tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30704967906480358092024-03-14T18:18:15.873+11:00lovely little sweetpeaswhere inspiration growsFranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.comBlogger193125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-79527013110818338812012-12-29T19:44:00.003+11:002012-12-29T19:44:48.208+11:00A mermaid quilt<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hello! Merry Christmas to you! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Only two days of 2012 to go. I have been a very, very slack blogger this year. Life has been busy to say the least.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">But I couldn't let the year end without posting this quilt I made for a friend of Aimee's.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8QJf0tNAPQc/UN5Mo5lj0uI/AAAAAAAACD4/GlByDPMHPYM/s1600/IMG_0716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8QJf0tNAPQc/UN5Mo5lj0uI/AAAAAAAACD4/GlByDPMHPYM/s640/IMG_0716.JPG" width="476" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I first posted about this quilt back in July. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aimee's friend Ava is mad on mermaids and her mum wanted to have a mermaid themed quilt made for her 8th birthday. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I showed her some pictures of the mendocino fabric and she fell in love with it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">After a couple of purchases via etsy I had enough mendocino to make 12 different centre blocks. The rest of the fabric came from Spotlight.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c3r7A2BTve8/UN6A1z9qo9I/AAAAAAAACEw/7JppWJQIi2s/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c3r7A2BTve8/UN6A1z9qo9I/AAAAAAAACEw/7JppWJQIi2s/s640/IMG_0745.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">My favourite of the Spotlight fabric has to be this blue with little circle/spots. It reminds me of little air bubbles in the water.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PQo4MU1clU/UN5MzgL16xI/AAAAAAAACEA/66ObdAPi2EA/s1600/IMG_0726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PQo4MU1clU/UN5MzgL16xI/AAAAAAAACEA/66ObdAPi2EA/s640/IMG_0726.JPG" width="478" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I pieced the back. I really like how it turned out. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-whbLTXa4Vdg/UN5M8PduFHI/AAAAAAAACEI/QrQIzCCJPmI/s1600/IMG_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-whbLTXa4Vdg/UN5M8PduFHI/AAAAAAAACEI/QrQIzCCJPmI/s640/IMG_0727.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I kept the quilting simple, just meandering lines across the quilt like waves - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">to keep with the water theme.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aZZ96h3T-5U/UN5NC5Kcy9I/AAAAAAAACEQ/bdnQKsOJ6Mk/s1600/IMG_0736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aZZ96h3T-5U/UN5NC5Kcy9I/AAAAAAAACEQ/bdnQKsOJ6Mk/s640/IMG_0736.JPG" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It measures 48.5" wide by 65.5" long. The binding is made up of strips of the various orange Spotlight fabrics pieces together. I usually make bias binding, with diagonal joins. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But for this quilt I cut 2 1/2 inch strips on the grain and sewed the pieces together with a straight edge. I did this for a couple of reasons, I had deliberately bought only 25cm of each fabric (I am fairly sick of having off-cuts of fabric stashed everywhere) so had limited fabric to make the binding with, also I like the look of the straight joins and hey its way easier to make!</span><br />
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I machine sewed the binding on, I really hate sewing it on by hand. I also think it's so much stronger and secure and can withstand machine washing which let's face it is how it's gonna be washed. </div>
</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScLVZ-UglVA/UN5NKpux7mI/AAAAAAAACEY/bZpAZqB1vwQ/s1600/IMG_0739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScLVZ-UglVA/UN5NKpux7mI/AAAAAAAACEY/bZpAZqB1vwQ/s640/IMG_0739.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> <span style="font-family: Verdana;">Although I wouldn't think to make an orange and aqua quilt for myself I really, really love this quilt and will have trouble handing it over to Ava tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Wishing you a safe, happy and prosperous 2013 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">xo</span></div>
Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-28410479882142389952012-11-28T11:14:00.000+11:002012-11-28T11:14:00.040+11:00Dark Black<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can't get this one out of my head................</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/L0MzFbbg6Y4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-39760748549827957872012-11-18T21:38:00.003+11:002012-11-18T21:39:07.999+11:00getting my mojo back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXkG5z9QjiY/UKi2MJHuC4I/AAAAAAAACDE/7d_m-8Feng4/s1600/IMG_0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXkG5z9QjiY/UKi2MJHuC4I/AAAAAAAACDE/7d_m-8Feng4/s640/IMG_0146.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although I have been sewing a few things here and there, I haven't tackled any major projects for what seems eons.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We've had quite a number of birthday parties of late so I have been making gifts to escape the headache of toy/gift shopping. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyone else find that mind-numbingly boring?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This headband was for one of Aimee's friends, tutorial</span><a href="http://www.thegirlinspired.com/2011/02/frayed-flower-and-headband-how-to.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> here</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zwg0XiSRQOs/UKi2v3e3C5I/AAAAAAAACDQ/J8cc9qzGM0g/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zwg0XiSRQOs/UKi2v3e3C5I/AAAAAAAACDQ/J8cc9qzGM0g/s640/IMG_0343.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Loveheart scatter cushion for another of Aimee's friends, inspired by this one </span><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878950951744/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">here</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ga2Wq4Kms8/UKi3KhHSSCI/AAAAAAAACDY/gUnEX4IMrbg/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ga2Wq4Kms8/UKi3KhHSSCI/AAAAAAAACDY/gUnEX4IMrbg/s640/IMG_0337.JPG" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and the BIG project, the beginnings of a mermaid quilt for <em>another </em>of Aimee's friends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've sewn every day this week and God it feels good!</span></div>
Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-64899758645358368912012-08-05T21:15:00.001+10:002012-08-05T21:15:45.285+10:00birthday wishes..........<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aimee is the sort of kid who loves a party. She loves to socialise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every event <em>needs</em> to be celebrated, every weekend has to be BIG in her opinion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She's always been this way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Before she started school, she would get up every morning and the first words out of her mouth would be,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"where are we going today mum?".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, even though her birthday isn't until the end of the month, the planning and dreaming and questioning has been in full swing for a good month now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Besides the list of presents she has written and re-written</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and read out many, many times, she has also wished so so hard for a horse ride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I stumbled across </span><a href="http://www.centennialparklands.com.au/activities/whats_on/kids/pony_rides"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">this offering</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> from Centennial Parklands about a month ago and made doubly sure to mark it on the calendar.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyw3WSK-d6g/UB5NT1G6nhI/AAAAAAAAB8M/R7ioP8gQUd4/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyw3WSK-d6g/UB5NT1G6nhI/AAAAAAAAB8M/R7ioP8gQUd4/s640/008.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dean and I kept it an absolute surprise until the very moment it was her (and Bethany's) turn for a ride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think it fair to say she was speechless. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At least until she was up on the pony, then she happily chatted away to the lovely girl leading her horse for the entire 10 minute ride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When the ride was over she declared it the best birthday present ever!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It really is the simple things isn't it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After that we found some great climbing trees,</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWJWwhAP8IQ/UB5NbQO4_dI/AAAAAAAAB8U/MCk9mzdXcrc/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yWJWwhAP8IQ/UB5NbQO4_dI/AAAAAAAAB8U/MCk9mzdXcrc/s640/011.JPG" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKsO55juCBw/UB5NxlaTHlI/AAAAAAAAB8w/KI1zUUCujYM/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKsO55juCBw/UB5NxlaTHlI/AAAAAAAAB8w/KI1zUUCujYM/s640/013.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and just enjoyed each other's company and Centennial Park on this beautiful, warm, sunny day.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyzJNCXRf9c/UB5NjJmoipI/AAAAAAAAB8c/ebZQgQK46hw/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eyzJNCXRf9c/UB5NjJmoipI/AAAAAAAAB8c/ebZQgQK46hw/s640/009.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0gfsDMJRg/UB5NqXMLSDI/AAAAAAAAB8o/v6p7qLtbakk/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0gfsDMJRg/UB5NqXMLSDI/AAAAAAAAB8o/v6p7qLtbakk/s640/010.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All up a very satisfactory day :)</span></div>
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</div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-76869825704179367532012-07-16T12:17:00.000+10:002012-07-16T12:17:56.076+10:00street art inspiration<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878950123693/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="367" src="http://assets3.pinimg.com/upload/27443878950123693_OCGjbQPX_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878950123743/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="369" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/27443878950123743_nSJbW0tX_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.streetartutopia.com/?p=8120" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">streetartutopia.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/franobrien/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Frances</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.streetartutopia.com/?p=198" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">streetartutopia.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/franobrien/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Frances</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878950123768/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/27443878950123768_Avumtot2_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.streetartutopia.com/?p=8534" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">streetartutopia.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/franobrien/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Frances</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I could spend all day looking; drinking in the inspiration.</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Seeing this feeds my soul, reminds me of the talent, creativity, humour, human struggle and variety </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'out there'.</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sometimes I need, I mean really <em><span style="font-size: large;">need</span></em> to be reminded that there is so much more outside my small, mundane, suburban existance</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://www.streetartutopia.com/">click through</a> and feed your soul</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-40460705359031386882012-07-13T09:42:00.000+10:002012-07-16T12:18:31.585+10:00sending out an S.O.S.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7608459@N02/4074420046/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Mendocino wonky improv quilt by oh-cherry-sew, on Flickr"><img alt="Mendocino wonky improv quilt" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2448/4074420046_a0f8590fa2.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">inspiration quilt by oh-cherry-sew</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7608459@N02/4074420046/in/photostream/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">image source</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I know you're out there, fabric horders and stashers, I need your help!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A dear friend of mine has a daughter obssessed with mermaids. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She is gearing up to moving into her own bedroom so my friend wants to decorate the room with a mermaid/underwater theme.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While discussing this with her one day I jumped on <a href="http://pinterest.com/lawbrarian/heather-ross-quilt-ideas/">pinterest</a> and showed her some of the beautiful quilts made with Heather Ross' <a href="http://www.freespiritfabric.com/core-pages/gallery.php?gal_id=152">Mendocino</a> fabric. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She fell. in. love.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gooftroop/4857106620/" title="Mendocino Quilts by emrandall, on Flickr"><img alt="Mendocino Quilts" height="333" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4139/4857106620_7908f4ce48.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">inspiration quilt by Erica Randall</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gooftroop/4857106620/in/photostream/">image source</a></span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So this is where I need your help.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As we all know this fabric is rare as hens teeth, but I have cooked up a plan to make a quilt for my little friends birthday later this year, using as much Mendocino fabric as I can get my hands on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am particularly interested in the aqua/orange colourway as in these gorgeous quilts I found on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=mendocino+quilts&f=hp#page=9">flickr</a>.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/theknicksofknacks/5723282537/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Orange and Blue Quilt by theknicksofknacks, on Flickr"><img alt="Orange and Blue Quilt" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3292/5723282537_4f68188dbe.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">inspiration quilt by theknicksofknacks</span><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/theknicksofknacks/5723282537/in/photostream/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">image source</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">If you, or anyone you know, has any fabric from the Mendocino collection you are willing to part with I NEED it!</span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Contact me</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana;"><a href="mailto:lovelylittlesweetpeas@y7mail.com">lovelylittlesweetpeas@y7mail.com</a></span></div>
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<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> and we can discuss prices.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I knew I could count on you ;) !!!</span></div>
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</div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-37341570392627379782012-06-26T18:41:00.000+10:002012-06-26T18:42:08.950+10:00Simply Sweet Tunic Top & Blouse pattern testing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKqXEsNy0bU/T-lrNW6kpZI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/vR4FE0TZnKA/s1600/018+(800x600).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKqXEsNy0bU/T-lrNW6kpZI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/vR4FE0TZnKA/s640/018+(800x600).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hello there, everyone!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well I am so happy to say I am on the other side of my hip operation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It went very well and I am happily resting and recovering, getting stronger every day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago, I was contacted by the very talented <a href="http://winkdesigns.typepad.com/">Marina</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marina wanted to know if I would test her new pattern, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/102904094/simply-sweet-tunic-top-blouse-pdf-sewing">Simply Sweet Tunic Top & Blouse</a>,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">which she was fine tuning to be released under her pattern label <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/winkhandmade?ref=seller_info">Wink Designs</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I didn't need to be asked twice! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I decided to make this my last sewing project before my hip operation.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDyW0mUj0tU/T-lrWnkMlJI/AAAAAAAAB74/HlvdV9E0z50/s1600/022+(589x800).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDyW0mUj0tU/T-lrWnkMlJI/AAAAAAAAB74/HlvdV9E0z50/s640/022+(589x800).jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whats great is that this pattern goes all the way from size 1, up to size 8. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It can be hard to find patterns from smaller pattern houses in sizes larger than 6 so I made the long sleeve blouse for Aimee in the size 8. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFFb5lqoZ3w/T-lrSQdMJcI/AAAAAAAAB7o/JL7FgbUV9yA/s1600/013+(600x800).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFFb5lqoZ3w/T-lrSQdMJcI/AAAAAAAAB7o/JL7FgbUV9yA/s640/013+(600x800).jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remember the fabrics from</span><a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/fabric-choices-and-little-sewing.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> this post</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, well this is the project they were bought for.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPI5fuazEYg/T-lrQ4kgYOI/AAAAAAAAB7g/78w1yySu_mE/s1600/008+(800x600).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPI5fuazEYg/T-lrQ4kgYOI/AAAAAAAAB7g/78w1yySu_mE/s640/008+(800x600).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I really love this blouse and the pattern is very well written and easy to follow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Of all patterns I've ever used, including both large commercially produced ones and smaller independant ones, this would have to be one of my favourites. I followed the intructions pretty much word for word and didn't get stuck or confused anywhere. And the garment came out looking and fitting just how it should - YEAH!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWHLE0AiRYE/T-lrU81cLnI/AAAAAAAAB7w/Nv4rVTVRHWo/s1600/019+(800x600).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWHLE0AiRYE/T-lrU81cLnI/AAAAAAAAB7w/Nv4rVTVRHWo/s640/019+(800x600).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I have another in size 6 for Betty cut out and just waiting to be sewn up when I'm well enough. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Betty has requested no ties, so I'm going to replace them with a button and loop.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1OLCq7u9Zo/T-lrPPVBCxI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/ynmrtWCJ14g/s1600/003+(600x800).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1OLCq7u9Zo/T-lrPPVBCxI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/ynmrtWCJ14g/s640/003+(600x800).jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aimee loves the blouse too and it goes perfectly with her new pink skinny jeans :))))))))</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">And I'm just waiting for Summer so I can make a few of the sleeveless version too!</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-48486583814338322812012-06-14T12:03:00.000+10:002012-06-14T12:03:00.133+10:00On-the-Go Art Satchels featured in an Etsy Treasury List!!!!<h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTI0NTE2ODB8MjcyMDM2NDU2Nw" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;">'Let's Hear It For The Boys' </a>by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mountainmomma1108" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;">mountainmomma1108 </a></h2>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74959629" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.247534935.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74959629" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Boy's Tooth Fairy Pillow </span></a><br />
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$5.00 </div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Twirlicious" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">Twirlicious </a></div>
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$18.00 </div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/worthygoods" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">worthygoods </a></div>
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$36.00 </div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BabyDear" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">BabyDear </a></div>
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$8.50 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96444066" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.232021051.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96444066" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Recycled Crayons Airplane Sh... </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RedElmDesigns" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">RedElmDesigns </a></div>
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$8.50 </div>
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$35.00 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86170490" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.269867374.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86170490" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Immediate Shipping Pirate ... </span></a><br />
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$145.00 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96657905" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.325378187.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96657905" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Pirate Alphabet Nursery Art ... </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/geekabyebaby" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">geekabyebaby </a></div>
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$10.00 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76269561" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.320401937.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76269561" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Kids Felt Ship Wreaked Pirat... </span></a><br />
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$32.00 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64531512" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.202735153.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64531512" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Hand made wooden train set w... </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Sam47adriana" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">Sam47adriana </a></div>
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$39.00 </div>
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<td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101416790" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.335377412.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/101416790" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Wooden Whistle - Rustic Shag... </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheHickoryTree" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">TheHickoryTree </a></div>
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$10.95 </div>
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<a href="http://redrowstudio.com/tools/treasury.php">Treasury tool </a>supported by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thedoghouse">the dog house</a> </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How cool is that!</span></div>
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<br /></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-2890695522261161082012-06-13T11:59:00.003+10:002012-06-13T11:59:56.573+10:00Fabric choices and a little sewing project<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm excited at the moment about doing one last little bit of sewing before my surgery next week. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8ZiINSxxe0/T9fvY1YpsCI/AAAAAAAAB5g/M5QPDbCNM0k/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8ZiINSxxe0/T9fvY1YpsCI/AAAAAAAAB5g/M5QPDbCNM0k/s640/001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I went to my local fabric store yesterday to get some fabric. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was browsing through the quilting fabric (typically I steer clear of quilting fabrics for garment making but sometimes you just can't beat the beautiful prints and patterns) when I spied some of my all time favourite quilting fabric.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mv_qTfXFPLE/T9fxA1VLCpI/AAAAAAAAB64/QPq2Nng0D4s/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mv_qTfXFPLE/T9fxA1VLCpI/AAAAAAAAB64/QPq2Nng0D4s/s640/003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sandi Henderson's Meadowsweet, Splashy Rose. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've oohed and ahhhed over this fabric ever since it came out afew years ago, and I used small bits of it that I received as a sample in <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2011/02/pretty-things.html">this cushion cover</a>, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">but never jumped in and purchase any because I couldn't justify buying any more fabric when I have so much laying around not being used already.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But at $10 a metre I just COULD NOT overlook it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know what I'm going to do with it, but I'm soooo glad I brought it home with me :)!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also bought three other fabrics, hoping my girls would find one each amongst them to choose for this little project. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Both Aimee and Bethany have become quite hard to sew for these days. They have their very own definate opinions when it comes to style and fabric choices, so I was a little worried buying the fabric without them with me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As it turns out I needn't have worried, Bethany immediately chose this lovely red fabric</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzAHDDfx4uE/T9fw5pmfOwI/AAAAAAAAB6w/uUCNfxTeWlo/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzAHDDfx4uE/T9fw5pmfOwI/AAAAAAAAB6w/uUCNfxTeWlo/s640/008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and Aimee just as quickly chose this sweet fabric - a beautiful combination of black background with teeny, tiny flowers all over it.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9CKija8ATM/T9fwtTKVQOI/AAAAAAAAB6o/rgkvrXxtRos/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x9CKija8ATM/T9fwtTKVQOI/AAAAAAAAB6o/rgkvrXxtRos/s640/006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I was also very relieved that they didn't both want the same fabric!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I also bought this lovely blue and white floral fabric, which I think has a very old world charm to it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QRQwNCYy_N4/T9fwYThFOWI/AAAAAAAAB6g/ippjNhvJQTE/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QRQwNCYy_N4/T9fwYThFOWI/AAAAAAAAB6g/ippjNhvJQTE/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I really thought Bethany would go for this one, and initially she did. She did eeny, meeny, miney, moe between this and the red one, but when she landed on this one she said, "it's just too blue and white mum". That made me laugh. She obviously really prefered the red fabric.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I am still amazed at just how much joy and satisfaction I can get out of gazing at fabric................</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hope you're having a great day whatever you're up to</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">xo</span></div>
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<br /></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-21055166014610738592012-06-11T21:45:00.000+10:002012-06-12T07:31:22.781+10:00an extra long weekend<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today brings to an end a lovely little four day break I've had with my girls, thanks to a pupil free day and the Queen's Birthday holiday on either side of the weekend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We spent our time enjoying the sunshine and the great outdoors,</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ufbVCsCUK8/T9XL4S-nkVI/AAAAAAAAB30/nr90Tr5jGHI/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ufbVCsCUK8/T9XL4S-nkVI/AAAAAAAAB30/nr90Tr5jGHI/s640/047.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Middle Head, Sydney Harbour National Park</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fRXXZ3B9YQA/T9XMBb2gZcI/AAAAAAAAB38/xO6uaa9uK7A/s1600/052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fRXXZ3B9YQA/T9XMBb2gZcI/AAAAAAAAB38/xO6uaa9uK7A/s640/052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U8cZfugKMyU/T9XMTPeC8fI/AAAAAAAAB4I/l8_0u0a_sWU/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U8cZfugKMyU/T9XMTPeC8fI/AAAAAAAAB4I/l8_0u0a_sWU/s640/083.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aimee and Bethany with their Great Grandmother, BuzNanna Mary</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">visiting family,</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtX9PgN2lzY/T9XTadx73YI/AAAAAAAAB4U/WC8WmiMCZwE/s1600/061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtX9PgN2lzY/T9XTadx73YI/AAAAAAAAB4U/WC8WmiMCZwE/s640/061.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">and keeping cosy by the fire while it poured with rain outside.</span> </div>
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Sewing has become a near impossibility for me over the last few months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have lived with chronic pain all of my adult life due to hyper-mobility in my joints. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tracing and cutting patterns and fabric, and even sitting at the sewing machine cause me a lot of pain but I loved it too much to give it away. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well this year it has finally got the better of me, to the point where I can no longer even walk the girls to school. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So in a little over a week I will be having hip surgery.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As a result, there has only been minimal sewing going on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I want to be a bit crafty or creative I've had to resort to baking or handcrafts for the most part.
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHPb8O3o3YQ/T9XWJXJGRoI/AAAAAAAAB4g/gNWvG8yfLsg/s1600/073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHPb8O3o3YQ/T9XWJXJGRoI/AAAAAAAAB4g/gNWvG8yfLsg/s640/073.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So today we made this to die for <a href="http://www.alexandracooks.com/2011/06/29/buttermilk-blueberry-breakfast-cake/">Buttermilk Blueberry Cake</a>, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">except ours is a Buttermilk Mixed Berry/Sultana Cake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was no way I was going anywhere in this weather (it has been bucketing down here in Sydney for more then 24 hours) and I only had a cup of frozen berries in the freezer so I made up the difference with the last of my sultanas. I also used the cheats Buttermilk - a tablespoon of lemon juice in a 1 cup measuring jug, then fill up to one cup with full cream milk. Let sit for five minutes and away you go!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n7VIl0dp1p0/T9XWQ_dvgDI/AAAAAAAAB4o/hX9SK79kHb4/s1600/077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n7VIl0dp1p0/T9XWQ_dvgDI/AAAAAAAAB4o/hX9SK79kHb4/s640/077.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All I can say is YUM!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I found this recipe via <a href="http://pinterest.com/franobrien/baking/">Pinterest</a> a couple of days ago, and couldn't stop thinking about it. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma3gkkcHSRU/T9XWXM4g03I/AAAAAAAAB4w/_6T3U1HebtM/s1600/078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ma3gkkcHSRU/T9XWXM4g03I/AAAAAAAAB4w/_6T3U1HebtM/s640/078.JPG" width="460" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Will <em>definitely</em> be making this again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also did something I've been meaning and wanting to do for quite some time. Some sewing with my girls. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They have been begging me for way too long to help them make some felt toys. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today was the day. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vHLbm7DoFo/T9XX3XBBigI/AAAAAAAAB48/S4c4LT15zfY/s1600/062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vHLbm7DoFo/T9XX3XBBigI/AAAAAAAAB48/S4c4LT15zfY/s640/062.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bethany wanted a robot, </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIjag9qness/T9XYGCIkgNI/AAAAAAAAB5M/NtIHkUFiCG4/s1600/065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIjag9qness/T9XYGCIkgNI/AAAAAAAAB5M/NtIHkUFiCG4/s640/065.JPG" width="464" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">while Aimee wanted a doll from the book "<a href="http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Sewing-for-Children-Emma-Hardy/9781907030239">Sewing for Children</a>", </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">which is a favourite in this house. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnKYmBxgHjo/T9XX-CxdWHI/AAAAAAAAB5E/UJm0UyYDzoU/s1600/064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnKYmBxgHjo/T9XX-CxdWHI/AAAAAAAAB5E/UJm0UyYDzoU/s640/064.JPG" width="450" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They both absolutely thrilled and amazed me with their ability and enthusiasm!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">We still have a little way to go to finish them off, but both girls are very keen to finish them off so I will be posting about them here very soon!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hope you've enjoyed your weekend, whatever the weather, wherever you are :)</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-32336972990035685612012-05-16T12:53:00.001+10:002012-06-12T07:34:01.725+10:00a little bit of bright<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I went off the radar for a bit there didn't I. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ymo4EcuKMdA/T7MUpWdF0GI/AAAAAAAAB3M/I1-Iu-JrzQI/s1600/071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ymo4EcuKMdA/T7MUpWdF0GI/AAAAAAAAB3M/I1-Iu-JrzQI/s640/071.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I love blogging, both reading others and writing my own, but as with everything and everyone, I need to prioritise my time and blogging gets the last look in. That doesn't mean I've been idle though, not by a long shot!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday I gifted this crochet table runner to a lovely friend of mine, who took up crocheting about two years ago after seeing some of my work and she has never looked back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She used to call me her crocheting guru - well she has totally surpassed my ability and output and is now<em> my</em> guru!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I started the flower granny squares back in <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2009/09/bfg.html">September 2009</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I originally intended to make a whole blanket out of little granny squares, with the flower squares interspersed among them. After producing about 100 little granny squares I lost interest and was defeated by the enormity of it all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I used some of the flower squares last year in a <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2011/02/pretty-things.html">pillow cover</a> I made.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Then last winter I made myself a <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2011/08/breaking-hibernation.html">crochet table runner</a> based on a hexagonal flower block. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">My crocheting guru admired it when she was visiting not long after.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">When she moved recently I knew exactly what to give her as a housewarming gift.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I dug deep into the vast depths of my UFO stash and found the remaining flower squares, and then just went from there.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dNceArPnAY/T7MUeyVAhjI/AAAAAAAAB3E/F37xUDzBosY/s1600/068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dNceArPnAY/T7MUeyVAhjI/AAAAAAAAB3E/F37xUDzBosY/s640/068.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Based on the number of flower squares I had, I decided on the lay out. Once I had joined them all together I knew I needed to finish it off with a border. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I flicked through all my crochet books and browsed the Internet but couldn't find what I was looking for. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I had a vision of a border with triangular points all around as opposed to a rounded, fan or shell shape border.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Then, during the Easter school holidays, we drove up to Brisbane. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">We always stop at Bulahdelah for a cuppa at a quirky little cafe that also sells preloved goods and clothes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Amongst all the goodies I found gold.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0w0DQJqDwAM/T7N_QDbbYTI/AAAAAAAAB3g/nEuQ1zVh7cE/s1600/091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0w0DQJqDwAM/T7N_QDbbYTI/AAAAAAAAB3g/nEuQ1zVh7cE/s640/091.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I actually didn't buy the book when I first saw it for some reason, but I couldn't stop thinking about it the whole time we were in Brisbane.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E1FzZCT5QpA/T7N_YYnQK2I/AAAAAAAAB3o/Y1pooIGFcPE/s1600/092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E1FzZCT5QpA/T7N_YYnQK2I/AAAAAAAAB3o/Y1pooIGFcPE/s640/092.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">So on the way back home we stopped in Bulahdelah again and this time I did not hesitate to buy this sweet book for the princely sum of $6!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oD95DcwmALM/T7MUwQ6NQVI/AAAAAAAAB3U/iPtdYdJsb6U/s1600/088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oD95DcwmALM/T7MUwQ6NQVI/AAAAAAAAB3U/iPtdYdJsb6U/s640/088.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I love how the table runner has turned out and couldn't resist trying it out on my hall sideboard to snap a few photo's.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">It may have taken afew years, but I've now used all the flower granny squares I originally crocheted. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As for the plain granny squares, well thats a whole other story. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Now that the cold weather is truly upon us I will drag it all out again to continue on with this epic and take afew photos of how this project has changed and evolved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Until next time.......</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">xo</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-89054906282268263612012-04-27T22:30:00.000+10:002012-04-27T22:30:22.761+10:00kcwc update, a couple of cowl neck dresses and a bonnet<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been doing really well on the sewing front this week, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">not so well on the blogging front. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There just don't seem to be enough hours in the day.............</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I spent Day 1 (Monday) printing, cutting and taping patterns.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Day 2 and 3 , I made</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> two <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83287491/new-cowl-neck-jumper-dress-pattern-and">Heidi and Finn Cowl Neck Jumper Dresses</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">A dear friend has two little girls who both celebrated their birthdays this month and as soon as I saw this dress I knew I wanted to make one for each of them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I bought the stretch fabric from my local fabric shop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I really loved the <a href="http://tonicoward.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/dress-for-winter.html">stripey</a> <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2012/02/their-dresses.html">versions</a> I had seen around blogland so that was what really guided my fabric purchases.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I think this is the first time I've made an actual garment from stretch fabric so my knowledge is next to zero about such things but I'm happy to report the dresses turned out fabulously.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made them almost entirely on my overlocker, only using my sewing machine to hem the sleeves and the bottom of the skirt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made a size 2 and a size 4. I really enjoyed making these super quick and easy dresses and will certainly be making more.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--tQ7P5A78BQ/T5qN0alkPnI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/A3d9H8dh2l4/s1600/039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--tQ7P5A78BQ/T5qN0alkPnI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/A3d9H8dh2l4/s640/039.JPG" width="472" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made a little headband to go with the size 2 using some scraps and my hot glue gun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I got Bethany to model the size 4, even though she has just turned 6 she fit into it. It's a little small and I would definately make her a size 5, but at least you get to see what it looks like on! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">She was not happy to model it though :(</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Day 4 (Thursday) I made a bonnet for Aimee using a pattern by <a href="http://www.kingpod.com/">Amy Karol</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I have used this pattern <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2011/04/weekend-about-town.html">once before</a>, funnily enough for one of the little girls who I made the Cowl Neck Jumper Dresses for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Aimee is studying "the olden days" at school this term, and she will be going on an excursion in a few weeks time to a heritage listed house and the children are encouraged to dress in period costume.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">This is once again a very quick and easy pattern to make. I really enjoy making these bonnets, although I do think they are most suited to babies. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Other then the excursion, I cannot see my kids wearing it out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Today, like Jo from <a href="http://bubalablog.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/kcwc-day-4.html">Bubala</a>, I am giving myself the day off from sewing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I spent today trapsing around <a href="http://calmsleyhill.com.au/">Calmsley City Farm</a> with 30 odd Kindergarteners (including my own) for a school excursion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Suffice to say I am pooped!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm still hoping to get a few more things made, or at least started, before the week is up. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fingers crossed! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How about you, how's your sewing for kcwc going?</span></div>
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<br /></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-45237592444196474652012-04-23T22:41:00.000+10:002012-04-24T21:16:25.159+10:00kids clothes week challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.elsiemarley.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/bigginhamkcwc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://www.elsiemarley.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/bigginhamkcwc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, on a whim, I just signed up for </span><a href="http://www.elsiemarley.com/kids-clothes-week-spring-2012.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">KCWC</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been reading about it for the past couple of years all over bogland and seeing though I've got a few kids sewing projects lined up for this week I thought 'why not'.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So tonight I'm watching Dexter and cutting out a size 2 of
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83287491/new-cowl-neck-jumper-dress-pattern-and"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Heidi & Finn's Cowl Neck Jumper Dress</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a child's size </span><a href="http://www.kingpod.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">bonnet by Amy Karol</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What about you, have you signed up?</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-5454077999132123302012-04-22T22:01:00.002+10:002012-04-22T22:02:39.255+10:00Alex<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today is the last day of the school holidays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There has been much going on around here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some great sewing, some not so great sewing, outings, chilling out, a week away, with some crocheting thrown in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All of which I will get around to sharing with you, my dear readers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All of which I'm sure would be of more interest to you, but today there is only one thing consuming my little families thoughts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The loss of our dear, dear budgie Alex. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He escaped while we were away, I won't go into the how and why.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was the sweetest, most clever bird. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He mimicked our whistles and chirped away when we talked to him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was such a social bird and would jump over and cling to the side of the cage whenever we walked passed, just to interact. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We let him out of his cage inside the house regularly so he could stretch his wings and get some excercise, but he would more often then not just sit on our shoulder. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He "talked" loudly and happily in our ear and just loved us. And we loved him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We bought Alex back in </span><a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2009/10/welcoming-alexander-to-flock-pun.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">October 09</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajukkSFCcBk/T5PrdBFGYYI/AAAAAAAAB1U/yXH-UHu49nk/s1600/oct+2009+058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajukkSFCcBk/T5PrdBFGYYI/AAAAAAAAB1U/yXH-UHu49nk/s640/oct+2009+058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was Aimee's special bird. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The loss has affected her deeply. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And Bethany too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I didn't know children their age could have such emotional depth and feel loss so swiftly and acutely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Time will heal us. It seems so silly to be so upset over such a small creature, but there you have it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aimee was so hurt; so wanting to fill the gap left by Alex that she blurted out she wanted another bird so Pelly (Bethany's bird) wouldn't be lonely. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So we have brought a new budgie into our family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> think Aimee couldn't bear the thought of replacing Alex, so she has named this bird Alex2.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good-bye dear Alex</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-1362864350065905232012-04-12T23:06:00.000+10:002012-04-12T23:06:10.600+10:00Six<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu-Y6mXTiM0/T4bQ0myoSkI/AAAAAAAAB0E/omU3PEtBsgA/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu-Y6mXTiM0/T4bQ0myoSkI/AAAAAAAAB0E/omU3PEtBsgA/s640/024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwaipQ9l1KM/T4bQ8Z8HA8I/AAAAAAAAB0M/AgQXalJELMI/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YwaipQ9l1KM/T4bQ8Z8HA8I/AAAAAAAAB0M/AgQXalJELMI/s640/028.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHlu0wczLiE/T4bRDlPAewI/AAAAAAAAB0U/463xrGhaY5w/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHlu0wczLiE/T4bRDlPAewI/AAAAAAAAB0U/463xrGhaY5w/s640/018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qHQNbWGTEo0/T4bRLQuJ9CI/AAAAAAAAB0c/siB5MfVHn5k/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qHQNbWGTEo0/T4bRLQuJ9CI/AAAAAAAAB0c/siB5MfVHn5k/s640/029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">We spent the day together thanks to the school holidays. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Went to a classmates Birthday party. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Made your favourite meal (homemade pizza) for dinner </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">and had family over for a <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2009/09/one-for-wips.html">"Bethany friendly" Birthday cake</a>!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Birthday party still to come, we are having a joint birthday </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">'tea party' with your bestie in a couple of weeks!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Birthday Betty darling</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">xoxo</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-56114705161531117202012-04-08T20:27:00.000+10:002012-04-08T20:27:20.091+10:00Happy Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-XsprPCqCI/T4FlhxIUArI/AAAAAAAABz0/H9z7RvdKckM/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V-XsprPCqCI/T4FlhxIUArI/AAAAAAAABz0/H9z7RvdKckM/s640/021.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aTFh5xd-c_o/T4Fk8nxwq1I/AAAAAAAABzk/_VWx71ofiMc/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aTFh5xd-c_o/T4Fk8nxwq1I/AAAAAAAABzk/_VWx71ofiMc/s640/019.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our day started early with an Easter Egg hunt.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We have accumulated so much chocolate over the last week I think we could open a shop.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I could show you how much we have, but I'm too embarrassed!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBDeRHDPWLg/T4FkhxQCO6I/AAAAAAAABzc/8eDFsobWvKA/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBDeRHDPWLg/T4FkhxQCO6I/AAAAAAAABzc/8eDFsobWvKA/s640/041.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We got all dolled up to go out to a restaurant with extended family to celebrate Easter, also my mother-in-laws birthday,</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqifjHh_yM/T4FlkOfJGWI/AAAAAAAABz8/e3uhnNbucMI/s1600/044+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fpqifjHh_yM/T4FlkOfJGWI/AAAAAAAABz8/e3uhnNbucMI/s640/044+(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and our 12th Wedding Anniversary.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">It was a wonderful day!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hope yours was too</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">xo</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-14353398796277989542012-04-03T13:45:00.000+10:002012-04-03T13:45:06.836+10:00new vintage style and purple heels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look at my new shoes!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aren't they just perfect.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wyikgegP4FQ/T3ppfs2orSI/AAAAAAAABzU/-wzp6xX4luQ/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wyikgegP4FQ/T3ppfs2orSI/AAAAAAAABzU/-wzp6xX4luQ/s640/053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a close up of the adorable bow and suede-y goodness.....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqlbt4FYamM/T3poojR9MxI/AAAAAAAABy0/rPaLf0zAblk/s1600/054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqlbt4FYamM/T3poojR9MxI/AAAAAAAABy0/rPaLf0zAblk/s640/054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My toes are hurting just looking at the photo, but oh how I love them!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pIaS2xVHMo/T3pohZZ7jvI/AAAAAAAABys/95dy4sPBo38/s1600/050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pIaS2xVHMo/T3pohZZ7jvI/AAAAAAAABys/95dy4sPBo38/s640/050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I went shoe shopping yesterday. Not something I do often. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But I was looking for something to go with a little frock I've been working on for the last week. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A vintage pattern, Simplicity 5017 to be exact. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Some of you may remember this pattern from </span><a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2010/11/decisions-decisions-whats-girl-to-do.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">awhile back</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, when I was trying to decide what to make to wear to my SIL wedding.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Well I've finally gotten around to making what you all favoured at the time.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">What pushed me along was the <a href="http://www.juliabobbin.com/2012/04/mad-men-dress-challenge-big-reveal.html">Julia Bobbin: Mad Men Dress Challenge</a>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I discovered Julia's delightful blog only a little over a week ago. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I was so inspired by this challenge I set to making my Betty Draper inspired frock right away. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I knew I was pushing it to have it ready by the deadline of 30th March, but just had to give it a go anyway! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Alas, life and previous commitments got in the way and I missed the deadline, but I entered <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2010/12/vogue-5782.html">this dress</a> as my Joanie inspired dress anyway. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">So many lovely ladies entered wonderful garments, do click over and have a look.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlfxIif1jAI/T3powmKI9OI/AAAAAAAABy8/60d20A5dJ88/s1600/056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlfxIif1jAI/T3powmKI9OI/AAAAAAAABy8/60d20A5dJ88/s640/056.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'm so close to finishing my dress, I hand-picked the zipper last night, yep that's right - I sewed in the zipper BY HAND!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">All I have to do now is the hem and I'm done with this baby. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'm wearing it out to Easter lunch on Sunday so it has to be finished by then.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Anyway back to the shoes. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I went out with the hopes of buying some pink or green shoes to go with my frock (just picture a full skirted dress in the above fabric with some lovely hot pink heels.......) but found the colours this season are red, electric blue and purple! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Well there are flowers in a lovely shade of mauve in the fabric and when I saw those lovely purple heels with the sweet bow I just knew they were the ones! And even better they were on sale. It was meant to be I think.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I also did a little bit of naughty, unecessary but oh so fun shopping for a dinner I'm going to tonight. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I just couldn't wait to wear my new shoes so bought a cute little blouse and a pencil skirt to go with them.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'll leave you with afew pictures of my new 'vintage inspired' outfit!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqTFEuUwgWw/T3pn9jtNPyI/AAAAAAAAByE/V4-2-kQyjUQ/s1600/037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqTFEuUwgWw/T3pn9jtNPyI/AAAAAAAAByE/V4-2-kQyjUQ/s640/037.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sl2og3I82bw/T3poFXxrqBI/AAAAAAAAByM/1Bs40DA50Cw/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sl2og3I82bw/T3poFXxrqBI/AAAAAAAAByM/1Bs40DA50Cw/s640/040.JPG" width="474" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--7AefTTwaek/T3poZ6Nvo6I/AAAAAAAAByk/mmNqLrrBefo/s1600/048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--7AefTTwaek/T3poZ6Nvo6I/AAAAAAAAByk/mmNqLrrBefo/s640/048.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In case you're wondering why the colours look different in each photo, it's because of course the sun went behind a cloud when I was ready to take the photo's so they came out a little dark. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I spent a little time playing around with my photo editing program to improve the pictures. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What fun. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I love how they turned out :)))</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-6582666642176116282012-03-22T20:36:00.001+11:002012-03-22T20:36:00.537+11:00a bow neck blouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nm2CAZZJO7k/T2moFUJwblI/AAAAAAAABx8/kmaJ3CAeUMk/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nm2CAZZJO7k/T2moFUJwblI/AAAAAAAABx8/kmaJ3CAeUMk/s640/019.JPG" width="568" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I set to work the other day in an attempt to recreate a blouse based on <a href="http://colacolaisland.blogspot.com.au/2011/09/plaid-tastic.html">this</a> tutorial.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I've only got one photo due to a lack of enthusiasm on the photographers behalf!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I wanted to keep the construction quick and simple so instead of making a buttoned opening I made a v-neck shirt which I pop on over my head. I added a false placket with buttons (which are mostly hidden by the lovely bow) because I really liked that detail. I finished the armholes with bias binding. I had to fiddle a little to get the bow/collar to sit right, but it turned out ok in the end.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I used this lovely blue and white stripe fabric I've had in my stash for a couple of years. I have no idea what it is but it is light and has a beautiful drape and I don't think it would crease even if I screwed it up and slept on it!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I definitely wouldn't say it's the most professional garment I've ever sewn, but it was kinda fun figuring things out as I went along (the tute is a little light on detail) and I now have a very wearable, cute blouse for these unseasonably warm, muggy days we are having in Sydney.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Next up is a dress for Easter, which this year happily coincides with my wedding anniversary and a family lunch for my Mother in Law's birthday.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">What's next on your sewing 'to do' list?</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-17218574062822660712012-03-21T20:36:00.000+11:002012-03-21T20:36:19.333+11:00Harmony Day<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday when the girls got home from school, I found a note in Aimee's bag advising that today is <a href="http://www.harmony.gov.au/">Harmony Day</a>, and requesting that they wear an orange item to school.</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UacvetAgCiQ/T2mcvKlHZoI/AAAAAAAABxk/SW2kxPJiH5s/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UacvetAgCiQ/T2mcvKlHZoI/AAAAAAAABxk/SW2kxPJiH5s/s640/018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Orange isn't a colour that features much in this house, but luckily I had some orange felt and a couple of spare headbands laying around.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'd <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878949329446/">pinned</a> <a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2011/11/rolled-felt-flowers.html">these</a> <a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2011/12/mini-scalloped-felt-flowers.html">tutorials</a> from Craftiness is not Optional a while ago. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DjvuTOS7dko/T2mc3p9ZI2I/AAAAAAAABxs/Kd8HTBg1VDQ/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DjvuTOS7dko/T2mc3p9ZI2I/AAAAAAAABxs/Kd8HTBg1VDQ/s640/015.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">They were super easy to make and in no time at all I had two cute little headbands for the girls to wear. </span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLS0sMtwYUw/T2mc_VcvDCI/AAAAAAAABx0/Ttvk8WosDfA/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLS0sMtwYUw/T2mc_VcvDCI/AAAAAAAABx0/Ttvk8WosDfA/s640/016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">They really love them :)</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Winner!</span> </div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-72988056720362857242012-03-20T11:16:00.000+11:002012-03-20T11:16:45.803+11:00sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy<h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span> </h2><div style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I love etsy, and often spend a wee while browsing over my morning cuppa. </span></div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I've become slightly addicted to putting together treasuries with whatever takes my fancy.</span></div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px; text-align: center;">Hope you enjoy!</div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTY1MDc3Nzh8MjUwMDA3NzgwNA" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;">'sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy' </a>by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lovelylittlesweetpea" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: none;">lovelylittlesweetpea </a></h2><h2 style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 10px;">a collection of yellow</h2><table style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 8px; line-height: 19px; width: auto;"><tbody>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94906558" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.319172726.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94906558" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Jersey Infinity Scarf Mustar... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCotton" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">ForgottenCotto... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$20.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85561050" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.321434399.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85561050" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Obi Sash Bow in a Pastel Yel... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ccdoodle" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">ccdoodle </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$28.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81787145" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.270954459.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81787145" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Honey Mustard Earrings - tin... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/petitor" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">petitor </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$18.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80772418" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.267391053.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80772418" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Spring Blossoms Photograph,... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JudyStalus" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">JudyStalus </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$25.00 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88580200" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.295578521.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88580200" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Gorgeous Vintage inspired Ye... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/keeboutique" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">keeboutique </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$40.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95669869" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.321742701.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95669869" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Dahlia post earrings - Sunsh... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PrettyViolets" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">PrettyViolets </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$5.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80734252" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.238952280.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80734252" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Britta (Yellow) Pillow Cover </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kristin813" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">kristin813 </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$17.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84077180" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.278976609.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84077180" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Seaside Raincoat - Available... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LizzBasingerDesigns" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">LizzBasingerDe... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$375.00 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87598100" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.299183972.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87598100" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Spring Birds and Branches Wa... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AldariArt" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">AldariArt </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$45.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91770331" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.311270271.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/91770331" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Yellow Flower Headband - New... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AddysAtticOnEtsy" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">AddysAtticOnEt... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$7.50 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75905537" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.250745907.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75905537" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Sunflower Yellow Soft Leathe... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/elehandmade" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">elehandmade </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$98.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75459915" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.249208300.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75459915" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Good Morning Sunshine : Prin... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/theloveshop" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">theloveshop </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$20.00 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95361628" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.320711290.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95361628" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Vintage Enamel Flower Neckla... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/silverliningdecor" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">silverliningde... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$89.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94272931" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.316791594.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94272931" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Hanging decorative folded pa... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/tyART" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">tyART </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$20.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81116572" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.268612737.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81116572" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Personalized pillow case - M... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ClassicByNature" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">ClassicByNatur... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$32.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90211248" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.301863568.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90211248" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Knitted Hat and Fingerless G... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SmilingKnitting" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">SmilingKnittin... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$42.00 </div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #b2b2b2; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://redrowstudio.com/tools/treasury.php">Treasury tool </a>by <a href="http://redrowstudio.com/">Red Row Studio</a>. </div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-10893366320256112282012-03-14T21:36:00.000+11:002012-03-14T21:36:02.884+11:00my new constant companion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DX5QLqvGgkY/T2BzDretI4I/AAAAAAAABxI/kfzL6zFbSY0/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DX5QLqvGgkY/T2BzDretI4I/AAAAAAAABxI/kfzL6zFbSY0/s640/002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I posted yesterday about how Bethany has settled into being at school. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well the way <em>I</em> have adjusted is by acquiring a new constant companion.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enter 702 ABC Local radio. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I tune in most days and am happily entertained and distracted as I go about my daily business. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ByJP7NfbZMQ/T2BzEVjiiUI/AAAAAAAABxQ/ncgznih8jgQ/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ByJP7NfbZMQ/T2BzEVjiiUI/AAAAAAAABxQ/ncgznih8jgQ/s640/005.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today one of the topics of discussion was something called a 22 degree halo, which occurred in our skies today. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A phenomenon where a rainbow like ring forms around the sun creating an eery sphere. </span> </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uMip690ZYE/T2BzFGqG4kI/AAAAAAAABxY/KeNiv9gVNLI/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uMip690ZYE/T2BzFGqG4kI/AAAAAAAABxY/KeNiv9gVNLI/s640/013.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway I couldn't help but duck outside and snap a couple of photo's.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Thanks <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/profiles/content/s1921075.htm?site=sydney">James</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-37285885631292946392012-03-13T14:33:00.000+11:002012-03-13T14:33:11.981+11:00little miss B - an update<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Afew of you have asked how Beth has settled in to school. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well I am happy (and a little surprised I have to admit) to say she has settled in beautifully and now gives school two big thumbs up!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the first day, when she had to be dragged into the classroom crying, I <strike>gave her a little pep talk</strike> bribed her (with the purchase of Angry Birds on the ipad no less) to go to school without crying. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What do you know, the kid loooooves Angry Birds.............</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last week she was Star Student of the week in her class. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I32Iv4g19JE/T169LsFR1OI/AAAAAAAABw4/XtkSs6e5rS0/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I32Iv4g19JE/T169LsFR1OI/AAAAAAAABw4/XtkSs6e5rS0/s640/011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Congratulations Betty xo</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19BoRfypVf8/T169dltm97I/AAAAAAAABxA/ZV4CjQINABg/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19BoRfypVf8/T169dltm97I/AAAAAAAABxA/ZV4CjQINABg/s640/003.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Also, I finally got around to making Betty a smock. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2010/02/one-per-month-february.html">made one for Aimee</a> when she started Kindergarten and I used the same pattern for Beth's, taken from a great book, making children's clothes by Emma Hardy. </span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made a couple of changes though, I appliqued a 'B' (for Beth ofcourse) onto the front, I made an opening in the back to make it easier for her to get on and off on her own at school and I made the sleeves full length instead of 3/4 length to cover her uniform in winter. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">All I did to make the opening was finish the whole smock as per instructions, then cut from the hemline up to about 5cm from the neckline, I then overlocked the raw edge and turned it over about 5mm and sewed it down.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Another little sewing project crossed off my list :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I took these pictures with Instagram, mainly because the battery in my camera had died. I've been seeing Instagram photo's all over the internet and think they look great. Mine, I'm not so sure. Think it was a little too low light inside for the ipod. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">What do you think of Instagram?</span></div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-23267596443412592792012-03-12T12:06:00.002+11:002012-03-12T12:11:44.256+11:00a little bit of hooky time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUMX1EobKTY/T11JqREUN7I/AAAAAAAABwY/PZkMTu2c5SU/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hUMX1EobKTY/T11JqREUN7I/AAAAAAAABwY/PZkMTu2c5SU/s400/031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning, while walking home after taking my girls to school, I decided to take a break from my daily grind (I know, I'm such a dare devil ;)) and spend a little time making something - just for the fun of it! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2YPLIRhMaHU/T11JkfYlV_I/AAAAAAAABwQ/PRQvZkK0Nos/s1600/044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2YPLIRhMaHU/T11JkfYlV_I/AAAAAAAABwQ/PRQvZkK0Nos/s400/044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Instead of getting stuck straight into the housework, I sat down at the computer with my cup of coffee, some red yarn leftover from <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2010/06/shift-in-priorities.html">this crochet project</a> and a crochet hook and in the space of an hour hooked up this cute little headband I've had bookmarked for aaaaages.</span></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KaU0Ebmwd9E/T11Jxo74rNI/AAAAAAAABwg/eOetsMbeMbA/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KaU0Ebmwd9E/T11Jxo74rNI/AAAAAAAABwg/eOetsMbeMbA/s400/030.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was finally, regretfully (so timewasting) bitten by the <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/27443878949329501/">pinterest</a> bug a couple of weeks ago and I was adding all the tutorials I've been bookmarking over the past few years by keeping a list of links on this blog to my boards, when I rediscovered the tutorial for this headband by <a href="http://youseriouslymadethat.blogspot.com.au/2011/01/headband-flower-pattern.html">Cami @ You Seriously Made That!?</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hEgvMhyn0l0/T11J975ZKgI/AAAAAAAABww/0YaxdTQsv68/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hEgvMhyn0l0/T11J975ZKgI/AAAAAAAABww/0YaxdTQsv68/s400/009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's so cute, so easy and so satisfying!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">And talking of timewasting activities, I took a total of 47 photos just to get the four I've posted here! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Hope you spend a little time doing something you love today :)</span> </div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-36893688129382823762012-03-07T14:18:00.000+11:002012-03-07T14:18:38.581+11:00southern comfort<div style="font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;">Autumn is here, feeling the chill today with this wild weather we're having!</div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: sans-serif; margin-left: 10px;">a collection of winter inspired items from around Australia</div><table style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 8px; line-height: 19px; width: auto;"><tbody>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49693000" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.152280541.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49693000" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">That Vintage Winter Woods Pa... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thatvintage" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">thatvintage </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$33.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84955780" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.282185572.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84955780" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">FREE SHIPPING Tubeway Armies... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gayeabandon" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">gayeabandon </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$30.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82489068" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.273393175.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82489068" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Back in stock - Daisy Cape -... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/alicenightingale" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">alicenightinga... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$70.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41524097" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.262834424.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41524097" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Pineapples Lace Crochet Shaw... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/patternfairy" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">patternfairy </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$4.95 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94511134" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.317532151.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94511134" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Crocheted Flapper Hat with ... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/KidsCreationsOz" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">KidsCreationsO... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$27.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92170973" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.308928153.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92170973" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Grey Infinity Scarf - winte... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RockRibbons" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">RockRibbons </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$39.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63422930" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.206137163.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63422930" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Winter Trees - Earrings In B... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ohdeercreations" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">ohdeercreation... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$17.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59180075" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.184024125.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59180075" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Winter Bell Jar - 8 x 10 Art... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/milkandcookies" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">milkandcookies </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$33.00 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73550489" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.241763306.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73550489" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Lacy beret slouchy hat hand ... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/baboom" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">baboom </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$42.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51472405" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.158232060.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51472405" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Girls clothing - handmade ki... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/saibatoothcub" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">saibatoothcub </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$63.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56542966" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.234180213.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56542966" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">MASSIVE CLEARANCE SALE Pocke... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lyptis" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">lyptis </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$89.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52660437" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.162206843.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52660437" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Knit Coffee Cozy in Wool wit... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sheepsclothing" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">sheepsclothing </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$13.50 </div></td></tr>
<tr> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64426819" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.202326354.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64426819" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Polar Bear Mumma with Cub, 8... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/StudioJarrah" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">StudioJarrah </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$28.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78387353" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.259082210.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78387353" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">clementine bow beret - grey ... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kisforkani" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">kisforkani </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$29.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81903031" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.271381684.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81903031" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Crochet cowl: Sweet and soft... </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thehotchpotchshop" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">thehotchpotchs... </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$58.00 </div></td> <td height="170" style="border: 1px solid rgb(236, 236, 236); padding: 6px; text-align: left;" width="170"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93795491" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.314896345.jpg" style="border: currentColor; padding: 0px;" width="170" /> </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93795491" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px;">Crochet hexagon baby blanket </span></a><br />
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<div style="float: left; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/arthurst" style="color: #b2b2b2; text-decoration: none;">arthurst </a></div><div style="color: #78c042; float: right; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">$360.00 </div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: #b2b2b2; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 10px; margin-left: 10px;"><a href="http://redrowstudio.com/tools/treasury.php">Treasury tool </a>by <a href="http://redrowstudio.com/">Red Row Studio</a>. </div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3070496790648035809.post-8692961635702698342012-03-05T13:31:00.002+11:002012-03-05T21:59:42.376+11:00Simplicity 2211<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hi there, how you doin' this fine sunny day? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't know about you, but when the weather is fine and warm - especially after a string of rainy days - gee wizz it puts me in a good mood!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, thanks to the sun coming out again, I've been able to take some happy snaps of my new favourite wardrobe item. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My version of <a href="http://www.sewlisette.com/AP/OLV-U02211.html">Simplicity 2211</a>. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This pattern is designed by Liesl Gibson from <a href="http://www.oliverands.com/blog/">oliver+s</a>, and produced and distributed by Simplicity under the lisette brand.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I've never bought an oliver+s pattern, but have only ever heard good things about them.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">This here pattern is no acception.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Easy to follow, well written and accurate!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGupiL1e_U0/T1Qa_09VnJI/AAAAAAAABvA/_vbvfRPyHx4/s1600/Plumetis1-e1305482018931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGupiL1e_U0/T1Qa_09VnJI/AAAAAAAABvA/_vbvfRPyHx4/s400/Plumetis1-e1305482018931.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://blog.lescomposantes.com/2011/05/selection-de-mai/"><em>image source</em></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Remember this blouse I posted about back <a href="http://lovelylittlesweetpeas.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/dreaming.html">here</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Well this was my inspiration...........</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WGBo_dpgUdo/T1Qig0Ng66I/AAAAAAAABvo/LCfeO23kI1o/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WGBo_dpgUdo/T1Qig0Ng66I/AAAAAAAABvo/LCfeO23kI1o/s400/006.JPG" width="293" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">and here is my version!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7s8PZiZtorA/T1Qiwq1Z_0I/AAAAAAAABv4/rtjxbEjZEJU/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7s8PZiZtorA/T1Qiwq1Z_0I/AAAAAAAABv4/rtjxbEjZEJU/s400/011.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <span style="font-family: Verdana;">I made afew alterations to the pattern I used to make it look like my inspiration blouse.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Here are the details...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W9PznApDaDw/T1Qi_EXgd0I/AAAAAAAABwI/0OPYCepgTCQ/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W9PznApDaDw/T1Qi_EXgd0I/AAAAAAAABwI/0OPYCepgTCQ/s400/007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I drafted a peter-pan collar using <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW-Mk4HwurM">this</a> fabulously detailed tutorial by one of my sewing heroes, <a href="http://www.blogforbettersewing.com/">Gertie</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LrmGldgV6QA/T1Qi30t233I/AAAAAAAABwA/TT7N0J7vDpQ/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LrmGldgV6QA/T1Qi30t233I/AAAAAAAABwA/TT7N0J7vDpQ/s400/015.JPG" width="298" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I lengthened the sleeves by 3 inches and then attached the sleeve band from the inside first, so that it would make a little cuff on the outside of the blouse.</span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyDZ4Lw9p8E/T1QipJpAZ3I/AAAAAAAABvw/yL7zQD9zaQM/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyDZ4Lw9p8E/T1QipJpAZ3I/AAAAAAAABvw/yL7zQD9zaQM/s400/009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">And I added a button closure to the back of the blouse, basically by cutting a </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">4 1/2 inch slit to the centre back. I then made a length of binding from the same fabric to bind the edges with. I self-covered a button and made a small loop, again both from the same fabric.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">And the fabric you ask?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Wow I love this fabric. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I actually bought it from Spotlight a while ago, with no particular project in mind. I just loved it so much </span>♥<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's a japanese seersucker. Sheer and light and beautiful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And surprisingly easy to work with. Just made sure I used plenty of pins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">As soon as I saw my inspiration blouse I knew I'd be using this fabric to make my own version.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Well I have to say I'm pretty happy with my version, especially after wearing it all day yesterday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">If I was to pick fault with anything, there are three things I'd do a little differently next time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I'd make the neckline smaller and I'd make the blouse a little longer. Oh and I'd probably interface the collar. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Overall though I'm lovin' it and I got several compliments yesterday, so it must look ok!</span><br />
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</div>Franhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03747546284906518230noreply@blogger.com5