Quilty's Corner

Do You Have Permission to Pin?

2012-02-26T08:09:00.000Z

Or maybe the more important question is, "Did you know that you need permission to pin?" What? If you're on Pinterest, you need to read this blog post!

Recently, I read a disturbing article, Pinterest Users Need to Read the Fine Print, and I learned that when we signed up for Pinterest, we actually agreed to the following terms

We own the rights to images we are pinning.
We grant full rights to Pinterest to use those images in any fashion! Don't believe it? You can read the Pinterest Terms here.

Seems like a site that's set up for sharing and collaborating would make these terms more obvious when someone signs up. Am I going to take down all my Pinterest boards? No way! But because I'm now aware of these terms, I have changed how I'm going to use Pinterest. I'm no longer going to pin images directly from someone's site or blog unless I have permission. If you have a blog, be sure to read the whole article to find out how you can give me and others permission to pin.

Permission to Pin Granted!

The Newest member of our family

2011-04-10T13:48:00.001+01:00

Introducing... Pansy!

Yes I know it's a strange name, but it's the one the girls wanted for this handsome fella. He's only 8 weeks old, so has a lot of growing to do, but already he's adored and reasonably friendly.
Wonder how long it will take the novelty to wear off?
The girls are all outside with the rabbit enjoying this rare bit of hot sunshine we are having.
I hope it lasts a while as the Easter holidays begin in a week and I can't wait!!

After School Sewing Club

2011-02-18T22:36:00.000Z

Today was the last day of half term and I am so glad to be having a weeks break.
It has been a very busy 7 weeks and a much needed rest is well overdue.

The after school sewing club that I have ran for the last 6 years have been making their own variation of "Ugly Dolls".
This group of 7-9 year olds have blown me away with their talent.
They designed, then stitched their own creations and for most it was their very first attempt at sewing.
The standard of their work has amazed me. In six 45minute sessions they have outdone any group I have ever taught.
Usually I spend hours unpicking and fixing the work at home so the children always feel proud of their work. (I am the sewing fairy!)
This time however, all that was needed was a few needles re-threaded and some finishing off knots.
What do you think? Outstanding eh?
Next half term I am working with 6-7 year old and we are going to make Easter chicks.
Fingers crossed I have another group of super sewers.

How long?????

2011-01-09T17:15:00.000Z

How has it been since I posted??? Way too long I think.

There has been plenty of crafting going on in my house, mostly crochet and knitting at the moment. I am obssessed with colour and keep needing to inject more into my home. Perhaps it's because it's always so grey and dull at this time of year. Post Christmas blues perhaps. So without any more rambling a few pictures of the lastest makes.

My beautiful granny stripe blankie, love it sooooo much.

Snowmen made by myself, my daughter and my niece.

Halloween goody bags made by my daughter and my niece.

Granny stripe edging.

A little bit of snow!! Thank goodness it's all gone now.

New years resolutions?....

I must remeber to take pictures of everything I make!

New year means a new term at school and we are starting sewing club again. This term we a revisiting the Ugly Doll project. New kids means fresh ideas, I can't wait to see what they design.

Down in the garden BOM

2010-05-20T20:05:00.003+01:00

It is a sheer delight to be part of this Block of The month project.

Block 1

For the first time ever I have completed the blocks before the next one arrived. This is unheard of. (I have another 4 hidden away in draws in varying states of finished!) Leanne Beasley
has done a fantastic job with this design and it is a joy to make.

Block 2

Now onto the next block....

Rainbow quilt

2010-05-03T17:00:00.001+01:00

rainbow quilt
Originally uploaded by quilty2008

This bank holiday weekend has been spent helping my daughter finish the quilt she has made for her teacher who is going on maternity leave tomorrow.
It's from Melly and Me's Kaleidoscope book and was a joy to make. She chose bright zesty colours which are just beautiful, the white sashing really sets them off.
I think she's a little sad to give it away now, but I know her teacher is going to love it to bits and I'm sure her little boy when he arrives will adore it too.

More half term craftyness.

2010-02-19T07:26:00.007Z

Well I've definately got my crafty mojo back.
This week not only have a made the Lucy bag, but I've also made 3 book covers too!!!
The pattern comes from Janelle Wind and I've changed the cover by adding different stitcheries .

The first one is from Mell and Me Christmas club that I did in 2008, the stitchery was on the front of an apron for my daughter .
The second one is also a Melly and Me pattern taken from Mels book Kaleidoscope.

The last one is a stitchery sold by Allsorts I just love her stitcheries they are so cute.

So there we have it. Three book covers ready to go to their new owners next week.
Now I'm off to finish knitting my tiger for one of the story sacks I'm making. I'm loving being crafty again.

Have a good weekend all.
xx

I love Lucy bag.

2010-02-17T05:23:00.005Z

Half term has arrived and goodness was I ready for the break. January seemed to last twice as long as it ought to have. However, here we are mid February now and my crafty Mojo has finally returned after hibernating for months on end. This weeks project was to make a crochet bag using the pattern Lovely Lucy wrote. You can find it Here . It was so fast to make and in less than 2 1/2 days I had my very own I love Lucy bag.I used Patons Sorbet yarn which is a chunky yarn, cotton like feel, nice and firm for the bag.(sadly it's hard to find as it's been disscontinued, but ebay has plenty of odd balls and you could try here ) I decided it needed a lining so it would keep it's shape and last longer. So now follows a quick, badly written tutorial on how to make a bag lining.To make the base lining I measured across the diameter of the circle - the part where all the increases are- then drew a template to the same size plus 1/4 seam allowance all around, using a compass and freezer paper. The sides of the bag are made by working out (or measuring) the circumference of the base circle. I measured 1/4 of the way round then multiplied it by 4, my math skills are a little rusty. The height is taken from the last row of increase to the top of the bag, last row of triples. Add 1/2" seam allowance to both height and width measurements. Cut out the pieces.

(there should have been a picture here but it has gone missing!)

Place the two short ends of the bag side right sides together and sew to form a tube.

Mark the tube into 1/4's by folding and placing a pin at the fold. Do the same with the circle base. Right sides together, pin the tube bottom to the base piece matching the pins you have placed and slightly easing the fabric to fit. Slowly sew together.

Press your seams. Fold over the top about 1/4" and press.
Then insert the lining into your bag wrong sides together. Pin the top edge just below the shell edging all the way around, then hand sew all around.....and that's it.

New Years Day 2010

2010-01-02T08:07:00.000Z

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Goodbye 2009

2009-12-31T08:02:00.006Z

Another year has flown by, too fast in my opinion.

So fast that many things I had planned to do are left undone.

Ah well there's always next year.
December 2009

The gingerbread house is once again completed.

November 2009

A certain someone celebrates a special birthday.

October 2009

Harry Potter - scarecrow competition.

September 2009
We were so busy we didn't take any photo's!!

August 2009

A family get together at mam and dads place

July 2009

Summer holidays start and the picnics move indoors due to bad weather!!

June 2009

The first harvest from our allotment garden.

May 2009
My dancing girl wins the medals at the Morpeth Gathering clog competition

April 2009

Easter arrives with parties and egg competitions at mam and dads, Plus the chicken pinata game.

March 2009

I completed my first ever shawl this month. Still love it.

February 2009

My girls made a feast of food in the kitchen and I made aprons.

January 2009

My little millenium baby turned 9...how time flies.

Wonder what 2010 will bring?

Happy New Year to you all.

All good things come to an end.

2009-09-04T10:14:00.005+01:00

Can 7 weeks have really gone by so fast? Sadly yes. Here we are, the last day of the last week of the summer holidays. It has been a lovely break, not very restful but I didn't expect that with 4 girls to keep entertained. The time has been spent on the beach when the weather permited.

Or when the rain arrived (as it has done far too often) we stayed home and stitched or baked. This delicious Tiffin was made from Lucy's recipe and oooh it was soooo yummy. It didn't last very long I can tell you.
We spent an afteroon at the allotment picking blackberries, so ripe and squishy and sweet. Then we made apple and blackberry pie and 6 whole jars of delicious blackberry jelly. It has to be jelly in my house as we have a thing about pips in jam. But it was well worth the extra effort. 2 jars have already been eaten!!! and another 2 given away to family. We may be back for more before September is out. August ended with a bang. My dad celebrated his 70th birthday with a big party , a Hog Roast no less. It was superb and well worth the expense. The lovely catering guys came at 9.30am to set up, they put the hog in the giant roasting oven and left it their all day slowly cooking away. They served it up at 8pm and ooh it was so moist and flavoursome, I've never tated pork like it before. Sadly I haven't a decent photograph of the roasting beast. But I did find one of my sister, my girls and myself taken on the night.Don't we all look beautiful?

As a final treat to myself for surving the whole 7 weeks without loosing the plot I bought a pine dresser off Ebay for a real bargain price (lets just say it was under £50!!!) I have wanted one for years and plan to paint it eventually but for now it is in my hall with all my favourite pottery bits and pieces on it.

So there it is, hols over, September here and time to go back to work. No doubt I'll be absent for a while now so take care all, I'll be back at half term.

Edited 2.20pm ooh i forgot to add the picture of the quilt top my daughter completed this summer. She started it last year, you may remember seeing a small picture here. well, this is what it looks like now.........

Girls, girls, girls.

2009-08-09T11:58:00.004+01:00

Tent in the car, wellies, sleeping bags, waterproofs..? yes I think we're ready to go.

The first big adventure for the big girls and their girls this summer was a camping trip to the Lake District. Now despite the weather being a little iffy they were all guaranteed a bit of fun.

Map reading skills were put to the test....3 heads are always better than one.

Interesting transport modes were thought of. I hope they've remebered to take their waterproofs!

And when it all got just a little too wet....

The big girls headed indoors for a little bit of this.

And the little girls stayed in the tent for a bit of this..!

Meanwhile back on the not so sunny North East coast, some other little girls were keeping busy.

Enrolling in Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Finally they were all reunited after a wet but warm week and the sun finally decided to come out to play.

Here come the girls.....

2009-08-02T08:17:00.005+01:00

At the end of the first week of school holidays the girls decided they wanted to make something. So they had a good rummage through my pattern draw and then we set to work.

First there was fabric to choose. Ooh so much to choose from. Of course they wanted to use my brand new fabrics not the old stuff under the bed. And well I don't blame them. My fabric stash has changed so much over the years, the colours I loved 5 years or more ago just don't do it for me anymore. So I have a HUGE box under the bed full of fabric I no longer like. They wanted to use the Bubblegum basics (see examples here) and the Timeless Treasures Apple fabric, so I took a deep breath and said yes!

We then proceeded to trace, cut and sew our dolls in a conveyor belt fashion. One traced as one cut as one sewed then they all swapped. I could have done with another sewing machine, but my old one is at my mams.Never mind. The older girls managed to do it all by themselves but the youngest 2 needed a little overseeing. By Lunchtime, we had all made a start with various bits stitched and stuffed.

By tea time it was nearly over. A lovely pile of dolly bits were on the floor. This activity had kept them occupied all day! And they were nagging me to make a start on the clothes before I went to bed. This time I put my foot down and said No! it would have to wait until tomorrow.

So there they sat all night, waiting to be put together.

The following day we had a picnic at the park planned so I took the assorted body parts with me and stitched them together while the girls played. By the end or our outing all 5 girls were put together and 4 over excited daughters wanted to go home to make clothes immediately.

So home we went.

And here they are. Ta daa. Five ever so slightly different dolly girls. One dressed and the others still being measured to new outfits.

A big thank you to Jodie for this wonderful pattern.

We have all enjoyed making your Kinder Girls and know there will be more to follow in the near future.

The next holiday installment.....what 3 of the dolls got up to on holiday.....
and what the other 2 did at home.

to be continued.......................

Summer holidays are here.

2009-07-21T06:34:00.006+01:00

Well the gifts have been made and given out. Another school year ends and a chapter is closed as my youngest daughter leaves her first school. For 14 years I have walked my children to and from this place and now it is over. Yes I am working there, but I will be walking alone from now on. No one chattering in my ear and telling me who did what during the day or reciting spellings along the way. She is off to middle school in September and I am no longer needed to do the school run.......how fast it has all gone, surely she just started school last year? Ah time to move on and change again.

The gifts this year where handmade book covers. Wise owls for teachers, clogs for dancing teachers.
At last the hols are here and boy do I need a break. My first year as a working mum is over and I've got 7 whole weeks to catch up on house chores and crafting.
It's been a roller-coaster of a year, and a very steep learning curve. I hadn't realise quite how political working in a school could be, something I only just glimpsed at when I was a parent volunteer. There have been friendships made and friendships lost. I have had my eyes opened to adult pettiness that I can't quite believe exists. Yes it's been a funny year. The children I work with have come on well and I am looking forward to being with them next year too.

But for now it's time to slow down, let the frustrations of work float away.

Yesterday we started the break with a good long walk. We packed up a lunch and headed of to the beach. We walked up the coast to the lighthouse.

It was a beautiful day, sun shining , gentle breeze, tide out. We reached the lighthouse and pottered around the rock pools for a while and wandered around the island.

Then it was lunch with a view on a quiet sheltered sandy beach. I love this place, I don't ever want to live anywhere else, it's just so beautiful.

After a bite to eat we headed off again. One young lady had already had enough of walking and was none to happy to notice we were still walking away from home not towards it. But I wanted to show them all the wonderful place they live in. How they live in a town with a city close by and yet just a short walk away they have not only the North East coast but also the beautiful Northumberland countryside.

We reached home as the dark storm clouds finally rolled over. Exhausted sun kissed children .

This is how a holiday should be. Happy, relaxed and tired from the days excursions. Let's have more of the same please.

Easter 2009

2009-04-21T19:04:00.002+01:00

Easter has been and gone. Two whole weeks of home time, bliss.

So what's been happening in the Quilty household? Well of course there was the egg decorating competition held at my parents house.

My entry.....a P-egguin.

There has been a little bit of Hex crochet going on thanks to the fabulous tutorial over at attic24. I love this pattern and have already used up 16 balls of yarn!!!!

I have also completed my swallowtail-shawl. I loved knitting this and it only took 2 weeks, can you believe it? I have another one on the needles now in shades of pink.

I also whipped up this delicious bag in a weekend (kemp ) using Noro yarn, it looks like it has been felted but it's just the way the yarn comes out. It was so quick to do. I've lined it and will be using it over the summer.

Monday was back to work so the crafting will take a back seat for the next few weeks :(

However, I'm counting the days untill the summer holidays when I can knit and sew for 7 whole weeks..........can't wait.

Erm, hello.

2009-03-02T06:45:00.003Z

Yes, yes I know, I haven't been around.

There just isn't enough time in the day to get round to blogging.

So it doesn't get done.
This post will be very short too.
Just wanted to pop in, say hi, thank everyone for checking up on me, and leave you with a few pictures of crafty happenings.

Swallowtail shawl.

The apron I made for my daughters Christmas pressie, made from a Melly and Me pattern as part of The Fat Quarters Club.

And my baby girl turned 9 in January. Where does the time go? It only seems like yesterday that I was recovering from the traumatic birth and just look at her now. How time flies.

Well short and sweet, that's me from now on.

Hope to pop in again soon.

Eeek....

2008-11-11T06:44:00.004Z

Where is the time going? Can it really be November?

I haven't been around for a number of reasons. We had Ofsed inspection at school before half term, so it was all hands on deck to put on a good show. This meant working late and all weekend before hand (for free) put it paid off and we did well. I'm now working full time, having been offered extra hours, and the home/work juggling act is becoming harder. The time I have at home is spent with my kids, catching up on housework and preparing resources for work. I do however still manage to fit in a little "me" time for crafting, usually in the early morning as I seem to be waking up at 4am, otherwise known as "Silly 'O Clock".
So without further delay here follows a few pictures of my recent crafts.

I bought this lovely pattern book last month and have started 2 projects for the girls already. It's a great little book and I would recommend it to anyone.

The blue is for my youngest, the red for 3rd daughter.

These mitts are going to Christmas pressies for close friends, I have 3 more pairs to make!

The second part in my Bluebirds BOM stitchery from Buttonberry.

The last 2 projects from The Fat Quarters Club. Bonzer is a lovely koala, I've yet to make his mate Beaut. And the needlecase is this months project which I whipped up this weekend.

So as you can see I am still cramming every spare moment with crafts, work will not take over!!

Has it really been a month....

2008-10-09T12:52:00.005+01:00

...since I last blogged? How did September go so fast?

Well the new job is still great, but very time consuming. I'm in school more hours than I had anticipated and when I'm at home I'm making resources and writing up notes, but the main thing is I am enjoying it.

The down side is that everything else has taken a back seat. However I have still manged to fit in a little bit of crafting.

On my needles I have a pair of socks for one of my girls. One down one to go. I've even sat in the staff room at lunch time knitting which got a few strange looks but do I care? NO

I joined Buttonberry BOM, Janelle Winds Bluebirds, and the first block arrived last month. Some how I have found time to do it! Then I reread the instructions and realised I had completed the centre of the flowers in the wrong colours. Well, I was a little cross with myself, but there is no way I am unpicking it, so they are staying as they are. It is going to be a really pretty quilt, with all my favourite colours.

I have also managed to finish the second month from The Fat Quarters Christmas club. The Fat Quarters Bag is lovely and there is no way I am giving it away as a pressie. But I may make more later on.

So somehow I am getting the balance of work/home/craft sorted out without even realising it. Well I guess my need to craft is inbuilt and cannot be ignored.

Should have some more knitted things to show next time as I have started a jumper and cardie for my youngest two. Might have to take them into work too.

It's been a while..

2008-09-06T07:45:00.003+01:00

I know, it's been some time since I blogged, not quite sure how it happened. Just lost the need for a while I guess.
Holidays are over and just in the nick of time too as the kids were a little fed up of each other. All back at school now, eldest to 6th form, no.2 to High School and year 9 (we have a 3 tier school system here) no.3 in year 7 and youngest in year 4, top of the school. They all seem older and bigger, funny how a new uniform can make them grow a few inches.
I too started my new job on Tuesday. Everything is up in the air, I don't know exactly when I'm working or what I'm going to be doing, it's all " let's see how it goes". I've already put in more hours than I'm contracted for, but that's because I love it. I just love being with the kids and listening to them, and getting to know them. The little boy I work with is delightful and I'm sure we are going to make big progress in the coming months.
Of course new job means less time for crafting. This week I've been in bed asleep by 9pm, so I haven't even picked up a needle. Hopefully that will change as things settle down.
I did however manage to finish the cowboy last week. So now Archie is no longer alone as he has Beau to keep him company. And what a handsome cowboy he is too!

Warkworth Castle.

2008-08-18T22:23:00.003+01:00

Saturday was spent at Warkworth Castle as no.4 had another dance display.
So I drugged myself up (in order to get there without puking) and off we went.

The sun was actually shining!!! Although it was quite breezy.

Warkworth is the most beautiful setting to be dancing in, just look at the ruins in the background.

It was the Warkworth Flower festival on Saturday, so there were lots of tents with local produce and homemade items on display. My favourite tent was the handmade goods where I found 2 lovely ladies demonstrating spinning. I chatted to them for a good half an hour. They were producing yarn from fleece and silk. It was amazing to watch and I'm keen to have a go now, something else to take all my hard earned pennies away.

By Saturday evening I was completely worn out and not feeling too good (side effect of the drugs!) and the rain had returned so I curled up in my chair to complete my cowboy...more of him to follow.

Gee Up horse!

2008-08-13T10:37:00.003+01:00

Finally I have finished.

So I'd like to introduce you to..

Archie The Mustang.

I made him from this book .

Isn't he just adorable? I'm really pleased with the way he has turned out and am tempted to have a go at another one now.

The saddle is made from felt and hand sewn. I think I'll add a strap to keep in on and maybe make a bridle too.

The blanket is made up of crochet granny squares and of course I had to use my favourite colours of the moment.

Even the riding gear has those colours in. (I wanted to do them in brown but didn't have any)

I think my knitted babes are going to love their new addition. Think I'll make a rough and ready cowboy too so they can have some real fun!!!

Swaps Down Under.

2008-08-10T08:32:00.003+01:00

Well finally I can post pictures of the swap I sent to Maree at Farmyard Crafts . I had taken pictures but they seem to have vanished so I've borrowed Maree's (I'm sure she wont mind)

Firstly the mini quilt with a butterfly catcher on it.

Then for her kids I made a bucket from a pattern I've had for years and a crochet doll (from here)

I enjoyed making all these goodies and think they have been a big hit down under too.

Yesterday I took all my girlies to see Mamma Mia (yes second viewing for me and just as good). They loved it and we all sang along throughout, as did most of the audience which was fantastic. Strangely enough the little old lady I was sat next to fell asleep in the adverts before the film and quietly snored her way through most of the film!! Bless.

Today I have nothing planned. There is a kite festival down on the sea front so we may head there. As long as the sun shines I'll be happy. Enjoy whatever you are all doing.

The Locket's Pay us a Visit.

2008-08-09T09:07:00.004+01:00

On Thursday, after much pleading from our children, Lucy Locket and I got together again, this time at my place. The kids were soooooo excited to see each other again and immediately disappeared into various parts of my house, leaving Lucy and I free to have a cuppa and a natter.
We did a shared lunch each providing a bit of this and a bit of that.
No sooner was it out, than the monsters devoured the lot and I only just managed to get a picture.

The young ladies about to go into year 7 went off into the bedroom to do some sewing and private chit chat and then left us and went for a walk to the allotment.

My eldest and Lucy's youngest got on really well too. Little Fred is soooo cute and my no.1 was so good with him, showing him how to play on her prized possession ( a DS)

Isn't that a sweet shot?

After re-filling the dinning table and dragging the roller blading queens in, we all sat down to watch a movie. There were bean bags and cushions all over the floor, not to mention children, popcorn, chocolate biscuits, etc, etc.

One of my daughters seems to have escaped the photo shoot......little minx!
And before they knew it, it was time to go home. There was much protest, Fred tried to attach himself to the table leg so he couldn't go home, and just look at these 2 hugging!!

Don't worry chicks, you'll see each other next week I'm sure.
Thank you Lucy and the lovely little Lockets for a fab day.
When the children are happy it makes me feel happy to, and having another adult to chat crafty things to is just the icing on the cake.

And finally a picture of Harriet Hare that I made from here . It's was made with "help" from youngest daughter.

And so they returned!

2008-08-06T07:26:00.003+01:00

My beautiful girlies are home, tired, smelly and happy. They have had a wonderful time but were very pleased to be back home. They had a campfire most nights which they loved but did make them a little smelly.

They went mountain biking in Whinlatter forest. And even though it was raining (as it does in the Lake District) they had a fantastic day.

Their campsite was just outside of Keswick. Just look at the views from the tent! They are breath taking. I could wake up to that every morning .

They brought me......... some chocolate from the Keswick chocolate shop, yummy!

And............ a MAHOOSIVE pile a washing!! This is just the start of it. I've done 3 big loads, there's at least another 4 there, then I have to do the sleeping bags!!! Then I'll have to iron it all.

But I am happy to have them home again. I missed them.

Well I guess I'd better go see to the laundry!! And give my girls another hug.

Not long now.......

2008-08-05T08:37:00.003+01:00

.....'till my girlies return, with mountains of wet, dirty, stinking washing. I think I'll herd them straight into the bathroom to be fumigated and go stock up on washing powder this morning. I can't wait to see them though, it has been strangely quiet all week.

Yesterday no.1 daughter and I had a very quiet day. We did a bit of shopping, popped into town to buy some toy filling and spent a couple of hours at the allotment. The day ended with pizza, ice cream and a movie. A great end to our week. I finished knitting my horse (you'll have to wait for photo's) he just needs sewing up, stuffing and accessorising now.

I also signed up for a new Block of the Month quilt from Buttonberry . (see picture below) I just can't resist those colours, they make me feel really happy and I can't wait to have it in my hands and get started.

And that's it for this morning. Will report on the holiday once the chaos of their return has subsided.

Last Day of Freedom

2008-08-04T08:05:00.004+01:00

Well the kids return home tomorrow and my peace will be shattered :(
I have missed them, but probably for all the wrong reasons.

I've missed the incessant bickering they all do,

no.2 singing out of tune at the top of her voice over everyone else's noise,

no.4 constantly clog dancing around the house

no.3 with her "eeww I don't like that at" every meal time

Yes I've missed them and am looking forward to seeing them again, but hope they've left some of those traits in the Lake district!! Somehow I doubt it.

As a final treat, no.1 daughter and I went to see Mamma Mia last night.

It was fantastic, I didn't want it to finish. I think it would be great to go with a big group of girlfriends and sing and dance along, it was very hard not to do so. Oh and Pierce Brosnan is just scrummy, even if he's a bit old for me and he can't sing. I'm going back to see it again later this week with all my girls. If you haven't see it yet you really have to go, even if your not a huge Abba fan it's just so funny and makes you feel good.

Also yesterday I did a bit of crafting, but as the camera is camping I have no photos. I made Lenny the Guinea pig from here . The patterns are very easy to use with super diagrams, so go buy yourself a couple and have some fun.

I've almost got my Etsy store front sorted it's here if you want to have a peek. Now I just need to work on my stock. I'm quite scared to be honest, sounds silly, but I worry about copyright issues even though everything is my own design and I worry about value for money and other things too, but if I don't give it a go I'll never know will I? So hopefully in the next month I should have my first items in their.

One final picture (no I'm not going to embarrass my sister again, hee, hee) A lady on Ravelry has been knitting up my Bunny Boo rabbit pattern and just look what she has produced.

A whole basket full of them. I was delighted to know that she loves the pattern and has given a rabbit to all her friends. Think I might get some of them in my store!!

An Afternoon of Sewing.

2008-08-01T15:18:00.004+01:00

The girls are away, the sun has stopped shining so what's the best thing to do? Sewing of course.
I had intended to make some of the dolls from the patterns I bought earlier this week but in the end I decided to make the first project from the The Fat Quarters Club

She is just adorable and I'm going to pop her away until Christmas for a certain little girl who loves dolls. I still need to paint her shoes on but haven't got any green paint so that will have to wait.
Whilst I was busy sewing my doll my eldest daughter (who didn't go camping) decided to make something herself. She had a good look through this book pictured below and a rummage through my scrap box and then went away and made a doll.

Polly is a very weird and wonderful softie and she is very proud of her creation. We had a super relaxing sewing afternoon. This is what holidays are all about.

I'll leave you with a picture of my youngest sister playing one of our craziest games. See how many grapes you can fit into your mouth at one time!! Very immature I know but so, so funny. The record is held by my other sister who managed 16 grapes. You can only place the grape between your teeth and cheeks, not on your tongue. It's so funny and very hard to keep the grapes in your mouth once you start laughing. I'd recommend it for parties, it's gross but good fun.Well you've seen into my crazy world a little, now I'm off to knit......

(Apologies for the grainy pictures, my camera has gone camping so I'm relying on my mobile which just isn't the same.)

All is quiet.

2008-07-30T06:56:00.004+01:00

Well the girls have gone off camping with their dad and it's all very quiet here.
I spent yesterday gutting their bedroom as it looked like a bomb had gone off in it. It is now beautifully clean and tidy. I'm going to sort through their clothes this morning and get rid of things they have never worn, best done when they aren't here. I may even go through their toy boxes and selectively remove the odd thing their too.
This afternoon I am going to indulge in a little sewing. I bought some new patterns yesterday from here and I'm going to have a go at making these. A guinea pig and some cute prim dolls.

It feels like an age since I've sat and done sewing just for fun so I'm really looking forward to it. I really need to get my fabric stash sorted too so this will be a good opportunity to get it all out and weed some of my least favourite pieces out.

I am going to take the plunge and open an etsy store in the very near future, woohoo, the only thing I'm scared about is sorting out the postage, but I'm sure I'll get the hang of it soon. I'll do a whole post when I'm ready to go, it's still in the design and planning stage.

The sun is shining here so I think I'm going to have my breakfast in the back garden.

Hope you all have a good day.

Mail from Down Under.

2008-07-26T18:38:00.004+01:00

During the week my poor postman called again with a parcel. he made a comment about how much mail I had been receiving and said he hoped it wasn't anything illegal!!! as if!!! I didn't have the heart to explain about swaps, he wouldn't understand so I'll let him think I'm up to no good instead. As you can see from the stamps (which are beautiful) this parcel came all the way from Australia to me in the UK. That in itself gets me excited. I carefully unwrapped the package .....and found the most beautiful mini quilt inside. The parcel was from Maree from Farmyard Crafts we decided to do this swap as she missed out on Queen Lockets mini quilt swap.
Isn't it beautiful. Maree took her inspiration from the Tilda craft book and has done a lovely job, the photo really doesn't show how gorgeous it is. I just love it to pieces. thank you so much. It is going in my bedroom which is slowly starting to fill up with small quilts :)

Maree also enclosed a few extra goodies, a little angel make up bag, an eye mask and a tiny tea tray which is just the right size for my morning cuppa and a biscuit. So a huge thank you Maree, mine will be with you very soon I promise.

And now I'm going for a cup of tea a slice of homemade window cake (er I mean battenburg) made by mini quilty no.2, hopefully Mr. P has not got to it first!!!

Awards

2008-07-25T08:01:00.003+01:00

Well before I pop off to work and then go to the beach with Lucy and mini Lockets this afternoon I need to post about 2 awards I have recently been given.
The first came from pink-petal-designs and I just have to add it to my side bar, that's it! Thank you for the award Sarah.
The next award came from Jenny at happystash and there are a few rules to go with it.

1. The winner can put the logo on their blog.

2. Link to the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Put links of those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs you’ve nominated.

6. Write an acceptance speech in the style of the Academy Awards, thanking every body’s mother, father, sister, brother, aunties and uncles and the kitchen staff at your favorite restaurant!

Ok so the seven people I want to nominate are, in no particular order:-

1 Sarah at pink-petal-designs because she makes the most beautiful things and was a great swap partner.

2 lucy locket as she is a great friend and the Queen of blogging (and no you don't have to pass the award on or make anything for anyone, just accept it gracefully)

3 Penny at sew take a hike for being a great partner in the kitchen goodies swap.

4 Michelle from ginghamworld she's the one who inspired me to start blogging, I love reading her daily posts.

5 Charlie at The pigeon loft for always being able to make me laugh and for making the most adorable pigeons.

6 Emily of ravenhill I just adore her Matryoshka dolls

7 Kitschy of kitsch-n-zinc for making me the most beautiful mini quilt.

Few that's them all listed.

As for an acceptance speech well, I just want to thank everyone who takes the time to read my ramblings, I didn't think I had anything worth reading but there you go. I'd like to thank everyone who's blogs I visit for inspiration and sometimes a good laugh, you all help me keep off the medication!! Lastly I'd like to thank my dear Gran for passing on her love of handmade items and taking the time to show me how to do all manner of things. Love you, miss you x

Ok I think that's just about it. I will post comments to my award victims tonight and add them to my bloggy friends if I haven't already.

Off to work now.

Introducing..........

2008-07-24T12:30:00.004+01:00

Mr.
Charles
Abraham

Pigeon.

AKA Mr. P 034

Look who arrived at my house this week. Yes I actually managed to buy one of Charlie's pigeons.

Being the mature and sensible 38 year old woman that I am I quietly smiled to myself on completing my purchase...............................................................then ran about the house singing "I've got a pigeon, I've got a pigeon!"

Anyway, he was hand delivered by Miss. Pigeon Loft herself (lovely to see you Charlie) and he is now making himself very much at home by rummaging through my cake tins!!!!

Is that chocoalte cake he can spy?

Yes it is! He must have sniffed it out.

Welcome to quilty's mad house Mr. P 034.

Drum Roll Please.....

2008-07-18T18:45:00.007+01:00

I have got a job!!!! a real, on the payroll, proper job!!
As you can tell I am a little excited. As of September I will be working 15 hours a week in my local school as a Learning Support Assistant enabling a small boy with severe learning difficulties to stay in mainstream school. It may only last till Christmas and the pay isn't great but I am so delighted to have all my hard work and studies finally rewarded. I am really looking forward to getting my teeth stuck into this challenging roll and hope it will be very rewarding. This will mean I have a bit of spare cash for crafting supplies but less time to craft, however I'm sure I will find a way.

And on a crafting note, my Kitchen goods swap has finally arrived in America (it took weeks even though I paid more for faster delivery) This is what I sent to Penny :- a handmade half apron, a picnic cutlery roll with embroidered napkins, a tea cup and tea, a recipe book with some of my favourite recipes written in and a few pieces of fabric. I think it was well received and a big thank you to Sarah for organising it. (photo below nabbed from Penny's blog, it looks way better than my photo!)What else, well I've done a little knitting and little shopping. This tea cosy is from a Martin Storey pattern and it was super easy to knit, all it needs is a pompom on the top and it's done.

The postman (my poor, poor, postman) brought some books. First of all Debbie Abraham's Beaded knits which I've already dipped into and had a go at making a phone cosy. I can't believe how easy it is to knit in beads, I should have learnt years ago it's so clever. The next is the newest Tilda book, so many projects in there I want to make. I still prefer the first book, but this one does not disappoint. I also got a Rowan knitting book and have a list made of the things I want to make. (I can see my pay isn't going to go very far!) Then the first project from The Fat Quarters 2008 Club arrived. I am very excited about this and want to make it this weekend......well very soon anyway. I just love Rosalie Quinlan's Designs and the colours are right up my street.

And finally my first born daughter turned 16 on Wednesday. Where does the time go? How can she have reached this age without me noticing. Happy Birthday Fran, thank you for being the best daughter any mum could wish for.

Wet Thursday

2008-07-10T21:36:00.004+01:00

Today I feel as though I have had a little rain cloud over my head. Every time I set foot outside the house I got soaked and as soon as I went in the rain stopped!! So much for British Summertime, send me to a sunny place any day.

There is still no crafty news in the Quilty house at the moment, too many other things going on and of course a daughter to keep company. I have some projects in mind but I'm just longing for the schools to break up before I indulge. But look Alyoops has had a go at making my Ziggy pattern and I rather like the way she has done it, very different from the original but very appealing. It's lovely to see someone else's version.

Daughter no.3 did very well in her skating competition at the weekend, managing to come 4th which I think is fab for her first time. The downside was we had to get up at 4.30am as her level skated at 5.30am so I spent the rest of the day feeling like a zombie and on Monday I felt as though I had a huge hangover ,even though I don't drink, just because I was dog tired. It's taken all week to feel human again. Glad it's all over for a few months, now I just have to think about making a new costume for next time.... a girl can't wear the same outfit twice you know.

Checking in!!

2008-07-01T14:09:00.003+01:00

Just a quick post to let you all know I'm still around.
Been spending some quality time with my eldest daughter now her GCSE's are over and that has taken priority over everything else. It seems like so long ago that it was just the two of us at home together before the other 3 arrived. It's so lovely just to natter away to each other without being interrupted. We've had some lovely walks along the sea front together, and spent whole days baking. It's a real treat to have this time, so I'm making the most of it before she gets bogged down with A'levels and disappears off to Uni. So apologies for my absence but I think it's well justified.

Crafty news......
This arrived in the post yesterday, my kitchen swap from Penny . I just love everything especially the picnic bag with all the goodies for two!! I can see it being well used over the next few weeks for myself and No.1 daughter.

Also received in the last week or so were these goodies that accidentally fell into my shopping cart on etsy!!

A Passport cover from Pink Petal Designs.
A gorgeous purse from moogsmum which I'm using to keep my hexagons in for the family quilt.
A litle Russina doll from ravenhill
and Annie Downs newest stitchery book. Plus I'm waiting for the new booklet from rosalie quinlan to plop on my doormat any day now.
And that's just about it. I'm off to finish sewing sequins on daughter No.3 ice skating dress as she has her first big competition at the weekend. I'm very nervous for her but also so proud at the same time......watch this space, we may have an olympic star in the making.
Hope you are all enjoying the sunshine (in between showers), be back soon xx

Too Busy To Function.

2008-06-16T20:59:00.003+01:00

OK, so it's been a while since I blogged. The reason....I think, no thought, I'd bitten off more than I could chew, so to speak. Aside from the everyday hum drum of going to work, looking after 4 kids and trying to keep my house in reasonable order, I've had one or two, no make that four lots of swaps/gifts to make, and I was beginning to feel the pressure. ( My heart goes out to Lucy and her many mini quilts )
First up I had a swap to make for pink petal designs kitchen swap and it's done bar a few extras which I'll get tomorrow. Sneak preview below.

Then there is the Russian doll swap with the fabulous I'm a ginger monkey lady. This too is done bar a few treats. Another sneak peek.

Thirdly I'm doing a swap with Maree who missed out on Lucy's mini quilt swap. Her quilt is done and I've been making a few things for her little ones as a treat. Some more peeks are the goodies.

And finally I have been knitting some clothes for Maya as a big thank you to Joan for being such a caring and supportive friend.

All this sewing and knitting has been immensely fun but I feel worn out. So I set Flora to work on a few things. Here she is taking part in Worldwide knit in public day, raising the profile for all us young and not so young knitters.

Hopefully once I have my parcels posted out all will return to normal, whatever that is.

Sun, Sand and Sea.

2008-06-08T21:46:00.002+01:00

Today the sun was out and it was hot, hot, hot. So where's the best place to go when there's good weather? Down to the beach of course. No crafting was done today, I'm not keen on sandy sewing, so it was left at home.

We picked up our buckets and spades and walked to the sea front.

The tide was out and it was busy, little groups of people dotted all over the sand.

We chose our spot and got stuck into some serious sand castle building.

Our beach has lovely golden sand and is dog free at one end so no nasty surprises as you dig.

The girls had a whale of a time building, and an even better time knocking them all down by jumping on, and over the castles. All but one castle was built and destroyed. The 4th was fiercely guarded until the end of the day, when it too was annihilated by a jumping blond beast.

We had the obligatory paddle but weren't brave enough to go in any deeper.

We built water channels to watch the sea fill and reclaim the sand.

We had the best afternoon in a long while and came home all sandy,sun kissed, and tired.

I love my home town, but it's even better when the sun shines!

Surprise Post and Boing Pattern.

2008-06-05T20:23:00.007+01:00

This morning there was a knock on my door at 7.15am. Who on earth could be calling at this time of the morning? The postman of course!
He handed me a rather big cardboard box and went on his way. What could this be I wondered, I wasn't expecting anything. "Mum, what have you ordered this time?" came the cries from my daughters.
Well, nothing. (this time). Looking carefully at the label I realised it was from my new blog friend Joan of the adventures of Maya , now I got excited.
So I plonked on my bed and proceeded to open the box. I was totally blown away by the contents.
There was a note book, a scrap book kit, a memo pad, and a gorgeous bag containing, stickers, soap, printed tissues and a bracelet. The bag supports a breast cancer fund (something that is very poignant to me) and the beads are made by and help support women in Africa.

I wasn't expecting this parcel today and I want to say a big Thank You to Joan for the thought she put into my gifts. You are a one in a million friend and I am so glad I commented on your first blog and have started to get to know you. if you were here in the UK and not in USA I'd give you a big hug, so instead I'm sending them out in cyberspace. You have brightened up my day no end.
I am so amazed at how generous and caring my new blog friends are. I love you all.
Now onto the promised pattern for Boing!

Assorted colours of DK yarn

3mm knitting needles

Small piece of felt for eyes2 buttons for eyes

yarn needle.

Instructions. (make 2)
I made stripes of varying widths on Boing’s body. The graph pattern for mine is below, but play around with the stripes to get a look that suits you. I also knitted in some beads just for fun.

Cast on 15 stitches in your favourite method. (I use the thumb method)

Work in stocking stitch for 6 rows.

Cast on 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. 25 stitches

Work in stocking stitch for 32 rows.

Decrease 1 stitch at either end of next and following 4 alternate rows.15 stitches.

Purl 1 row

Knit 5, cast off 5, knit 5. You will now work on these 5 stitches to do first ear.

Purl

Work 4 rows in stocking stitch

Dec 1 stitch at either end of next row.

Purl

Cast off.

Rejoin yarn to second ear and complete to match first.

To make up.

The base is shaped to form a "paper bag bottom".With right sides together join the cast on edges at the base. Join side seams and across the top and ears leaving a small gap for turning right side out. Match the side seam to the base seam and sew the small edge closed (see diagram for Ziggy below)This forms the paper bag bottom.
Turn right side out and stuff firmly.
Sew opening closed.
Add eyes and any other detail you want.

And there you have it. Enjoy! I'd love to see pictures from anyone who does make Ziggy and Boing so email me if you have a go.

Ziggy pattern.

2008-06-04T18:56:00.011+01:00

Well here it is the pattern for Ziggy .Please feel free to make it for yourself or to sell for charity.

Ziggy.

Assorted colours of DK yarn, you can use up your end of balls here.
3mm needles (they give a firm and close knit)
Small piece of felt for eyes
2 buttons for eyes
yarn needle.

Instructions. (make 2)

I made stripes of varying widths on Ziggy's body. The graph pattern for mine is below, but play around with the stripes to get a look that suits you. I also knitted in some beads just for fun.

Cast on 30 stitches in your favourite method. (I use the thumb method)
Work in stocking stitch for 8 rows.
Cast on 7 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows. 44stitches
Work in stocking stitch for 36 rows.
Decrease 1 stitch at either end of next and following 2 alternate rows. 38 stitches.
Decrease 1 stitch at either end of next and the following 3 rows 30 stitches.
Purl 1 row
Knit 10, cast off 10, knit 10. You will now work on these 10 stitches to do first ear.
Purl
Work 6 rows in stocking stitch
Dec 1 stitch at either end of next 3 rows 4 stitches.
Purl
Cast off.
Rejoin yarn to second ear and complete to match first.
To make up. The base is shaped to form a "paper bag bottom".With right sides together join the cast on edges at the base. Join side seams and across the top and ears leaving a small gap for turning right side out. Match the side seam to the base seam and sew the small edge closed This forms the paper bag bottom.
Turn right side out and stuff firmly.
Sew opening closed.
Add eyes and any other detail you want.

Boing Pattern in next blog.

Just to Tease.

2008-06-03T19:19:00.003+01:00

Ok so I'm finding it a little hard to make time for blogging at the moment, there are so many other commitments, to work, at home and my sewing, that I am unable to blog about the things I want to and it's quite fustrating. So here's a wee catch up on some of the things that have been keeping me busy and a few pictures of things to come.

First of all this little lady begged me to make her, so how I could I resist. I got the pattern from here and I know I'll be back to shop there as her designs are fantastic.

Then of course there is Ziggy and Boing. And soon to follow their baby brother Splat! I have started to write up the patterns and will eventually get them on my blog so you can make some of your own. I bought King Cole wool mix yarn to make them. Not usually a brand I go for as it's cheap and this often reflects in the quality. but I have to say it knitted up beautifully and is so, so soft, I may even buy it again to make something other than toys with.

And finally a sneaky peek at the mini quilt I am making for maree who missed out on lucy lockets mini quilt swap as she didn't have a blog then. Hope this doesn't give too much away, it's just to tease!

Half Term

2008-05-31T07:54:00.008+01:00

Well I have been away from blogging all week with it being half term and all that. However, there has been plenty of activity in the Quilty house over the week so it may take a few posts to catch up on it all.

Firstly, on Tuesday I went to meet a lovely young woman called Rosie who is the daughter of one of my school colleagues. She has recently graduated from Uni and is in the process of setting up her own business selling bespoke wedding tiaras and hair accessories. She is the most talented person I have met in a while and I was in total in awe of her creations. You can find her brand new website here . She is hoping to have a little bit of work for me in the near future so it was a sort of informal interview. We had a good chat and I did a bit of sewing so she could see my needlework skills. It was a very exciting and inspiring afternoon. Rosie is also a finalist in the if we can you can entrepreneurs competition and would love some extra votes, so if you like what you see you can vote by texting "Challenge Rosie Willett" to 0762 480 3199 or email "challenge Rosie Willett"to stephen@ifwecanyoucan.co.uk. Right that's my plug done, I have all my fingers crossed for her.

On the sewing side, the girls and I have been doing a little bit more on our Family Flower Garden quilt. We started it 2 summers ago and it comes out every holiday. The girls sew the flowers and I sew it all together and add the pathway.

It's going to take many years to complete but we are having so much fun making it. (you can just see Flat Maya inspecting the work) It will become a family heirloom and will be treasured for years to come.

We had a little trip to Babara's wool shop, where I indulged myself with a nice selection. (forgot to take photos of wool) I also got a picture of Flat Maya posing in the window. I must have looked nuts photographing a cardboard cut out, but who cares.

The new wool has been put to use already and I have created 2 new softies. Hopefully I'll post the pattern as soon as a write it up.

The largest one is called Ziggy and the smaller one is called Boing. (I've yet to photograph Boing)

They are very silly but I love them. Plus I had a go at knitting in beads while I was making them and I'm very pleased with the results. It was far easier than I thought.

I also made some more crochet items, I'll post those later.

There was another shopping trip to a little home style shop where I bought one or two things for my bedroom. I still need to photo them, but I need to clean my room first!!!!

The week has passed very fast and I don't want it to end, having time with my girls is so much fun, I miss them when they go back to school.

However it will give me time to work on the many swaps I have signed up for.

Maree and I are doing a mini quilt swap as she missed Lucy's.

pink petal designs is having a kitchen themed swap.

Katy is having a Russian dolls swap

and there's a knitted babe style challenge about to start on Ravelry.

So I am going to be one busy girl.

Will post more half term goodies later when i have caught up on the housework!

A Christening and A Birthday.

2008-05-26T08:38:00.004+01:00

Yesterday there was no crafting done at all because I went to my sisters house to celebrate the Christening and first birthday of her daughter Rosie. First there was a lovely (but long) service at the church. The priest involved all the young kids and had them out at the front helping. It caused a few laughs too. Before he blessed the holy water he asked the kids what we needed water for. Rob said "to drink", Georgia said "to wash "and then Dom, who is a right character, said "to keep your fish in". Well that had the congregation in hoots of laughter. I just love it when kids come out with stuff like that.

After the service we went back to Jane's and the party began in earnest.

This is the beautiful cake Jane made for the Christening.

She also put on a fabulous spread. Sadly I forgot to photograph it before it was attacked so here is the half eaten photo.

There was plenty of this going on too. My sister Angie kept every ones glass full! Even mum managed to get merry which was quite funny, especially when she started to dance with a chicken drumstick!

The kids had a wonderful time. All 10 of the cousins get on well, there wasn't a single argument all afternoon.

Even the big kids had a fun. Mostly revolving around food and drink! Jane managed to grab a few mins to sit down and eat while I took over kitchen duty for a while.

Look what we had for dessert, a fruit terrine. Jane is a clever girl to do all this and look after 3 kids at the same time.

But it was all too much for the birthday girl who slept away most of the afternoon.

All in all, it was a wonderful family day.

Has it been a whole week already?

2008-05-23T20:50:00.004+01:00

My goodness has it been a whole week since I last posted? This week has just flown by and I feel as though i haven't done a thing even though I've never stopped.
The weather has been glorious at long last and I managed to catch a little sun whilst ripping up the rotted decking in the back garden and sitting outside to sort the sewing for the kids at school. And today they finished their "Fatties" project. I took the idea from the wonderful cupcakesforclara who was kind enough to let me use her creations for inspiration. Now obviously the kids work was a far cry from her beautiful fatties, but I was very impressed with what they have produced. In total it took them 5 weeks to complete (with a tiny bit of help from the sewing fairy). I just love the fact that you can see their sweet little stitches. They have done so well and I'm very proud of them all.

Just look at the eyes on this little fella, he's got extra eyelashes.

They all managed to finish and have taken them home, where no doubt they will be used as footballs over the half term holiday! Kids!
My obsession with amigurumi is still in full flow and tonight I whipped up a nest and a couple of chicks. They look a little scary so I think I'll use felt for the beak and eyes next time. I just can't get enough of this new craft. The best part is that it's helping me use up all my little odds and ends of yarn, so eventually I will have to go and buy more, yipee.

I got this pattern from here it's just so sweet.

Well half term is upon us now, not sure what I'm going to do with the little lovelies, just praying that the good weather stays and we can get on the beach at least once. I'm sure I'll find some time for crafting too, got to get my priorities right.

Mini Quilt Swap

2008-05-17T20:02:00.004+01:00

WooHoo Look What Arrived Today!!!
Postie brought a parcel.......my mini quilt from the lovely kitschy . I was desperate to rip it open but I restrained myself and went to grab my camera. Inside was the most beautifully wrapped package. Just look at that brooch on the front, I knew then that I was going to love my mini quilt.

I'd like to say that I carefully unwrapped the parcel and neatly folded the tissue paper to use again......
but I didn't,
I saw the tape on the back and then just ripped it open.
The kitchen was filled with oohs and aaaahs from my daughters as we all saw what was inside.
Here is my fabulous mini quilt, done in my favourite colours of red and black. (yes I know I'm weird but I do also love pinks too and that would have totally clashed!) I just love the detail too, it's very much in kitschy's style and I just LOVE it. It's already hanging up in my living room. Thank you so much Kate.

In with the mini quilt was also a little package of goodies. Some fab ribbon, cute buttons and of course the gorgeous brooch.

Not only that, but Kate also sent me a little something else for knitting Mr.P 029 some tank tops. Thanks Kate, you really didn't need to do that I was itching to make those tank tops. I love the bag especially the little tissue holder inside, it's just fantastic.

It has been so much fun taking part in Lucy lockets mini quilt swap I can't wait for the next one now. I know lots of other people are thinking the same so a big THANK YOU to Lucy for organising the swap, we love you xxxx

Finally, a little picture of my latest crochet project. My Russian dolls.(pattern from etsy )

I am so addicted to this amigurumi crochet lark now. I have at least 5 projects lined up in the "need to do pile".

Sadly I have a stack of other sewing things that need doing for friends before I can get on with my wish list. Well I'm sure they can wait.......

Right off to watch Britain's got talent. Enjoy your weekend.

Coffee, Cakes and Crochet.

2008-05-13T09:49:00.003+01:00

What a lovely day I had yesterday. lucy came over to my house for coffee (well tea) cakes and crochet and a lot of chatting. We ate some delicious cakes, lemon muffins and strawberry cream scones, mmmmmm, yummy.

Then we settled down and I had a go at teaching Lucy amigurumi stlye crochet. Very hard to do when your talking at the same time, but I think she has got the hang of it. Next time we'll have a look at decreasing and maybe a bigger project.The 4 hours passed way too quickly and poor Lucy even ended up being late getting on the metro home as we couldn't stop gassing. Ooops! So much to talk about and so little time. She'll just have to come back soon for more cakes, er I mean chat.

Can't wait to see her finished product, although I think she may be a little shy with it. I completed my little blue owl last night while watching my 3rd daughter at the ice rink. he is now sat on her desk to help her with her SAT's!!!

Yesterday also brought post from America. Flat Maya arrived at my house on one of her adventures. She is made by Joan and is travelling the world. Anyone wanting to have a visit from flat Maya should contact Joan here and she'll post one out to you or you could contact me and I could forward her o to you after she's finished her stay here. So today I introduced Maya to my knitted babes, Flora and Fauna. They were very pleased to meet an American friend and are looking forward to showing her the local sites.

The rest of today is going to be spent completing a fix up for a friend who ripped her favourite skirt on holiday and needs some magic working on it. I hate it when something like that happens, hopefully I'll be able to return it to it's former glory.

Hope the sun is shining where you are (it isn't here!!!!)

Sun and Fog, what is with the weather?

2008-05-11T19:47:00.003+01:00

Saturday was glorious, after doing my weekly shop I sat in the back garden and made these for a certain crochet pigeon ( here he is). I got 2 done very quickly and a third this afternoon.

Saturday afternoon I took my tribe along the road to my sisters house and we had a fab afternoon and BBQ sitting in the sun. I even managed a glass of wine and didn't fall asleep within the hour! It was like a summer afternoon......in fact I think that was the summer!

Woke up this morning to fog horns blaring out, yes the sun was blotted out by rolls of fog and despite managing to peek through for an hour this afternoon it wasn't a patch on yesterday. A hazard of living by the sea. So I settled myself down and completed 2 mini quilts made with the fabric I did my swap in. I didn't do it all today (I'm not that fast) I just finished them off. Now they can go in my bedroom.

Tomorrow Lucy is coming for coffee and I'm going to teach her to crochet. Not sure how it will go as I've only just learnt myself, but just having her round for a chat is enough to make me smile.

Swaps!

2008-05-08T12:44:00.004+01:00

My postman has just called and with him he brought a parcel from Sarah at pink-petal-designs. We had arranged a swap last month and both posted out on Tuesday.

Well I grabbed my camera and opened the parcel.

I was completely overawed at what was inside. Thank you so much Sarah, you are way too generous and kind. Here are the goodies before I ripped off the tissue paper.

Inside there was....a cheque book cover, a notebook and one of Sarah's lovely crochet brooches.

Then there was a knitting needle case and some knitting needles to go in it and a sweet little needle and pin case .

Then, yes more, there was this lovely library tote bag which I know my eldest daughter will be trying to steel as she is mad about strawberries.

Ant then, yes more still, there was a ball of Rowan cotton braid, a reel of cotton, the most beautiful buttons I've ever seen and...........a key fob and card.

WOW

Thank you so much for such a generous swap. I love it all and will no doubt lay it all out several times today and just stand back to admire your work. Thank you.

What a wonderful way to make new friends.

May Bank Holiday

2008-05-06T13:49:00.004+01:00

They greyness that was Sunday finally gave way to a lovely warm May Bank Holiday Monday. There was a definite hint of summer in the air as we headed off to wallington Hall for my youngest daughters dance display. I took my travel sickness pills, and for once they worked without leaving me spaced out, and we arrived there safe and sound.

There was a little bit of May Pole dancing accompanied by a weird and wonderful folk group.
Followed by Highland Dancing from the Wilkinson School of Dance.
Then my little blondie took to the stage with 2 older girls to dance a traditional Northumbrian Clog dance to the Hornpipe. What a star, not a step out of place and the youngest there too. A very proud moment. Then we walked the gardens before heading back to my mams for a big roast dinner. A fantastic day all round.

Bank Holiday, Wet Again!

2008-05-04T17:53:00.003+01:00

Another Bank Holiday, another day of rain. Please, please let the sun shine tomorrow, let's just have one nice day.
In order to combat the depressive feelings associated with the general greyness of North East England, I felt a little retail therapy was in order. So I headed into town, and bought this.....

and this.

The bag was half price in a sale and I couldn't resist.

The wool has already been played with and I made this.

Just needs the face putting on. I'll do that tonight in front of the telly.

As well as shopping I got crafty with the kids too. They are obsessed with "Little House on the Prairie" at the moment, reading the books, watching the DVD's and all their games are centred around the stories. So yesterday we dug out some boxes and had a go at making the Ingalls' Home. I think for a quick 30min job it looks fab, and it will provide so many hours of play. My eldest is going to paint it up later.

The fun you can have with a cardboard box and a roll of masking tape.

Addictions

2008-05-02T18:16:00.003+01:00

Oh dear, I knew this would happen, it always does. I've got the hang of this crochet lark, but now I've started I'm totally addicted to it. Bought a pattern on etsy last night and today...voila! baby owl,

Very, very cute.

Quickly followed by mumy owl.

At least it's using up all my odds-n-ends of yarn.....For Now!

Hope you all have a good Bank Holiday weekend. I'll probably be doing more crochet!!!!

Quiet times.

2008-05-01T19:35:00.002+01:00

Well after all the excitement of meeting bloggy friends on Tuesday I've had a couple of quiet days. Yesterday was work and although I never stopped it was very relaxing. I even spent my lunch hour drawing so the kids had an example to look at. I haven't sat and drawn since I was at school myself so that was sheer luxury. It's not the best of drawings but for a first go at a Van Gogh (Stary Night) I think it was ok. Ha who am I kidding , it's pants, but way better than anything the kids produced so that gave me a buzz (heehee)

Today I had 2 of my girls at home due to schools being shut for elections. They both had loads of homework to be getting on with so I decided to try my hand at crochet again. (Inspired by Charlie P's lovely pigeons.) Now I've never managed to get the hang of crochet but I was in a determined mood and armed with my new yarn and sheets of instructions of the tinternet I got stuck into it. Me thinks I may have cracked it, either that or I've cracked up and completely lost the plot.
Who's that peeping out of the toadstool?
(still needs it's spots!)

Oh it's a little ladybird family.
But they're not regular ladybirds.........no...

They are evil ladybirds, with strange googly eyes!
Moooohhahahahaaaaaaaaaaa.

Yep I've definitely lost it!

Sunny, happy, happy day.

2008-04-29T14:20:00.003+01:00

Well today has been wonderful. I got to meet the queen of crafty blogland, the lovely lucylocket .And the amazingly talented charlie p. I was, I have to say, a little nervous but I have had the best day in ages. Thank you both so much for taking time out of your lives to meet up.
First we went to ringarosie to indulge in some yarn stroking ! Yes we were all at it. I bought an odd collection of balls for some projects I have in mind. Still in my head so I can't tell!

Then we reluctantly tore ourselves away and went for a coffee. Very exciting things happened then. We had gifts to exchange!!!!

Charlie gave me the most delicious percy pigs all the way from Germany, yummy, yum yum.

Then Lucy produced a bag.

And inside there was a big bar of chocolate and a lovely wallet with camper vans on. (I have a thing about camper vans) Thank you both so much I love them all to bits. (the edible stuff has been attacked already)

We then ate and talked for a couple of hours before sadly having to leave , that was the downer, I didn't want the chatter and laughter to end, you are both such lovely people. BUT we will meet again in the not too distant future :)

I arrived home to find 2 parcels on the floor containing books, Yipee, bedtime reading.

What a lovely end to a perfect day.

Oh but now the kids have to come home! Hey ho, can't have everything.

Monday, Monday,...

2008-04-28T19:31:00.002+01:00

The start of another week and it looks like it will be a good one. This morning I sat down and worked my way through one of my "to do" lists, and amazingly ticked off everything by the end of the morning. Part of the list involved making my quilt labels. So I have done them. They're not as neat as I would have liked but the pen was pants!

Just after midday a loud russtling alerted me to a package being dropped through the letter box. And inside was some more delicious fabric by Heather Bailey that I got from etsy . I just love the colours although I don't know what to use it for yet. Will add it to the stash.

Tomorrow I'm off to meet the lovely lucy locket and hopefully charlie p .I'm very excited. We are going to hit the wonderful ringarosie and then head off for coffee and cake. I can't wait to meet my fellow crafters in person.

Thought I'd leave you with a few pictures of previous projects that I have done with the kids in my sewing group. The first 2 are "Ugly Doll" projects, they had to design then make their own doll. It was fantastic and we ended up with 14 completely different dolls. I'll add them to flicker sometime.

The third picture is of magic web pictures. Don't you remember everyone doing these in the 70's?

Saturday again!

2008-04-26T14:27:00.004+01:00

My goodness where do the weeks go to, there's another one gone. I'm sure it's a sign of getting older, time never went so fast when I was a kid.

Well I survived the sewing group yesterday. I had 10 girls (aged 7-9) and fortunately they had all been before so they knew the basics. Phew! There was a lot of happy chit chat but I'm fine with that so long as they don't mess about. They have all managed to sew their first to sides together and are thrilled with the whole "Fatties" idea. I can't post pictures of the kids as I don't have parental permission, but I will post their finished fatties.

So aside from that I've managed a few little projects of my own. Two gorgeous door hanger kitties. I've had this pattern for ages and must have made at least 50 in the past but couldn't resist another two. And I knitted up Bunny Boo in 4ply yarn on 3mm needles and she has come out really sweet. I think I prefer her to the original, she's only 13cm from the top of her ears to her chin, cute.

This afternoon I'm busy making my youngest daughter a Character dance skirt. She started learning Northumberland Clog Dancing at the start of this year and is in her first display next weekend, so I must get it done. The photo below is of some of the older girls in the dance school .

Bunny Boo Pattern

2008-04-21T11:55:00.004+01:00

bunny boo
Originally uploaded by quilty2008

Ok here's the pattern as promised for Bunny Boo.
50gm DK yarn
4mm needles
toy filling
black/white felt
general sewing supplies

Make 2 exactly the same.
1.Cast on 10 stitches.
2. Increase into every stitch by knitting into the front and back. (20 st)
3. next and every alt. row purl.
4.Increase 1 stitch at each end of next and every knit row until 30 stitches.
5. purl.
6. work in stocking stitch for 10 rows
7. Decrease at each end of next and every knit row until 18 stitches.
8.Divide for ears. knit 9 stitches, turn. work on these 9 stitches to make first ear.
9. purl
10. Increase 1 stitch at each end of next and every knit row until 15 stitches.
11. purl
12 work in stocking stitch for 14 rows.
13. decrease 1 stitch at each end of next 7 rows (purl rows too) 3 st.
14. Knit 3 together
15 fasten off.
16. Rejoin yarn to remaining 9 stitches and complete second ear to match first.
17. Make secong head.
18. place heads right sides together, pin and starting from base sew all the way around leaving a small opening at cast on edge for stuffing.
19. Turn right side out.
20. sew a gather stitch along the base of each ear, pull up tight and fasten off.
21. stuff head firmly and sew up base.
22. Using photo for guidance sew eyes, nose and mouth onto Bunny.

Hope you enjoy making one of your own. I've tried one in 4ply on smaller needles and it looks so sweet.

Edited July 2008.

Jola of
http://aglayasknittinggarden.blogspot.com/ designed a chart for Bunny Boo's face and is happy to share it with you all.Please feel free to print off pattern to use at a later date.

Peeking

2008-04-18T19:19:00.003+01:00

Ok so I can't wait any longer, I have to give you all peeks of what I've been up to. Not big peeks mind, just little ones. I can't believe how much I've managed to do with the kids off school and all. So next week when they go back I should get so much more done, oh no, coz then I'll have to go to work too and do housework, pah. Oh well....here are the small peeks into my sewing world of the last few days.

All right it doesn't really give anything away, other than a few fabric samples and shapes.

And there is a small angel peeking out there. She's been watching over me while I work.

Oh, forgot to say, postman brought me my first ever moo cards today and I LOVE them. How come I didn't discover them sooner, I have needed these forever. Ha, ha, I'm so easily amused.

Sneak peek!

2008-04-16T20:18:00.005+01:00

Been beavering away on my little quilt (s) today. Got number 3 on the go now, can't seem to stop now I've started. The one for the swap is almost complete, another one for a new friend is all but done and the third is for me!

Sneaky peep at some of the scraps left over from my work. No finished pictures as yet, can't give it all away. Will take some more sneak peeks later in week.

Spent yesterday with my sister. We had planned a picninc on the beach, but the weather and the tide had other plans. By the time we walked down there it was pouring and the tide was fully in. So we sat on the prom. in a shelter and had our picnic. It was fun and beat staying in the house again.

The kids didn't seem to care. My 3 girls and my sisters 2 kids were soaked through and still smiling. And when we got home my eldest daughter stopped revising and joined us for chips in front of the TV. Ha, ha, then the sun came out!!!! Typical.

Softies Awards 2008

2008-04-14T08:56:00.004+01:00

Well I decided to bite the bullet and enter into the Softies awards 2008. This little lovely is my entry. I made her for my daughter as she loves rabbits. She has some tiny bunny heads that my brother bought her but she looses them in bed all the time so she asked me to make her a bigger one. I entered her into the pink category as she most definately is. The other entries are fantastic and of a far higher standard but what the heck I'll give it a go.

softiescentral is where you'll find it all going on.

I'm going to post the pattern for her in a week or so so you can all have one.

I was going to post some sneak glimpses of my mini quilt but I think it will spoil the surprise so it's under lock and key for now. All I'm going to say is it's finished bar the label on the back which I'm doing today. Then I'm going to start another as I'm not 100% satisfied with this one. I'd forgotten how satisfying making mini quilts was.

I love my Postman!!!

2008-04-10T10:46:00.003+01:00

He's been again, with another parcel.
And this time he brought me the cutest little package ever.
A gorgeous robin fatty, handmade by Laura of cupcakesforclara.
Isn't he just adorable, and the packaging was just as special.

I just love him to bits.
Now, where shall I put him........

Wonderful wednesday.

2008-04-09T20:31:00.006+01:00

Today the postie arrived with packages, yipee, I love getting post.

Two parcels contained fabric:-

Scrummy.

The other had patterns.

So I had to use both fabric and pattern right away and here is what I made.

A lovely little Hooty.

In the background you can see the start of a patchwork quilt my daughter has started making.

More pictures of that to follow as it progreses.

Hoping to start on the quilt swap tomorrow.

Mini quilt swap

2008-04-07T16:37:00.007+01:00

Well I've just signed up for my first blog swap and I'm rather excited and a little scared. The lovely Lucy Locket is hosting a mini quilt swap and it looks to be as varied as the bloggers who are entering. I can't wait to see who I'm matched to and look forward to making some new friends along the way.
Anyway for inspiration here are some good sites to browse:-
doll-quilt
ninepatch doll quilt
logcabin pattern
scrapquilts
I also have some good books and patterns which may be worth a look.And of course I will add photos of my progress as and when they happen.
Off to look through my books now............

Bits and Bobs

2008-03-27T14:29:00.005Z

Finally finished a little lamb that I started last week. Not sure if I'm happy with the end result. Will do the whole thing again to see if I can improve him and use a different yarn I think.

Here he is anyway.

Spent the morning working on a new activity for my school sewing group to do. Need to work out how to do a stem, probably use art straws or a lolly stick. This should keep them going for the last 2 weeks before the spring holiday!

Need to plan next terms projects now.....hmm...I'm thinking bugs, watch this space.

Happy, happy, happy.

2008-03-25T13:16:00.006Z

Look what arrived in the post this morning.
I am now the proud owner of a set of nesting ducks made by ginghamworld, and I am so happy. They are very, very cute.
I will be keeping them in my room away from sticky little fingers.
Have to find a safe place for them.....

Easter Sunday was fun. After spending the morning at the ice rink with my girls, I headed over to my mams for food and games. It was very noisy and very enjoyable. In total there were 17 for lunch, then later my brother turned up with his 3 boys and his wife and the bump! I am still recovering from eating too much food and probably wont need to eat for another few days!

Here is the table(s) set for 17. It was a tight sqeeze but we managed it. Good job my mam has a lovely big house otherwise we would have had to do seperate sittings.

Some cheeky chickens waiting to be fed!

Easter Is Here

2008-03-22T21:38:00.011Z

Happy Easter!

Well today has been spent baking for the family gathering at mams tomorrow.

All my girls made something with a little help from me.

Firstly we made Lemon meringue pie. Then chick cookies, then pineapple upside down cake and finally a chocolate marble cake. Plus when the girls had cleared up I made a whole load of savoury food things too. A very productive day in all. No doubt there will be way too much food as usual!

Easter Eggs

2008-03-17T09:30:00.008Z

This weekend we spent an afternoon decorating eggs for a family competition. We filled the living room with a huge assortment of crafty bits and bobs and got to work. The girls had a fabulous time creating their entries and I had just as much fun. Still a bit more work to do on one or two but here are the almost finished eggs.

Super cook. Timmy the Sheep, Bunnies house ,

Harry Potter and Jack Sparrow

Crafty 2008

2008-03-10T14:11:00.011Z

Another year, another set of projects to be getting on with.

Well we got off to a flying start with the knitted babes. A new outfit for my daughters and a whole new doll for me. I did cheat because I bought the kit from Dot Pebbles, but it was so enjoyable to do and now I'm free to accessorize to my hearts content. I'm thinking of doing the cowgirl clothes as I really love the look. Perhaps by the summer I will have them done. Don't you just love the fabric of her dress? I do. I also love the colour of the dressing gown and it knitted up so quickly. I have started a baby fairy but it may be put on hold for a while due to the girls having too many afterschool activities and me being the taxie woman!!

So what else has 2008 brought about, well easter is just around the corner so my daughter decided to make bunnies for all her friends, well with a little help from mum that is.

They have turned out lovely and I'm sure her friends will be delighted to receive one. I knitted a quick ballet bunny for my daughter so she had something for herself.

And seen as though the sewing machine was out, I ran up a little doll just so I could use up some fabric I'd been stashing away.

So far it has been a very creative new year and it can only get better. So many projects and so little time eh! Can't wait to get stuck into the next one.

Summer Holiday Projects

2007-08-24T13:32:00.000+01:00

So, the kids are off school and needing to be entertained and all I can think of is "yes, no work for 6 weeks, lets get some crafting done." So I drag out my pile of projects I really want to do and sort through them yet again. I decide to do a rainbow effect quilt and get the kids knitting.

The rainbow quilt takes shape very quickly by making my triangle blocks with foundation paper. The hardest part was laying all the pieces out and blending the colour changes. But after 4 days the patchwork was pieced together. Quick work. The quilting is yet to be done, I think dull autum evenings will be when I do that.

Next came the knitting. Well all 4 of my girls can knit with ease, and only my youngest has yet to learn pearl so we looked long and hard at what to make that would be slightly challenging but not so hard that they would give up. We stumbled across Knitted Babes and immediately we were hooked. We now have 2 complete dolls and 2 more on the way, plus a whole wardrobe of clothes planned for the future. The best part is that the clothes can be either knitted or stitched so the kids get to use a range of skills.