tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10661481893678020302024-03-19T19:48:12.370+11:00Sew Useful DesignsSew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.comBlogger296125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-326577624620711632017-03-28T16:39:00.000+11:002017-03-28T16:39:22.901+11:00The Sweet Bianca make-up brush holderGosh it's been a while since I last wrote - I had to blow the dust off my banner - and oil my logo before I could write this!! Ha ha! So... I thought it was about time that I popped in to do some spring cleaning and say g'day!<br />
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I've been pottering away quietly. I finished a magazine project in the early weeks of the year, and am currently working on a secret quilt for a friend, but there is something I can post pictures of, and that is a make-up brush holder that I designed and made for my son's sweet girlfriend, Bianca - who I always call my 'Sweet B'. She turned 20 in March, and she and Aaron have been dating for five years. ((Yes, I feel old!!))<br />
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I pre-purchased the brushes so that I could design the holder to suit, and laminated the fabrics to protect them from make-up residue. It's difficult to see in the photo, but the brushes are protected by vinyl as well (I really love the smell of that stuff - it takes me back to my childhood and the aroma of a brand new <a href="http://www.oursindymuseum.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=164409756" target="_blank">Sindy</a> doll! Did you ever have one?!) <br />
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Self-covered buttons and a laminated butterfly (don't want to be getting those wings wet!!)<br />
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I used an assortment of floral fabrics including: <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC-BY-RANGE/MEMOIRE-A-PARIS/" target="_blank">Memoire a Paris by Lecien</a> and <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC/FABRIC-BY-RANGE/SEVENBERRY-FLORALS/" target="_blank">Sevenberry</a> which I had collected from <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC/FABRIC-BY-RANGE/SEVENBERRY-FLORALS/" target="_blank">Ministry of Fabric</a> along with some beautiful other prints and linens. I couldn't resist the twist on Bianca's nickname by making a few hexies with the bee print fabric...<br />
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I'm currently re-making the project with some <a href="http://www.libertylondon.com/uk/department/fabric/cotton-tana-lawn/" target="_blank">Liberty of London</a> tana lawn cottons... including the cutest 'Hello Kitty' fabric I've ever seen... from<a href="https://www.avaandneve.com.au/" target="_blank"> Ava & Neve</a>, based in Australia. I'll be sure to pop in to show you and let you know when the pattern is ready.<br />
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This week is mostly being spent touring High School's for my youngest who is in her last year of Primary. I treasure every moment of watching her play with her toys, and listening to the tales of funny goings-on at school, all very innocent and silly. They really don't stay kids for long do they?<br />
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Until next time - stay safe and have a great week!</div>
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Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com174tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-48118934840386992452016-12-31T13:44:00.000+11:002016-12-31T13:44:36.711+11:00Christmas season 2016Happy New Year's Eve, folks! I hope you had a really wonderful Christmas! It always seems to come round so fast, and then travel by even quicker, doesn't it? I was woefully unprepared this year, not even sending out cards, but I cram-packed in as much as I could manage!<br />
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An opportunity came my way in August that led to my taking an acting role in a local live-radio stage play of the 1940's classic, It's a Wonderful Life. I played Josephine, the Superintendent of Angels, and my role could be described to that of a narrator. I met a whole new group of friends, faced fears I didn't realise I still had, and learned heaps about the intricacies of putting on a production. The culmination of three months' work led to three performances in mid December...<br />
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With my family in the Green Room after my second performance.</div>
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It was so heart-warming to be in community with such an amazing group of people, praying together, learning together, and having heaps of fun in the process. The whole purpose of putting on the play was to gift the community - we prayed for each person (known and unknown) who came to the shows - that they might be touched in some way that benefits them. Believe me, with a serving heart there's not much room for ego, I don't think I'd be able to 'put myself out there' if ego was involved, because I have very little confidence and would compare myself unfavourably to others. This may sound so corny, but my heart was full of love and joy when I was on that stage. It was beautiful.<br />
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I'm having issues with my back again but it just held up enough thanks to having a chair on stage to rest when we weren't up at the mike. We are all hoping to put on something else next year... watch this space!<br />
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My family and I love to go to the 'Carols by Candlelight' performance that is put on by the local council. This northern-hemisphere girl still finds it fascinating to enjoy Christmas in Summer... and this is one of those times that I embrace it - sitting outside with hundreds of other people - while being entertained by some true talent. My son's girlfriend, Sweet B, came with us this year, aren't they cute? They will have been together five years next March, and we are hoping there are many, many, many more years to come!<br />
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My two kids and I also squeezed in a trip to the beach before the heat of Summer well and truly kicked-in. We were on the rounds to collect gifts that I'd bought off eBay! Ha ha! You know I'm the eBay Queen, right?!<br />
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I didn't get in much sewing time, but managed to finish this advent calendar for my daughter a day late... actually I stayed up until 4am on the 2nd December to finish it! My sewing machine wouldn't sew through all the layers so I hand-stitched all the pockets on... my fingers were red-raw by the time I finished but I was determined that she wasn't going to wake up for a second day without an advent, fortunately for me she'd forgotten all about it on the 1st December, and had no idea that I was making her one! The final result wasn't exactly as I'd envisaged and the pockets are wonky due to the hand-stitching... but it doesn't matter. Perfection is over-rated, right?!!! <br />
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I used an advent panel by Anne Sutton of <a href="https://bunnyhilldesigns.com/" target="_blank">Bunny Hill Designs</a>, called Mistletoe Lane, and made various-sized pockets, some with gussets, and a few little 'sacks'... then hung the little tags from different-sized red buttons. It turned out super-cute, although I would like to add some applique Christmas shapes to it before next December comes around.<br />
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I also made an advent for my son, but in a modern masculine style which he loved...</div>
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I decorated my bedroom for Christmas this year, which is a first for me. With it being newly-decorated I couldn't resist any longer. I purchased the most gorgeous shabby-chic cushions designed by my super-talented friend, Kerryanne, over at <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/" target="_blank">Shabby Art Boutique</a>. The colours couldn't be a more perfect fit! The little tree belonged to my parents-in-law. I'd never seen it before as they never decorated for Christmas - but my husband brought it in from the garage and has enjoyed giving it a new lease of life. <br />
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This blog post has no rhyme or reason, it's a complete brain-dump for which I am sorry! I'm so late in telling you about my latest published design - a Christmas stitchery in the December issue of <a href="http://www.homespun.net.au/" target="_blank">Homespun magazine</a>.<br />
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The project is called 'Christmas shelf stitchery' and features a row of apothecary jars and a gumball machine containing various seasonal scenes. I used some gorgeous metallic Aurifil thread which sews beautifully! I'm not a big fan of metalics usually because they always seem to snag, but the Aurifil threads are a dream to work with. If you live overseas and would like a copy of the magazine you can by a digital version <a href="http://www.homespun.net.au/" target="_blank">online</a>. It's a really cute issue! I'm currently working on another project for Homespun but it won't be printed until next September!<br />
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Christmas day was the hottest it's been in 17 years - a whopping 37 degrees and super-humid! We don't have air-con or window-blinds in our kitchen, so cooking this roast was a labour of love indeed! What was it like in your part of the world?<br />
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Well, as this year draws to a close I'd like to wish you and your family the most happy and prosperous New Year, with good health and blessings in abundance! <br />
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See you in 2017 dear friends!</div>
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Much love, Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-35117487533873454042016-10-11T16:50:00.000+11:002016-10-11T16:50:06.448+11:00Master bedroom makeover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hubby took a week off work during the school holidays and we set to redecorating our bedroom - the last room in the house to still have the canary-yellow painted walls that we moved in with - 11 years ago!<br />
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Just before my little family emigrated to Australia 12 years ago, I did a big shop at IKEA, thinking it would be my last chance for a long time to stock up on essential household items. I came home with a car-full of floral bed linen - and hubby was really confused - not only did I go and buy a heap of stuff to squeeze in to the container that we were shipping overseas - but apparently - Australia has IKEA too!! Who knew?!!<br />
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The range I purchased was known as <i>Rosali</i>. Some years later it made another debut for <a href="http://www.cathkidston.com/" target="_blank">Cath Kidston</a>, this time being named, <i>Antique Rose</i>. The background tone may be a little more ivory than white, but it's the same print. So I bought two rolls of wallpaper and had them shipped from England, three years ago. I obviously don't like to rush my interior design decisions! Ha ha! <br />
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Well, I had underestimated the amount of wallpaper I needed, and was off by about ten inches. Because I'd purchased it so long ago it was going to be near-on impossible to get the same batch number, not to mention the expense. A friend suggested putting a decorative rail up on the feature wall - using less wallpaper and adding another design element in to the mix. It worked out really well. We are both really happy with the room and I had to take some photos before the boxes went back under the bed, and the piles of laundry made their way back on to the sofa... you know how it is? The first night we slept in the completed room, hubby left a can of fly spray on his bedside table - which I promptly swept up and put in the bathroom cupboard - I just wanted ONE night of the room looking like it was perfect! He laughed and rolled his eyes! Just like he did 12 years ago when I had a car full of bedding!!<br />
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I hope you are having a good week. lovelies?</div>
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Till next time! Hugs! Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-12524216994385807012016-08-29T13:46:00.000+10:002016-08-29T13:46:29.267+10:00Strawberry Delight - my latest project in Homespun magazine.We are counting down the days to the start of Spring in the southern hemisphere and nature has treated us already to some bouts of warm weather and sunshine - a deposit of what is to come! <br />
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The inspiration to get out in the garden is overwhelming, while daydreams of picnics at the park and lazing on the beaches fill every spare moment! <br />
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It was with Spring and Summer in mind that I designed this strawberry-themed bag for<a href="http://www.homespun.net.au/" target="_blank"> Homespun magazine.</a> With just a few days until the September issue hits the newsstands, I thought I'd share some pics of my project... it's rather juicy! (Oh groan, these dad's jokes have got to stop!!!!)<br />
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The bag is different on both sides. Side A features ruffles with faux piping, while Side B has a rouched panel and showcases the <i>Vintage Picnic</i> fabric range by<i> Bonnie & Camille</i>. Both bag sides feature pockets with cross-stitched strawberries. I share my method for cross-stitching on to tightly woven cotton fabrics, in the publication. <br />
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The bag is secured with a metal clasp at the top, and has inside pockets and a key fob (which features another cross-stitched strawberry). It's just the kind of bag you want to take out on a summer's picnic with you!<br />
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There are some beautiful projects in this issue of Homespun! If you live overseas and find it difficult to get hold of a hard copy, it is also available for digital download at Zinio, <a href="https://au.zinio.com/www/browse/product.jsp?productId=500634623#/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Now I can't wait to get strawberry picking! What do you enjoy most about Summer?<br />
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Till next time!</div>
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Vikki xoxo</div>
<br />Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-64328261932503885552016-08-07T17:21:00.000+10:002016-08-07T17:21:03.255+10:00Eloise Elephant - an adventure in mohair!I took myself off to the Melbourne Craft & Quilt Fair last week with a view to buying myself a kit to make a mohair animal. After Umming and Aahing over the hedgehogs, meer cats and teddies, I decided on a kit for a performing elephant, named Eloise; and wasted no time at all in getting my mojo on...<br />
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The pattern and kit came from <a href="https://teddysbits.com.au/" target="_blank">Teddy's Bits</a> and I intend on making a couple more once I replenish my supplies. I did make a mistake when I attached the body and limbs together, I had the body facing in the opposite direction which meant that I had to make a dart in the back so this little lady doesn't have a lovely wide tummy as the pattern called for... she would have looked a bit strange if she had a lovely round back, which is why I had to take it in! Never mind... only I (and now you) know, and I'll remember for next time as I do rather like her cuddly tummy!<br />
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So, I have a question to ask you - have you made any bears yourself? Jointed critters? Mohair mayhems?! As I was making this little cutie it brought back memories of when I first made a jointed mohair cat... some 12 years ago now when I was living in England. I didn't own or even know how to use a sewing machine back then so it was all worked by hand, and after asking for advice from the lady I bought the kit from, I winged it. So this got me to thinking... if you have never made a jointed bear but would like to give it a try - would you like me to write a blog post on the basics? The tools of the trade? Little tips to help you on your way? I'm not an expert by any means, but I remember the questions I needed answering back then! Let me know...<br />
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Here are a few progress shots I took along the journey:<br />
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Getting all the pattern pieces on to the mohair was a really tight squeeze. It would have been really helpful to have a pattern piece layout, similar to those you find in dressmaking patterns for cutting out. You need the pattern pieces running in the correct position depending on the direction of the fur pile, and I couldn't quite fit them all so had to have one pattern piece (the back of a leg so it wasn't conspicuous) with the fur direction off at an angle.<br />
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Eloise is half-sewn... I managed to do it all by machine which really surprised me, even the tiny head gusset behaved nicely!<br />
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Semi-stuffed... and all without breakfast! Here you can see the pattern in the background... and you'll know what I mean about that gorgeous squidgy tummy!<br />
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The original Eloise is coloured with a dark brown Copic marker to give her that vintage, aged look. I didn't have one to hand and to be honest, was a bit nervous about using such a dark ink, simply because I've never done it before and any mistakes would be permanent. So I opted to use my Prismacolour pencils so I could build the colour. I used three shades in khaki brown, nut brown and peach.<br />
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This last pic shows how I blind-stitched the hat on top of Eloise's head. I use fine curved beading needles manufactured by John James when I'm sewing irregular shapes together. They're a bit of a bugger to work with initially, but you get used to them given time. The thread is a silk one that I use for applique and blind-stitching bias binding on to quilts. It's so fine that it's virtually invisible. <br />
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I fell in love with a family of mohair meer cats designed and made by <a href="http://www.bearsbyannie.com/" target="_blank">Bears by Annie</a>, and bought the pattern for making the adults, it's called <a href="http://www.bearsbyannie.com/?stg=217&view=217" target="_blank">Sascha and Dimitri.</a><br />
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I have the mohair for this already and plan to make it as a surprise gift for my little Rosebud this Christmas! She loves meer cats and we are regular visitors to The Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne where there is a whole family of meer cats residing - it's always a highlight of our visit!<br />
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I hope you've enjoyed reading about my little 'bear' romance! What have you been up to this past week?<br />
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Till next time!</div>
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Vikki xoxoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-36366049287245928072016-06-30T17:49:00.000+10:002016-06-30T17:49:03.801+10:00New fabrics to play with!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you ever get so excited by a fabric range that you simply do not know what to do with it? I'm so head over heels in love with <i>Pixie Noel </i>by <a href="http://tashahorsley.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Tasha Noel</a> - the colours, the prints, the whimsically-cute drawings - I want to showcase them to their full potential! My problem is, I love it so much that I just want to make *everything*! This beautiful bundle will become a quilt at some point in the future while I still figure out exactly what pattern to use, if I don't end up designing one myself! My sweet friend Alisha, over at <a href="http://ministryoffabric.com.au/?PCID=25195" target="_blank">Ministry of Fabric</a> has fat quarter and fat eighth bundles in stock, you can find a link to her website, <a href="http://ministryoffabric.com.au/?PCID=25195" target="_blank">here</a>. What would you make with it? *smile*<br />
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Talking of <i>Ministry of Fabric</i>, I'm currently working on a quilt for Alisha and will show more of that soon. Here is a glimpse of some of the pretty florals I'm using...<br />
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There are lots of triangles in this quilt - wish me luck! *wink*</div>
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Oh, and sweet Liberty, how could I ever forget you?!! The Betsy design, pictured above, is one of my favourite <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/fcp/departmenthome/dept/fabrics" target="_blank">Liberty of London</a> prints. Do you have a favourite? If you're looking for a stockist in Australia, I highly recommend <a href="https://www.avaandneve.com.au/" target="_blank">Ava & Neve.</a> They have a wide selection of both fabric, patterns and hand-mades, and their service is exemplary!<br />
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I had a little tidy-up of my sewing space but believe me, it doesn't stay tidy for long! I've just sent a project away to Homespun magazine that is due out in the December issue, and am currently working on a lap-size quilt. What are you working on at the moment?<br />
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Till next time!</div>
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Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-85718339442334595042016-05-14T19:14:00.001+10:002016-05-14T19:14:05.263+10:00Family fun at the dog beach!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A sunny, windy and fun afternoon, taking our two fur babies to the local dog beach where they ran and played, and splashed and frolicked! Kayla who looks like a white <i><a href="http://www.hairymaclary.com/" target="_blank">Hairy MacLary</a></i> when her legs are all wet from the sea water; and Asha who is small and woolly and befriends everyone except for the big dogs, whom she gives a good telling off every time they come too near! A puppy Spaniel named Daisy who dashed in to the sea and then parked herself in my husband's lap as he sat on the beach cross-legged - the embarrassed owner running up and apologising - while hubby tried to finish his bag of chips before any other furry friend came to sit on him!<br />
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Rosie and Aaron walking off toward the beach. I always marvel when I watch them walk together, my sweet girl who is half the size of her kind and loving brother... seeing them together gives me the warm and fuzzies every single time. I love it when they're both in their bedrooms and I can stand on the landing and look from one room to the next, wishing them a goodnight and God Bless, admiring them, and inwardly treasuring every second while wishing that time could stand still so that they will never, ever leave home.<br />
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Tonight as I write this, my fur girls are exhausted! Kayla is sleeping on my feet. They are off to the groomer this week, although they sure enjoyed their 'blow dry' today! Rosie is editing the videos she made while at the beach, Aaron is getting ready for a night out with friends, and hubby & I plan to crash on the couch and watch some TV shows. I hope you enjoyed the photos!? What are you up to this weekend?<br />
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Big hugs! Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-13946577482732711622016-04-03T17:25:00.001+10:002016-04-03T17:25:57.460+10:00Obsessing over Blythe!G'day peeps! I hope you are keeping well? It is a beautiful Autumnal afternoon here in Melbourne. I'm sat at my sewing desk with both fur girls hovering around my feet, and hubby playing some retro computer game at his desk a side-step away from me. The window is open and the pleasant breeze i slipping past me, I feel so content. I hope you are feeling content, too?<br />
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I thought I'd stop by to show you what I've been sewing recently and to fess-up to my new obsession! </div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Blythe!! </span></div>
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To describe Blythe succinctly, I took this excerpt from Wikipedia:<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">Blythe</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> </span><span class="nowrap" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span class="IPA nopopups"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA_for_English" style="background: none; text-decoration: none !important;" title="Help:IPA for English">/<span style="border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px;"><span title="/ˈ/ primary stress follows">ˈ</span><span title="'b' in 'buy'">b</span><span title="'l' in 'lie'">l</span><span title="/aɪ/ long 'i' in 'tide'">aɪ</span><span title="/θ/ 'th' in 'thigh'">θ</span></span>/</a></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> is a </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fashion_doll" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Fashion doll">fashion doll</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">, about 28 cm (11 inch) tall, with an oversized head and large eyes that change color with the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pullstring" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Pullstring">pull of a string</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">. It was created in 1972 and was initially only sold for one year in the </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="USA">USA</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> by toy company </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenner_Products" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Kenner Products">Kenner</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> (later purchased by</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hasbro" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Hasbro">Hasbro</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;">). In 2000 the photo book </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"><a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/This_is_Blythe" style="background: none; text-decoration: none;" title="This is Blythe">This is Blythe</a></i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> was published and in 2001 the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Japan">Japanese</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> toy company </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Takara" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; text-decoration: none;" title="Takara">Takara</a><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-TT_1-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; unicode-bidi: isolate; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blythe_(doll)#cite_note-TT-1" style="background: none; text-decoration: none;">[nb 1]</a></sup><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px;"> began producing new editions of Blythe dolls. There is a network of hobbyists who customize the doll for resale and create clothing and shoes for Blythe. Enthusiasts share photographs of their work and other types of dolls on the Internet.</span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-2" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; unicode-bidi: isolate; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blythe_(doll)#cite_note-2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; text-decoration: none;">[1]</a></sup></span><br />
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My little obsession began when I came across an Instagram account called <a href="http://www.dollytreasures.com/" target="_blank">Dolly Treasures</a>. I fell in love with Eileen's "girls" (as they are lovingly referred to by their owners), and my love affair grew from there! For several weeks now I've been eagerly researching how to customise the dolls, from sculpting their faces and painting their eye-chips, to making mohair wigs; from sewing realistic clothing to molding leather to make handmade boots. I love the diversity of what Blythe has to offer. There are so many different avenues to follow, the photography and "staging" of the doll, the building and crafting of room sets, and the most fun part - meeting fellow enthusiasts from all over the world!! I love their attention to detail. It all ties in so well with my love of miniature - and of course for those of you who have known me for a long time - my passion for dolls! <br />
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I purchased a few clothing patterns from Craftyline, <a href="http://craftyline.blogspot.com.au/2015/07/blythe-linen-dress-coat-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The patterns are in Japanese so there are no written instructions, just diagrams and pattern pieces. This was my first attempt, following a <a href="http://craftyline.blogspot.com.au/2015/07/blythe-linen-dress-coat-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">this pattern</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5gL8CthvQfJHN0f5nPak8ClOeLHkS9yNQzH1Yx0jdBOyfjcE9BY8ZMKM7m_KNIsY9DYpb1h46nKOPXjvKDIcjH8fAnba0TTwnual9nGPIc53ScBaepZ_zbgDhS_-RjpyPF_EYMfMAZjd/s1600/Blythe+pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5gL8CthvQfJHN0f5nPak8ClOeLHkS9yNQzH1Yx0jdBOyfjcE9BY8ZMKM7m_KNIsY9DYpb1h46nKOPXjvKDIcjH8fAnba0TTwnual9nGPIc53ScBaepZ_zbgDhS_-RjpyPF_EYMfMAZjd/s640/Blythe+pattern.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZsnC1-JmEeQaH3vV_TdLOCNbiswZ7QV531tc4X4pfaiDSoPZwYq2mE9UE28B7FroWj0ZWCBQwZG_zVJmKLirCyxEFMcOwIZ1DIXav1GZyYLmUurf4zlEKoPlj9fg2YVUAYf22-hTQDxa2/s1600/Blythe+coat+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZsnC1-JmEeQaH3vV_TdLOCNbiswZ7QV531tc4X4pfaiDSoPZwYq2mE9UE28B7FroWj0ZWCBQwZG_zVJmKLirCyxEFMcOwIZ1DIXav1GZyYLmUurf4zlEKoPlj9fg2YVUAYf22-hTQDxa2/s640/Blythe+coat+1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17i3lSQO48A28-Lt-OpruMFhyphenhyphenl86q0dldmJaVL_-ylGm3wmKSyos9bXqw9Wcs0DHaaNM-rmOhHXqiOFLeJ8z2XOfS2U6G21j6NL4iTGZe_ujOq3_uQG1WE6-DbiVqCdVddZnthZbbrs_H/s1600/Blythe+coat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17i3lSQO48A28-Lt-OpruMFhyphenhyphenl86q0dldmJaVL_-ylGm3wmKSyos9bXqw9Wcs0DHaaNM-rmOhHXqiOFLeJ8z2XOfS2U6G21j6NL4iTGZe_ujOq3_uQG1WE6-DbiVqCdVddZnthZbbrs_H/s640/Blythe+coat+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I found it tricky! I became all fingers and thumbs, and the collar had me stumped until I thought to make a half-lining. I used a <i>Sevenberry</i> fabric to line the coat and trimmed with velvet ribbon. I glued the ribbon on because I didn't want any stitches to be visible and I'm not that skilled yet. I learned a lot from my first sews, and practice will eventually make perfect.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_3hvDSGIeWXWXaqi-7-kZK0m9yMPiF3PJq0UjkaPwY9g0O2UQumaqVQRgS8_Ier-eHmNjhSk6qsYVj7rI6cUwsUcRyV0iwWurgL1-Y37OkrrDNC3ex_9RKiI98TfBjzTVNMwTd_cPWPT/s1600/Blythe+mushroom+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_3hvDSGIeWXWXaqi-7-kZK0m9yMPiF3PJq0UjkaPwY9g0O2UQumaqVQRgS8_Ier-eHmNjhSk6qsYVj7rI6cUwsUcRyV0iwWurgL1-Y37OkrrDNC3ex_9RKiI98TfBjzTVNMwTd_cPWPT/s640/Blythe+mushroom+dress.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This dress pattern is freely (with the option to donate) offered by Linda of <a href="http://www.xoxoblythe.com/blog/patterns/" target="_blank">XOXOBlythe</a> Linda's patterns are professionally produced and easy to follow. I used a mushroom print which was part of the Scandinavian Christmas range by<a href="http://www.lynetteanderson.com.au/" target="_blank"> Lynette Anderson</a>, and some variegated thread for the top-stitching.<br />
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Today, I just finished a quilt and pillow set for a new friend I've made via Instagram, who lives in France. It is in miniature form for her Blythe "girl", of course!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIy9t_flJiVvgRL3O-PMaGSGWwSXbQLXafX3fdlk_uqhAE26sSyABHGDlYf37irQYR2xMZFVRnQYNo23HoFWsYetsoPcbPLcXXAErvXREhsW6XT6eY8rPcrENyZmq1LeYux38thhyphenhyphenVV_x/s1600/Blythe+mushroom+quilt+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIy9t_flJiVvgRL3O-PMaGSGWwSXbQLXafX3fdlk_uqhAE26sSyABHGDlYf37irQYR2xMZFVRnQYNo23HoFWsYetsoPcbPLcXXAErvXREhsW6XT6eY8rPcrENyZmq1LeYux38thhyphenhyphenVV_x/s640/Blythe+mushroom+quilt+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The squares measure just 1inch. I machine-pieced then hand-quilted the set which is made from my leftover fabric scraps of <i>Scandinavian Christmas.</i> The pillow is over-sized to accommodate Blythe's rather large head. It has an envelope pocket with a removable pillow. I loved it and it was a little bit hard to package it up to be sent away, but I can never keep something when I have made it with someone else in mind, no matter how much I love it. It just wouldn't feel right. The lady doesn't even know I'm sending it to her - it's a surprise!<br />
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So I am making clothes for a "girl" I do not yet have. They don't come cheap. But there are "factory" dolls, that are made by the same manufacturer and better quality than clone dolls. They are still expensive, if you think of it as a doll, but when you think of it as a hobby and an investment, then I think they are worth saving up for. I have my eye on a couple of dolls on eBay and hubby is all clued-up for my birthday in May! I would love a customised doll but they are well in to the hundreds of dollars... the kind of money that makes you think you might have kittens! When you consider the talent and craftsmanship that goes in to them, their price is justified, but still it isn't for the faint-hearted.<br />
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So there you go! Blythe has been a fantastic distraction therapy from my back pain! Talking of which, I found out a couple of days ago that I have an appointment this coming Wednesday to have my procedure done! I've never been so excited in my life about going to hospital (except when I went in to labour with my children!) I'm going to have <a href="http://www.spine-health.com/video/lumbar-radiofrequency-neurotomy-video" target="_blank">this procedure </a>done, Wish me luck! I pray that it works. It's reported that if successful, an individual can expect anywhere between six months and two years of pain relief, it all depends on how long it takes for the nerves to regenerate. During my window of opportunity I'm planning a strict diet and exercise programme. I've packed on so much weight over the years, but particularly over the past few months after taking a new medication, I put on ten kilos in just two weeks, initially. Not good. But hey - these things can be changed if we are determined to make those changes, right?!<br />
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I will be back to tell another tale once I've recovered! Till then, happy sewing!</div>
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Much love! Vikki xoxo</div>
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<br />Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-58458661980122342662016-03-17T15:59:00.000+11:002016-03-17T15:59:45.891+11:00It's all smoke and mirrors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm not just saying this as a conversation starter, but I really can't believe that we are half way through March already. I think as you get older, each year becomes a well worn road, the short-cuts across the grass become muddy and flat, and the familiar landmarks remind you how far you still need to walk ahead to reach your destination.</div>
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Do you remember being a kid and going somewhere new for the first time? It would take F.O.R.E.V.E.R to get there... and near the end of the journey you didn't quite believe your parents when they exclaimed for the umpteenth time that 'we' were "nearly there"!</div>
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The familiar landmarks are the seasons, the birthdays, the milestones and quite often the anniversaries of those once loved but never forgotten. The destination is the end of the year and the beginning of a new one. I seem to have blinked and lost three months! </div>
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I don't usually divulge anything personal on my blog. I've always considered it a place for pretty pictures and inspiration for others who like to sew and create. But lately I've been thinking that it is all too easy to get caught up with flawless images on social media; the homes that are glistening, the stitching that is perfect, the kids who are always smiling. Everything is in the <i>moment</i>. But it's all too easy to forget what's <i>not </i>in the picture. The piles of laundry that have been shoved out of the way of that perfect home decor photo-shoot; the ten or twenty years of practice that it has taken for someone to perfect their craft; the kid that is now crying because their favourite song or show has just come to an end... life is life! <br />
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Truth is, behind the smoke and mirrors we all have issues, stumbling blocks and low points. Truth is we also have breakthroughs, victories and high points. Thank goodness for that, hey?!<br />
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So I thought it was about time that I mustered some courage and shared with you a little about what is going on in my world at the moment.</div>
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My house is a big hot mess. There won't be any attractive home-decor photo sessions going on in this neck of the woods, I can assure you! It's a mess because I'm in too much pain to do anything about it. I've suffered with chronic back pain for close to ten years, I'd say the past six have been the worst. I've been on a cocktail of anti-depressants and pain-killers for the past three years and over the past six months, have been weaning off them. Each time I drop the medication I am hit with weeks-on-end of depression. The excruciating pain makes matters much worse. The feelings of failure for not being able to look after my family... that's a rotten one. My hubby comes home from work and cooks the dinner because I can't even stand at the hob. He has been amazing. I'm waiting for a procedure now, it will be a few weeks away yet and I can't even find out the date because the hospital just rings you when a slot comes up. Not knowing is the worst because like an athlete preparing for a race, I need to mentally prepare myself for how much longer I need to endure the pain.</div>
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My sweet daughter has been off school for close to three weeks with medical issues. I worry about her having missed so much school over the years, and it's been touch helping her at home while battling with the depression. I have to keep reminding myself that I can only do my best, but the conscientious driver in me keeps tooting the horn and telling me that my best isn't good enough. Dang that back seat driver!</div>
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It has been cathartic writing this. So there you go. I am always sincere on my blog, I'm generally happy and always smiling, I will talk to anyone and make friends easily. But I'm just like everyone else, with problems and issues that intercept the general noise of life. I'm not sure that you're going to glean anything from this outpour of mine, but I hope that if nothing else, if you're feeling at a low point in your life - you know you're not alone. xxx</div>
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Till next time,</div>
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Vikki xoxoxo</div>
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<br />Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-17696060491445295472016-02-27T19:04:00.000+11:002016-02-27T19:04:16.700+11:00What does the Fox say?!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444;">Twinkly eyes, twitchy whiskers, slinky fur and fluffy tail</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Red or white, sighs and whispers, keeping still to watch your trail</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">Shy or sly, the jury's out, wish I could keep you safe and warm</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">pat your back, stroke your snout, marvel in your perfect form.</span></div>
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My little ode to the humble fox. Gosh I love them. I know they're pests in a lot of farming communities, but aren't they magnificent?? If you share my adoration of this humble animal, then I know you're going to love this post. If not, then please pop back again with a cup of tea in hand next week when I share another of my loves... (I'm being a minx and not telling!) ;-)</div>
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Let's start with some great fabric finds! I'm a sucker for the duck-egg blue and burnt-orange colourway especially! Which is your favourite?<br />
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<b>Rustic colourway</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzJbcwb7iv8hyphenhyphenJVjnRGfjDA22JUc-MWs9fdy3Z50hP7Ri3LNBrBPXIeBPcPIlXPEbSvSN8lszNT3vxxIKTjiWJv91G_jo5eQNenZagAdpFAlilxnPrtTttMHAurt1to-huHya5XluKRj3/s1600/PicMonkey+Fox+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzJbcwb7iv8hyphenhyphenJVjnRGfjDA22JUc-MWs9fdy3Z50hP7Ri3LNBrBPXIeBPcPIlXPEbSvSN8lszNT3vxxIKTjiWJv91G_jo5eQNenZagAdpFAlilxnPrtTttMHAurt1to-huHya5XluKRj3/s640/PicMonkey+Fox+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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From top Left to bottom right, clockwise:<br />
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<li>Mr Fox by Tara Put, can be found over at <i>Spoonflower</i>, <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/213274-mr-fox-by-taraput" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Foxen by Holli Zollinger, another <i>Spoonflower</i> fabric sold <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/460883-foxen-by-holli_zollinger" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Meadow - Vine, organic knit fabric by Monaluna, found<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/216053271/meadow-vine-organic-knit-fabric-from" target="_blank"> here</a></li>
<li>Socks the Fox by Patty Sloniger for Michael Miller Fabrics, found <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/257242773/michael-miller-fabric-socks-the-fox-aqua?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_au_en_au_d-craft_supplies_and_tools-fabric&utm_custom1=6c4523de-1d1f-2209-221a-00001c8b7d53&gclid=Cj0KEQiAjMC2BRC34oGKqY27jtkBEiQAwSXzfr7e1SeUpTdPvTEmGIALkjZaqC88rCPilTbL5tR1_I4aAkCM8P8HAQ" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Red Fox Paw Prints by mrshervi on <i>Spoonflower</i>, <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/2805997-red-fox-paw-prints-by-mrshervi" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Fox Family Tangle by Micklyn on <i>Spoonflower</i>, <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/4745636-fox-family-tangle-by-micklyn" target="_blank">here</a></li>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Did you know that the Spoonflower prints are available in wallpaper as well as fabric? It's a really cool site! See the <i>Foxen</i> print in the top right? It is featured in this tutorial from<i> Spoonflower</i> on how to re-invent furniture with wallpaper! Click </span><a href="http://blog.spoonflower.com/2013/10/furniture-refresh-1.html" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: left;"> to follow the tutorial.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZggbsUYWJj7w6Ofg7psH9ovzNG21gzgqFeOXMrL19_a5bw2bFPnZ3V6Amk2ynB89jNMe-jRVLxtcd2hWfVAmNC5RlCNM805OPC2OKxOZ6gKsy2AOkdnV5aqQXWw3va1oMjktaXeHpzcG/s1600/6a00e5523f5f4d8834019b004ded21970b-800wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZggbsUYWJj7w6Ofg7psH9ovzNG21gzgqFeOXMrL19_a5bw2bFPnZ3V6Amk2ynB89jNMe-jRVLxtcd2hWfVAmNC5RlCNM805OPC2OKxOZ6gKsy2AOkdnV5aqQXWw3va1oMjktaXeHpzcG/s640/6a00e5523f5f4d8834019b004ded21970b-800wi.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.spoonflower.com/2013/10/furniture-refresh-1.html" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<b>Blue colourway</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04jWfPMy5fvyyU6NZqvMsit2tlse3k974YD-ovbUEpKCfTetcbnvEYCRZpzaOBYXll9pUnYWgfdn4HpJxmtmy6gfzUu4U5Ea1yiK1t_ZPaKYkRDAnaqVzOZtmMLtg5dCrgsPUeoSkkULk/s1600/PicMonkey+Foxes+2+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04jWfPMy5fvyyU6NZqvMsit2tlse3k974YD-ovbUEpKCfTetcbnvEYCRZpzaOBYXll9pUnYWgfdn4HpJxmtmy6gfzUu4U5Ea1yiK1t_ZPaKYkRDAnaqVzOZtmMLtg5dCrgsPUeoSkkULk/s640/PicMonkey+Foxes+2+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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From top Left to bottom right, clockwise:</div>
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<li>Foxes and hearts, by kickywiggles, on <i>Spoonflower</i>,<a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/4894597-foxes-hearts-by-kickywiggles" target="_blank"> here</a></li>
<li>Dancing Fox by els_vlieger, on <i>Spoonflower</i>,<a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/4655758-dancing-fox-by-els_vlieger" target="_blank"> here</a></li>
<li>Mr Fox, curtain fabric found <a href="https://www.justfabrics.co.uk/curtain-fabric-upholstery/duck-egg-mr-fox-fabric/" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Socks the Fox by Patti Sloniger for Michael Miller Fabrics found <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/257242773/michael-miller-fabric-socks-the-fox-aqua?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_au_en_au_d-craft_supplies_and_tools-fabric&utm_custom1=6c4523de-1d1f-2209-221a-00001c8b7d53&gclid=Cj0KEQiAjMC2BRC34oGKqY27jtkBEiQAwSXzfr7e1SeUpTdPvTEmGIALkjZaqC88rCPilTbL5tR1_I4aAkCM8P8HAQ" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Foxes on Copses fabric by nouveau_bohemian, on <i>Spoonflower</i>, <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/4297722-foxes-on-copses-by-nouveau_bohemian" target="_blank">here</a></li>
<li>Foxes - Cambridge blue by Andrea Lauren, on <i>Spoonflower</i>, <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/3140528-foxes-cambridge-blue-by-andrea-lauren-by-andrea_lauren" target="_blank">here</a></li>
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<a href="http://www.tulapink.com/" target="_blank">Tula Pink's</a> latest release has a dramatic fox print , it's called <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/free-spirit/chipper-tula-pink-free-spirit-fabrics" target="_blank">Chipper </a>and is being released in stores next month. I tend to like individual prints in Tula Pink's fabric ranges, and have ordered the Fox print in the three colourways pictured below. </div>
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I'm still kicking myself that I didn't pick up the fox <a href="https://www.google.com.au/search?q=tula+pink+acacia&espv=2&biw=1360&bih=623&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjf4sPEmZfLAhWGHJQKHaoqCngQsAQIJA" target="_blank">Acacia </a>print (pictured, bottom left) when it was readily available in store. I used to pick up the bolt, admire it, then think, what am I going to do with it? Undecided, I'd return the fabric to the shelf until the next time I'd ponder its beauty. Now I know that if I love a fabric that much, I should just buy it and decide later! Do you do that too? Have you ever kicked yourself for not making a purchase?</div>
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The Acacia print is so hard to find, so if you see any at a reasonable price, please let me know! I like all of the colourways ;-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxkc3avF6mC5NGWT9igR9Ljn193zWHYJx1GJC3FBmN5w09GLh0XzXtW8cHqaasNTM0EkEPItT19XzKbuUHT_i9f1U6b6wLicocoKpkPeEDcrx0YS5M3k4LRITn6b-0JqwBiRWkvKdKhWE/s1600/Tulas+foxes+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxkc3avF6mC5NGWT9igR9Ljn193zWHYJx1GJC3FBmN5w09GLh0XzXtW8cHqaasNTM0EkEPItT19XzKbuUHT_i9f1U6b6wLicocoKpkPeEDcrx0YS5M3k4LRITn6b-0JqwBiRWkvKdKhWE/s640/Tulas+foxes+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I thought I'd show you a couple of my recent fox fabric purchases...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bzBSbtDC5zZ5rQFnFsznmnubSd4qyaWout6CYVSUQMld3QPiCNKutiSJb7NAk4IhPiEhWUhwyPwraZx-K5CZnnsDNU4t5kntZiwd2mvEJ0aowmYysBoxErSZruXrUy9bfkjnDYNylBVt/s1600/il_570xN.885060072_rbqh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bzBSbtDC5zZ5rQFnFsznmnubSd4qyaWout6CYVSUQMld3QPiCNKutiSJb7NAk4IhPiEhWUhwyPwraZx-K5CZnnsDNU4t5kntZiwd2mvEJ0aowmYysBoxErSZruXrUy9bfkjnDYNylBVt/s640/il_570xN.885060072_rbqh.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Print from Forest Frolics range by Heidi Boyd. It can be found on Etsy, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/259764256/light-beige-foxes-heidi-boyd-forest?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=fox%20fabric%20by%20the%20yard&ref=sc_gallery_2&plkey=96f3dc451f6236c1d4b97f8c2a2b3432263beaa6:259764256" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAjdbo8uFcCEY58W3xA5PBcebJQafTwnY11k_0rd6tXIq55eIPO6x0SWf5YcS5EyZPWGQ0oBxCJX6-EhNZKTc0z3oYS15-Tl6QD6UKQzjlVojeLDtf-sxV_gELKu7p_SIOwHfH7Ggx4cT/s1600/AUI-15231-286_LRG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAjdbo8uFcCEY58W3xA5PBcebJQafTwnY11k_0rd6tXIq55eIPO6x0SWf5YcS5EyZPWGQ0oBxCJX6-EhNZKTc0z3oYS15-Tl6QD6UKQzjlVojeLDtf-sxV_gELKu7p_SIOwHfH7Ggx4cT/s640/AUI-15231-286_LRG.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This print is called Forest Fellows - Foxes in Wild, by Sea Urchin Studio for Robert Kaufman. I purchased mine from <a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=16_63_89_842&products_id=2567" target="_blank">Clair's Fabrics</a>, <a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=16_63_89_842&products_id=2567" target="_blank">here</a>. Clair very cleverly puts together fat quarter bundles, here is her "Fabulous Fox" FQ bundle (<i>foxes with moustaches, awesome!</i>). You can find it for purchase, <a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&zenid=203b7384a2a520f360a406dc24d1847d&keyword=fox&x=0&y=0" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQGnZPeiiZvWdO7hFtX9JPxFt5behoFy5U1PH6xuFbeidwyfKaNTTwrBbvMyI_nX3-CAen_jmbPwbMWc1fviBn3inciKVElrqiV3sdE0D76DvryTM4dCqfLjPySOgNHkYDuPF-NEn2auBv/s1600/fabulous_foxes_6fqb_LRG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQGnZPeiiZvWdO7hFtX9JPxFt5behoFy5U1PH6xuFbeidwyfKaNTTwrBbvMyI_nX3-CAen_jmbPwbMWc1fviBn3inciKVElrqiV3sdE0D76DvryTM4dCqfLjPySOgNHkYDuPF-NEn2auBv/s640/fabulous_foxes_6fqb_LRG.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&zenid=203b7384a2a520f360a406dc24d1847d&keyword=fox&x=0&y=0" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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Okay, so now we've got the fabrics covered, here are some patterns and hand-mades I think any fox-lover would covet!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRvwVUsrA2xR1KU0HakiQFIMAnQOoR-_2vq7vjxemteV7cnXwS-eTz4GHIJCJNaYYAt_tzwF4LAgUqf8EHT9NoyGBlCuo_sObMLYkAqeqf4INCyyBm4d9TgZCizDSpcpMR0bBDAmUGMsm/s1600/DSCF3497_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkRvwVUsrA2xR1KU0HakiQFIMAnQOoR-_2vq7vjxemteV7cnXwS-eTz4GHIJCJNaYYAt_tzwF4LAgUqf8EHT9NoyGBlCuo_sObMLYkAqeqf4INCyyBm4d9TgZCizDSpcpMR0bBDAmUGMsm/s640/DSCF3497_medium2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/foxy-mittens-2" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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Can you knit? I'm learning! I need to learn quicker because I so want to be able to make these Foxy Mittens by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/foxy-mittens-2" target="_blank">JennyPenny!</a> The free pattern can be found on Ravelry,<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/foxy-mittens-2" target="_blank"> here</a>. I tell ya, I'm squealing with delight over these!!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiWbKrjHb8Ya927y_FGlH9RhdUe3aOPo7IzT5rBFwB3X_ncFS5XhUfiZWuwsky_6THwc_3duHP27Oco1MC_HUlc9ggm8SbSyTXAQ_KBAD7QAwCs526vJm6aPjnhUydK0E_25y8RSWPGf9/s1600/7b703f0eed8ceb73c0540a88fbf2026f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiWbKrjHb8Ya927y_FGlH9RhdUe3aOPo7IzT5rBFwB3X_ncFS5XhUfiZWuwsky_6THwc_3duHP27Oco1MC_HUlc9ggm8SbSyTXAQ_KBAD7QAwCs526vJm6aPjnhUydK0E_25y8RSWPGf9/s640/7b703f0eed8ceb73c0540a88fbf2026f.jpg" width="564" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.prettyprudent.com/2012/12/baby-kid/diy-fox-scarf-with-free-pattern/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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How's this for a fun and easy sew? If you're new to the craft - this pattern and tutorial would be a perfect project to get you started! It can be found over at <a href="http://www.prettyprudent.com/2012/12/baby-kid/diy-fox-scarf-with-free-pattern/" target="_blank">Pretty Prudent</a>, <a href="http://www.prettyprudent.com/2012/12/baby-kid/diy-fox-scarf-with-free-pattern/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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If you're a more experienced sewer and a lover of EPP, this inexpensive <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/65143747/red-fox-paper-piecing-quilt-pattern-pdf" target="_blank">instant-download PDF pattern</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/65143747/red-fox-paper-piecing-quilt-pattern-pdf" target="_blank">SchenleyP</a> is, I'm sure you'd agree, totally adorable!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FAGMNXJfkCDMN_Oktz9VqEcoua0mtan6P7z6JguI2ElgLSIFAVQGOXp-vmKrEMwYoX-DQcBa1HsHZcCVPPpwycPPYB_BlT03KL2sgsos02JJsGjGlA8lUfs_9EiJH3334FcM7TKWGPog/s1600/d59d310e2f6842ec022b552955a66978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FAGMNXJfkCDMN_Oktz9VqEcoua0mtan6P7z6JguI2ElgLSIFAVQGOXp-vmKrEMwYoX-DQcBa1HsHZcCVPPpwycPPYB_BlT03KL2sgsos02JJsGjGlA8lUfs_9EiJH3334FcM7TKWGPog/s640/d59d310e2f6842ec022b552955a66978.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.makesomething.ca/2012/08/22/sebastiens-quilt-blocks/" target="_blank">S</a>ewn by Katrina, image courtesy of Make Something</td></tr>
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Perhaps you like to spend time relaxing on a Saturday afternoon with some cross stitch? Love the abstractness of the Argyle design in this pattern by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223893354/argyle-fox-cross-stitch-pattern-instant?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=fox%20cross%20stitch&ref=sr_gallery_6" target="_blank">Winsome Stitches</a>! It can be found on Etsy, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223893354/argyle-fox-cross-stitch-pattern-instant?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=fox%20cross%20stitch&ref=sr_gallery_6" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5zImw6MdK7NaA8BrkCuyprV_6m9CHnJMT-d2WlYhpS-PaNgtyCFzQn9rLRVoiUcKZI2OytVdE_of-_gBxz5d2RWqe2duF54mMBSS0Xy2oGRJX3PuuZPpJO6uQNhAka2qTjNOwGcGgZwo/s1600/il_570xN.736212443_gayh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5zImw6MdK7NaA8BrkCuyprV_6m9CHnJMT-d2WlYhpS-PaNgtyCFzQn9rLRVoiUcKZI2OytVdE_of-_gBxz5d2RWqe2duF54mMBSS0Xy2oGRJX3PuuZPpJO6uQNhAka2qTjNOwGcGgZwo/s640/il_570xN.736212443_gayh.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223893354/argyle-fox-cross-stitch-pattern-instant?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=fox%20cross%20stitch&ref=sr_gallery_6" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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Are you more in to papercraft? I've got you covered! This free origami pattern is kindly offered by <a href="https://keepfoldingon.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/fox-baby.pdf" target="_blank">Daniel Chang</a> of <a href="https://keepfoldingon.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/fox-baby.pdf" target="_blank">Keep Folding On</a>. It can be found, <a href="https://keepfoldingon.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/fox-baby.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8ts3lOvn3veDqcy-5oMpMr8SDOxECHA5a7erjDJyN5aRumKGwSYgct-eNvBhplUKzhxlZqcrh7qbtshWYY1FRKr4QjlfT5qorMpcxwnKqKUNN1yuiKsf2Dp_8-QxlXg0mR1XuFXccJoO/s1600/diy_petit_renard_en_papier_origami.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8ts3lOvn3veDqcy-5oMpMr8SDOxECHA5a7erjDJyN5aRumKGwSYgct-eNvBhplUKzhxlZqcrh7qbtshWYY1FRKr4QjlfT5qorMpcxwnKqKUNN1yuiKsf2Dp_8-QxlXg0mR1XuFXccJoO/s640/diy_petit_renard_en_papier_origami.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://keepfoldingon.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/fox-baby.pdf" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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If you reside in Australia, and you love sewing, it will come as no surprise to you that <a href="http://www.homespun.net.au/" target="_blank">Homespun magazine</a> launched it's BOM this month. Designed by the gorgeous <a href="http://www.thebirdhouse.com.au/" target="_blank">Natalie Bird</a> of <a href="http://www.thebirdhouse.com.au/" target="_blank">The Bird House</a>, this quilt is nothing short of stunning! I am gathering up materials to make it! If you can't find Homespun magazine easily in your country, did you know that you can purchase digital issues through <a href="https://au.zinio.com/magazine/Australian-Homespun--/pr-500634623/cat-32#/" target="_blank">Zinio</a>? </div>
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Isn't that great? Here's a pic of the cover:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuKpO8HMzQpLhwQTalYtH2OQfB6NT011XVSW0RNNXxUXo7rB4x07h6fbI8xCq4-litJ7Yzp0acHYI1o5Edi5HCFf_QwloJsFJ4X-RTxyGrNIu1jVOnSxHhdy2Qp0DW6v-8X3xhCFEsgXK/s1600/Homespun+Foxly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuKpO8HMzQpLhwQTalYtH2OQfB6NT011XVSW0RNNXxUXo7rB4x07h6fbI8xCq4-litJ7Yzp0acHYI1o5Edi5HCFf_QwloJsFJ4X-RTxyGrNIu1jVOnSxHhdy2Qp0DW6v-8X3xhCFEsgXK/s640/Homespun+Foxly.jpg" width="482" /></a></div>
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I have a wee fox keeping me company in my sewing room. Heathcliff was a gift by my sweet friend Simone, over at May Blossom. He's a bit shy, but agreed to let me take his photo so you can meet him!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgshVAVzcF44oRbHH0xw1YWi96VczfXJJXRdPWBD9peYZr8FghShZ2qvh0aunkAj8mdZDbUWteUI5sj9tdKch7IoNlgcbAz6tdzgykbjd5S6Z9fRnXbhtjz2o0nD1rS90wqSS8WJ0GNjLLW/s1600/Heathcliff+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgshVAVzcF44oRbHH0xw1YWi96VczfXJJXRdPWBD9peYZr8FghShZ2qvh0aunkAj8mdZDbUWteUI5sj9tdKch7IoNlgcbAz6tdzgykbjd5S6Z9fRnXbhtjz2o0nD1rS90wqSS8WJ0GNjLLW/s640/Heathcliff+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos by SEW Useful Designs</td></tr>
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Isn't he cute? If you'd like to make your very own Heathcliff, you can find the pattern by Simone Gooding of May Blossom, <a href="http://www.fabricpatch.com.au/main/patterns-c-117/patterns-by-designer-c-117_118/may-blossom-c-117_118_1002/" target="_blank">here</a>, where you can also find the soft-toy pattern for <i>Foxglove</i>, too!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpowDPfFsboikMcKdjDZtYaY_bjBCoEkaDQj4wsi_sk3j3exWedwPLVFuITuRa0X-3wAu-kqTANWjwmKOyT2E38a5suO3221GFZ_4CeYv1wK0vkEphEYCt0myvA1tB0B4LVe_XEiek6NQ/s1600/May+Blossom+foxes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpowDPfFsboikMcKdjDZtYaY_bjBCoEkaDQj4wsi_sk3j3exWedwPLVFuITuRa0X-3wAu-kqTANWjwmKOyT2E38a5suO3221GFZ_4CeYv1wK0vkEphEYCt0myvA1tB0B4LVe_XEiek6NQ/s640/May+Blossom+foxes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am currently working on a fox design for my sister-in-law. Her father has called her <i>The Fox</i> since she was a little girl, and since last year she has been known as Nanna Fox, with the arrival of her first grandchild, Lily. My sister now lives in Greece and is writing stories for her grandchildren... so I have something in mind to make and send her. It's a big secret at the moment though! But you now know why I've been thinking about foxes a lot, of late!</div>
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Okay, before I go I will leave you with the theme tune to the title of this blog post! A crazy novelty song by Norwegian band, Ylvis, that hit the charts in 2013. Just click on the caption to take you to the video - very tongue-in-cheek and a bit of a giggle!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x15v923_ylvis-the-fox-what-does-the-fox-say-official-music-video-hd_music" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkRMrMwTY5NKw82wBBiHaBdkQ0PR6_ihl99cnBJqiYBXrgwmF6kgd0VN8m8Zg8y57kqeoiQLPwWv3yV9sWBY2nk3uYmTj5OePyTxFxLJqjUGnUudgoPt5nKCociLl0zVjsG33vDdx7Rsk/s1600/Ylvis-TheFox.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x15v923_ylvis-the-fox-what-does-the-fox-say-official-music-video-hd_music" target="_blank">Click here to play song</a></td></tr>
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Stay foxy! ;-)</div>
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Vikki xoxoxo</div>
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Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-75171323941370985792016-02-23T11:42:00.000+11:002016-02-23T11:42:21.483+11:00Tilda dolls donne their posh frocks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggC-VZVSt4sUT9Kbszpuwo9Q5Gj6ar0GBCZwZU7FbXxCW7Pv2cjIlvTnu_sITBAum-hwQb5V2fzYhntAV4qFIFUOnT21b8cU4rnFNEzeyzJvEZw5GZHeVHtWq8sZjZHhAnYU6xVP8pSYmp/s1600/Tilda+dolls+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggC-VZVSt4sUT9Kbszpuwo9Q5Gj6ar0GBCZwZU7FbXxCW7Pv2cjIlvTnu_sITBAum-hwQb5V2fzYhntAV4qFIFUOnT21b8cU4rnFNEzeyzJvEZw5GZHeVHtWq8sZjZHhAnYU6xVP8pSYmp/s640/Tilda+dolls+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxF1oj_lq8mKsd2WhqTAOVDWQmqMa_nUFuvoxkltvSnq7POCgnb31h1ZAZJ5d7DN4TdFwZwv2lbM4bJH39p5QibJ_qh10YPLpLs5K_Fwb_b2mwYMhkgNk2Dn4fjLm8SjSAavosA85Ed-m/s1600/Tilda+dolls+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxF1oj_lq8mKsd2WhqTAOVDWQmqMa_nUFuvoxkltvSnq7POCgnb31h1ZAZJ5d7DN4TdFwZwv2lbM4bJH39p5QibJ_qh10YPLpLs5K_Fwb_b2mwYMhkgNk2Dn4fjLm8SjSAavosA85Ed-m/s640/Tilda+dolls+1.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiEPJ9fGeI3Dgx0OHCuVc7aUejmEWYmAQobrZpq_AYqsMTOPaiuXUvQNJIzZUBlfqnAHLgGTDSXoT87tutTUO-6BO570hSqQ3UYzcpdQxUun4X9IGd-qvc4DG4S-KqlT92kNthVUeeoAu/s1600/Tilda+dolls+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiEPJ9fGeI3Dgx0OHCuVc7aUejmEWYmAQobrZpq_AYqsMTOPaiuXUvQNJIzZUBlfqnAHLgGTDSXoT87tutTUO-6BO570hSqQ3UYzcpdQxUun4X9IGd-qvc4DG4S-KqlT92kNthVUeeoAu/s640/Tilda+dolls+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The Tilda doll, and her wee toy dolly, are ready for an afternoon out in their posh outfits! Where do you think they might heat out to? I've got them down for a visit to the theatre... maybe a fruit smoothie taken al fresco by the marina before they take their seats?<br />
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It's certainly the type of weather for cold drinks... 38 degrees today in Melbourne and I'm sat with the fan going in the study!<br />
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Till next time!</div>
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Vikki xox</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-24600135543198057462016-02-10T14:53:00.000+11:002016-02-10T14:53:46.212+11:00Tilda's Toy Box<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRej86fOMCKdFKeBdMZOs4lFSNkiz42OtRekF-DvNmn_RAZQ62K2Lk69GFZKIA-qFHsTia_-g3E0uq1A8SdIdOlZcqX6Kuf6iFTUx5hiUTTlyyyd-JTymUFCEU9j_Usfw8cFOaXzoN11Fy/s1600/Vintage+picnic++pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRej86fOMCKdFKeBdMZOs4lFSNkiz42OtRekF-DvNmn_RAZQ62K2Lk69GFZKIA-qFHsTia_-g3E0uq1A8SdIdOlZcqX6Kuf6iFTUx5hiUTTlyyyd-JTymUFCEU9j_Usfw8cFOaXzoN11Fy/s640/Vintage+picnic++pic.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UVr-j9aXWbYpKn9FIz76DYymmN1OrUwLizXce56HpOjF-Av2zU2xpVO7D2i82Dr14rp0izih7R-WQzHw3ZIUdA7d_mJZ6yJbvbzoTbFd69Z98NFwm6ts9dflE4Zgw9-v38I1S1S0O-SF/s1600/Tilda+toy+doll+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5UVr-j9aXWbYpKn9FIz76DYymmN1OrUwLizXce56HpOjF-Av2zU2xpVO7D2i82Dr14rp0izih7R-WQzHw3ZIUdA7d_mJZ6yJbvbzoTbFd69Z98NFwm6ts9dflE4Zgw9-v38I1S1S0O-SF/s640/Tilda+toy+doll+pic.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I've been busy in the sewing room this week working on a new design with the latest fabric line from <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/vintage-picnic-bonnie-and-camille-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Bonnie & Camille</a>. It's called <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/vintage-picnic-bonnie-and-camille-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Vintage Picnic</a>, and yardage is just hitting the stores in America now... shouldn't have to wait too much longer in Australia!<br />
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I'm also working on a Tilda doll from the newest in the series, <a href="http://www.tildasworld.com/early-book-preview/" target="_blank">Tilda's Toy Box</a>. I'm making this little sweetheart and her toy doll, plus an array of outfits... all body parts have been stitched and turned right sides out... now to get on with the stuffing! <br />
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What are you up to this week?</div>
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Hugs!! Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-85331428160043854752016-02-06T15:51:00.000+11:002016-02-06T15:51:01.253+11:00Strawberry delight - have you bitten?It's no big secret that the humble strawberry has taken centre stage in the fabric industry; its association with sweetness, cute-as-a-button form, and vibrant red tones - have the majority of us drooling with more than just hunger - but with sheer delight!<br />
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I have to admit, I am head over heels in love with the cute strawberry prints that are on - or about to hit - the market. But there are other cutie-patooties out there in the big wide world to relieve your cravings for this sweet red fruit, and I've found a few of them to share with you today...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnRS6qA4qGJFV8PWB-8kuiFIWb3mZGTB3bvpbTtLX7XCX12ptgMPuICr4-uRxKuQe-wcWI21KU3Nd61SmAMYjfMDXWVdNq4n5Z0z03nvCvVF0mAftXZ3eBjmHLR-vIDR0vBrpwsA5hDAH/s1600/CONTESSA-58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnRS6qA4qGJFV8PWB-8kuiFIWb3mZGTB3bvpbTtLX7XCX12ptgMPuICr4-uRxKuQe-wcWI21KU3Nd61SmAMYjfMDXWVdNq4n5Z0z03nvCvVF0mAftXZ3eBjmHLR-vIDR0vBrpwsA5hDAH/s640/CONTESSA-58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I NEED these shoes!!! Don't you?? You can find them for sale <a href="http://www.uturnutopia.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. I'm not affiliated with any of these stores, just so that you know :-) But a girl has to share the love!! I picture these heels with a 50s style red polka-dot dress... very kitsch, and to be honest, something I'd never have the courage to wear let alone the conviction to pull it off! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgw_Kquha4zlKdao8MiRV1oMIM4fTfhSyRJeQ7llYrYCd39-aSCpknPVyAF3NyaUzqx45LesdbT7o0jhv1Iqu2J2o63-Bu0RfKqQnNtSZdcFuQ41kCWLpVmHXTcPSvDhdD06i7u4LYD6C/s1600/strawb+shoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgw_Kquha4zlKdao8MiRV1oMIM4fTfhSyRJeQ7llYrYCd39-aSCpknPVyAF3NyaUzqx45LesdbT7o0jhv1Iqu2J2o63-Bu0RfKqQnNtSZdcFuQ41kCWLpVmHXTcPSvDhdD06i7u4LYD6C/s320/strawb+shoes.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These little sweethearts were a find on eBay, <a href="http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/281880059048?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2648&var=580856940337&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">here</a>. I love shoes that do not match... I'm a big fan of <a href="https://www.birkenstock.com.au/" target="_blank">Birkenstock</a> and Papillio, both of which produce ergonomically-designed shoes with some designs that complement, rather than match, each other.<br />
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When I'm not daydreaming about cute shoes, I'm at home drinking tea... ("You can take the girl out of England, but you can't take England out of the girl!" as my husband likes to remind me!!) I'm not being stereotypical at all (wink!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgTdDMCiakOI6TJQGTOgcZtx6cD_Z8nJgq0r3OPHnlrqDvRY1HAH893zeotoWlxokBzLlCqlO0UeUAapQ7V_3_eMWMr3kR0_SLw8x5L5qxEkoJ1vUNCOP12nMeDqIZYj6kJxn3LIalb84/s1600/strawberry+teapot+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgTdDMCiakOI6TJQGTOgcZtx6cD_Z8nJgq0r3OPHnlrqDvRY1HAH893zeotoWlxokBzLlCqlO0UeUAapQ7V_3_eMWMr3kR0_SLw8x5L5qxEkoJ1vUNCOP12nMeDqIZYj6kJxn3LIalb84/s640/strawberry+teapot+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mozi.com.au/home/dining/strawberry-teapot.html" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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I discovered a new shop in Melbourne before Christmas called, <a href="http://www.mozi.com.au/home/dining/strawberry-teapot.html" target="_blank">MOZI</a>, and I LOVE it! I'll have more to show you in a future blog post pertaining to the shop, but in the meantime, this strawberry tea-pot is on sale and you can find it <a href="http://www.mozi.com.au/home/dining/strawberry-teapot.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Not forgetting the littlies, how cute is this little tea-set? It's called 'Strawberry Feilds' and designed by Tiger Tribe. I found it <a href="http://mudpies.com.au/tiger-tribe-vintage-tea-set-strawberry-fields/?gclid=CjwKEAiArdG1BRCLvs_q-IObwxMSJACXbLtzlOL-7O8kI11KBzv3JwRix4Q-rVfBb4KnKWToZcEUBRoCFSrw_wcB" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7GZRbO7YHk4ihay2-F7dAeHZM9utpNDkGEHWwx07KLeSvVE6hN1ouXTiYhbY3Egw1zmwAZcVBpgl78ZP0GhZ6Ri6KejG-KjXhlFp51OQvDllyM4pTm7xzn9YFCOW3fQEfE9QdcqJo_TE/s1600/Strawb+kids+teaset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7GZRbO7YHk4ihay2-F7dAeHZM9utpNDkGEHWwx07KLeSvVE6hN1ouXTiYhbY3Egw1zmwAZcVBpgl78ZP0GhZ6Ri6KejG-KjXhlFp51OQvDllyM4pTm7xzn9YFCOW3fQEfE9QdcqJo_TE/s640/Strawb+kids+teaset.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mudpies.com.au/tiger-tribe-vintage-tea-set-strawberry-fields/?gclid=CjwKEAiArdG1BRCLvs_q-IObwxMSJACXbLtzlOL-7O8kI11KBzv3JwRix4Q-rVfBb4KnKWToZcEUBRoCFSrw_wcB" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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Of course, you need some dessert to go with your tea, don't you? My daughter, Rose, has Coeliac disease, which means that ingested gluten attacks her body. Unlike an intolerance, there is no chance of <i>'growing out of</i>' this condition, and no known cure as yet. But there are some terrific recipes out there, and I'm keen to try this one so graciously offered freely by <a href="http://www.unconventionalbaker.com/recipes/raw-strawberry-lime-macadamia-cheesecake-dairy-free-gluten-free-refined-sugar-free/" target="_blank">Audrey Snowe</a>, author of <a href="http://www.unconventionalbaker.com/unconventional-treats/" target="_blank">Unconventional Treats</a>. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5Qz9nThjJcsqqPNcwmnaQhtCLEc-h8ryD6eqaV34VFc0FiFpAW9CGRiU5BtRCHXth5_9TFfwYco7DALwqvqeOnbRm67ucgawUH6A5eFohJvIkIF0bXkqLes-gxOXuuGw6GqNM45lQlrI/s1600/Raw-Strawberry-Lime-Macadamia-Cheesecake-gluten-free-dairy-free-grain-free-refined-sugar-free-eggless-cashew-free-recipe-no-bake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5Qz9nThjJcsqqPNcwmnaQhtCLEc-h8ryD6eqaV34VFc0FiFpAW9CGRiU5BtRCHXth5_9TFfwYco7DALwqvqeOnbRm67ucgawUH6A5eFohJvIkIF0bXkqLes-gxOXuuGw6GqNM45lQlrI/s640/Raw-Strawberry-Lime-Macadamia-Cheesecake-gluten-free-dairy-free-grain-free-refined-sugar-free-eggless-cashew-free-recipe-no-bake.jpg" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.unconventionalbaker.com/recipes/raw-strawberry-lime-macadamia-cheesecake-dairy-free-gluten-free-refined-sugar-free/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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The recipe for this Strawberry Lime Macademia Cheesecake can be found <a href="http://www.unconventionalbaker.com/recipes/raw-strawberry-lime-macadamia-cheesecake-dairy-free-gluten-free-refined-sugar-free/" target="_blank">here</a>. Thanks <a href="http://www.unconventionalbaker.com/recipes/raw-strawberry-lime-macadamia-cheesecake-dairy-free-gluten-free-refined-sugar-free/" target="_blank">Audrey</a>!!<br />
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So now we are donned in our new shoes, we've enjoyed some tea and dessert... I think it's time to head in to the sewing room, don't you?! Come and grab a seat, I've fluffed the cushions for you especially! Let me show you my strawberry stash!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAecjGhwxDAjCF16fZOtZUpdP6q53NB6wGc9a-ynCpAsMPIkj5CbmUmVfekIeIR0ir-U93qfDL6jWRc6GF2pWysJJ60O4gniQaR0sHmis4KpRBWR2uavYfEd5qMqVYkv2hc_3O2bp4KZ0w/s1600/strawb+box+close+up+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAecjGhwxDAjCF16fZOtZUpdP6q53NB6wGc9a-ynCpAsMPIkj5CbmUmVfekIeIR0ir-U93qfDL6jWRc6GF2pWysJJ60O4gniQaR0sHmis4KpRBWR2uavYfEd5qMqVYkv2hc_3O2bp4KZ0w/s640/strawb+box+close+up+pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I keep my stash in this wooden box that I picked up from my local thrift shop. I think it must have housed a child's tea-set or something similar. Just love the cut-out shape in the lid! (Take note of the little pink button - will share more on that in a tick!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4OSB_YyTucXZVgERvIpHk0tXOYg_C24UDbsx1FW06_cohgOlMEHoTAGRyoeuvvDAcdS2JnhoYajZQiCB7YUvpExDjWQWXp31bELkzkKAesrxm_ZSubSFRry7w_stmEtnlRGle2xVNtpW/s1600/strawb+tasha+noel+stash+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4OSB_YyTucXZVgERvIpHk0tXOYg_C24UDbsx1FW06_cohgOlMEHoTAGRyoeuvvDAcdS2JnhoYajZQiCB7YUvpExDjWQWXp31bELkzkKAesrxm_ZSubSFRry7w_stmEtnlRGle2xVNtpW/s640/strawb+tasha+noel+stash+pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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These prints are from the <i><a href="https://www.rileyblakedesigns.com/shop/category/riley-blake-designs/coming-soon/vintage-market/vintage-market-cottons/" target="_blank">Vintage Market</a></i> range by <a href="https://www.rileyblakedesigns.com/shop/category/riley-blake-designs/coming-soon/vintage-market/vintage-market-cottons/" target="_blank">Tasha Noel</a>. You can view the full range <a href="https://www.rileyblakedesigns.com/shop/category/riley-blake-designs/coming-soon/vintage-market/vintage-market-cottons/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
Tasha is one of my favourite fabric designers, I'm really excited about an upcoming Christmas range she has coming out soon called <i>Pixie Noel</i> - but that's for a whole 'nother time! :-)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xc99rAgNPnM6wrpTRRxlUTTXeN7iPpA5AYWu_mHzcNcUL7llK0_C2B2t7EMHNqhfv8YG4HnAq279m-n9tyv816mz3VbEAqwSSjBfjtZdcFsSaJQQBFfOQ8b2XrGk49ZVJ_jTjMfG98M8/s1600/MOF+3+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xc99rAgNPnM6wrpTRRxlUTTXeN7iPpA5AYWu_mHzcNcUL7llK0_C2B2t7EMHNqhfv8YG4HnAq279m-n9tyv816mz3VbEAqwSSjBfjtZdcFsSaJQQBFfOQ8b2XrGk49ZVJ_jTjMfG98M8/s640/MOF+3+pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are two prints pictured here, but I'm focusing on the strawberries still... (those bees on the <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC-BY-MANUFACTURER/ART-GALLERY-FABRICS/MILLIE-FLEUR---BEES-AND-BITS-SPRING" target="_blank">Art Gallery print</a> just couldn't stay away!!!) The 'Strawberry-cream' print is from the <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC-BY-MANUFACTURER/BIRCH-FABRICS/EVERYDAY-PARTY---STRAWBERRIES-CREAM" target="_blank">Everyday Party</a> range by<a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/FABRIC-BY-MANUFACTURER/BIRCH-FABRICS/EVERYDAY-PARTY---STRAWBERRIES-CREAM" target="_blank"> Emily Isabella</a> for Birch fabrics. it is the softest most exquisite textile... as soft as a tana lawn, perfect for dress-making and quilting, alike! I purchased mine from a close friend who has just opened an online fabric store called <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/" target="_blank">Ministry of Fabric</a>. Her service is exemplary! She makes me coffee and feeds me cake while I browse through her collections... but I know she offers the same high standards to everyone else - because we no longer have fluid conversations, they're interspersed with messages from her valued customers, and she always responds promptly. She is a real sweetheart to boot, and I have mentioned her here on my blog many times in the past as we've shared lots of fun and quilty days together. I'm chatting about the adorable Alisha Orlando. Doesn't her name rock?!! Alisha stocks beautiful dressmaking and quilting fabrics along with some dressmaking patterns and notions, and the most adorable buttons designed and produced by <a href="http://www.theodoracleave.com/" target="_blank">Barb Smith</a> of <a href="http://www.theodoracleave.com/" target="_blank">Theodora Cleave</a>. I believe that Alisha and Barb collaborated on the colours of these buttons which are exclusive to the <a href="http://www.ministryoffabric.com.au/" target="_blank">Ministry of Fabric</a> (<i>MOF</i>). Remember that little pink strawberry button? You can find that at the<i><a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/MORE-GOODIES/BUTTONS/" target="_blank"> MOF</a></i> along with some cute sewing-related buttons... and mushrooms that are the cutest I've ever seen! To view all of the buttons in Alisha's store, click <a href="https://ministryoffabric.com.au/MORE-GOODIES/BUTTONS/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHnbvs-5tKzGekRQ8NkirRVG4LGnlMCx7eQBAMuy4PwDRERYWRGuJ6hPR5f6GT-yDmd_-3AaTnUSpejnN_sfrEUpDadOo1bC5mx18S10y_y-907bSljfxYwWRqKAj7sOK3GdF3UFyiYM1/s1600/strawb+stash+2pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHnbvs-5tKzGekRQ8NkirRVG4LGnlMCx7eQBAMuy4PwDRERYWRGuJ6hPR5f6GT-yDmd_-3AaTnUSpejnN_sfrEUpDadOo1bC5mx18S10y_y-907bSljfxYwWRqKAj7sOK3GdF3UFyiYM1/s640/strawb+stash+2pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So this is my bundle of my fruitiness in its entirety! The two prints I haven't yet mentioned are pictured in peach and aqua blue (a bit difficult to see, sorry), and they are part of the <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/bonnie-and-camille-thimble-blossoms-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Hello Darling</a> range by <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/bonnie-and-camille-thimble-blossoms-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Bonnie & Camille</a> for Moda fabrics. I am secretly coveting these ranges too...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMHmwJL2kPZ4aZJpQq_WXlsZ7kO6anRBHblFTVSUQkCbLeY53BsiqK0KSth9Y27D93xnDtRntVX5vCVYNgTodaYO8vNxG59ZXHiW1qTvRFeZAgUtDqJlw71pCA7V9DxmRo3LiLZXlKrO5/s1600/ShabbyStrawberry_72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMHmwJL2kPZ4aZJpQq_WXlsZ7kO6anRBHblFTVSUQkCbLeY53BsiqK0KSth9Y27D93xnDtRntVX5vCVYNgTodaYO8vNxG59ZXHiW1qTvRFeZAgUtDqJlw71pCA7V9DxmRo3LiLZXlKrO5/s640/ShabbyStrawberry_72.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pennyrosefabrics.com/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
The Shabby Strawberry is available in stores now.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSckC5CQkap009Y-gOeq-bu3mMBpshv2SwjvMYTNUF0kXFEHNuqNxjAKt6Xo-gefjUAIHGMZdXgRzs0ruaZIU4VNwWeqt0nLCqnSEEk62XPBfhIw8y5qDGh8DBUHtTfo3nz6SRf7zuhvia/s1600/StrawberryBiscuit_Collage_72dpi_jpg_400x400_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSckC5CQkap009Y-gOeq-bu3mMBpshv2SwjvMYTNUF0kXFEHNuqNxjAKt6Xo-gefjUAIHGMZdXgRzs0ruaZIU4VNwWeqt0nLCqnSEEk62XPBfhIw8y5qDGh8DBUHtTfo3nz6SRf7zuhvia/s640/StrawberryBiscuit_Collage_72dpi_jpg_400x400_q85.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pennyrosefabrics.com/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<i>Strawberry Biscuit</i> by <a href="https://www.pennyrosefabrics.com/pr_designer_profile-elea/" target="_blank">Elea Lutz</a> will be available for retail in April this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_hoCj5Vsd-worGRtPFygXUI58tHPcIQ6MsmDwC43ctcAQft6rWSASYhyphenhyphenxoP5Gu8pZ0IlhyphenhyphenefqZLcOti61WTeOVkMUtxnnGN_uBeyt6iPQS4vbpXcMJphC2URsjL7rY81821iuHrIwifm/s1600/64a8c0b8f0d4022136d0cfb3c24ccb83.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_hoCj5Vsd-worGRtPFygXUI58tHPcIQ6MsmDwC43ctcAQft6rWSASYhyphenhyphenxoP5Gu8pZ0IlhyphenhyphenefqZLcOti61WTeOVkMUtxnnGN_uBeyt6iPQS4vbpXcMJphC2URsjL7rY81821iuHrIwifm/s320/64a8c0b8f0d4022136d0cfb3c24ccb83.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/holly-holderman-lakehouse-dry-goods" target="_blank">sourse</a></td></tr>
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The <i>Berry Sunrise Studios #2</i> range by Holly Holderman for Lakehouse is for sale at the <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/holly-holderman-lakehouse-dry-goods" target="_blank">Fat Quarter Shop</a>, and is without a doubt, one of my favourites. This is my favourite print from the range:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApZzbWX3yOm1EmgzQrfomkdnVMEH4a4xdhZ6jUJBG4vDvlbMvLVl3qKvyV1euzhock-vEPzXBeuQouDTk8zAkOx5ZRxeEq2xBb4YsrXJgg_S5JeuWACKF6M6gO4ATjvaSfqnxl4vUIJfW/s1600/f99727bbad28ddff095d09fbe4b4e962+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhApZzbWX3yOm1EmgzQrfomkdnVMEH4a4xdhZ6jUJBG4vDvlbMvLVl3qKvyV1euzhock-vEPzXBeuQouDTk8zAkOx5ZRxeEq2xBb4YsrXJgg_S5JeuWACKF6M6gO4ATjvaSfqnxl4vUIJfW/s320/f99727bbad28ddff095d09fbe4b4e962+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then of course there is the delightful <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/strawberry-fields-revisited-fig-tree-and-co-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Strawberry Fields</a> by <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/moda-fabric/strawberry-fields-revisited-fig-tree-and-co-moda-fabrics" target="_blank">Fig Tree & Co</a> for Moda.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebbzOrK9AipHWoHozeTk79JL7T6OIDIpcJCu-glAPYfwNxac1yZA2A2507Zdw1PxY95AbnoKHy3spzp-2ewlwpNzwbtp6TGLj5XNSbnhZhFq_p6yVoQxi7co6NYmSnNjBgu5FQvky20VC/s1600/1678736db7513c71bedcd8173776859f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebbzOrK9AipHWoHozeTk79JL7T6OIDIpcJCu-glAPYfwNxac1yZA2A2507Zdw1PxY95AbnoKHy3spzp-2ewlwpNzwbtp6TGLj5XNSbnhZhFq_p6yVoQxi7co6NYmSnNjBgu5FQvky20VC/s400/1678736db7513c71bedcd8173776859f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Did you know that The Fat Quarter Shop is having a quilt-along using this divine range? It's for a great cause, here is a pic of the finished quilt and you can find out more on the <i>Quiltalong blog</i> <a href="http://fatquartershop.blogspot.com.au/search/label/Crossroads%20Quilt%20Along" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_J4UkRzP0Xp9Q98tMorUH91os2aLHSsaVMjKcyMKask5arfRWOdpvY3MjVMz0A6Llv52ZMs5NFjYNh7SAbOCeZi2nUFKk96p6tXuDU9NSsLfboFHInMjA0qf2Yo-ZB_o7GZUBDSglaO7F/s1600/9b24f89bb045c0b37eb0036929a6b160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_J4UkRzP0Xp9Q98tMorUH91os2aLHSsaVMjKcyMKask5arfRWOdpvY3MjVMz0A6Llv52ZMs5NFjYNh7SAbOCeZi2nUFKk96p6tXuDU9NSsLfboFHInMjA0qf2Yo-ZB_o7GZUBDSglaO7F/s400/9b24f89bb045c0b37eb0036929a6b160.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This next range has been around a while and possibly quite difficult to come-by, but it is so gorgeous that I just have to share it with you. Alisha introduced me to this world-renowned Japanese fabric designer named Atsuko Matsuyama. Her prints are so delicate, kitsch in a very cool way... I borrowed this next photo from <a href="http://prettybyhand.com/" target="_blank">Krystyne Czepuryk,</a> author of <a href="http://prettybyhand.com/" target="_blank">Pretty by Hand</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3lR3AQB8ewtdD_C3NYwjqKm2vACh6S79WuFD2EGxXotg50bCLlbfvGD5RgDWaycBoDOPZk_r91pfNQVd3d0pAdW34nYhNnPoIBck_O5a8JD-M0TfGmlW32hCfiiTJS1aFjABhbcWnzml/s1600/Pretty+by+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3lR3AQB8ewtdD_C3NYwjqKm2vACh6S79WuFD2EGxXotg50bCLlbfvGD5RgDWaycBoDOPZk_r91pfNQVd3d0pAdW34nYhNnPoIBck_O5a8JD-M0TfGmlW32hCfiiTJS1aFjABhbcWnzml/s640/Pretty+by+hand.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://prettybyhand.com/" target="_blank">sour</a>ce</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.ministryoffabric.com.au/" target="_blank">Alisha </a>made me a very special birthday cake last year which featured some of these prints, here it is again for those of you who are new to my blog (you can read about it <a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2015/06/belated-birthdays.html" target="_blank">here</a>):<br />
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If you're looking for a sweet strawberry quilt pattern, you can't go past this one by <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/strawberry-social-downloadable-pdf-quilt-pattern" target="_blank">Margot Languedoc</a> <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/strawberry-social-downloadable-pdf-quilt-pattern" target="_blank">Designs,</a> available as a pdf download from the <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/strawberry-social-downloadable-pdf-quilt-pattern" target="_blank">Fat Quarter Shop</a>. It is called <i>Strawberry Social</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDuesZgDAahtdysvbTkPWqAj3rubr7qF_TpVuwmKKJwhtqVwRg7-ORNe7BUFIodqbusWgSpESEP5_Ppp8rhd-ESr5V63XUw7EaN9yvfk1ZGNrB1UeRvvE60dIFTb673iBT9xzp7iCHaQk/s1600/Strawberry+Social+pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDuesZgDAahtdysvbTkPWqAj3rubr7qF_TpVuwmKKJwhtqVwRg7-ORNe7BUFIodqbusWgSpESEP5_Ppp8rhd-ESr5V63XUw7EaN9yvfk1ZGNrB1UeRvvE60dIFTb673iBT9xzp7iCHaQk/s400/Strawberry+Social+pattern.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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Well, I hope you have enjoyed reading about this sweet little fruit!? Did you know that you can buy heirloom strawberry plants/seeds that come in a variety of colours? There is the White strawberry, known as Pineberry; a blueberry version, as well as black, yellow and even PURPLE fruits!!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7er2m2SvnwbZrqVGbXqD9khrYZD-2Sl3fGP28g2fFu0e56RbAisVbAI__IHX0DejUyuXcJebBo7JwScbUh9iiEP2Bepeg5s-M4M5MzxT563fcOfIzd0gR6hQHrGEDE21YKiqcaUxLA3j/s1600/Strawb+collage+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7er2m2SvnwbZrqVGbXqD9khrYZD-2Sl3fGP28g2fFu0e56RbAisVbAI__IHX0DejUyuXcJebBo7JwScbUh9iiEP2Bepeg5s-M4M5MzxT563fcOfIzd0gR6hQHrGEDE21YKiqcaUxLA3j/s640/Strawb+collage+pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted thinking about all the possibilities that this little fruit has to offer, so I'm going to go and put my feet up, take off my glasses, and indulge in some social media on my IPad... any guesses what's on the cover???<br />
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Aww! You guys know me too well!!! (wink)</div>
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See you next time!!</div>
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Much love! Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-44166130256762735152016-01-21T15:32:00.002+11:002016-01-21T15:32:47.532+11:00The world of modern MiniatureI have always been a lover of little things, fine detail, and of those artisans who can recreate anything in life-like form. Then a couple of years ago I met <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/sewusefuldesign/miniature/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>... and my love of miniature blossomed once again as I not only enjoyed all of the things I've mentioned above - but <i>sewing</i> and <i>shabby</i> related too? Oh man! You've got me!<br />
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Let me show you...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOJxkGCHaILUdS8rUAdqmwfogiRYFc-bRL7xIKBo1nRQ33MHb2r38U5JqSOFse4U_pZ36gvE2uAXKe72BYq5RFZH5QUDN9r3ZDenaUeVKe7q-tCUFb-duSEqVEaKKmsYsbLy1KaA4X5AM/s1600/miniature+shabby+shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOJxkGCHaILUdS8rUAdqmwfogiRYFc-bRL7xIKBo1nRQ33MHb2r38U5JqSOFse4U_pZ36gvE2uAXKe72BYq5RFZH5QUDN9r3ZDenaUeVKe7q-tCUFb-duSEqVEaKKmsYsbLy1KaA4X5AM/s640/miniature+shabby+shop.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsreNUhBzOOh96FcudbkmDqtJ9KGydbKGAV3sBOkMCWpfpgIinyae5f3Blpj0Ba-OqDQQ5ddJkch-wPRE5BvBurfREV-G9VBWVUi257JrIwFeZkVhKN4GPyIp2yR2syZL9r1Ukc05OVSw/s1600/miniature+shabby+shop+inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsreNUhBzOOh96FcudbkmDqtJ9KGydbKGAV3sBOkMCWpfpgIinyae5f3Blpj0Ba-OqDQQ5ddJkch-wPRE5BvBurfREV-G9VBWVUi257JrIwFeZkVhKN4GPyIp2yR2syZL9r1Ukc05OVSw/s640/miniature+shabby+shop+inside.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLI7KcpligY1OqRvjNwgrpuzuCXvJhwzj87HtYK2XRVXweWdMb8aASTRtip2_K6FOvYKXjiXdm-lbcwqBM8ugioxyk_tu3J4Zqu2twn-ep1ZQK9wi-bdVE4DzpvujzKHH1FlC_no9vcrr/s1600/miniature+shabby+shop+inside+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLI7KcpligY1OqRvjNwgrpuzuCXvJhwzj87HtYK2XRVXweWdMb8aASTRtip2_K6FOvYKXjiXdm-lbcwqBM8ugioxyk_tu3J4Zqu2twn-ep1ZQK9wi-bdVE4DzpvujzKHH1FlC_no9vcrr/s640/miniature+shabby+shop+inside+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How utterly exquisite is this??? The shabby shop was made by <a href="http://www.artminiature.ch/de/atelier/shabbyshop27.htm" target="_blank">Renate Stettler</a> of <a href="http://www.artminiature.ch/de/atelier/shabbyshop27.htm" target="_blank">Atelier Art Miniature</a>, I have borrowed her photos. If you love what you're seeing here, you should totally check out the <a href="http://www.artminiature.ch/de/atelier/greetingcardshop.htm" target="_blank">Greetings Card Shop</a> that Renate made... when I clapped eyes on it this famous quote sprang to mind...<br />
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"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."</div>
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Still on the shabby theme, how utterly gorgeous is this custom-made pinboard? <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208725869/a-billboard-for-the-dollhouse-in-scale?utm_source=OpenGraph&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share" target="_blank">Miniatryrmama</a> has an Etsy store where you can enquire to have something made just for you. I bet this one didn't take long to sell!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrF0mjjdXhHd9B-0P-WtRqzE_GtBy14xbOhDNTVlhugm9XcyRgDceVWLBoeVL7E58NQY8JzA2yWwD6M6mngrkSiSUHZSWoVmS3u_rsbf31RIpIABpA5n__qn-601QEgCSXT9F_nGlgyeg/s1600/Miniature+pinboard+miniatyrmama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrF0mjjdXhHd9B-0P-WtRqzE_GtBy14xbOhDNTVlhugm9XcyRgDceVWLBoeVL7E58NQY8JzA2yWwD6M6mngrkSiSUHZSWoVmS3u_rsbf31RIpIABpA5n__qn-601QEgCSXT9F_nGlgyeg/s640/Miniature+pinboard+miniatyrmama.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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Wouldn't it be wonderful to relax at this shabby chic desk, picture courtesy of <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/synnov/" target="_blank">Synovve Knudsen</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghh_aFWguzeib5Ht30r_acGqNOOqL7fNzaZKF6qwWwCMl2y_Ne6sxdSpiXsbg8JmdeoLrClxe5KURDp7DS8IeooIdm8SHovDiCy1_3Cb9x-IOsUCKxGECjnAXqUm88mrSC-IlKomdxj_dd/s1600/Miniature+desk+synovveknudsen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghh_aFWguzeib5Ht30r_acGqNOOqL7fNzaZKF6qwWwCMl2y_Ne6sxdSpiXsbg8JmdeoLrClxe5KURDp7DS8IeooIdm8SHovDiCy1_3Cb9x-IOsUCKxGECjnAXqUm88mrSC-IlKomdxj_dd/s640/Miniature+desk+synovveknudsen.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Or better still, sew in this wonderful fabric-filled room made by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nerea_pozo/11256178265/in/set-72157624133747706/" target="_blank">Keera</a> who can be found <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nerea_pozo/11256178265/in/set-72157624133747706/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeRIDGlBPFKTGeSXsdxYd8AKL4dYX4VOWWeDcwyycLJs5xn7Xbbzjo8cN5WPcKsR9J7T7vQgfjs0Q_9gRp-vBZvSXZVavDK76ea4uCnRohR8aw7WVT91Sf_WTG4swEupUEf9zl0WeGBt-/s1600/miniature+sewing+room+Keera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeRIDGlBPFKTGeSXsdxYd8AKL4dYX4VOWWeDcwyycLJs5xn7Xbbzjo8cN5WPcKsR9J7T7vQgfjs0Q_9gRp-vBZvSXZVavDK76ea4uCnRohR8aw7WVT91Sf_WTG4swEupUEf9zl0WeGBt-/s640/miniature+sewing+room+Keera.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyDSnZ5ys5lv_d4hj1s4UsSKYX2a4zwYB7gD2f89G7TySNKryaDan2-TofkzcJf4lHjY8bel48Vk9xsEyvodLOhPb_sq3lHrMXTkpnG3_Q_IFKZNNjOKPsT1TPMukC7G_IRon1YRFrm2ts/s1600/miniature+sewing+desk+by+Keera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyDSnZ5ys5lv_d4hj1s4UsSKYX2a4zwYB7gD2f89G7TySNKryaDan2-TofkzcJf4lHjY8bel48Vk9xsEyvodLOhPb_sq3lHrMXTkpnG3_Q_IFKZNNjOKPsT1TPMukC7G_IRon1YRFrm2ts/s640/miniature+sewing+desk+by+Keera.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Of course, a home - no matter what its size - is never complete without a fur-baby or two. My heart literally skipped a beat when I discovered the world of <a href="http://www.kerripajutee.com/562221/dog-puppy-gallery/" target="_blank">Kerri Pajutee</a>, who designs and makes the most beautiful animals in 1:12 scale. This photo, courtesy of <a href="http://www.kerripajutee.com/562221/dog-puppy-gallery/" target="_blank">Kerri</a>, paints a thousand words.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCerMQETU25N3yeM62xItUvbfnGlF_68nYrNVtgvlbOsa-xJ4uPvaoHe0xEdY8exuOjT8SuJQNAfMoDFYJqLoVGA7HiCDFUWLUgByBi8Ua3rfrWuQdXOYAxMNLEIYCnGe4kfxbSdpUSfOz/s1600/miniature+schnauzer+kerri+pajutee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCerMQETU25N3yeM62xItUvbfnGlF_68nYrNVtgvlbOsa-xJ4uPvaoHe0xEdY8exuOjT8SuJQNAfMoDFYJqLoVGA7HiCDFUWLUgByBi8Ua3rfrWuQdXOYAxMNLEIYCnGe4kfxbSdpUSfOz/s640/miniature+schnauzer+kerri+pajutee.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had to choose a photo of dogs, of course! But Kerri makes a wide range of animals including equine, farmland and one of my favourite categories - W<i>oodland</i>. Go check out <a href="http://www.kerripajutee.com/562066/woodland-wild-gallery/" target="_blank">this page</a>!!!</div>
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Okay, this next one is for you quilt lovers, of which I know there are a few! <wink></wink><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYids5e-_WD2DXtIAKKKxf_zUUpsdfBT6OU7WOEQdsgOzZuq8JxqZ1tCKmrZYHWYAXkVyoc4GREynn9FI3L6YySwRUYOZOJN4UFEjeTJhnCVjCOg9rd8n6T9BZZLwl0DQy02smW5RK0H2s/s1600/miniature+quilt+by+cherylilkerfoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYids5e-_WD2DXtIAKKKxf_zUUpsdfBT6OU7WOEQdsgOzZuq8JxqZ1tCKmrZYHWYAXkVyoc4GREynn9FI3L6YySwRUYOZOJN4UFEjeTJhnCVjCOg9rd8n6T9BZZLwl0DQy02smW5RK0H2s/s640/miniature+quilt+by+cherylilkerfoot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh gosh, can you imagine creating this? How full would that swear-jar be?! This stunner was made by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/14592965@N03/" target="_blank">Cheryl Kerfoot</a>, and I tracked her down to her Flickr page, <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/14592965@N03/" target="_blank">here</a>. She actually down-sized a regular quilt pattern to make this version!<br />
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I found this most wonderful photo on Pinterest and have been attempting to track down the creator, but alas to no avail. I usually don't share photos without giving credit to the author or designer, but this miniature quilt is so amazing that I want to share it with you. If you know who made it, please share so I can give them the credit!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMlX3QqgTFX8LT0AxADy-Gt37NCU2vbrrLAPRCeG46UEF9E7d2bgQEcajo8ZAdeXnWblqcsD2zcmVYubb1j4NPSqJ-iODHKbZFL2wS-Es8ymJM53Ltzq1LcIQ4MNaulXyDgu2Oxomt8SY/s1600/Miniature+quilt+artist+unknown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMlX3QqgTFX8LT0AxADy-Gt37NCU2vbrrLAPRCeG46UEF9E7d2bgQEcajo8ZAdeXnWblqcsD2zcmVYubb1j4NPSqJ-iODHKbZFL2wS-Es8ymJM53Ltzq1LcIQ4MNaulXyDgu2Oxomt8SY/s640/Miniature+quilt+artist+unknown.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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That teeny tiny quilting just astounds me, what do you think?!<br />
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I could go on forever showing you photos I've collected, but I'll just leave you with one more of my favourites and it is very French Provincial in it's Christmas theme...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_E_cyhya0APeRRYTV42K7gQcdd_bbVS4hUWsUoHc4a2S-6VFideruWdxdkJIv8RFxF6NvlPKApP8ojC1sG42n1XrRBeNtdnzKPseeHeij6lFJ7IiQ8pLGmH6uQfuyBSs2Frvrx7ta02Qs/s1600/Miniature+food+Tiny+Ter+Miniatures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_E_cyhya0APeRRYTV42K7gQcdd_bbVS4hUWsUoHc4a2S-6VFideruWdxdkJIv8RFxF6NvlPKApP8ojC1sG42n1XrRBeNtdnzKPseeHeij6lFJ7IiQ8pLGmH6uQfuyBSs2Frvrx7ta02Qs/s640/Miniature+food+Tiny+Ter+Miniatures.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This delectable darling is the skilled work of <a href="http://tinyterminiatures.blogspot.com.es/" target="_blank">Teresa Martinez</a> of <a href="http://tinyterminiatures.blogspot.com.es/" target="_blank">Tiny Ter Miniatures</a> who photographs her work so beautifully that the pictures are a work of art in themselves!<br />
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If you'd like to check out more miniature inspiration, you can find my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/sewusefuldesign/miniature/" target="_blank">Pinterest 'Miniature'</a> board, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/sewusefuldesign/miniature/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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There will be more miniature in my future, as Mr SUDs works with a lady who is an enthusiast and belongs to <a href="http://www.vame.org.au/" target="_blank">VAME</a> (Victorian Association of Miniature Enthusiasts) and she kindly gifted me a little kit to see if I enjoyed the hobby. I'll post some pics when I've made it - I'm a bit apprehensive to be honest!<br />
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Until next time - enjoy the little things! (I'm winking at ya!)</div>
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Vikki xoxoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-40516114106562831052016-01-07T13:06:00.001+11:002016-01-07T13:06:24.946+11:00Christmas makes and gifts...I was actually pretty organized last year when it came to making gifts, which is most unusual for me. I thought I'd share some of my makes with you, but not before asking - did you have an enjoyable Christmas???<br />
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We had a nice quiet one, very low key, but unfortunately we all came down with some kind of Gastro bug which seemed to hang around for days on end. But these things happen, and we still enjoyed our quiet time together albeit the only dancing we did was to reach the bathroom!!<br />
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I've just finished sewing this hanging Santa doll from the <a href="http://www.tildasworld.com/" target="_blank">Tilda</a> book, <a href="http://www.tildasworld.com/" target="_blank">Homemade & Happy</a>. It was a real labour of love, lots of needle-turn applique and hand-quilting. But it will remind me of my quiet time spent at home, and I'm looking forward to displaying him in December after he's recharged his batteries, ready for delivering those gifts on Christmas Eve!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXA3Xw8hzRv_I-gvDVzMG3keqJVLd2y97vJzZvofsqul9CAJvunalPrFjAMGrZD00p8OljfSA2MWjobp5Lv-QRWW05J2fDRR8tiLvFW7Osv1aBT7T1ZHVqhND_AYEDkoFoDrUX0MSUsM0/s1600/Tilda+Santa+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXA3Xw8hzRv_I-gvDVzMG3keqJVLd2y97vJzZvofsqul9CAJvunalPrFjAMGrZD00p8OljfSA2MWjobp5Lv-QRWW05J2fDRR8tiLvFW7Osv1aBT7T1ZHVqhND_AYEDkoFoDrUX0MSUsM0/s640/Tilda+Santa+1.png" width="388" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTAB8dmxfRtnw1-fX7cg-TiEWtX9d0wOVZvJN-QpGYIekxgQoFN2RjJ5UF09_shN_Rh1S8PMARwstVxZ5c2mIlNDnrXfBhvPEUNwx832HKCVu8SVSXU-frGywR8XA5OJSjIJiuLaXOBCY/s1600/Tilda+Santa+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTAB8dmxfRtnw1-fX7cg-TiEWtX9d0wOVZvJN-QpGYIekxgQoFN2RjJ5UF09_shN_Rh1S8PMARwstVxZ5c2mIlNDnrXfBhvPEUNwx832HKCVu8SVSXU-frGywR8XA5OJSjIJiuLaXOBCY/s640/Tilda+Santa+2.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
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I made a couple of changes just to make life easier for myself - I omitted the applique stems and sewed a line of chain-stitch instead; and I left his feet au natural because I love the colour of the skin fabric against the crisp white linen, and therefore didn't want to cover most of it with paint for the boots.<br />
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Talking of Tilda, hubby bought me the latest book for Christmas, and darling Rosebud and I have decided that the cover-girl will be my first make - one for me, and one for her!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRz77JVWHhQ3JYzc9AkWsFDgLbHPk6P7X2EJ6h99mtMyeGbwu-pqJ22yzcI387NFA3e809TkFsoR83D55i970OxHGSNIhgAxCTLHNT4QXERJUYQYfr_GQVoX_L9oMydpfSZljdc_LaUuWJ/s1600/Tildas+toy+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRz77JVWHhQ3JYzc9AkWsFDgLbHPk6P7X2EJ6h99mtMyeGbwu-pqJ22yzcI387NFA3e809TkFsoR83D55i970OxHGSNIhgAxCTLHNT4QXERJUYQYfr_GQVoX_L9oMydpfSZljdc_LaUuWJ/s640/Tildas+toy+box.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Isn't she the cutest?!</div>
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Do you use Instagram? Do you like it? If so, I'd love to connect with you! My Instagram name is vikki_collumbine so please look me up if we're not friends on there already. Anyhow, the reason for me mentioning this is that I took part in an Instagram Christmas swap last month which was so much fun! All participants received a written Q&A about their secret swap partner and then followed them on Instagram to get a better idea of their likes and tastes. I made this stocking for my partner from my provincial stocking pattern which you can find,<a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2013/07/provincial-christmas-stocking-tutorial.html" target="_blank"> here</a>.<br />
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I decorated it with a store-bought hanging ornament and added some shell buttons for embellishment, then sent it along with a few other goodies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3HrAL5UtLuj0zaM4i1shjinGow5gTbw7ZqQejTdmCp1t3G_H9haBwsmyh3uWzCv-CHJvKiTqE3qN7HV-p_7ZPorsuqu-5rAymbqFSkH9Bx3HhhFA-iWR13b6ikGTTU6RYIhy32TvyYjD/s1600/Instagram+xmas+swap+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3HrAL5UtLuj0zaM4i1shjinGow5gTbw7ZqQejTdmCp1t3G_H9haBwsmyh3uWzCv-CHJvKiTqE3qN7HV-p_7ZPorsuqu-5rAymbqFSkH9Bx3HhhFA-iWR13b6ikGTTU6RYIhy32TvyYjD/s640/Instagram+xmas+swap+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I also sewed up this sweet little bag from one of my favourite <a href="http://red-brolly.com/" target="_blank">Red Brolly</a> patterns' by <a href="http://red-brolly.com/" target="_blank">Bronwyn Hayes</a>, and then sent it across the pond to my very sweet friend <a href="http://theangelandthepukeko.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Deb</a>, who I met here on my blog many moons ago! (She's a keeper!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONdMDBw604kzX6TZSzdkhI8MaDEE_a0CDrx3AtyT2mF4nr4uioO-9cPXb5LtT0AzAIEwRqYgg1m29N5zK4UCIrZ9po0GnF7dSnmA2h2UIDXFVr-I1J7uegUDO7957prCdTc9Z02vMwnif/s1600/Red+Brolly+xmas+bag2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONdMDBw604kzX6TZSzdkhI8MaDEE_a0CDrx3AtyT2mF4nr4uioO-9cPXb5LtT0AzAIEwRqYgg1m29N5zK4UCIrZ9po0GnF7dSnmA2h2UIDXFVr-I1J7uegUDO7957prCdTc9Z02vMwnif/s640/Red+Brolly+xmas+bag2.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
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This next make is from a pattern by <a href="http://onedayinmay.com.au/" target="_blank">One day in May</a>, designed by <a href="http://onedayinmay.com.au/" target="_blank">Melissa Grant</a>. I used the same <i>Tilda</i> fabrics as Melissa used in her original version, and gifted it - full of goodies - to my dear friend Alisha.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-MHyM93939Gy6CjR3dwH4EnjVpNxAJd_gUFvSYEKzLQGPxFzGcdOHUcGiMTc0o2vWx4EBDZhypYoNDuuYyg9ITFGDFPbeOsu5X8DTTTHqe59HGMUq4s84IQvSwoJONtYbBlJwI-y2WMo/s1600/Needlebook+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-MHyM93939Gy6CjR3dwH4EnjVpNxAJd_gUFvSYEKzLQGPxFzGcdOHUcGiMTc0o2vWx4EBDZhypYoNDuuYyg9ITFGDFPbeOsu5X8DTTTHqe59HGMUq4s84IQvSwoJONtYbBlJwI-y2WMo/s640/Needlebook+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This next project was a birthday gift back in November, for a sweet friend I've had for as long as I've lived in Australia. Her name is Holly and her son and mine hit it off from day One when Aaron went to school. I often joke that Holly is Aaron's "other mum" because she has been such a huge part of his life. When I had issues with my daughter that kept me housebound, Holly would pick Aaron up from school and take care of him, or run him home to me. She has been amazingly supportive and I really don't know what I would have done without her, both in a practical sense, but more so in an emotional sense. So many times I've thought of all that she has done for me and had tears in my eyes, just knowing someone understands and cares that much. She's very special. Holly is a sweet lovely-natured lady, she is the most lady-like tom-boy I've ever met! She has three sons and a hubby who accounts for probably another three more! They ride motorbikes, dirt bikes, they're what I call, 'blokey blokes'! Holly jokes that she doesn't know how she would have coped if she'd had a little girl because there is so much testosterone in her house she knows no different! Anyhow, I digress, but just wanted to paint a picture of the sweet lady I made this quilt for. The lady who dislikes florals but loves birds and her budgie... a lady who loves to cycle and be outdoors...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XOgQk_b8gsQiKeQumCnDZsO4Wm-pGoR-wDuEmyZBVFYkNrbquC6tq6s443577nwUxyuGvr1loHR6xct922FXFLW9p8CXuuGyVkgqTZ4U-vZRk_hT_DvGrr-CN4EWUUy5P0SpPs-0GOe-/s1600/Holly+quilt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XOgQk_b8gsQiKeQumCnDZsO4Wm-pGoR-wDuEmyZBVFYkNrbquC6tq6s443577nwUxyuGvr1loHR6xct922FXFLW9p8CXuuGyVkgqTZ4U-vZRk_hT_DvGrr-CN4EWUUy5P0SpPs-0GOe-/s640/Holly+quilt+1.jpg" width="518" /></a></div>
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The reverse of the quilt...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPNCV0M9lKSO9IGNUZclSpsSkqWgbBVsotmWFHRbpfPH3RFhMTczsQF8JRD7azAykAPUvgGsFuTGvkgc-1wv5xrB2pi1AG05j9W4gKj97pr8fvrRouLMXl61EPGJvsiScslcCPmGPgbeA/s1600/Holly+quilt+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPNCV0M9lKSO9IGNUZclSpsSkqWgbBVsotmWFHRbpfPH3RFhMTczsQF8JRD7azAykAPUvgGsFuTGvkgc-1wv5xrB2pi1AG05j9W4gKj97pr8fvrRouLMXl61EPGJvsiScslcCPmGPgbeA/s640/Holly+quilt+2.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
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... and the label:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiJnaUkKhtbMR1ZVDHEa9RIt5YbSfPEmF_iN5cIySUIWoHwchrtz2_0Z5t-oSuMv2v_SRXlVpCZF4x_SNNAq15vq1iInrbK2j4LnqFRUfoCSfXFwbGFxIhEBAbLLueuWWQWCkZxDDbnkk/s1600/Holly+quilt+label.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiJnaUkKhtbMR1ZVDHEa9RIt5YbSfPEmF_iN5cIySUIWoHwchrtz2_0Z5t-oSuMv2v_SRXlVpCZF4x_SNNAq15vq1iInrbK2j4LnqFRUfoCSfXFwbGFxIhEBAbLLueuWWQWCkZxDDbnkk/s640/Holly+quilt+label.jpg" width="616" /></a></div>
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Last of my makes was such fun! My 18 year old son, Aaron, has been dating his girlfriend (who I call Sweet Bee) for almost four years now, and I wanted to make her something quirky! Her favourite comedienne is a You-tuber whose alias is <a href="http://mirandasings.com/default.html" target="_blank">Miranda Sings</a>. I noted on Miranda's website that she was wearing an appliqued sweatshirt - and I secretly endeavoured to recreate it for sweet Bee.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCw9Ied0uB3_rhFb9BWXhQKExoLRPPvnLP5pep6y5V2issO7mLLPYycKdyHIZVJYgLuFzCjmMMfA_aJoqHR4MkIihXu61kKjNAD1o-36vGpUq0hGRKiuq4ByoF5BRUIvlBk6ez2iFI1eu/s1600/Miranda+sings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCw9Ied0uB3_rhFb9BWXhQKExoLRPPvnLP5pep6y5V2issO7mLLPYycKdyHIZVJYgLuFzCjmMMfA_aJoqHR4MkIihXu61kKjNAD1o-36vGpUq0hGRKiuq4ByoF5BRUIvlBk6ez2iFI1eu/s640/Miranda+sings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was a great hit! Sweet Bee squealed with delight when she opened her gift and I was somewhat relieved that she did in fact know this was a Miranda top and I hadn't lost the plot completely!</div>
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Now it's time to work on some new designs and organise myself for the year ahread. It's school holidays here in Australia for the next few weeks so I won't get back in to my work properly until February comes around. So I'm making the most of time spent with the kids! What are you up to?</div>
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Warm wishes, dear friends!</div>
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Vikki xo</div>
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<br />Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-68777240103910992202015-12-24T20:21:00.000+11:002015-12-24T20:21:40.633+11:00Merry Christmas 2015!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's the most wonderful time of the year...</div>
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Isn't it?!!</div>
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Well, can you believe there is only one more sleep till the 'big day'?! Seeing as I haven't posted in such a long time, I took some pics today to share with you, I hope you enjoy them. I love seeing people's decorations and each year I strive to make mine a bit more attractive than the last. There are a couple of blogs I follow because I love their home decor, they are <a href="http://adventuresindecorating1.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Adventures in Decorating</a> (I love the way Becca describes herself as having ADD - Attention Decorating Disorder!), and <a href="http://dearlillieblog.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Dear Lillie</a>. If you love home decor and stunning photography - head on over for some eye candy!!</div>
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This little cherub and I made gingerbread a couple of days ago - it was so much fun! I have perfected my gluten-free recipe, so from this year on we decided to make it a new tradition. Yesterday we decorated the house...</div>
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We doubled the gingerbread recipe so there was plenty left over to make Xmas-shaped biscuits, too!</div>
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We had a week of stinking hot weather in Melbourne, cooling a little toward the end of Sunday... and the temperature is picking up again. I'll cook a full English Roast dinner tomorrow so I'm hoping it's not going to get TOO hot! I love cooking Christmas dinner, it's so special. There will only be the four of us in our little family, but that doesn't mean that celebrations have to be small too, right?!</div>
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I truly hope that you have a wonderful Christmas. It's not really about the decorations, or the gifts, or the Roast with all the trimmings... it's about expressing your love and gratitude for the people in your life who make a difference. For me it is, and I believe it is for most people. So whether you are among family and friends, or spending Christmas apart from the ones you love - I sincerely hope your heart is filled with the special magic of Christmas Day - whatever that means, for you. xx</div>
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One of the paintings I did many years ago when my gorgeous friend, <a href="http://www.shabbyartboutique.com/" target="_blank">Kerryanne</a>, was local and giving decorative painting lessons. It always brings back fond memories!</div>
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I hope you're enjoying the tour? x</div>
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I'm a thrifty shopper. I purchased these two pieces of furniture a few months ago from Ebay, and then promptly sold the furniture it replaced. A new look for next to nothing and no land-fill - awesome!</div>
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All but one of these ornaments are new to me this year, and again, I bought them off Ebay! I was ecstatic to find the 2005 plate, not only is it beautiful but it represents the year my gorgeous Rosebud was born! The trick with Ebay is to be <b>consistently</b> looking... trust me! <wink></wink></div>
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One of the vignettes in the bookcase. Apologies as it's a bit blurry, but you get the idea. The photo was taken this year at my husband's Work Christmas outing. The company hired a park and put on fairground rides, free food and drink, plus a raffle and other entertainment, it was a super day albeit rather toasty in the humid heat of the day!</div>
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This cheeky cherub has been wishing the day away!!! We have been watching Christmas movies and singing carols together... currently, it's 8pm so not long now until we put on <i>The Polar Express</i> (as is tradition in our house!) and then it's time to hang the stockings... put out the milk and gingerbread for Santa, a carrot for the reindeer... and then off to to the land of Bedfordshire! <smile></smile></div>
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This year is super special because it's our first Christmas shared with our newest member of the family, Asha. This sweet fur girl came to live with us in March, following my desire to adopt a rescue... there were two dogs we trialled that didn't work out and they have found their purfect forever homes... but sweet Ash is ours for keeps! She is an amazing sister to our sweet Kayla, pictured below all curled up next to my feet during the winter!!</div>
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It's time for me to spend time with family and put on our traditional movie now. Thank you so much for popping in for a visit, I wish you a wonderful Christmas, and a Happy New Year!</div>
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Much love!</div>
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Vikki xo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-13786708636181223012015-09-25T18:44:00.001+10:002015-09-25T18:44:35.269+10:00Two quilts finished!!Here we are heading towards the close of another calendar month... I swear, each year flies by quicker and quicker, like a well-walked path! But my path has been both pleasurable and memorable, as I hope, has yours?<br />
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August was a month of family celebrations for the SUDs household, which I'd love to share more of in my next post, but for now I thought you might like to see some finished projects? I completed two quilts within a week of each other (don't be too impressed, I actually started the latter one pictured close to two years ago!!) But hey - it sounds so much better to admit to two close finishes - so we won't dwell on that!<br />
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In late August, my nephew and his fiancee welcomed their first baby in to the world, little Lily. I'd promised my three nephews that I'd make them a quilt for each of their first-born, and if they didn't have any children then I'd buy them a pipe and make personalised carpet slippers - You know, just so they didn't miss out on any keepsakes! (wink)<br />
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I started designing, stitching and piecing Lily's baby quilt a couple of months ago, as my nephew knew his baby was a girl and the name Lily had already been agreed upon. I chose <a href="http://www.leanneshouse.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Leanne Beasley's</a> first line of fabric, <a href="http://www.ellabluefabrics.com/designers/leanne-beasley/" target="_blank">Hearts and Happy Flowers</a>. How I love those prints!! I kept to a pink palette as the new parents had requested.<br />
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With one of <a href="http://www.rosaliedekkerdesigns.com/#!about/cee5" target="_blank">Rosalie Dekker's</a> prints thrown in for good measure!<br />
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The quilt has since been completed and is now wrapped around sweet Baby Lily (I'll ask my nephew's permission to post a pic of her - she's so gorgeous - do you love babies as much as I do?!!!) Unfortunately I haven't been able to have a cuddle with sweet Lily because she lives in England and I am on the other side of the world in Australia. But at least I know that something I've made especially for her can be wrapped around her in the place of my arms.<br />
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It was challenging to piece with the stripes on the heart & stripes print - but that was all part of the fun for me! I was very pleased with the quilt, but would probably choose to make it a wee bit larger if sewing it a second time.<br />
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This next quilt was made with a layer cake of Celebrate by <a href="http://www.thesweetwaterco.com/" target="_blank">Sweetwater & C</a>o. I just added some white sashing, and Rosie's favourite print became the border.<br />
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It was a quick and rewarding make, but I had problems with my sewing machine when it came down to quilting... the stitches skipped or sewed way too close together... so I got my machine serviced and started again. <br />
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The second time I made the mistake of stopping and starting the machining at each intersection between squares, which resulted in hours of my time spent pulling threads through to the back and tying off. The look didn't add anything to the overall look of the quilting so it wasn't worth the effort. But I did develop a whole lot of patience - Lesson learned!!<br />
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Next up for a finish is a sweet needle book project designed by <a href="http://onedayinmay.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Melissa Grant </a>of <a href="http://onedayinmay.typepad.com/" target="_blank">One Day in Ma</a>y, called Daisy Dance (<a href="http://www.hugsnkisses.net/index.php/shop/designerfriends/one-day-in-may" target="_blank">you can find the pattern here</a>). I've finished all the embroidery, now I'm cutting all the fabric pieces out, all good stuff! The delicious mix of <i>Tilda (TM)</i> fabric with <a href="http://cottagegardenthreads.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Cottage Garden Threads</a>... yum!<br />
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That's just about it until next time... what have you been up to?</div>
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Warmest wishes dear friends!</div>
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Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-20645102925336270972015-06-08T21:18:00.002+10:002015-06-08T21:18:19.260+10:00Belated birthdays!There was a meme doing the circuits on Facebook recently which read, "I love you so much I'd use my best fabric on you!" A close friend sent it to me, and it gave me such a giggle. True to her word, my girlfriend gifted me this beautiful wall-hanging for my birthday using her fave Japanese designer fabrics. Isn't it exquisite?<br />
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The strawberries in my birthday cake 'icing' look delicious don't ya think?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9pdzkva1eo_JMDTU-waHUi17bOfrn0PywnTuAWywSuC8yJutsFc75Nb1mgxGn5110dv38eA2eHwWfDONfujV4i1qCXt2tX-2a-KWuR8HPn6TAFPALt7w5K-q4ek-cZ5FGyhUMtKMlniq/s1600/Alisha+birthday+cake+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9pdzkva1eo_JMDTU-waHUi17bOfrn0PywnTuAWywSuC8yJutsFc75Nb1mgxGn5110dv38eA2eHwWfDONfujV4i1qCXt2tX-2a-KWuR8HPn6TAFPALt7w5K-q4ek-cZ5FGyhUMtKMlniq/s640/Alisha+birthday+cake+3.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My sweet friend, Alisha, is such a cutie! (Thank you so much precious girl!) xx</div>
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Do you have a favourite stash of fabrics that you don't know quite what to do with yet because you love them so much you don't want to cut in to them? I have a stash of 'Far Far Away' by Heather Ross that I feel that way about. Just waiting for the right project to come along...<br />
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But I digress! It was my birthday in May but we had a flu bug doing the rounds in our family so I didn't really celebrate with friends until two weeks after the event. My sewing machine was also unwell and I had it fixed over the Easter period, which was pretty busy for my local sewing machine shop... it was so difficult to be patient when I was itching to get on with a new project!! Hence, a belated gift to another close friend who is only a couple of weeks older than me. Simone is an Aussie who believes she was born in to the wrong country because she has such an infinity with England. She loves the countryside, the history, but especially the Capital with its London buses... so when I found this fabric, it had her name written all over it! It is called "British Invasion' and I purchased it from <a href="http://www.teatreefabrics.com.au/novelty" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Can you guess what I designed?</div>
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I'll give you a clue...</div>
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Simone has a beautiful family of four children and a hubby, so I designed a passport holder that holds six passports and boarding passes.<br />
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I didn't want to detract from the print on the front cover, but needed to secure the passports inside, so I matched the print on the flap with the print beneath so when the flap is closed it looks like the same image. A magnetic closure works a treat. To prevent the passports slipping out of the top of the holder I added a leather button strap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vHzVGv7JJh9dpNB9NC5_zByPAqSidT3XWZpUl_0O12Ds1HOLO8KK8DCxWBgUpXf11_sGsanHxNfvlnETboyAYS3IRAu_BbxD55mIc6XPbxpZLor8d4rNpWGBYP5UvVgzrb1MUS0Waaxq/s1600/London+pport+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vHzVGv7JJh9dpNB9NC5_zByPAqSidT3XWZpUl_0O12Ds1HOLO8KK8DCxWBgUpXf11_sGsanHxNfvlnETboyAYS3IRAu_BbxD55mIc6XPbxpZLor8d4rNpWGBYP5UvVgzrb1MUS0Waaxq/s640/London+pport+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Top left is a transparent vinyl pocket that houses a card with details of Simone's address (and a prayer on the reverse). The top right pocket is for whatever and I fussy-cut a London bus to applique on the front as it looks so good on the polka dot fabric. But then, what doesn't look good with polka dots?!<br />
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Inside is where the Parisian fabrics can be found (yes, Simone loves France too!)<br />
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So as my friend Alisha corrected me when I told her my mojo had returned, "Don't you mean, SEWJO?" <br />
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Yes! That's exactly what I meant! <wink> <smile></smile></wink></div>
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Till next time!</div>
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Vikki xoxoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-63108593737494564662014-12-31T21:36:00.000+11:002014-12-31T21:36:00.327+11:00Snapshots of Christmas 2014...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqCHA4yBCvXtmXhUA77Ovh4CcmNEfAuo4882dXKz_-GY90bgI7Ma_33IsnU2Qjkht4Bcs6PbjFBNJp-a_5Q_YCFaJKCWau1HJ62hZMPtfuiZDykjVRcus56St_ePHNzRu2NZZzT-H9dN5/s1600/Xmas+14+Jess+notebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqCHA4yBCvXtmXhUA77Ovh4CcmNEfAuo4882dXKz_-GY90bgI7Ma_33IsnU2Qjkht4Bcs6PbjFBNJp-a_5Q_YCFaJKCWau1HJ62hZMPtfuiZDykjVRcus56St_ePHNzRu2NZZzT-H9dN5/s1600/Xmas+14+Jess+notebook.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">A covered diary for Rosie's teacher using some cute Tanya Wheelan fabric. Did you ever give your teacher an apple? I'm not sure that I did... but I do remember giving her poems.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I have always loved this design by <a href="http://www.elefantz.com/">Jenny (of elefantz</a>), and stitched it for a lovely new Church friend I made this year. It's something I've not ventured to talk about on my blog, or much anywhere else for that matter... but this year I trusted and gave myself to Jesus for the very first time, it's a relationship that has accelerated rapidly and liberated and healed me through the months that followed. Just when you think it impossible to fit any more love in to your heart... so it opens and receives in abundance... which means there's more to give! Yay!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Decorating with vintage ice skates this year... loved this vignette. A sweet friend gifted me some child's vintage ice skates too, which I then hung above the adult version... too cute!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I collected the pine cones back in Autumn when I was walking the dog (I got some very strange looks off people!); and then more recently sprayed them with fake snow. I also sprayed some old plastic tree branches to include in the scene. The white sprigs in the boot were an op-shop find and I made laces from jute twine.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">We had a fun Christmas party earlier on in the month, my friends are a bit shy with sharing photos... but my children are quite happy to - so here's a couple of pics of them, growing up too fast!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdWOICE_EmZzZImYtzYCDU0AP7vlq33RkqzOQnlMZ-PUkrVDfVlhNDFig6wr7RY7GJ90JohyJYDPI83q2EO1CCYYMqvq16j8_yQarlmpQ1PHpjNYAkv2GCnSD11TujLOSwCkxQV1rtXAu/s1600/Xmas+14+Rose+and+mum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdWOICE_EmZzZImYtzYCDU0AP7vlq33RkqzOQnlMZ-PUkrVDfVlhNDFig6wr7RY7GJ90JohyJYDPI83q2EO1CCYYMqvq16j8_yQarlmpQ1PHpjNYAkv2GCnSD11TujLOSwCkxQV1rtXAu/s1600/Xmas+14+Rose+and+mum.jpg" height="432" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Well, a new year dawns for us all in a few hours time... wishing you a fun, relaxing, restful evening - whichever your preference may be! I'm off to watch a Hobbit movie with Mr SUDs before we quietly see in the New Year together. With love and blessing to each and every one of you!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Vikki xoxo</span></div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-12193652169183299472014-11-10T16:57:00.000+11:002014-11-10T16:57:44.072+11:00Did you ever wonder what a Skating Angel looks like?Then look no further...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacUm2MCF5OslJOwAPQDG2kkpLbKZHVSri2RJ1biodUJ_d9r37Et9nsfWnF13a1ccQJhF3X5xsFL500GN3SyHn9i3HmFvcUPz-Q10a7pM6Do6ZLfRgwE8sgF54ES-Nkw8Bg77Bwy8w527w/s1600/Skating+angel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacUm2MCF5OslJOwAPQDG2kkpLbKZHVSri2RJ1biodUJ_d9r37Et9nsfWnF13a1ccQJhF3X5xsFL500GN3SyHn9i3HmFvcUPz-Q10a7pM6Do6ZLfRgwE8sgF54ES-Nkw8Bg77Bwy8w527w/s1600/Skating+angel+2.jpg" height="600" width="640" /></a></div>
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This gorgeous Skating Angel is one of many glorious projects by the fabulous <a href="http://www.tildasworld.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Tone Finnanger</span></a>, from her <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Tildas-Winter-Delights-Tone-Finnanger/9781446304006" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Tilda's Winter Delights</span></a> book.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTprI4ovihmo0dz19r7bIkcARG56I4yrk6aVr9-ExuaFLQ19JA_KTF-Xu6sWb295eR12ZhbZjDSbeiDvE0xFVfcQcAeCjcco0-KXa7qs6lxXjrAndMkUFMXYLBQ6kiNsXhcbOQhKSnRl_e/s1600/Skating+angel+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTprI4ovihmo0dz19r7bIkcARG56I4yrk6aVr9-ExuaFLQ19JA_KTF-Xu6sWb295eR12ZhbZjDSbeiDvE0xFVfcQcAeCjcco0-KXa7qs6lxXjrAndMkUFMXYLBQ6kiNsXhcbOQhKSnRl_e/s1600/Skating+angel+1.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
She was a pleasure to make! I fell in love with the faux fur when I made this doll and that's what spurred me on to design some projects using the same material. But it is a little trickier to sew with than my usual cotton choices. It tends to slip and slide around, so getting seams to match up is challenging. But I can live with that knowing how soft and luxurious it both feels and looks on the finished project!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQy5mvTxbXqPJG_GpVvG3pxT2GTP7D0l2LKOAbrQNlJuGky1SYdzom5qG-cFqDX6kfFulj36wm-W4sDqxqP2_tIUjHK4RJR3pECS4D2LJwh4P0fPcX9axNBalbdQ5vVqJt9G6XvMqsQd5N/s1600/Skating+angel+near+mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQy5mvTxbXqPJG_GpVvG3pxT2GTP7D0l2LKOAbrQNlJuGky1SYdzom5qG-cFqDX6kfFulj36wm-W4sDqxqP2_tIUjHK4RJR3pECS4D2LJwh4P0fPcX9axNBalbdQ5vVqJt9G6XvMqsQd5N/s1600/Skating+angel+near+mirror.jpg" height="640" width="536" /></a></div>
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I've just ordered Tone's latest book,<span style="color: #a64d79;"> <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Tilda-Homemade-Happy-Tone-Finnanger/9781446305904" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Tilda Homemade and Happy</span></a></span>, and have seen projects from it popping up all over social media... so I can't wait until it arrives!!<br />
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Are you a Tilda fan? If so, what's your favourite project or book? I bet that's really difficult to answer - not sure that I could - there are just too many aren't there?! What I love about the books isn't only the stunning projects, but the photographs and illustrations are sublime as well, it makes a really good coffee-table book (unless you're a sports car fan, then maybe not so much?!) Do I have any sports car fans reading my blog?! he he he... you never know!<br />
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I am chomping at the bitt to get my Christmas decorations out, but hubby wants to refrain until the end of the month! I do have a sweet friend who has indeed got her tree up and displays looking all pretty! (<a href="http://theangelandthepukeko.blogspot.com.au/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Deb </span></a>- you have me drooling! Are you going to put some photos up on your <a href="http://theangelandthepukeko.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">blog</a>? xx)<br />
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Until next time - happy sewing!</div>
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Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-81377122071776401612014-11-07T13:50:00.001+11:002014-11-07T13:50:24.083+11:00Simply Shabbilicious Christmas magazineIt has been a very exciting week for this Christmas-crazed-gal...<br />
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<a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/11/simply-shabbilicious-magazine-the-christmas-issue.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPJq7Ve9TbTKFSlzGVWUhUZVRiCYqYbBPTIBsfaMEMV0BtWUUgaezN1Jl07xZ27Q7oVYeg6mJhWval0Du51hJVSj68ipXbCDiq30WyBXGLQhtajylMB_uo-AiQvSDkSdS1axjs90pLZdVG/s1600/Simply-Shabbilicious-Magazine-Issue-4-2014-600_thumb.png" height="640" width="497" /></a></div>
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Because... (drum roll please)</div>
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...This week welcomed the release of<a href="http://www.shabbyartboutique.com/" target="_blank"> Kerryanne English's</a> Christmas 2014 issue of <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/11/simply-shabbilicious-magazine-the-christmas-issue.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Simply Shabbilicious</span></a> magazine! You're in for a real treat. There are pages full of inspiration to get your seasonal mojo happening with articles featuring the most amazing shabby homes with the most jaw-dropping vignettes, by some very talented bloggers.<br />
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There is an awesome tutorial by a guest contributor for how to make chalkboard tags, and a recipe for festive-flavoured macaroons that will have your mouth watering. All this and more, and the magazine is free to download. How generous is Kerryanne? You also have the option to purchase a digital copy or a printed paper version, all details are over at the <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/11/simply-shabbilicious-magazine-the-christmas-issue.html" target="_blank">Shabby Art Boutique</a>.<br />
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There is another design in the magazine that I hope you will like! I was delighted when Kerryanne asked me if I'd like to contribute a project, and I decided to follow my inspiration for snowmen... well, more accurately, snow ladies!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-3EuAmW5MeSm7KG1L_-JlgjSM42947JGiZgqUtN_MGvzPlKDW5EnwvKtzKT9gjx0e_WOWsdqhYFUU97g_Visp10yX5aoUxu3M4TwEWp1gA1ODsWDBk02llTQTLt-zdFsdBxANeiQsrbc/s1600/Madamoiselle+and+tagsmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-3EuAmW5MeSm7KG1L_-JlgjSM42947JGiZgqUtN_MGvzPlKDW5EnwvKtzKT9gjx0e_WOWsdqhYFUU97g_Visp10yX5aoUxu3M4TwEWp1gA1ODsWDBk02llTQTLt-zdFsdBxANeiQsrbc/s1600/Madamoiselle+and+tagsmall.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></a></div>
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The <i>Snowlady Festive tag</i> fits in rather nicely with her big sister, <a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2014/11/theres-nothing-that-gets-my-mojo-going.html" target="_blank">Mademoiselle Snow</a>, don't you think? The tag is made from felt and faux white fur and is really quick and easy to whip up with minimal sewing. There are so many uses for this sweet tag - decorate your tree - add to a wrapped parcel to add an extra touch, or include in one of your own Christmas displays.<br />
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Another exciting thing this week is that Kerryanne is running <i>Simply Christmas</i>! <br />
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My friends and I have found the guest posts, ideas and tutorials so valuable during previous seasons, so I'm really looking forward to getting my daily dose of inspiration again this year. (smile)<br />
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<a href="http://www.shabbyartboutique.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Shabby-Art-Boutique-Simply-Christmas-Button.png" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKFWV_TDonsfWRYeAiSL1X6J4VQ6KtQ4IKPKvg9TC6zdhePyNJ5BFfoRPmteyHxHCfQ44TEDe2ZcNIZlWNn7RteqqEUUbyH_-V-BEDrjeaVTcFzH5ZIaLhM5egDkohoUX3JhxfnpDU9w7/s1600/Shabby-Art-Boutique-Simply-Christmas-Button.png" /></a></div>
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If you're still reading to this end... then I'm very impressed by your staying power! I'm sure most would have nicked on over to the <a href="http://shabbyartboutique.com/2014/11/simply-shabbilicious-magazine-the-christmas-issue.html" target="_blank">Shabby Art Boutique</a> by now! (giggle) I don't blame them! Are you like me in that you do not sneak peeks of pressies?!!<br />
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Till next time... let the merriment begin!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vikki xoxo</div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-25163854752666590752014-11-02T14:21:00.001+11:002014-11-02T14:22:03.539+11:00New Christmas pattern - Mademoiselle Snow<span style="font-size: medium;">There’s nothing that gets my mojo going as much as designing for
Christmas… and I figured, the shops have their festive displays happening, so
why not decorate my blog early too?! Do you like my new banner?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I have been busy working on Christmas projects too, and am very
happy to introduce you to Mademoiselle Snow…</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxssVSf2OTo8RZC1H-QwOrksoIaq4AcOYAUD9y_CQJWaISFEayeOIUsbFPuXhLc5F58zkN-vvwowVxvDkd7qhkMnMav_BYZ_ZXWstHlxv-Sb3D_ScW4ZuAprJuvgTV8PzaqU-Ux-Yk4Q3/s1600/Madamoiselle+Snow+1+pattern+cover+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxssVSf2OTo8RZC1H-QwOrksoIaq4AcOYAUD9y_CQJWaISFEayeOIUsbFPuXhLc5F58zkN-vvwowVxvDkd7qhkMnMav_BYZ_ZXWstHlxv-Sb3D_ScW4ZuAprJuvgTV8PzaqU-Ux-Yk4Q3/s1600/Madamoiselle+Snow+1+pattern+cover+image.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">She’s a little shabby chic, and if you look closely, she’s a
little sparkly too, loving to adorn herself with bling when the stardust falls
from the sky on those cold crisp nights!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipldwGveTx3DhwqBHtssvgbbZxamU8XvbKoCCaLfzIGjsUzQwUZrZYDHLDZRZ3CBtn6bHLinFJVMpj1BIMnIkTrsmyFA-Vfubu9BG9fi1srOeYOx8ojCF86-Oyzr8guRm4svXFbkm9TVlE/s1600/Madamoiselle+close+up+2small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipldwGveTx3DhwqBHtssvgbbZxamU8XvbKoCCaLfzIGjsUzQwUZrZYDHLDZRZ3CBtn6bHLinFJVMpj1BIMnIkTrsmyFA-Vfubu9BG9fi1srOeYOx8ojCF86-Oyzr8guRm4svXFbkm9TVlE/s1600/Madamoiselle+close+up+2small.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">This sweet mademoiselle measures 20cm x 9cm (8in x 3.5in) and is
constructed with minimal sewing. I only used my sewing machine to stitch three
straight lines and the rest was done by hand in no time at all. Which leaves
more time for the fun bit – embellishing!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPHLEnv88VEYMY_-rMoQii041dgoYZ_LkV3jGE6vbw6n-y52rDPepnEwZA2w6ZSjKircIu7UvoJZfgSXwOVQ7WaB6Mna2ck03BHB8MGB7epYk-7wavwJpkjfnUAEA9wo-ReoD4LtXTizd/s1600/Madamoiselle+Snow+2small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPHLEnv88VEYMY_-rMoQii041dgoYZ_LkV3jGE6vbw6n-y52rDPepnEwZA2w6ZSjKircIu7UvoJZfgSXwOVQ7WaB6Mna2ck03BHB8MGB7epYk-7wavwJpkjfnUAEA9wo-ReoD4LtXTizd/s1600/Madamoiselle+Snow+2small.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">The pattern is available for Mademoiselle Snow as a PDF from my
Craftsy store <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/user/1352718/pattern-store?_ct=cx-buvjdql&_ctp=my-pattern-store,manage" target="_blank">here</a>, or as a paper pattern in my shop <a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/p/patterns.html" target="_blank">here</a>, for just $10USD (inc.
P&P if purchasing a paper version). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: medium;">I had it in mind to make some pretty pastel Christmas
decorations and was inspired to create this first one when I started sewing with
faux fur. I used fur by Tilda ™, and purchased it from <a href="http://www.woodberrydesigns.com.au/Tilda-Sweet%20Christmas.htm">Shabby Art
Boutique</a>. You only need a fat eighth to create one snow-lady… but can you
just stop at one? I couldn’t!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I hope you have a fantastic day! I’ll be back tomorrow with
some more news!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Until then – snowy hugs!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Vikki xoxo</span><br />
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Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-9352330139107353862014-10-29T15:26:00.002+11:002014-10-29T16:08:57.747+11:00Sneak peeks anyone?<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The studio has been a hive of activity over the past few weeks, and now it's time for a big tidy-up. I think us creative souls are mostly similar when it comes down to designing or making a project, do you? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">At first it all starts with an idea... which then becomes a rough sketch... and then all manner of fabrics, threads and embellishments get pulled out on to the desk, which then overflows on to the floor. Does that sound familiar? Are you like me in that you have to have a completely clean desk and fresh slate before you start something new?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've been juggling four projects these last few weeks, which has been fun but rather messy! But I will have some results to show you soon! In the meantime would you like a few sneak peeks?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLe1KXTojEnaqp7zqGtGNvdXMxvxv4vU1QjD00M1bsG66KynDhkiXM0lUeJC2GGJwYFEi2rezGs7KCOwSDhoK3Um-Fdb5r5xuy8wgL1IyoSfA-Fq8VX74Y3OWvIxIBcnKS-zVO0ZVRnnj/s1600/Xmas+sneek+peek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLe1KXTojEnaqp7zqGtGNvdXMxvxv4vU1QjD00M1bsG66KynDhkiXM0lUeJC2GGJwYFEi2rezGs7KCOwSDhoK3Um-Fdb5r5xuy8wgL1IyoSfA-Fq8VX74Y3OWvIxIBcnKS-zVO0ZVRnnj/s1600/Xmas+sneek+peek.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm very excited about this one - for those of you with shabby chic hearts - I think you might just like it too! It will be released as a pattern in just a few short days!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">... another teaser! All will be revealed soon :-)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Plus I have another project on the go... it debuted on paper earlier this year and took quite some time for me to decide on a colour pallet before continuing... but the work is now almost complete...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How many projects have you got on the go at the moment? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hugs! Vikki xo</span></div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-29675556072780614282014-09-17T17:41:00.002+10:002014-09-17T17:42:44.512+10:00Nibbles and Nature's gifts by Petals & Patches!<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just a couple of posts ago I was chatting about what inspires my designs and it got me thinking a bit more... and I realised that more often than not, animals take centre stage in my designs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">It all started with </span><a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2013/03/revealing-rosetta-rabbit-new-pattern.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Rosetta Rabbit</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">, and then there was </span><a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2014/09/its-my-turn-for-blog-hop-with.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Deer Cabin</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">, and now there is </span><a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/2014/02/nibblesin-all-shapes-and-forms.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Nibbles</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">...</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nibbles was designed in memory of my daughter's first pet - a wee mouse that loved to be held, and was the cutest little thing. This is how I envision her up in mouse heaven, with her little suitcase loaded with sunflowers as she ventures on her safe journey through the golden fields!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I used hanky linen for both the stitchery and for the panels on the back of the cushion, just love its texture. I used one mini charm pack (2.5in squares) for the border.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86p8wOXSBlfZ_iOpnGnhyphenhyphen6dxuCsf5OBCB3ZdQTv4rfwvQH0DeUVm2X096onlQf0Qm0YaGIzgRSR8resQvu8sXPjVodhhz2Vs7TotDAnzxT7gTfEGh56bT4G7Bcv0P0XkGtA7rMruZZFMw/s1600/Nibbles+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86p8wOXSBlfZ_iOpnGnhyphenhyphen6dxuCsf5OBCB3ZdQTv4rfwvQH0DeUVm2X096onlQf0Qm0YaGIzgRSR8resQvu8sXPjVodhhz2Vs7TotDAnzxT7gTfEGh56bT4G7Bcv0P0XkGtA7rMruZZFMw/s1600/Nibbles+3.jpg" height="588" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can find the Nibbles cushion in this month's issue of <i>Country Threads </i>magazine, Vol 15 No 8.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">I have a lot of friends partial to designing animals, and I've been meaning to post about this project for a while now! This gorgeous BOM quilt named Nature's Gifts was designed by my lovely friend </span><a href="http://www.petalsandpatches.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Leanne Knell</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> over at</span><span style="color: #e06666;"> <span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://www.petalsandpatches.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Petals & Patches</span></a>.</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"> I've seen it in "real life" and it's gorgeous!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The animals are so divine, so delicately drawn with thread...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dXO3jQT971hIokfDEzJkOAQgOi9HBoZRiA_bI7AEgyMgMGsHzgNUd0cS2GQ8Dh-gA7owkaUPYQCOk3cHn6fO75lg-OF90l3fyBkgO7MBFplHUfu2lzbkP5rBedpl6O_FtWR8QjgfNW6C/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dXO3jQT971hIokfDEzJkOAQgOi9HBoZRiA_bI7AEgyMgMGsHzgNUd0cS2GQ8Dh-gA7owkaUPYQCOk3cHn6fO75lg-OF90l3fyBkgO7MBFplHUfu2lzbkP5rBedpl6O_FtWR8QjgfNW6C/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B2.jpg" height="640" width="386" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Don't you just love the outline quilting, too?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_8lpSCF8nt9Z-SG65eSXQB04vxVg0fHGNEAl8O7sBH6UtS3dHqy8P58hro7wA6IRk5aRdEgkYtdCHKxrl2t5uJMqqkx-ntXkhYid913VEQpa2vJlkb6E50B8bCuz8rR9yI8MOfY-dneZ/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_8lpSCF8nt9Z-SG65eSXQB04vxVg0fHGNEAl8O7sBH6UtS3dHqy8P58hro7wA6IRk5aRdEgkYtdCHKxrl2t5uJMqqkx-ntXkhYid913VEQpa2vJlkb6E50B8bCuz8rR9yI8MOfY-dneZ/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B4.jpg" height="640" width="534" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Of course this next block is very close to my heart with that cute mouse among the wheat grasses...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoQ1drwuFdhfcxG1vRmM0amvdXLLpq18EhepLkSRaJi-5Ag5uynp2kUDZ3sc-U5w1LqkoM9xNYYe42IZ7j70NGwoJL3HTQsVy3nV2usYVKmbArAe1OUBeK2zo6p0n9LKDnyOxPK7usRmN/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZoQ1drwuFdhfcxG1vRmM0amvdXLLpq18EhepLkSRaJi-5Ag5uynp2kUDZ3sc-U5w1LqkoM9xNYYe42IZ7j70NGwoJL3HTQsVy3nV2usYVKmbArAe1OUBeK2zo6p0n9LKDnyOxPK7usRmN/s1600/Nature's%2Bgifts%2B5.jpg" height="373" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just love this quilt so much! If you'd like to learn more about it or sign up for the ongoing BOM, please contact Leanne at</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"> <a href="http://www.petalsandpatches.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Petals & Patches</span></a></span><span style="color: #444444;">. I'm sure she'd love to hear from you!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hmmm... so I wonder what animal will be next on the horizon? Any requests?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Till next time!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vikki xo</span></div>
Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066148189367802030.post-32128034915976620372014-09-12T16:09:00.001+10:002014-09-12T17:00:48.416+10:00Inspired for Christmas<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Like many of my friends and other crafty ladies I know, Christmas is never far from my mind when it comes to getting stuck in to a new project!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you making anything with a festive theme at the moment??</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My friend, Alisha, and I caught up last week for a Christmas crafting day... I didn't take any photos but I can tell you that we had a fabulous time! I made Turkey and cranberry rolls for lunch, we drank spiced chai tea while the carols were playing in the background.... and the clove-scented candle filled my home with its promise of a white Christmas... heavenly!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Okay so I'll 'fess up... we didn't get any sewing done! But we DID talk a lot about sewing!! Does that count? I aired the Santa doll that I began making around (ahem.....) ten (cough) years ago. Oops! I literally did have to dust him down as his feet were sticking out of the top of a bag, the black fabric boots looked like they'd been walking in a foot of snow!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He's quite a big fella this one measuring in at a completed 34 inches tall. Here's a close up picture:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslcZX1BpKr7qqbbTQ7aKTLzp3VhZqoGDU-Bx4TpVNIAxDe_RY-FxrdEjxBaeNZ3or5FSqPX3XQ2oR7CXQNR0FGkAWjeQpDrt59RPn4aOAcyaVEXNCT_k9ELt_nnCuJ9nd4bNjOks0Be-0/s1600/Country+Santa+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjslcZX1BpKr7qqbbTQ7aKTLzp3VhZqoGDU-Bx4TpVNIAxDe_RY-FxrdEjxBaeNZ3or5FSqPX3XQ2oR7CXQNR0FGkAWjeQpDrt59RPn4aOAcyaVEXNCT_k9ELt_nnCuJ9nd4bNjOks0Be-0/s1600/Country+Santa+2.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">He's named Folkart Santa by </span><a href="http://cottonway.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Cotton Way</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">. I started collecting bits and pieces to make him when I lived in England during 2003! The little knitted stocking still has the purchase price ticket on it, in Pounds Sterling!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwr8t3ZvRHHCvTkWVIC7a-fEdPkVCHXhNeGCqvzl2W3At3mGNqepZUS7kg2DrPl52tZyU2d1YLCtaLq7VhQDACj1plxFefeIjGtF-ZGUo04eSIDh-NeZZz4mi-WjMG9tP4KHEZ5ayZD0I/s1600/Country+Santa+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwr8t3ZvRHHCvTkWVIC7a-fEdPkVCHXhNeGCqvzl2W3At3mGNqepZUS7kg2DrPl52tZyU2d1YLCtaLq7VhQDACj1plxFefeIjGtF-ZGUo04eSIDh-NeZZz4mi-WjMG9tP4KHEZ5ayZD0I/s1600/Country+Santa+4.jpg" height="454" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Little quilt blocks all made up ready for the border on his substantially country winter coat... packaged up (thank goodness) and "snow" free.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRGRQQho4CKX0a8EfoAf2JrPn2F3uilfAfr-7w4_WFt-Xui2dSB-qad9b354XtgieYiY-KZI5DSdbRW2xZTXIaQnAs8fsIhbJ7Qs_a6km0XEKwSll5PLBnW3oOom88viANntRkIht4MNG/s1600/Country+Santa+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRGRQQho4CKX0a8EfoAf2JrPn2F3uilfAfr-7w4_WFt-Xui2dSB-qad9b354XtgieYiY-KZI5DSdbRW2xZTXIaQnAs8fsIhbJ7Qs_a6km0XEKwSll5PLBnW3oOom88viANntRkIht4MNG/s1600/Country+Santa+3.jpg" height="434" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do plan to get him finished before Christmas this year... I think he's been very patient, don't you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">It's sometimes hard to finish something though, when there are some delicious new projects on the horizon... like this 'hot of the press' set by </span><a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/embroidery/hand-embroidery/holly-bird-designs---6-pattern-set/110951#_=_" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Jenny of Elefantz</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">...namely, Holly Bird Designs! Let me introduce you...</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREgVrxAUcCkMqj1iALPNohSZtDxjkm85kNra6BiRoMxSlvOx-BQKL41eLBK_6kmpNtigx1cyB0YLji4527S-MtVjd6M-30xtDTyYE87m8yGbz7Hfe74NdV4QuZiADmn2HWwYcJ-oP8qmW/s1600/Holly+Bird+Designs+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREgVrxAUcCkMqj1iALPNohSZtDxjkm85kNra6BiRoMxSlvOx-BQKL41eLBK_6kmpNtigx1cyB0YLji4527S-MtVjd6M-30xtDTyYE87m8yGbz7Hfe74NdV4QuZiADmn2HWwYcJ-oP8qmW/s1600/Holly+Bird+Designs+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas.jpg" height="562" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh gosh, which one to make first?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtprAhSDnhHTrdII7VAzb0tzELMA1IlE5xV-oBFB2UhagNZm2g9oWeoPhl_e5Tkc6jWGpTGKiA5elWCYcgW7QjZTJlCg3IyVjmQs5kgqswJLX9WdWV98hVRQa6rO1IkcxVbj7ZlbeTZQIi/s1600/Holly+Bird+Rejoice+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtprAhSDnhHTrdII7VAzb0tzELMA1IlE5xV-oBFB2UhagNZm2g9oWeoPhl_e5Tkc6jWGpTGKiA5elWCYcgW7QjZTJlCg3IyVjmQs5kgqswJLX9WdWV98hVRQa6rO1IkcxVbj7ZlbeTZQIi/s1600/Holly+Bird+Rejoice+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The table runner? Isn't that Holly Bird divine??</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRdSCG-8Rus5wXJti6BApLW4-Hj6Jy4DtWU7rCItp1llG5O4h0TqVOtRJHv0AOvMEhvGyOIzAW0oOWwLrkRzUNBxwMvF0XBDoK3Ks0cV2C_g5MiLF0OfJLphKCayI29DPtEdR_vlwrh9q/s1600/Holly+Bird+Rejoice+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+Main+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRdSCG-8Rus5wXJti6BApLW4-Hj6Jy4DtWU7rCItp1llG5O4h0TqVOtRJHv0AOvMEhvGyOIzAW0oOWwLrkRzUNBxwMvF0XBDoK3Ks0cV2C_g5MiLF0OfJLphKCayI29DPtEdR_vlwrh9q/s1600/Holly+Bird+Rejoice+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+Main+Photo.jpg" height="398" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Or this Holly Bird sampler? Lovely as a wall-hanging, or perhaps even a cushion front?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMi3TVX4DaYVGqDLpoIRBzfYkUIul-anFRAmphedWzGzcn5WzG19eei8dvQmSz_rjvVM1tXjKYKRQu7lKoEFCqGIizsFGeWiOMrAWDcUPAFs3EtwNa_5_1S63U6yDf8AbA2R0GRsa7scN/s1600/Holly+Bird+Sampler+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+Main+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMi3TVX4DaYVGqDLpoIRBzfYkUIul-anFRAmphedWzGzcn5WzG19eei8dvQmSz_rjvVM1tXjKYKRQu7lKoEFCqGIizsFGeWiOMrAWDcUPAFs3EtwNa_5_1S63U6yDf8AbA2R0GRsa7scN/s1600/Holly+Bird+Sampler+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+Main+Photo.jpg" height="540" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Okay - another close up from another project just because they're all so gorgeous and I can't stop myself!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5kqLCpcb8pnYzn_DYWTaFCFFUKBeyI6NpTO71s_Fw_qauij_ZuIbVH5FqfAU792_QZ64BhWJ0n5cBEEVD7zXZCTFHQcKfn9zTWpz7UEjmKdpjm8MgyRrQk6thM1IA5Cu3HpJB7OkNaDz/s1600/Holly+Bird+Deck+the+Halls+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5kqLCpcb8pnYzn_DYWTaFCFFUKBeyI6NpTO71s_Fw_qauij_ZuIbVH5FqfAU792_QZ64BhWJ0n5cBEEVD7zXZCTFHQcKfn9zTWpz7UEjmKdpjm8MgyRrQk6thM1IA5Cu3HpJB7OkNaDz/s1600/Holly+Bird+Deck+the+Halls+Jenny+of+Elefantz+Christmas+3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">There are six separate patterns in this set and they're at a reduced price until 17 September... if you're drooling as much as I am head on over </span><a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/embroidery/hand-embroidery/holly-bird-designs---6-pattern-set/110951#_=_" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">here</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> to </span><a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/embroidery/hand-embroidery/holly-bird-designs---6-pattern-set/110951#_=_" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Jenny's shop</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> to order yours! I just love them to bits!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So along with Jenny's projects I also have this gorgeous </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://mayblossom.com.au/" target="_blank">Little Robin Red Vest</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://mayblossom.com.au/" target="_blank"> </a>designed by the lovely Simone over at </span><a href="http://mayblossom.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">May Blossom</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">. I saw a photo last year on Simone's blog that featured this little treasure decorating her Christmas table in centre stage, and I fell in love.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9hPTg0FV0fvtyQh6h0rDsCokTkdg0LUJ_mpY419ToKohLtKBadiNdigBbGb6IXNjEKp9D28QBMGzodTgR_E-odSnh5zZvL29xf48Hk4LIYsRxSC9UI0YzJvFfzlyg1yWHlxi_5yFhn6t/s1600/May+Blossom+red+robin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9hPTg0FV0fvtyQh6h0rDsCokTkdg0LUJ_mpY419ToKohLtKBadiNdigBbGb6IXNjEKp9D28QBMGzodTgR_E-odSnh5zZvL29xf48Hk4LIYsRxSC9UI0YzJvFfzlyg1yWHlxi_5yFhn6t/s1600/May+Blossom+red+robin.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">Isn't he gorgeous?!! This pattern is available through Creative Abundance or on the </span><a href="http://mayblossom.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">May Blossom website</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">. Oh my, if you haven't already visited Simon'e website you're in for a real treat! Even the home page is pure eye candy in itself... she's so clever!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">Do you like my little green vintage cabinet door? I'd been after one for ages, at a good price of course, and finally discovered twin doors at the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/waverleyantiquebazaar" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Waverley Antiques and Collectibles Bazaar</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> in Melbourne. So this is my current vignette...</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipi1U0DKnq6GATH331H4xXcg4t091Q5xoXmj91M4qqjCyBgof9addA0NO647BgdQ_7oLIWDClMGDdAtWDhd5tFTwO4lDNgksUhCC9HjUMIxw0EYBp7mEBzA16s8pNuJnjyW3uDO9x04upi/s1600/Plant+bulb+portrait+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipi1U0DKnq6GATH331H4xXcg4t091Q5xoXmj91M4qqjCyBgof9addA0NO647BgdQ_7oLIWDClMGDdAtWDhd5tFTwO4lDNgksUhCC9HjUMIxw0EYBp7mEBzA16s8pNuJnjyW3uDO9x04upi/s1600/Plant+bulb+portrait+pic.jpg" height="640" width="434" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The gorgeous plant 'bauble' was gifted to me by Alisha as a belated birthday treat. She planted it out with succulents and a wee porcelain bunny rabbit which is so shy it's hiding in this next picture!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5n3ofS4YTdAvfm9-q2QSzTcxoWaBqbMjbTkLg7jzwqiC1agfXvsoryLheMNS0xQFMYB2zStKy3zrtmWg1zqCBWtocbslYd5Q7I2INJqiLBu6e4n8sGG6NoVnjoP9berv1UFLABlgMmXs/s1600/Plant+bulb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5n3ofS4YTdAvfm9-q2QSzTcxoWaBqbMjbTkLg7jzwqiC1agfXvsoryLheMNS0xQFMYB2zStKy3zrtmWg1zqCBWtocbslYd5Q7I2INJqiLBu6e4n8sGG6NoVnjoP9berv1UFLABlgMmXs/s1600/Plant+bulb.jpg" height="640" width="608" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">Okay my lovely friends, I have one more Christmas idea to tempt you with and a cute stitch-along designed and offered by the sweet </span><a href="http://sugarlanequilts.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Wendy</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> of </span><a href="http://sugarlanequilts.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Sugarlane Designs</span></a><span style="color: #444444;">. Here is the latest block - head over and</span><span style="color: #666666;"> <a href="http://sugarlanequilts.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">visit Wendy here</a></span><span style="color: #444444;"> to view her other blocks and join in the festive fun!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdm1H6T8cw0JuG46EZxSoIwWg9EW15_AO3HixkXUQOLDRdORWBKpG-esSC41wOZHgtW9CymZNLxULbBM_2e-FoEW4AhUm9FZgPXkaBD2SgVj-hh2YGJSWh-Ii-IIpVRz-w9nmBHkKv5nm/s1600/Wendy+stitchalong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdm1H6T8cw0JuG46EZxSoIwWg9EW15_AO3HixkXUQOLDRdORWBKpG-esSC41wOZHgtW9CymZNLxULbBM_2e-FoEW4AhUm9FZgPXkaBD2SgVj-hh2YGJSWh-Ii-IIpVRz-w9nmBHkKv5nm/s1600/Wendy+stitchalong.jpg" height="630" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ooh! (Squeal) It's beginning to get exciting now isn't it?!! I am a Christmas addict, it's true.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lots of love to you all!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Catch you round like a fruit loop!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vikki xo</span></div>
<br />Sew Useful Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18106751069792279390noreply@blogger.com6