (a pet hate of hers). The tankini below if just the cutest!

Last week I also headed up on my rare day off to Ballan, and this place of beauty. Seriously an awesome day, hanging out with 2 very funny ladies, an awesome lunch and a bit of Liberty thrown in for good measure. Cup of tea anyone?

I finished another wrap skirt (unfortunately worn, washed and not ironed before this pic) from this day out

and a new summer shoes obsession has begun. Damn you, factory outlets! Bring on summer!

See over here if you want to join in the ~~madness~~ fun; there's giveaway's too, and definitely will be one here on this blog. But will it be announced, or a surprise one? We'll have to ~~comment~~ wait and see!

Oppy goodness

2011-09-21T19:28:00.000+10:00

I don't think I've posted any oppy goodness for a while, I try and do it on Sundays to join in Flea Market Finds, but I forget what I've gotten by then, so I don't do it!

Today's haul was a goodun'; 2 oppy's on my lunch break gave me a pretty good haul.

The Tupperware container was $4, perfect for taking my milk to work with my plunger and coffee in a bag; Smiggle pencil case for $2 (I'm the kids hero now); new wallet; vintage tablecloth; massive bag of zips for $5 and not in the pic is a bag of patchwork fabrics for $5; and a retro Dymo labeller for....$0.99!

Lovely!

ANOTHER cushion

2011-09-18T17:02:00.000+10:00

I'm sure you remember (but I'll tell you again) how I made the kid a quilt and cushion out of Sherbet Pips?

When Aneela Hoeys' new range Little Apples came out, I was asked by the girl to do another quilt- alas, I didn't have it in me (Or the cash-ola in me bank) so I did the next best thing....

Can you see it?

She loves it! I used this pattern over here

The red chenille was used to try and tie it in with the others, and she chose red honeycomb print for the back.

Straight line diagonal quilting, I used wool batting against the front so it's extra soft and squishy. And jammed 2 pillows in there for a plumper cushion.

I think I should stop there! Except, she may have some new fabric coming out.....it's all so damn cute!

getting ready for a makeover.....

2011-09-17T18:36:00.000+10:00

and hopefully an online shop, if anyone wants to buy my handiwork!

My awesome pal designed me some new cards, and worldwidelabel made me some new labels

Next will be the blog makeover!

A beautiful girl

2011-09-15T19:46:00.000+10:00

Gosh, I'd love more babies. But if I don't, I know how lucky I am to have this amazing girl.

She cracks me; gives me too many kisses and hugs; and generally is pretty easy to have around.

And now she loves hanging out in the sewing room with me!

we have 4 other rooms she can be in, but no, the floor of the sewing room on a Sunday is a good place to be!

I'm pretty proud of last week's efforts!

A few more drawstring purses. One was filled with lollies and given to her friend at school, despite not being invited to her party (devastating at nearly 8 not to be invited). And she decided that herself- awwwww!

The other was for 'Snookums' who was a pocket money treat. Due to her favourite computer game.

She's finally decided a skirt over jeans is a good look (yay for being able to make cool skirts for her- or teaching her to!)

Tried a mini-chicken burger at Nando's, cracking me up as usual. Especially as the chicken fell out of the bun as she bit into it, hahaha.

And proud Mama as she spends her pocket money again (a while after the Snookum's purchase, she doesn't buy much or get much pocket money actually), realising the $10 product is as good as the larger $20 one, an ornament is an ornament!

Sibella Alison, I love you to the moon and stars and back. And back again. No I said it first. No, I win.....

Go Granny Go!

2011-09-11T17:24:00.003+10:00

When my favourite blogger/crafty person decided to print some fabric, I wonder if she knew what she'd start?

Granny craziness!

I initially didn't know if I'd use it- what could I make out of it? I saw her example and got thinking. Freshly made fabric combined with a skirt making class? I'll do my best!

(with a Curlypops brooch too!)

I'm pretty happy with it! Despite the fact it attracts small white dogs to jump on you haha. It's actually hot pink drill, but looks a tinge red in some of the pics, might just be my screen. And as Cam says in her shop:

'Note: the colour on screen is as close to actual as I can provide.

All screen colours differ, so please keep this in mind when ordering.'

A great class was had yesterday, by the way- despite already having made one of the wrap skirts from the book, getting the extra tips with layout and cutting was great, especially what to do if your fabric is too small and how to do a panel. And the company and lunch were great. A real treat!

PS No endorsment was given for this promo. I paid good and proper for it!

Girly sewing

2011-09-03T19:10:00.000+10:00

Yay, she's finally wearing some stuff I've made!

Hmm, actually I made them as requested and tried to keep my opinion out of it, it seems to be working at the moment!

This top has been as fave, so I made another one for my growing girl- in her favourite colour of purple!

and something that never gets refused- new pj's! In her favourite fabric (love hearts).

My creative space

2011-09-01T19:35:00.000+10:00

This weeks space is about finishing a project off, this one to be precise.

Tana lawn from Spotlight.

Head over here for more spaces

Cookbook review

2011-08-31T19:34:00.001+10:00

NOT A SPONSORED POST!

Rather, a shameful post- the kid commented this morning that 'that book never seems to move'.

Hmm, good point.

I've wanted this book for ages, when I saw it on a friend's bookshelf a few months ago, I asked her if she'd used it yet. She told me it was my birthday present but I couldn't have it until my birthday (about 9mths away at the time).

So when my sis went away for 6mths, (6weeks ago!) I swiped her copy. 'Don't get it dirty' were the only instructions....

So after the gentle nudge from the kid, I decided chicken pie sounded good, and it was one we'd seen him cook on the show (and drooled over). Neither of use are real fans of cooked carrots, so I thought I'd try the pie and and smashed carrots on page 92.

Product placement a la masterchef....

Instead of the french peas I chucked frozen peas in with the carrots. Yum!

Then the reminder why I don't do too much 'fancy' cooking;

thankfully 'the hubby' did the dishes.

So 30 mins? Not quite for me,but I'm a sole parent trying to get a kid in the shower and the whinging animals fed too! Definitely under an hour, and mid week too! And it's not like you have to scour through it for a quick recipe! If you want to leave things off, you can- we did have dessert, thanks to Coles!

Nice one!

My creative space

2011-08-25T22:00:00.000+10:00

head over here for some more cool spots

My Zig Zag quilt

2011-08-23T19:43:00.000+10:00

I'm always after ways to use up scraps....so I picked this pattern up, and was ~~relieved~~ suprised it only took me about 2 weeks (of non constant work)

I took some shots in the yard at work while on my lunch break- but couldn't resist this one on the

measuring mat we use for the babies!

I had to get to get it finished in a hurry- I originally was planning to keep it, but when I heard my bestie in Sydney was re-admitted to a Psych hospital with her little bub, I knew it was better spent wrapping her up in my hugs!

I love you Nic, and think you're an amazing and brave woman! Get well soon!

See here to understand more about bipolar disorder

Sunday snippets

2011-08-21T20:56:00.000+10:00

Joining along with Tinniegirl this week;

sunday snippets over here

My Creative Space

2011-08-18T22:41:00.002+10:00

It's been a while since I had a play.....

still on the single crochet, but planning an accessory out of it....

head over here for more spaces.

Been a bit caught up.

2011-08-17T20:26:00.000+10:00

Washing a pooch, only to give him a bone just as it gets wet;

teaching myself the 'new trick' of a chevron friendship bracelet for my girl;

Cutting piles of little 4 inch squares to make a scrappy quilt;

a custom order for a friend;

and some funky zips from the oppy, to base a bag around.

Yep, been a bit caught up.

She's catching the bug part 2

2011-08-12T22:39:00.000+10:00

So after the paper craft project was finished, the girl picked up some scraps she'd found of mine, some chenille hearts I had pre-cut.

She was 'made' to iron her own applifix (important to teach her the tricks)

ad she was off at the machine!

The teamwork between her and Jai was amazing- he was happy to be 'knee lifter' and responded to the instruction of 'lift' very quickly!

It was a ~~one-sided~~ team effort (you can easily fool a 4 yr old, but not a 7.5 yr old haha)

Despite this face in the photo, she happily made a 3rd project, a drawstring purse.

from this book. One I bought ages ago and left on the shelf, I knew it would come

in handy.

I'm so proud!! And not due to the 'following in my footsteps'; more for the

self-initiative she showed!

She's catching the bug Part 1

2011-08-11T20:35:00.000+10:00

A lovely day on Sunday.....we finally got a chance to check out these books!

Little Miss Crazy Hair picked her project....

and did her first machine sewing- yep, on paper, but you have to start somewhere!

I showed her how to trace, and helped with the stitching down the side.

and wow, it looked just like the picture!

The post-it notes came out to mark the next projects, and the "Sewing" book will get a look in too.

If the girl rated it out of 10? I reckon an 11!

I've been a bit slack....

2011-08-05T19:09:00.001+10:00

about posting this! A few ~~weeks~~ months ago my mate issued a challenge....and we all accepted! I sent mine off without taking a pic, so once it was returned (unfortunately didn't sell during the exhibition) I asked Ms Superpops to send me a piccie!

Carmel let me borrow some pics from the exhibition as well.....

I had my eye on one and couldn't get there to get it....but I snapped it up on Facebook! So quick, go and get the last few bargains, a hand made beauty to give a little bit more to charity!

Getting designing

2011-08-01T19:00:00.041+10:00

I got stuck into the spring cleaning yesterday, the beautiful weather gave me lots of reasons too! And I got about to this little project.....

Armed with a curtain thingy I've had in the drawer for yonks, I set up a design wall, similar to what I used at Sewjourn. This of course has to be temporary as I rent.

I made teeny tiny holes in the wall (later thinking to use Command adhesive hooks, doh!)

and pinned a queen size flannelette sheet to the curtain line (I tore a bit off the edge of the sheet, there was no measuring in any part of this, though!)

I then layed out some pre-prepared blocks to see if it worked, and.....VOILA! It can be taken down and you wouldn't know it was there in between the quilt sessions.

Also on the weekend, I snapped this pic of my cat checking out the old iron on the bench! She had been sleeping on one of the chairs, but curiosity took over...I thought it was going to get hissed at! Hilarious!

Yes, that's the sexy new iron in the front, mmmm, Sunbeam! Lets see if this has any guts! It has auto-shut off, which is very important with my memory....(and I got it at the factory outlet, won't tell you what a bargain it was!)

A finished and (beautifully) styled quilt

2011-07-31T19:43:00.002+10:00

We went and picked up her quilt on Friday, from here. She carried it

all the way home.....

where I quickly set to the binding on Friday night....

admiring it lots and lots;

She got to use it once on the bed, then the most beautiful sunny day in the middle of winter beckoned for some snaps. I gave her the camera to hold, and she shows you a stylist at work...err, kind of.

"I always see people take them on the fence, that'll look good"

"Great way to show half a quilt, der!"

"hmm, I have a chair, that kinda looks ok"

"a great shot of the corner, at least"

"Ok, ground it is!"

I love the back, especially the dark pink corduroy piece, the quilting show up so well on that fabric. Karen used a light pink cotton to quilt the all over design- I trust her, she wins important stuff!

I made this matching cushion as well, pattern from here, using my favourite pink chenille, and I machine quilted it myself, I'm a bit chuffed with it!

Her favourite fabric for the back- and I snuck in a invisible zip, now I know how to do them, I can't stop! (It's green as it's the only colour I had! In a stash of abut 80 zips! Crazy...)

This pillow is huge! I used 2X 20inch inserts, for the 'well stuffed' look.

All in all, a very happy mummy and daughter quilting team! Well, I sew, she receives them well....

A REALLY Big Thank You

2011-07-31T14:12:00.000+10:00

Wow.

I sincerely want to thank you all who commented on my last (deleted) post, you help in so many ways. I also received emails from a few special people, and am slowly working my way through replying to all of them individually, but can I just say

THANK YOU!

I deleted the post after realising that I didn't want to have that post as a focus of my blog, more that I needed a space to vent, and then to take in all the great feedback I got from it. It kept me positive and happy even through a re-volting flu this week, which left me in bed for 4 days, bah, I didn't let it beat me!

So with a combination of your good support, my meds (yes, I'm diagnosed with depression and have taken medication for about 5 years) and GP, and my (occasional) positive attitude, I'll make it!

Another girlie who's made me smile this week is over here, spreading a dose of reality! These are the spots in my house I 'move' things around, or walk over, just pretending they're not there, really....

chenille pile I haven't touched in weeks;

kid's bed as it stays during the week

the clean washing/ironing pile I get dressed from each morning

OK, so they're not as scary as some things I could have photographed, but if you came to my house and theses things weren't like this, you'd better feel like royalty haha (or look under the beds!)

Oh, and if you don't have a big bunch on online friends, or you do and still want some professional help, give these guys a call- you never want to feel bad enough to write that yucky blog post!

a few things

2011-07-22T18:57:00.000+10:00

Making Brianna a wrap skirt;

I was gifted one of the small clocks...and the kid got made a big one!

and someone's liking learning to knit!

Finally some craft camp pics....

2011-07-15T20:30:00.000+10:00

Well, I had to sort through the pics so I didn't double up and you wouldn't want to go here and read Brianna's awesome post! (Don't rush over there, though, there is a great animation of a terrible me being greedy!) As the other 2 pals are a bit behind in their blogging, we have to give them a memento too!

Essentials were packed (Coffee machine not in pic!). However, awesome meals were

also consumed.

Brownies kept us full of energy (and a chance to use my vintage Bessemer plate!)

My driver and sewing 'sister'

The beautiful sun on Saturday was a bit of a pest.....it only seemed to hit my machine!

And for anyone else that goes to or wants to go to Sewjourn, this is THE best bed.

Mel finished a quilt.....

and Brianna brought along her finished Sherbert Pips quilt

Brianna started and finished this quilt top....

And I finally got into my 'It's a Hoot' quilt

Liesel struggled with a badly written pattern most of the time, but on the first night dressed the dressmaker's dummy, and introduced us to baked doughnuts.......mmmmmm, doughnuts!

And then 'visual merchandiser" Brianna styled us up and we all went 'awwwwww'.

Thanks for an awesome weekend girls, I loved every minute!

Exhausting stuff this sewing....

2011-07-11T19:14:00.000+10:00

Phew, what a weekend at craft camp! While I sort through my pics and think about the post, check out my 'sewing sister's' post over here.

But already there are a few new projects I want to get onto! A bevy of beauties has arrived.....

No rest for the wicked!

Bon Voyage!

2011-07-07T22:31:00.002+10:00

My lil' sis Jess and her new hubby are off on their adventure.

The girl and I headed over for dinner the other night. (Don't they look similar? Both have blue eyes!)

And I took a loaf of bread! Went great with Jamie's chicken carbonara!

I took dessert, of course!

and we discovered Little Miss's fondness for 'bunny ears'!

(I love the cat's face in that last pic)

So even though we'll be in touch via the web, we'll miss them!!

Have fun guys! And remember the kid's request- "send me lots of presents" haha

My Creative Space

2011-07-07T22:06:00.001+10:00

A follow up tonight.....of this post.

She agreed to pose in it- but that's it! (Doesn't she look impressed?)

It's View B of this pattern, which I found in Daylesford, of all places, after searching forever online!

She said she'd 'out' me on my own blog, but I told her I told her I was proud to show off my

buttons...er, snaps and buttons sewn on top. Shh!

So this may be up for sale if you're interested....Size 8. Send me an email!

A new baby

2011-07-03T21:36:00.000+10:00

I finished this little pinwheel quilt this week, and have already posted it to it's new owner (a worlds record posting for me!). I did have a little pile of clothes etc as well, so I knew I'd better post soon or she'll be too big!

I used a vintage sheet on the back, so cute and easy.

A 'slightly scrappy' binding, 2 colours to blend the front and back together.

Straight line quilting (except this photo is of the wonkiest bit, but hey, wonk is fine!)

And again, yummy corners. I surprise myself every time they work, believe me.

Oh, and I have to show off my 'non gardening'. Most of the back and front look like this at the

moment....(weeds pretending to be grassy lawn)

But in a little neglected corner, a bit of beauty.