Four Wise Monkeys

Screen prints for the stash..

2012-02-18T15:57:00.000+11:00

Thanks for all the messages on Ayden moving out for Uni. The support was just what I needed x So was this fabric. Choice Cuts from Aunty Cookie on the top row and some prints from Leslie at Maze and Vale below. I just love the designs and inspiration from independent designers. These I couldn't resist and I'll be cutting into some of the red fabric this afternoon.

I also joined Pinterest. Whhhoooaaa. I thought it might be a good idea while I am looking for a few ideas for Maya's new room but I'm not sure where to start. I'm fourwisemonkeys there too.

Left for Melbourne..

2012-02-12T17:21:00.000+11:00

Source

Yesterday we took Ayden off to live in Melbourne, at the Residence at Monash Uni. The res was a bit confronting to us, such a big change. The room was very basic, and very expensive and everything smelt bad. It's going to be noisy and full of students and it showed its age. His hall houses 202 students. This photo would have been taken from the 12 story residence block that the building looks onto.

I held myself together and thought of all the good things, how hard Ayden had worked and all the people he will meet and that he had actually made it there. That he can walk to classes and that he will have a lot of support close by. That Matt and I had met at uni after all. The uni had organised a lot of fun things for the students to help them settle in and I knew Ayden would be fine. It's going to take me a bit to get used to though.

Ayden's Messenger Bag

2012-02-10T14:29:00.000+11:00

In January we organised a trip to Melbourne to catch up Nikki and Lara, along with Jodie and Annie. I dragged Ayden along to help with the Melbourne driving and to add a some time and experience to his driving log book.

Ayden spotted a sample of the Laptop Bag by Nicole Mallalieu at Nikki's studio and through it would make him a messenger bag. I have a boy who is interested in both fabric and design so I couldn't say no. I stressed about every aspect of making this bag - before I made it. I wanted it to look so perfect and I am very proud of how it all came together. As always the directions on the pattern were fantastic and I worked through the steps carefully to make the Intermediate level bag. The bag is strong and sturdy and a good size for Ayden. The strap is adjustable too.

The bag is made from black canvas that I bought from the upholstery section of spotlight and the front flap the bikes and trams fabric designed by Ink and Spindle. Inside is lined with a quilting cotton that was interfaced. I even added a zip pocket inside as Ayden wanted to make sure that his glasses that he wears for lectures would be secure. There are 4 more pockets inside too, and one on the outside front under the flap.

Ayden leaves home tomorrow and his bag is already packed and ready to go. He loves it, and I love how clever Nikki's patterns make you feel :)

Holidays..

2012-02-09T17:46:00.000+11:00

I love this photo of the kids running up to the lighthouse at Port Fairy at dusk. It's a beautiful walk with lots of wallabies popping out from the undergrowth.

We spent a few days away at Port Fairy and Warrnambool. The weather was beautiful and we were ready for a break. We left the day after Uni Offers and we had a lot to think about, celebrate and plan too.

The kites came out a few times too. I love having our whole family together.

Gaps..

2012-01-29T14:13:00.002+11:00

It finally happened! Maya lost her first teeth, one on Friday and the next one on Saturday (with some help). She couldn't wait, and our kids seem to loose their teeth later than others.

Something to show the kids and her new teacher on the first day back at school tomorrow.

Criss Cross Floor Cushion ~ Free Tutorial to Dowload

2012-01-26T13:45:00.000+11:00

Behind the scenes I have been working on this large floor cushion as a free tutorial for Sew Mana Sew. It can be downloaded here.

I just love this cushion. I made it for Ayden to take with him when he moves out in a couple of weeks. His favourite colour is a bright green, which features in this pillow and pops really well with the grey. It's huge and I used a 65cm square cushion insert. It could be made with lots of scraps and brights which would look fantastic.

It's Australia Day today and a beautiful sunny day outside. As always, we are celebrating while listening to the Triple J Hottest 100. Still not too old for youth radio :)

Let's keep those kids busy ..

2012-01-23T14:07:00.000+11:00

The Uni Offers are in!

2012-01-20T17:34:00.001+11:00

Ayden at the Melbourne Museum seeing if he was as tall as the tallest man... not quite

On Monday it was the day where I sat around feeling very anxious. We had to wait until 4pm for the Uni offers to be released. Ayden had a list of 10 engineering courses he selected and with his ATAR score and SEAS application we had no idea what he which one he would get an offer for. If he was successful at Monash University it would be moving out of home, and giving up his part time job or RMIT would have him still living at home and commuting, at least for awhile.

We are so proud. Ayden will be studying a double degree at Monash University in Environmental Engineering and in Science where he can learn for a career in addressing climate change and renewable energy.

Ayden travelled to the uni today for an enrollment day and took the two trains and a bus to get there and only got a bit lost on campus. He will need to find a new casual job (the old one are happy to give him shifts anytime he is back in Ballarat) and move to the uni residences by 11 February. Not long to get everything organised! Maya already has her eye on his bedroom..

Maya in her Dandelion Kisses dress

2012-01-15T18:23:00.000+11:00

As soon as I saw this fabric on Saffron Craigs blog I knew it would be perfect for a summer dress for Maya. It's from the Magical Lands range in pink and is called "dandelion kisses".

I used a very simple pattern that Maya selected for girls separates, Simplicity 2483. It was a bit tight on the neckline but I unpicked the pleats and let them out a little and now it fits well.

French seams, binding on the neck and arms and an invisible zip on the back!

Maya wanted to show her guinea pig Princess in the pics so here she is. Much bigger now.

And a bit of a handful.

Tiddalik the Thirsty Frog at the Melbourne Museum & Giveaway

2012-01-10T12:26:00.001+11:00

New Years Day 2012

2012-01-01T21:12:00.001+11:00

New Years Day was sticky and hot. Last year we hardly had a summer and this one has hit us quickly. There's not a lot we can do during the day but sit under the air conditioner and sew. I made a Make it Perfect A+ skirt in black linen - my third one.

The only times I went outside was to check that the rabbit and guinea pigs were okay in the heat. Buddy the rabbit did spend a bit of time under the air conditioner too. By evening the kids were like caged tigers needing a run, so it was off to the local lake and park at dusk for a long walk, swing, frisbee and tossing bread to the ducks. Tomorrow will be hotter again. Maybe a bit more time with the sewing machine and the swimming pool.

Goodbye 2011

2011-12-31T19:58:00.002+11:00

2011 has been a frantic year. I have made so much that I haven't blogged - mostly knitting. I've made 7 pairs of socks for a start and three cardigans at least that haven't made it here and sewn some cute things that went immediately into use and I missed my chance. Plus pattern tests and clothes for Maya and myself. I have a new overlocker and a dress makers mannequin now too.

2011 was that year of changes with Maya starting school and leaving a big hole in my day, Callum off to middle school and Ayden finishing Yr 12. It all ended successfully with the kids all happy with their achievements.

Just like Kate, I'm hoping 2012 is the Year of Happy. We will see. More changes with Ayden off to Uni and I guess he will leave home at some point. Work will have redundancies. A big contract for Matt. Kane's last year at Junior School. Matt's best mate is moving to Melbourne. I hope I will take some long service leave and we will all do something exciting for my 40th birthday too.

Thank you all for reading my blog. I love every comment and each friend and opportunity it has given me. Wishing you all a Happy 2012 too.

Butterfly Quilt Tutorial ~ Sew Mama Sew

2011-12-30T18:14:00.000+11:00

Back in 2009, when I designed this quilt, I had so many requests to buy it or a pattern for it. I thought it might be a good time to write it up as a tutorial for Sew Mama Sew.

It's a cot sized quilt which is surpisingly quick and easy to make and can be made from scraps, fat quarters or charm squares. This quilt was gifted to one of my sisters this Christmas. If you would like to download the tutorial and make the quilt, it can be found here at Sew Mama Sew.

Puppet Show Shorts and the Pocket Placement Tip

2011-12-29T15:49:00.001+11:00

The Oliver + S Puppet Show shorts are just my favourite. I can't resist the detail and the way they come together. Maya wore them today to the wildlife park and it isn't the best photo, but these shorts suit her perfectly - and I made them from a scrap piece of fabric too. Because they only go up to a size 5, I had to grade them up to a size 6.

I read the best tip on pocket placement on Carmel's blog here and the ladies at Sewjourn asked me to reblog it here. It works for any pattern with the pocket sewn to the outside and just so simple - cut the pocket placement out on the pattern, and use the negative space to line up the pocket and pin it into place.

Happy Christmas 2011

2011-12-24T21:19:00.000+11:00

From all of us at this monkey house, wish you a joyful and safe holiday. Happy Christmas!

Sewing for Christmas

2011-12-23T17:41:00.000+11:00

A few hardmade gifts have been made this year. For my almost 6 year old nieces, these skirts from Ottobre Spring 1/2011 which are full and twirly and hopefully in colours that will suit both girls with co-ordinating tops. For my two year old niece I have a Kitty bag designed by Melly & me.

Last weekend it was my niece Ruby's 2nd Birthday and these Make it Perfect Bloom shorts where whipped up in a hurry. These are one of my go-to patterns and are just so cute. Hopefully I'll manage a pic of Ruby wearing them too.

Milestones..

2011-12-21T19:26:00.001+11:00

Yes, I'm still the bad at blogging. The working year is nearly finished but I still have a big deadline to go at the "real" job.

It's one month since Ayden turned 18. Such an exciting and hectic time. Right at the end of his Year 12 exams and a few days before he went of to schoolies week. We reserved a table at a local restaurant for Ayden and his friends, and sat a bit away on our own table while they all celebrated. It was so good to see him with all his mates and to look at how grown up they all looked. Some of the kids there had been friends since prep. Amazing. So now we have an adult son, who seems to plan to go to see every band and music festival he can drag his mates to for the entire summer.

Friday was results day and I was so nervous for Ayden. His results were great and he knows he will be able to go his choice of engineering degrees and work in the environmental field. Ayden has overcome literacy problems and to achieve an A+ for English was a huge achievement. Fantastic to see his name in the paper on the high achievers list.

And Maya's snake costume... I guess the school was looking for a way to have 45 prep kids involved in the Nativity play. The way it went was that Santa went to the forest, and while he was there he told all the animals the story of Christmas. Maya was one of the animals.

The Snake Costume...

2011-12-08T19:26:00.000+11:00

I sort of can't believe that I am blogging the snake costume. When I say that I am hopeless with costumes I really mean it. They always seem to come at the last minute.

So when school sent a letter saying Maya was going to be a snake in the Nativity play I was a bit confused to where snakes fitted into the Nativity and how I would make it. Even google images and Jodie's stash of costumes didn't help.

So some cheap, stretchy velour style fabric and a lengthen boys hooded top pattern from Ottobre, my overlocker and some felt applique and Maya has a snake costume that she loves. It came together quickly in the end (a good thing!) and Maya wore it yesterday for the play.

She did tell me in the nicest way that her snake tail was a bit stumpy and looked like a lizards tail...

Teachers Gifts 2011

2011-12-05T19:23:00.000+11:00

The poor blog has been a quiet with a major new web design project on at the real job. I haven't even blogged Ayden's 18th birthday. I keep singing in my head "bad bad blogger" in the tune to the kids show "Big big babies"

Before these go off to their new homes tomorrow, I thought I should blog the gift bags I made for Kane's and Maya's teachers. Each year I make an embroidered bag for the teachers as a bit of a keepsake and I have to try and remember who has had which stitchery design with various kids having the same teachers in the past.

For these I used a stitchery pattern from Hatched and Patched and added a box of chocolate.

Now off to finish the snake costume that Maya needs for the Nativity play. A snake ....

We went off to Sewjourn again...

2011-11-17T14:37:00.001+11:00

Last weekend we were off to Sewjourn. Phew. A big sigh of relief from me! I took a few patterns I had been hoping to get done for awhile including the View B of the Oliver + S Jump Rope dress for Maya, and a couple of Sketchbook Shorts for Callum and Kane, and some Make it Perfect Bloom shorts for Maya too.

The dress is just perfect for Maya and is that bit more casual than View A. Maya is getting so tall and lanky and next time I will have to lengthen the size 6 I think.

It's a bit obvious that I just love Oliver + S patterns but I have to say that you need to read the errata on the Sketchbook Shorts pattern. The back piece is missing it's seam allowance, but unfortunately there is a note in the pattern that the front piece is missing the seam allowance, so you end up with a front piece which is an inch larger than it should be. Pretty frustrating when you are away from your computer but still, it can be fixed and the two pairs of shorts I have on the go are looking good.

I do feel so blessed to have the group of friends where we can all meet up for a weekend away a couple of times a year and all feel right a home and enjoy every minute of each others company.

Nikki, Karen, Tanya, Megan, Annie, Lara and Kathryn – thank you all so much. Lara, Nikki and Karen have some great pics and round ups of the weekend on their blogs.

And we are silly. Kathryn, myself and Karen picked out a top each that Lara had made for ourselves to try one (and try and sneak into our bags...) Look how great we look in Lara's clothes. If only Lara was a little taller I would be set!

The Graduation ..

2011-10-28T19:32:00.000+11:00

Hopefully back to crafty pics tomorrow. I have a bit to show now I am getting over glandular fever/virus. I just had to post a pic of Ayden from before he went to his graduation dinner yesterday. It's not often I can get him in front of the camera. He had a great night!

The last day of school for Ayden

2011-10-27T14:29:00.002+11:00

A very quick pic taken last night before a presentation, for all those who wanted to see a pic of Ayden and I together. I hope he doesn't grow any more or he will have to duck to get in that door. He is 6'7" or 2 m tall.

I've been preparing all year for today. It's so hard to let go and understand that your baby is almost an adult and ready for that next step in life. We are so proud of Ayden. I've just come back from another assembly and hearing him speak. It's the big graduation dinner tonight where he will be dressed up in a suit ... looking a bit better than the dress he was wearing at muck up day yesterday I hope!

There are a lot of things I won't miss, ironing the shirts, finding clothes that fit, paying the school fees .. but what I'll miss the most is that drive to school each morning and hearing all the drama's of school and Ayden's opinion on every.single.song on the radio and listening to "like a version" each Friday x

Getting ready for Kids Clothes Week Challenge

2011-10-09T17:43:00.000+11:00

I've been quiet the last couple of weeks, with the kids all on school holidays. It's been pretty frantic and with Ayden getting ready for his final Yr 12 exams, the pressure has really been on.

Behind the scenes I have been working on another secret project that should be available soon. I've nearly worn a hole in my finger with a marathon binding session last night. I just love working with these pretty and fresh colours - and scrap busting too.

Maya and I have gone through a lot of my patterns to get ready for the Kids Clothing Week Challenge next week. I have the day off tomorrow and I am hoping to do a bit of tracing tonight. I'm not sure if I will get an hour done each day but I'll aim towards it. The Olivia top is already partly done, and I even managed to get confident with my over locker to do the rolled hems. A big achievement for me! On order is also the Oliver + S Sketchbook Shorts pattern for the boys.

Maya's 6th Birthday

2011-09-24T18:54:00.001+10:00

Maya turned 6 today! So exciting to be a big 6 year old girl. We held her birthday party yesterday she had so much fun with her friends. Maya wore the Jump Rope dress by Oliver + S that I made, but unfortunately I haven't got a very clear pic of it. I'll try again next time Maya wears it.

Maya had lots of lovely compliments on her dress, and I even admitted to making it to two of the mums (one who knew I sewed as she recognised my name from a book I had pattern tested for). I wish this pattern wasn't discontinued as I am sure there is still the demand of a classical styled dress like this.

Today we did so many of the things Maya enjoys. She opened all her presents from us and from her party then we went off to the wildlife park, where Maya and her brothers had the chance to pat a snake, koala and a 10 month old wombat and have a run around in the park.

Dinner at McDonald's and home for ice cream cake and her choice of DVD, Fantastic Mr Fox to finish the day. Happy Birthday, Trouble and I hope every minute of being 6 is a lot of fun!

Oliver + S Picnic Blouse for Maya

2011-09-23T11:40:00.001+10:00

With the kids on holidays it's a bit easier to get Maya to model some of the clothes I have made her - this one back in May. It's the Oliver + S Picnic Blouse in size 6. The pattern also comes with a pair of shorts which I hope to make too for Maya's summer wardrobe. This was a nice and easy pattern with the added detail and finishing that you expect from an Oliver + S pattern.

Make it Perfect ~ Butterfly Basic Tee

2011-09-20T18:44:00.000+10:00

The kids are all on holiday for the next 3 weeks! When I saw that Maya had picked out this top to wear today I remembered that I hadn't blogged it. Maya was invited to a party a few weeks ago that had a "police" theme and the kids needed to wear blue tops. I whipped this one up quickly using my Make it Perfect Basic Tee pattern and added a sweet little butterfly transfer that I had picked up from Spotlight. This pattern is going to get so much use at our place!

This top has been through the wash a few times and not had an iron near it.. it's good to blog real life isn't it?

Cathedral Windows block ..

2011-09-17T19:25:00.000+10:00

This block for AJ was my last block for Around the Block. It's been a fantastic quilting bee for the past 2 years and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I've made friends, learn't some new skill and received some beautiful blocks back.

Can you see why I left this one until last? I think most of us did! I surprised myself by finding this block a lot simplier that it looked and I was pleased with the result. AJ has a tutorial here to make the Cathedral Window, and it's well worth a try.

Working on ..

2011-09-15T17:45:00.000+10:00

Making a Jump Rope Dress by Oliver + S for Maya to wear for her upcoming birthday party. I'm going slowly in my few minutes of spare time and I want this to look so beautiful for her. It's a bit further along now, and the collar is the next step. I tried to track this pattern down for a year in the larger size and I finally found one through the Oliver + S forum. Happiness.

Designing a new project for Sew Mama Sew. These blocks will be mixed with my scraps and stash to make something pretty.

Knitting in front of the tv, a cardigan for me called Vanadium. I bit of a dodgy pic, but the wool is a soft black grey that will go with a lot of my clothes.

The good and the major fail ..

2011-09-03T18:24:00.000+10:00

What a big week! On Wednesday Kane celebrated his 9th birthday. We had a busy night with Maya performing "Happy Little Vegemite" at school in the evening as part of the Kinder to Grade 2 presentations leaving Kane having his birthday dinner fairly late. He had to wait until Friday night to ride his new bike as the week has been that busy. Kane has a fantastic party with his mates on Thursday. Lots of big ticks there.

And my big fail. I had finished all these blocks for Gillian for Around the Block. I thought that the tricky bit would be cutting a circle 6.25 inches across.

When I had the raw edge blocks all sewn together and trimmed I re-read Gillian's instructions and found that I had sewn too close to the raw edge. I couldn't live with it and with my sulkiest face on I unpicked all the blocks. It's put me behind and my seam allowance on the inside is going to be a bit small now too. Back to the sewing machine I go.

New Tutorial ~ Dino Party!

2011-08-30T18:07:00.000+10:00

If you are looking for some bright and fun little bags for party favours, eco friendly wrapping or trick or treating, I have a new tutorial up today at Sew Mama Sew. There is a free pdf to download.

It's birthday season at our house so all those lollies won't go to waste!

Book Week 2011

2011-08-26T15:49:00.000+10:00

I'm not so good at costumes and I was still knitting that beanie at 11 pm last night and sewing on the pom pom even later than that. Kane was put to work painting those stripes on his top too.. Kane and Maya do look pretty cute as Where's Wally and Fancy Nancy though!

Christmas in July .. and a Quiltalong

2011-08-18T19:28:00.000+10:00

It's great to be able to show the projects I designed for Christmas in July at Quilt Fabric Delights. This pair of cushions could be made in any colour combination, but they worked well as a modern look, decorator cushion for Christmas. Thanks to Emma for helping me style the pic too.

I also made a little drawstring bag called Gingersnap, as you can make it in a snap! I like to make the kids teachers little bags at Christmas with a box of chocolates inside. A few teachers have a bit of a collection now as they have taught the kids over the years. This little pattern can also make a quick gift bag with a fussy cut feature fabric or a different stitchery added to the centre.

I'm a bit late in blogging this, but Kerri at Lovely Little Handmades and Andrea at Knitty Bitties have been posting a quiltalong using my Picnic in the Park tutorial that I designed for Sew Mama Sew. It's not too late to join in, as this quilt will come together quicker than you would think! Have a look at the beautiful versions that Kerri and Andrea have on the go.

I made some stuff for the kids!

2011-08-12T16:43:00.002+10:00

Last weekend I bought out the overlocker, ball point needle and took a big breathe .. stretch sewing. Toni at Make it Perfect had a new pattern to test called Basic Tee's with a fitted version for girls with gathered sleeves, and a straighter version for boys. I have to say I love this pattern. The kids live in easy care stretch tops, and there are options for long sleeved and short sleeves too. I think they turned out well and I've ordered some more fabric to have a go with some stripey sleeves like Toni's versions. It wasn't so scary after all!

I also love that the "Big" version includes the pattern for both boys and girls, and goes from size 6 to size 10. That means I can sew for three kids from the one pattern. Great value. I made Kane the straight version in size 8, and I made Maya the double layered sleeves version in size 6.

Back in June I finished this knitted hoodie for Kane. I finally managed to weave in the last couple of ends and block it last week. I was getting a bit worried, as Kane has had a bit of a growth spurt but it fits fine. Details are up on Ravelry here.

Stella and Henry Owl Softies ..

2011-08-07T18:03:00.000+10:00

Maya's friend Sylvie loves owls. I know this because Maya must have told me at least 50 times since she received a birthday invitation from Sylvie.

These Stella and Henry Owl Softies from the Cotton Floss book by Natalie Lymer from Cinderberry Stitches were just perfect. A couple of evenings to stitch and an hour or so to sew together with a red polka dot backing, and stuff.

This owl is the second smallest size, and hopefully it's made a lovely gift for a 6 year old little girl.

Hermoine Hearts Ron for Maya..

2011-08-05T17:37:00.000+10:00

Not much of my knitting gets blogged, but I am trying to get better at it. Today is so cold and dark I felt bad asking Maya to go outside for a photo, but with so many blog posts to catch up on, I thought we had better just get on with it!

I love this little hat. It only took a few days to knit up on the couch and was a great way to clear my head after some long days at work. The pattern combines a bit of lace and cables so its very stretchy. The Quince & Co chickadee wool is so beautiful to work with too. This is my first go at cabling and it came together so well. Maya loves it, especially as the inspiration for the pattern came from a Harry Potter movie.

If you are interested in making up this free pattern on Ravelry, my project is listed here

Counting Down .. Christmas in July

2011-07-22T16:44:00.000+10:00

Three of the secret projects I have been working on will be revealed soon as part of Christmas in July over at Quilt Fabric Delights. I've added a bit of a sneak peek of two of the projects.

Sarah is hosting an online Christmas in July event, and if it's anything like last years, I can't wait to see what will be revealed. The creative team, which I am part of, will all submit a few projects, along with designers Janelle Wind, Brenda Ryan, Melissa Grant and Bronwyn Hayes.

The cost of $45 includes at least 10 down loadable patterns, plus competitions and games, which I consider to be fantastic value. When you book the event, Sarah will email you log on details. Not long to go with Christmas in July commencing on the 25 July!

It happened again ..39

2011-07-19T19:53:00.000+10:00

I have to keep practicing saying 39, 39,39. I can't believe that that's how old I turned today. I've taken some good advice, and tried to not work too hard and my family have totally spoilt me. It's been a lovely day. The kids went back to school today too :)

The Wallaby ate my sewing?

2011-07-17T16:05:00.001+10:00

In June and July I always go a bit MIA. It's a pressure time at the real job and school holidays take a lot of juggling. Last weekend Ayden has a messy bike accident too. He was very lucky and okay, but still bandaged up.

No sewing to show, as I have four commissioned tutorials I am currently working on.. a bit of pattern writing is in order for tonight I think.

Today we took a bit of a break and went off to the local wildlife park for lunch and for the kids to have a run around. Maya just loves the wallabies, and so do the boys. I didn't blog the pic of Kane making bunny's ears behind the wallabies. I did look pretty funny though.

For those who missed it on Facebook. Jodie, Jan and I met with Maree from Farmyard Crafts in real life! Maree has only travelled around 1,200 km to visit us and several more bloggers. How great is that! I think I've known Maree online for about 5 years. So fantastic to actually meet Maree and her family. I can't wait for the massive blogpost about their travels.

The last two blocks ...

2011-07-09T17:41:00.000+10:00

Finally I photographed the last two blocks for Block-a-Palooza and bundled all 16 blocks off ready to post. I hope these blocks end up as a beautiful charity quilt. They were a great summer project with some great designs to practice my points and add a to learn a few more methods and skill.

For anyone interested in downloading the patterns for each of these blocks, they can be found on Flickr here

Straight Line Quilting..

2011-07-04T16:34:00.000+10:00

I'm starting to do more machine quilting on my projects. Stippling never really worked for me, and over the weekend I had a go with quilting straight lines on a new project. I used my walking foot and used the edge of the foot to mark the spacings. I love the contemporary look it's given the project. I think I'll try it again!

Around the Block ~ Jewelled Squares for Helen

2011-06-27T13:08:00.000+10:00

Over the weekend I spent some time putting together this block for Helen for the Around the Block Quilting Bee on Flickr. With another dark day, my colours aren't correct on the pic, but if you check the link here, you can see how beautiful Helen's quilt is looking already.

This block measures 12.5" and there was a fair bit of maths involved to get this block together. I just can't wait to see the finished quilt!

Pinwheels in the Park ~ Tutorial

2011-06-24T16:22:00.001+10:00

I'm pleased to share a new tutorial for you, which is up on Sew Mama Sew now as a part of their Summer Sewing month. It was pretty hard to take a summery pic here in Ballarat while it's been cold, wet and windy but thankfully it all came together at the end.

I was inspired to make this quilt after seeing a block made by Becky for Around the Block. Thanks Becky for the permission to work from your idea.

I've used a cute fabric from the "Sugar and Spice" range by Riley Blake fabric, quilted it with my favourite decorate stitch on my sewing machine and given it a good wash and tumble dry after these pics were done! Finished size is 71” x 54 ½”.

So go and visit Beth and Kirsten at Sew Mama Sew to download the pattern, and since there is no more room at home, you can find the quilt up for sale on Ebay here

Whats red and white and pinned all over?

2011-06-19T15:45:00.000+10:00

A new quilt on the go! I haven't made a quilt in ages. I hope this one looks Summery enough.

Socks for Matt..

2011-06-16T16:14:00.000+10:00

Okay, these are my big feet in the pics. Matt's a bit blog shy so I thought I had better get my feet out :) These socks have been my knitting on the go project at swimming lessons. Honestly, if I need to sit still for an hour a week, I might as well get something done!

These are my second pair of toe up On Your Toes socks, made in the largest size for my husband Matt. Since Matt works outdoors and its pretty cold and frosty here in Ballarat, he was happy for me to make him some knitted socks. Not exactly perfect but not too many mistakes. I hope they are long enough and warm enough for winter.

Ravelled here.

Pixie and the Princess ..

2011-06-13T14:59:00.000+10:00

A few weeks ago, Kane told us his friend Daisy's guinea pigs had babies, 9 of them! Yes, we gave in to the hints. begging and pleading and told Kane and Maya they could have one each - both females.

Kane has pestered Daisy's mum at the school gate nearly every day for information on the guinea pigs, and we have been up to their place for a visit. He has tormented Daisy every day in class too with questions.

Well, they are 8 weeks old now and they came home last night. Kane did a lot of googling to find a good name for a guinea pig, Pixie, and Maya has named hers Princess Guinea Pig. The kids are working pretty hard on taming them now, and they are a pretty good distraction for Ayden who is supposed to be studying for mid year exams.

Matryoshka Doll Quilt ..

2011-06-04T15:31:00.000+10:00

A week or so ago I picked up this quilt from Emma at Ballarat Patchwork. Way back here in 2009 I sewed the quilt top as a shop sample and Emma put it together and quilted it beautifully.

The Quilt has been up in the shop and travelled around for various quilt shows in Victoria. Have you seen it in person? Emma said that once she had finished with it, it could come back home for Maya - who didn't want to let it to go to the shop. Of course, like most 5 year olds, Maya has the memory of an elephant and quickly claimed it for her bed - it's a large single bed sized quilt.

I've had quite a few emails from people who have found my original post asking if they could buy the quilt, which I couldn't do, but anyone interested in making their own version, the pattern is called Matryoshka Quilt by Rosalie Quinlan Designs and the fabrics are Lecien Flower Sugar.

Homespun Happy Mail ..

2011-06-03T15:09:00.001+10:00

Look what I found in the mailbox this morning! The new Homespun magazine for June, No 97, Vol 12.6. This pic made me smile :)

I've designed these two quick projects to make. A matching pair of cushions with Digby the Dog and Miss Kitty the Cat.

Beautiful photo's and styling again from the Homespun team.

My Stashbusting 2011..

2011-05-30T17:54:00.000+10:00

At the start of the year, I pledged that I was going to reduce my stash by using or giving away 1.5 metres of fabric for every one that I bought or was given. I had to keep it realistic.

Also, I don't count dress making fabric that I may occasionally buy, or fabrics sent to me to use for a tutorial, which in accounting terms, I call "fabric in, fabric out". That fabric isn't going to get out of control and fill my whole laundry!

So the pic above is all the fabric that I have bought or been given this year, just over 8 metres. I have plans for all of it. There is a bit of new Denyse Schmidt from Spotlight this weekend, fabric tied in bow from Sew Mama Sew in exchange for a tutorial, a bit of Sherbet Pips and Riley Blake from Ballarat Patchwork I couldn't resist.

I've given away or used over 30 m of fabric so far. I can nearly close the laundry door...

I have bought a bit of a stash of wool this year though.. and I'm trying to keep my stash on ravelry up to date too.

Around the Block ~ Louise and Sheridan

2011-05-29T22:52:00.001+10:00

With the dark and miserable weather, I still haven't managed to photograph my post-sewjourn projects. I'll get there! It was another fantastic weekend with the girls, full of inspiration, laughs and even a bit of sewing.

This year has been a real struggle with all the kids at school and work being crazy as usual, and not so much sewing has been done. I've fallen a bit behind with Around the Block but hopefully I will be catching up over the next few weeks and back in front again.

The two blocks in sweet red, white and blue fabric are for Louise, who requested 10.5" blocks with a star or whirligig theme. I may have missed the mark a bit with my first block which looked like it had more movement in my book, but I have my fingers crossed that they will both work in a toddlers quilt for Louise's son.

The second block is for Sheridan, who requested a 14.5" block in a Mondrian style. I enjoyed making this block and doing my best to balance out the strong colours and all the white. Sheridan asked for a "less is more" approach which is a bit of a struggle for a "love that detail" person like me. I'm pleased with this bold block though and I think the finished quilt will be striking.

Hello Sewjourn!

2011-05-20T10:15:00.000+10:00

It's that time again, and we are off to Sewjourn. I'm looking forward to seeing all those crafty girls!

Hopefully lots to show you when we get back.

Crafty Keepers ..

2011-05-12T17:07:00.000+10:00

A couple of weeks ago, I showed a sneak peek of one of the projects I was working on for Quilt Fabric Delights online event, Let's Stitch.

I based my two projects around paper pieced three inch stars. So tiny! The projects were revealed on Let's Stitch this week, so I'm pleased I can show you the Crafty Keepers ~ Needle Case. This needle case has 4 pockets inside, plus felt for the needles and pins, and the back has pretty strips of fabric to match the strips on the project bag.

And the Crafty Keepers ~ Project Bag. Both projects were hand quilted with matching dmc thread too.

Miss Maya in Pink ..

2011-05-07T13:54:00.001+10:00

Maya had a birthday party to go to today, and the theme was "dress in your number 1 favourite colour". Maya loves pink, being a 5 year old girl in a house full of boys. I don't dress her in much pink these days and I've cut down on how many outfits I make and buy for her now she is at school and in uniform so much of the time.

Do you recognise Maya's skirt? It's the Oliver + S Hopscotch Skirt pattern made with pale pink baby cord.

I've been under a lot of pressure at work for the past couple of months and it hasn't left me much time for sewing or concentrating. Like all Oliver + S patterns, the skirt comes together step by step, which was lucky as it took me over a week to gradually get the skirt together. Not hard at all but lots of little details. As you can see the pockets are a hit too.

On Your Toes .. Socks for Kane..

2011-04-30T16:53:00.000+10:00

I did a trade with Kane a few weeks ago. He would sort and size a bunch of dpn's that I had bought from the Op Shop and in exchange I would knit him a pair of socks. I think he must have been reading over my shoulder when I've been reading Lucy's and Lesley's blogs :)

So my first go was these toe up socks. The first sock has a few mistakes but the second one turned out really well. There is a bit of room to grow in the toes. I'm not silly! Up on Ravelry here

And Kane's choice of photo styling... with a box. Kids!

Getting Ready for "Let's Stitch" ..

2011-04-25T15:54:00.000+10:00

Have you seen the online event at Quilt Fabric Delights, Let's Stitch? I've been working on two projects for this event . Commencing on 2 May and running through the month, online patterns from the creative team and other designers will be released on a secure website, along with competitions and games for just $45. Great value!

Just a little sneaky peak of one of the projects which has been keeping me busy this month.

Happy Easter 2011 ..

2011-04-24T17:51:00.000+10:00

I hope everyone has had a happy Sunday. I think we have our own weight in chocolate in the house right now...

We had organised to catch up with my youngest sister and her family today at a local bird park. Ayden needs everything photographed for Facebook of course so here he is with an endangered Red Tailed Black Cockatoo on his shoulder. My sister texted my to say the whole family was coming up to meet us. We though she meant her husbands family - but it was all of mine! All 17 of us in the one place and excluding Ayden, all the kids were aged 11 to 1, I'm surprised the birds would come anywhere near us!

It's going to be hard to crack open these bunnies. A mama rabbit with four babies- thanks Matt!

Twinkle.. Twinkle

2011-04-15T17:07:00.002+10:00

For the past couple of weeks or so I've been trying to make tiny little stars. These little ones are paper pieced and are 3" finished.

Now I have the paper pieces all worked out and a few made I can get on with writing and making the rest of the pattern!

And from little stars to big ones. Ayden's just tolerating me with the camera of course - got to love 17 year old boys. Recently I went to Ayden's graduation for his Cert 2 in Retail, which he completed through a traineeship at his casual job. At least 13 hours a week at work (more like 17 hours a week..) for a year, with additional formal training.

He did so well while getting great marks for Yr 11 at school and finished Yr 12 Geography too. He has signed up for the Cert 3 too this year. I'm so proud of hm and all of his hard work.

Tutorial ~ Book Buddies Drawstring Bags

2011-03-29T13:29:00.000+11:00

I'm pleased to be able to show a bit more sewing behind the scenes! I've made these two cute and practical drawstring bags with an applique robot or panda and the tutorial is up today on Sew Mama Sew.

Just right for a quick gift or to help get your kids organised! Thanks again Beth and Kristen at Sew Mama Sew.

Wonderland Dress ~ Make it Perfect

2011-03-25T19:48:00.000+11:00

Once again we were lucky enough to test patterns for Toni at Make it Perfect. It looks like Maya is growing out of size 5 dresses, so how fantastic that Toni's patterns now come in sizes 0 -5, and 6 -10. Hooray, we won't need to retire!

Wonderland is a pretty dress that can be worn as for celebrations, but not the fancy dress that hangs in the wardrobe all the time and only comes out for the Santa photo's. It buttons up the back, has a sweet pleated skirt and cute trim to edge the hem and the sleeves. Have a look at Toni's beautiful photos and giveaway here.

Maya's doesn't usually scooter in a dress and party shoes, but wanted a very quick break from modelling :)

Block-a-Palooza ~ Blocks 13 & 14

2011-03-18T18:54:00.000+11:00

Our computer has been off having a tune up for the past week. Who knew having so many emails could crash the outlook file. Well, actually we do as it's the second time it's happened. I'm really sorry if you haven't heard back from me in the last week or so. I'll get there!

Block-a-Palooza is nearly finished with only two blocks to go, that are lying cut out on my dining table. Joy, a bit of Friday night sewing on the way.

The first block picture was designed by Ryan Walsh Quilts and its a great fresh take on modern flying geese. The block can be downloaded here

This block was another fun one and designed by Tia at Camp Follower Bags and can be downloaded here.

Maya's Molly Bolero

2011-03-14T19:24:00.000+11:00

Thanks for all the help with yarn sites! I'm so pleased to find a few new links and I know a few other bloggers will be visiting the sites too. Bendigo Woollen Mills seem to be a favourite and I had forgotten about them.

Last year when I was commuting a lot for work I was knitting on the train and I haven't blogged it. I made Maya this little bolero which she wears often to swimming lessons. She feels like a ballerina in this one. I've added it to ravelry here. I used one of Bendigo's Classic wools in pink. I've been back for an online visit this weekend and bought some more yarn for another project for Maya and one for myself.

I couldn't resist this pic of Maya winking. I'm, glad now she is a school girl she can still do a bit of blog posing for me. There was a bit more online shopping from me this weekend - oh, I have been soooo good lately. I couldn't resist some wool from Quince & co that I have had my eye on for awhile.

My Creative Space .. Where do you buy yarn?

2011-03-10T16:52:00.001+11:00

It's knitting again in my creative space.

I've been asking Kate questions for ages about her green cardi. Just love it and if I could have found the same yarn I would have made one exactly the same. But I couldn't so mine is pink (but a much duller pink than it looks in the pic).

So here is me, with a Ravelry list of favorites as long as my arm, but not sure where to get a good bargain, or great postage or good wool. I'm not impressed locally. Can you help me with your favorite links..please?

For more creative spaces, visit Kristy

Double Trouble ~ Callum turns 10..

2011-03-09T17:02:00.000+11:00

Remember your first "double digits" birthday. Turning 10 was so special. Callum is the youngest in his grade, and the youngest boy at his school, so he was so keen to turn the big 1.0.

So much fun! Happy birthday Scruffy xxx

Block-a-Palooza ~ Blocks 11 & 12

2011-03-07T13:44:00.018+11:00

This weekend I managed to finally get up to date with the Block-a-Palooza blocks. Only four more to go!

I've only had to get the seam ripper out once, and it was for this block in a big way. I managed to miss the bit where I had to trim all the half square triangles, so I had to pull most of it apart and do the trimming and start again. Not like me at all :). This block was designed by Tacha from the Fat Quarterly team and can be downloaded here.

Block 12 was a nice and quick one, and I am enjoying the no waste flying geese method now I am down to limited fabric! This block was designed by Jennifer at Sugar Stitches and can be dowloaded here.

Block-a-Palooza ~ Blocks 10 and 11

2011-03-06T19:43:00.000+11:00

I've promised my self that I won't start sewing my Single Girl Quilt until I have some other sewing commitments out of the way. I do have a pretty impressive blister on my finger from the scissors rubbing while I hand cut all those templates out... and I would like to cut out another four rings ...

The Block-a-Palooza has been promised as a donation to the Queensland Flood relief so I'm working away at it. Just look at those tiny little flying geese on the block above! This block was designed by Scott at Blue Nickle Design and can be downloaded here.

This cute block was designed by Amy from Amy's Creative Side and can be downloaded here. I'm starting to run short of some fabrics so there is a lot of measuring and careful fabric selection form here on in.

Two more blocks to show you tomorrow. I'm all caught up again.

My Creative Space .. Admitting my quirks

2011-02-24T17:00:00.000+11:00

I'm still trying to blog my knitting. Stash busting here with a few beanies to go to the Ballarat Soup Kitchen to give away for those in need. This red wool doesn't photograph well, but it's a beautiful cherry red.

Admitting my quirks. Always mean to grab some stitch markers, but the kids little blue circles from their Knex, or just a safety pin threaded onto the needle just has to do sometimes. A crafter in need ..

More creative spaces at Kristy

Block-a-Palooza ~ Blocks 7 & 8

2011-02-23T19:13:00.000+11:00

As promised, here are the next two blocks from the Block-a-Palooza, on Flickr, which took us to the half way mark - still time to join..

The first block is pretty bright but I wanted to introduces a few more of the fabrics in the Wildwood range. The block is called "Orange you glad I picked a nine patch" by Heather at House of A La Mode and can be downloaded here.

The eight block is a bit different with a machine appliqued basket of geese in the centre. The block is called "Basket of Geese" and is by Angela at Moda Home Mom. The block can be downloaded here.

Block- a-Palooza ~ Blocks 5 & 6

2011-02-22T15:18:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I was down with some type of virus. The sort that won't let you do anything much, or even think clearly. I managed to get three loads of washing onto the line (as the laundry almost feels like a hobby I do so much of it..) and photograph my Block-a-Palooza blocks to add to flickr.

The top block I was brave and decided to add a solid. The fabric was thicker and firmer than my wildwood fabrics and made it a bit trickier with the accurate seams and points in this block. The block is called Geesey McNinePatch, designed by Kaye at Miss Print and can be downloaded here.

It's getting trickier and trickier to work with my limited fabric from my stash on this quilt. I wasn't sure about adding the pink but it seems to pop okay. This block is called "You Are Here" and was designed by Monica at the Happy Zombie, and can be downloaded here.

I''ll blog the next two block tomorrow. I'm all caught up!

My Creative Space .. Honey Cowl

2011-02-17T16:32:00.000+11:00

I've joined my creative space today with my knitting. I rarely blog my knitting and thought I really should. The kids think I mad knitting a "neck warmer" in summer, especially when I pull it out at the University pool during swimming lessons. You know how it is, more about having something to do with your hands that what you are creating sometimes. That's knitting for me. This is the Honey Cowl, a free pattern from Madelinetosh. I've cast on 160 stitches for a mid sized cowl and it is a very easy knit.

More creative spaces here.

Of course I am a proud mama, so excuse the bad photo, last Friday was Ayden's formal welcome to the school as Yr 12 Environment Leader.

Maya's Panda Bag ..

2011-02-09T19:46:00.001+11:00

Poor Maya came home with a borrowed library bag last week. I had such good intentions but was caught up in everything else, including making library bags for two of my nieces who started school last week too. Now you know it, I'm not perfect :)

So before this weeks library lesson, the Panda bag was finished. A simple drawstring bag, with a yellow spot fabric from my stash lining it, and felt to make the appliqued panda.

I checked a few times to make sure Maya really did want a bag that would be different to the other kids and that she did want a panda appliqued to the front. She did. Kane gave his stamp of approval too. I'll enjoy it while it lasts.

Thanks too, Jodie for the gifted felt. Beautiful to work with.

Block-a-Palooza Blocks 2,3 & 4

2011-02-06T17:09:00.002+11:00

This been a big week, with all the kids back at school and me back to work. Lots of new routines and even more changes this week.

Gradually I have been working through the Block-a-Palooza blocks. Block two is called "Word Search" and took me ages and can be downloaded here from Oh, Fransson. 81 little 2" squares, that were trimmed after they were sewn into 9 patches. I am pleased with it now its done!

Block three is called "Shoo fly Geese" and can be downloaded here. A quick, fun block to make and nice to add a bit of green to my blocks too.

Block four is named "Gingham Pinwheel" and can be downloaded here from Lizzy House. This one came together quickly too.

These blocks are all sized 12" finished and would make great donation blocks for Corrie at Retromummy's Flood Appeal. My plan is to donate the finished quilt or quilt top to this cause. The Wildwood fabrics remind me of Queensland too.

See more inspirational blocks at the flickr group here.

Our Middle School Boy ..

2011-02-01T20:31:00.000+11:00

It's a year of beginnings and endings at our house. Today was Callum's first day at Middle School.

It's a big step in Grade 5 to move to a whole new, large campus where the kids are much larger than you. The kids start their laptop program and you can see Callum clutching onto his new tablet laptop. He had a training day last week and they were all told how to look after them, including how to carry them. It's his new pride and joy and makes him feel like on of the big kids, just like the change in uniform to white shirts and walk socks. He even caught the bus home with Ayden.

Everyone is looking so grown up at our house. It's hard to believe how fast the years are going past.

Back to the real job today too. Those holidays went way too fast. Oh, and Maya was on the local news tonight!

Our School Girl ...

2011-01-31T13:30:00.001+11:00

Finally Maya has the chance to wear her school uniform and new school shoes, and to put the new red ribbons and hairclips in her hair. Her first day of primary school. Hello Preppie.

Our big school girl. A few tears from me that I held back until I was in the car leaving, but what an exciting time for Maya. So many new friendships, challenges and experiences xx

My Creative Space ~ Wonky Butterfly Quilt

2011-01-27T16:26:00.000+11:00

I've been quietly working away at this wonky butterfly quilt using Bliss fabrics. It's all quilted now with some wriggly lines and the binding is on, ready to stitch down by hand in front of the tv for the next few nights.

For more creative spaces, visit Kristy here

Australia Day 2011

2011-01-26T17:46:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to Robyn, who was the winner of the Queensland Flood Appeal Auction. I hope your new grandson enjoys your new quilt and bag and thank you so much for your generosity, Robyn. Another $280 to help assist our community and a special thanks to Toni and Carli for organising the auctions to raise $99,089. Awesome!

Well, it's Australia Day here, and we have spent it traditionally listening to the Triple J Hottest 100. Music is pretty big in our family and I guess we will forever be listening to the "youth radio" station :)

I've made a start on the first Block-a-Palooza block with a tutorial up a Quilt Dad. These Wildwood fabrics by Erin Morris are all from the stash. I'm getting there!

Holidays

2011-01-24T16:24:00.000+11:00

Flood Appeal Auction closes tonight. Just a last minute reminder if you would like to bid. Wow, $280 raised so far. Just love the generosity of bloggers!

I've been holding off the holidays post, to keep the auction on the top of the blog, but we have done so much! We have spent time with friends and family, gone bowling, painted up at the Plaster Fun House in Ballarat, visited the pool for a few swims, gone to the movies, spent a lot of time (and money) fitting all four kids out in school uniforms, shoes and books. The highlights have been our family trip to the Melbourne Zoo, and our holiday at Port Fairy.

The kids too so many pics of the animals, but I took pics of the kids. All of them posing on a stone elephant

Maya is a bit of a shy little girl in public, so I was surprised when she decided to line up and wait, and wait to have her face painted. The butterfly house was one of the places she really wanted to visit at the zoo. The kids all love their bugs.

We managed a couple of nights away at Port Fairy, one of our favourite places to be. Maybe one of our last family holidays so any chance to get the kids together is fantastic. Ayden does look a bit big with the other kids..

We did an hour long walk around the Shearwater colony and visited the lighthouse, before a boat ride and spent a lot of time at the beach.

We stayed in the converted bluestone mill you can see in the background. Beautiful x

Auction ~ Queensland Flood Appeal ~ Baby Quilt and Bag

2011-01-14T15:58:00.002+11:00

With the rains and devastation continuing in Queensland, I couldn't wait until Monday to get my Auction up and running. I hope we can donate and help as much as possible.

Thank you so much to Toni, for organising the fundraising initiative. My heart is warmed to see bloggers all over the world once again dig deep to support those in Australia.

The Auction is for the Baby Quilt which measures 39" square along with the "It's an Adventure" bag. The quilt has been quilted with a decorative machine stitch in a diamond pattern, and on the back is a pale dusky blue backing.

The bag features a patchwork front and back panel, with hand quilting in a diamond pattern using blue dmc thread. On the front the words "It's an Adventure" have been embroidered in a dark blue dmc thread. I have appliqued a rocket with two little bear adventures peeping out, and several stars.

The back of the bag shows the patchwork detail. The bag is quite large and measures 16" h x 15.5" w excluding the handles. The interior is lined with a yellow and white stripe fabric and it closes with a magnetic closure. This bag was featured in Australian Homespun Magazine and was shown on the front cover of issue 9.12

How this auction works:
1. Bidding will start at $30 (Australian).

2. You can place a bid by leaving a comment on this blog post with your bid amount and email address. Please make sure that your bid is higher than the previous bidder.

3. Your bid must be in whole dollar increments.
4. This auction is open to everyone and POSTAGE is INCLUDED. Yes, even international postage.

5. The auction begins NOW and will END at midnight on Monday 24th January 2011, my Australian time.

6. At the close of the auction, I will contact the winner (please make sure your bid comment includes your email address). The winner will pay the winning amount directly into the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal and send me proof of payment via email. Once proof of payment has been received, I will post your bag and quilt to you.

7. Thank you for participating and happy bidding!

Queensland Flood Relief Appeal Auctions

2011-01-11T14:52:00.001+11:00

Queensland and Northern New South Wales are suffering devastating flooding, with lives lost and people are missing. People have lost their homes, business and their possessions, and farmers have lost their crops. As I type areas of Brisbane, the capital of Queensland are being evacuated. The rains are still coming.

If you have a blog or a craft business and you can donate or make an item to be auctioned to help raise money for the Queensland Governments Relief Fund, please visit Toni at the Make it Perfect blog, check out the post and offer your assistance. If not, then Toni will have a master list of bloggers next week where you can bid on an item in their auctions.

On Monday I will have up for Auction, with postage included, The "It's an Adventure" bag featured in Homespun Magazine, along with a baby quilt.

Thanks for reading and I hope we can all do a little bit to help those in need x

Tutorial ~ How to make a charm square butterfly

2011-01-10T16:19:00.001+11:00

As requested, here is a quick tutorial on how to make a wonky butterfly block using charm squares. These are quick and fun to make, and have been inspired by the quilt being made here

You will need, 1 charm square cut in half, a centre strip measuring 5½" x 1¼" and four rectangles measuring 2" x 3¾" from your background fabric.

To create the first wing, take one of your charm square pieces and place a background rectangle on top, right sides together, as shown in the pic. Repeat with second rectangle, to create a V shape. Make sure that your background fabric extends past the charm square. You can vary the angle of your background fabric to adjust the sharpness or wonkiness of your butterflies wing. I'm going for a fairly gently angle with a bit of wonkiness. Repeat to create the second wing

Sew with a quarter inch seam along the outside edge of the background fabric. Trim of the excess wing fabric using your rotary cutter and ruler.

Press your seams towards the darker fabric

Using a ruler and rotary cutter, trim the background fabric so it is level with the top and bottom of the charm square.

Trim the block so it measures 5½" wide

Repeat the above steps with the second wing. Sew the centre strip between each wing piece.

Press the seams towards the centre.

Trim your finished block to 5" square. Finished! A great way to use up charm squares and a few scraps.

Charm Square Butterflies ..

2011-01-09T15:46:00.000+11:00

I've worked out what to do with my charm squares - Butterflies! Based at a tutorial here, I've modified the fabric requirements to make these butterflies. Lots more to make and then I'll trim them down to their finished 5" squares. All the butterfly centres are coming from my scrap tub, so there will be a lot of variation there.

We all went to see the new Disney Movie Tangled today in 3D. Such a funny movie that we all enjoyed. Worth seeing it for the horse alone! The giveaway for 2 x Family Passes closes today - comment here if you would like the chance win.

I had seen read a few good reviews for Tangled, but it really exceeded our expectations. Great to see a movie that everyone had a different favourite scene.

Around the Block for Becky and Abbe ..

2011-01-07T16:43:00.000+11:00

Towards the end of December, Matt took the kids overnight to see his family in Gippsland, leaving me at home by myself for the first time ever!

With the craziness that December brings I was pleased to catch up on a bit of sewing while they were away.

The first two blocks are for Becky, who requested pink and green blocks with the theme of Triangles. I hope it is okay with Becky but my maths wasn't too fantastic on one of the blocks and I ended up featuring more of my added fabric than I planned to. I will include some scraps in the package back so Becky has the chance to incorporate it somewhere else in the quilt if she chooses.

These blocks will make a very cute and fresh quilt for Becky's daughter Possum.

Happily last night I managed to resew Abbe's block. I just loved making this block, with the random strip length and widths. Abbe's theme was a stacked block, and I think they will look fantastic!

Good and not so good ..

2011-01-05T16:02:00.002+11:00

Good. A month off work starting tomorrow - Hooray! It's been a biiiggggg year at the "real job". Not so good is the report that I still need to finish :(

Good. A crafty afternoon picnic and catch up with some lovely people. Maya and I met up with Andi, her kids and her parents, Kate and her three girls, Jodie, Lizzie and Annie. So good.

Not so good

Unpicking this block for Abbe after I mismarked the centre and ended up cutting it too short on one side when I was trimming it to size on the end. Luckily I think I have enough fabric left over to remake one side of it. I was so pleased with it until I noticed what I had done!

Embroidered Library Bag for a Preppie ..

2011-01-03T18:23:00.000+11:00

The other handmade gift I made for my niece Tiahni was a library bag. Both my sisters little girls are going into prep next year, like Maya, so I have also promised that I will make one that says Jada.

There is a simple little ribbon drawstring to pull the bag closed and my sister Liz just loved it. The stitchery is a free download by Sarah Jane Studios and can be found here

And the best thing for Maya about visiting her cousins - cuddling a guinea pig!

Popover dress for Tiahni ..

2011-01-02T19:38:00.000+11:00

Poor Maya was sent outside in the cool evening air for a quick pic of the dress I made today for her cousin Tiahni. I thought this year that I should try and take more photo's of all the things I make and donate or give away as gifts.

This is the Oliver + s Popover dress, a free download here. I love this pattern for a quick dress that gets so much use at our house. I've made this version with my favourite fabric from the Melly & me range - the blue pinwheels.

One more handmade gift still to work on. Fingers crossed it's finished before the party tomorrow!

What I thought I would do ..

2011-01-01T17:49:00.003+11:00

Happy New Year!

Back in November I joined the Bloggers Quilt Festival. It was a fantastic way to see so many quilts and read their stories. I was so surprised when I was selected for a prize from Sew Fun Fabrics. Tisha's customer service was absolutely fantastic, and a bit extra came home to me - I couldn't resist. I'm planning to make some skirts from the Bliss fabric, and I ordered some charm squares too - I've never used them before. The fabric came awhile ago but I have been a bit slow in showing it off.

What I thought for 2011 was that I would record on the blog how much fabric I used/gave away and bought/won/was given. My hope is that I will buy around 1 metre for every 2 metres that I use. Often I am given fabric in return for making or designing an item, so that will have to go in my "bought" list. Fingers crossed I might even win a giveaway one day too :) Of course I will still buy fabric, but I would like to get the stash down to a more manageable level. What do you think? Are you up to it too? You can keep it private or list it on your blog.

Don't forget my Nuffnang sponsored giveaway here too - two lots of family tickets to see the new Disney movie Tangled.

Goodbye 2010 ..

2010-12-31T15:30:00.000+11:00

Goodbye 2010. It's been a bit of a mixed year. Lots of good - how can you help that with four kids? Lots to smile about. Some craftiness, magazine projects, tutorials up on Quilt Fabric Delights and Sew Mama Sew, two trips to Sewjourn and catching up with friends. The "real job" was too full on this year but looking positive for 2011 and if I could, I would just delete the month of June from 2010, except for the bits of house reno we did then :)

I'm hoping for a 2011 where everything turns down a notch. Where we get to stop a bit and enjoy what is going on around us. A great start to school for Maya, a fantastic last year for Ayden and that Callum doesn't get lost on the bus or lose his laptop as he moves to middle school and a happy year for Kane. A good family holiday for us too is on the wish list.

Maybe a bit of time to sew and design for me too...

Thanks again for visiting me for another year! Wishing you and your families the happiest of years - 2011 x

Spiderweb for Amy..

2010-12-28T14:33:00.001+11:00

Just in time to make the December deadline for Around the Block II, I've finished off this Spiderweb block for Amy.

Amy sent out fabric mostly from the Early Bird range by Cosmo Cricket with scraps in a fresh yellow, green, grey-blue and vintage red. We used a tutorial from Heather a la Mode. I enjoyed making this block as it is one that I have been meaning to try, and much easier than I thought. Amy's quilt should look fantastic when it is all put together. Such a good block for a quilting bee.

Great to use up scraps and feature some novelty fabrics too.

Our Christmas..

2010-12-26T12:50:00.004+11:00

Our Christmas was just lovely. The buildup was frantic with Matt and I having work commitments until nearly the last minute but everything came together in the end.

On Christmas Eve, the kids and I went for a Christmas lunch at my mums house, about 45 minutes out of Ballarat. A good break, then it was running back for Ayden to go to the casual job, and for me to finish another report for work.

The kids didn't wake us up too early :) There were presents to open and so pretty excited kids. After breakfast it was riding scooters on the back street.

"Where do snowmen go to dance? To a snowball." hahahahaha

After lunch we walked/drove/scootered down to the local lake to go for a walk and drive the remote control boat in the water. A few ducks were chased .. A perfect day. I was very ready for a walk!

We have eaten too much, caught up with friends and family and had a whole day off. Our Christmas. I hope you all had a great day x

Happy Christmas!

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From me and my monkeys, to you and yours. We hope you have a wonderful, peaceful and safe celebration, Christmas or your celebration. Thank you everyone for visiting my blog this year! xx Rachel

The last day, ever ..

2010-12-23T15:39:00.000+11:00

Today was the last day for Maya at creche. It ends our 16 years at the centre where we are their longest serving family. I was a young mum aged 22 when Ayden started and now I'm a 38 year old, older mum as Maya finishes.

Long term readers will know how much we appreciate this centre. It's small, personal and every child is happy to be there. So lucky. There were tears this morning when we said goodbye and Maya handed over our flowers and card. Not from Maya though, she is excited to be going off to school next year like her brothers.

For each of the carers in Maya's room I made a little gift bag. Stitcheries were designed by Bronwyn Hayes and Lynette Anderson. Just the right size for a box of chocolates xx

Win tickets to Tangled – New Disney Animated Movie Giveaway

2010-12-21T10:00:00.047+11:00

Sponsored by Nuffnang

Keep reading for a chance to win $500 and movie tickets for a family of four!

My kids love a bit of a completion, so when Nuffnang asked me to write a post about boys verses girls, an ongoing theme in the new Disney Animated Movie - Tangled, we were so happy to gather some bits and pieces and go off to the lake for a boat race. Boys verses girls of course.

An old foam box was salvaged, and the kids used lots of bits and pieces left over from Christmas decorating projects and sticks from the park to make their boats. Luckily it was a beautiful day in Ballarat and just right for a couple of hours at the park.

Of course, Callum, Kane and Maya all though their boats were the best! Maya managed to add a bit of tinsel and some flowers to hers just to make sure it was girly enough.

Ayden did give Maya a bit of help, but her boat went just as well as the boys! The winner was the first boat that made it to the other end, and we could get it out of the water.

So much fun. The kids spent ages making their boats and sailing them. There’s nothing like a bit of healthy completion to get their imaginations going. Callum was the winner in the end – yay boys and nice try Maya!

Tangled is a new, 3D Animated Movie by Disney. Just love the trailer that you can watch here – I am going to enjoy seeing this with the whole family. Don’t we all love a dashing bandit?

Tangled is based upon the story of Rapunzel . The teenage princess Rapunzel is locked up in her tower with her 70 feet of magical hair, longing for adventure. Lucky for Rapunzel there is a swash buckling bandit who will take her off on a hair raising escapade. A musical comedy with something for everyone, animated and in 3D!

Thanks to Nuffnang and Disney two comments will have the chance to win family pass (4 tickets) to see Tangled. Just leave a short comment telling me something funny that happened to you as a kid. Competition runs commences on Tuesday 21 December and closes on Sunday 9 January 2011. Don’t forget your email address.

To be in with a chance to win $500, on the Nuffnang Community Contest, write a blog post using your personal experience about the funniest boy vs girls moment you can think of. The most creative post wins $500. Competition commences on Tuesday 21 December and closes on Sunday 9 January 2011. A winner will be selected across the participating blogs, and sorry this is for Australian residents only. Full Terms and Conditions can be found here.

What's happening?

2010-12-20T17:24:00.000+11:00

I've been working behind the scenes like a mad woman! On Sunday it was my youngest niece Ruby's 1st birthday and a chance to get together with my family. I've only got a small family and the pic is it - everyone in Australia. My mum and her husband Paul, my sisters Chris and Liz, their husbands Kevin and Jonty, their kids Tiahni and Nate, Harmony, Jada and Ruby, Matt and I, with our kids Ayden, Callum, Kane and Maya. We were posed together to record a happy birthday for my grandma in England who turns 90 during December.

I decided to make clothes for all the kids, except Harmony who is turning 12. Thank goodness for Make it Perfect patterns as I made the girls Fab Frocks and Nate a pair of shorts with the shark raw edge applique from Toni's book. Maybe it will be a bit warmer at Christmas and I will get some pics!

I'm still working on this santa sack for a friends new baby. The appliques are made using a reduced version of the Wee Wonderfuls Gnome pattern. I couldn't resist using some of the new fabrics by Rosalie Quinlan in this one.

Have you been to see Corrie at Retro Mummy. Corrie has the best giveaway on for two packs of 20 fat quarters in the new flower sugar fabric. Go here for a chance to win.

Kris Kringle Gift ..

2010-12-15T17:54:00.002+11:00

On Saturday night it was dinner out for the crafty ladies who meet at Annie's house each fortnight. I just love it when I can catch up with this group of ladies who have so many different talents, and to see what's new in Annie's very productive sewing room.

We each had to bring a Kris Kringle gift that was randomly picked. I made this little gift bag featuring a stitchery from Cinderberry Stitches and it is backed with the same pink fabric as the handles you can see peeking out. There was some red and green large floral fabric too and a ladybug pincushion, designed by Rosalie Quinlan.

Thanks too for all the comments on my giveaway post. A package was sent off today to Andrea at the Humming Cat! Keep an eye on the blog as there should be a sponsored giveaway coming soon ...

The One Day, Christmas Giveaway!

2010-12-12T12:53:00.001+11:00

I've been a bit blog-quiet this week with the ongoing Christmas events and trying to make enough hand made Christmas gifts. There is a bit of a pile of cut out clothing for my nieces and nephew looking a bit neglected and a santa sack for a friends new baby spread out all over the dining table..

I thought I might say a bit of a thank you, and also offer the chance to win these completed sitcheries which may give you a bit of a head start or help with last minute gifts. The stitcheries are designed by Wee Wonderfuls and are available as a free download. Mine are backed with pellon, iron badly (sorry) and trimmed to 5" x 8.5"

Also there are these two Melly & me patterns, both new, for Rudy and Bonza and Beaut.

I'll draw the giveaway tomorrow, Monday at 5pm. Thank you Followers - if you are a follower, please let me know in your comment and there will be two chances for you! Just make sure I can contact you.

Saturday in the sunshine ..

2010-12-04T19:48:00.002+11:00

Today was the creche family Christmas picnic. Santa arrived in a white vintage car, and Maya wore her Fab Frocks dress designed by Make it Perfect, which I made at Sewjourn. Just love the pink and orange together on this one.

It was such a surprise when the creche staff presented us with this rose "Remember Me". I was holding back tears when I accepted it. Saying goodbye in a couple of weeks, after 16 years is going to be very hard.

Maya came home with a Charlie and Lola book from Santa. She is pretty pleased too.

Luckily I prepared some earlier ...

2010-11-28T17:59:00.000+11:00

Not a lot of time to sew this week with all the school events. We might have a bit of a break with Callum and Kane both going to school camp this week. Maya has her second go at school for prep orientation on Wednesday. She has decided that she does like school and would like to go next year. There are three other "new kids" in her class (the others went to kindergarten at the school) and I was a bit nervous for her breaking into an established group.

Luckily I had finished a few more stitcheries for Maya's cat quilt. The top pic is the last block from the Red Brolly Catalicious Block of the Month, and I found the other two in one of Bronwyns books.

I hope everyone had a good weekend. Ayden clocked up another almost 2 hours of driving experience. Teaching him to drive is up there with the scariest thing I have ever done ...

Grade 4 Graduation Day

2010-11-24T14:38:00.001+11:00

It must be nearly Christmas because we have a child-related events on every night this week. Last night was Callum's Grade 4 graduation ceremony. It's off to Middle School next year, and a whole new campus.

The kids put on a great show and the school had organised the kids prep photo's to be shown next to their grade 4 photo's with a quote about what they are looking forward to next year. Callum's was different to most of the kids who were looking forward to a cafeteria and their own laptops. Callum is looking forward to catching the bus home with Ayden. I wonder how long that will last (and Ayden is not looking forward to it at all!)

Callum was Environment Leader this year, and he is pictured in front of some of the vegetable gardens that he shared responsiblity for, and helped to supported the school selling vegetables too,
Tonight is the Visual and Performing arts showcase .. I really need to get on with those costumes ..

17 years old ~ Happy Birthday Ayden!

2010-11-22T09:11:00.032+11:00

It's not easy getting a 17 year old boy to pose for blog pics. Since he is so 6'5 I had to stand on the high bit of the verandah and he put up with me telling him to smile. So much easier with a 5 year old..

How lucky are we! We have so many reasons to be proud of Ayden with his kindness, generosity, work ethic, the way he always put his hand up to help and accepts a challenge, and the big brother he is to the smaller monkeys.

Happy Birthday Ayden. Have a great day out with your mates and we hope 17 is AWESOME

Kate C's Mosaic Blocks ~ November Around the Block

2010-11-21T16:20:00.000+11:00

For Around the Block, my November choice was these Mosaic Blocks for Kate C. They are large 16" finished blocks with such fantastic, fresh fabrics to work with.

Kate only asked for one block, but since I was making half square triangles it was almost as easy to make two squares. I like how they have turned out and the impact of the large blocks and the mix of colours. And I managed to avoid pattern writing for that much longer too :)

Afterglow ~ New Make it Perfect Pattern

2010-11-20T12:43:00.000+11:00

Today there is antoher new pattern release from Toni at Make it Perfect. Aren't I lucky to be a pattern tester! Afterglow is a nighty or a dress with ties at the back. Lots of cute detail on this one with gathered sleeves, a pleated front and binding around the neck. I made Maya the version with a tie back so she can wear it as a dress.

Toni has some very sweet pictures of Lil up on the Make it Perfect blog .. with another giveaway too!

New Make it Perfect Pattern ~ Playtime Skort

2010-11-19T18:47:00.000+11:00

Toni has been frantically writing patterns for us to test and the big reveal was up on the Make it Perfect blog today. So here is Maya in the Playtime Skort. It's made from comfy knit fabric and features a cute bubble skirt - the underside is bright pink to match the waistband. The skirt is combined with short bike pants to stop little girls from always showing their undies.

The pattern has variations for the skort, bike shorts, bubble skirt and a single layer skirt as well as a reverse applique pattern for a tshirt. What a versatile pattern!

Visit Toni for more cute pics and a chance to win the pattern. There will be two more patterns released over the weekend with more giveaways too.

I hope you are not tired of seeing pics of Maya. At the moment its full on pattern testing and new clothes for summer. In only two months Maya will be off to school and wearing a uniform. I'm not quite sure how I will go without a child's company at home during the day ..