Highland Quilter

A Productive Weekend!

2011-10-15T22:53:00.000-07:00

A busy weekend in my sewing room. I have finally prepared the other 2 borders for the Quiltaid Quilt and have completely blanket-stitched the first 2. So borders are half way there!! I am really pleased with this quilt top....I still love it even though it has been hanging around for over 2 years....

I have also assembled Block 1 of my Gardener's Journal quilt. A very productive couple of days.

Have a great week!!
Happy Stitching,
Cathyxx

I am still here!!

2011-10-09T03:07:00.000-07:00

Well true to my word, I'm back into stitching and quilting and have managed to do quite a bit this week. I am a little baffled though as to how I managed to fit it in before. I have really struggled with finding the time to spend stitching and fitting it into my already silly schedule....but I am perservering....and I am winning....

This week I have been working on Border number 2 for my Quilt Aid quilt and I have also resumed working on A Gardener's Journal...see Chooky Blue...a gentle nag does work..!!

Below are some of my Best Friends from my recent holiday in Ireland. Can you guess what I spent a lot of time doing....???

I love my computer and the program I have used is called AutoCollage...its heaps of fun and so easy to use.

Well this week I am off to camp at Camp Clayton with 70 Grade 4 to Grade 10 students...it will be interesting, and fun.....wish me luck!!

Until next week....

Make time to do what you love,

Cathy

Where to Start....

2011-10-02T03:37:00.000-07:00

So...or should I say, Sew....

As many of you know I went on an amazing holiday for 12 weeks last year to the UK, Europe, Egypt, Turkey, Greece etc... We had a wonderful time and the trip of a life time, but unfortunately I left my craft and stitching Mojo in a far away land.

Well, a month ago I was lucky enough to return to Ireland for the best 2 week holiday ever. Not only did I make some life-long friends, but I also found something I think I must have left there last year....my stitching Mojo.

So after almost 15 months I have picked up the needle and thread and started creating again!!

Sew, (pun intended) what does one chose to encourage the creative juices to continue to flow. While I was really tempted to begin a new project, I ended up chosing 2 things that I had already started and wont take very long to finish....

My Quilt-aid quilt only needs 3 more borders stitched, so that was my sitting on the couch project. And my sewing machine project had to be my Bliss quilt because I had planned to make it for camp in November, and with a bit of luck I still can....

Sew there you go....hopefully I am back.

As for my blog, well its all fixed, thanks to Sarah. I will pretty it up and remove year old projects from it over time!

I must say it was lovely to read so many comments from you all.....I think I have missed stitching, and I know I have missed my friends in Blogland!!

Cathyxx

Testing

2011-10-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I am trying my Blog...seems to have been hacked in my absense and I am attempting to fix it.....I have a photo bucket stamp throught the centre of all my posts saying "whose popular?"and I dont know how to remove it...has anyone else had this issue....can you see the stamp, or is it only visable from my end??
PS...I have started stitching again and once I can sort my blog out I will hopefully start posting again...
Cheers Cathyxx

A Lovely Craft Day

2011-01-30T15:33:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I made another comeback. I seem to be making these regularly. My life has definitely taken a different direction in the last 12 months but I am attempting to get back into my craft yet again.

I joined 8 lovely ladies and we stitched and chatted and ate our way through most of the day. A special Thank you to Pauline from Calico Crossroads for letting us take over her shop. Some spread out much more than others...Sorry!

I decided to work on my Quiltaid quilt as I really only have the borders to do. I managed to set one border up...now to stitch it all down....wish me luck!

Hope to see you all in Blogland again real soon!

(guess I wont be on the bottom of your list now Razzy...lol)

Cathy

Friends in Stitching Secret Santa Swap

2010-12-28T11:17:00.000-08:00

Sarah was my Secret Santa in the FIS on-line group that I am involved with and she has made me this gorgeous Block Keeper folder and carry bag using the gorgeous range called Bliss. Thank you so much Sarah!!

I stitched for Jan and made her Rosalie Quinlans bag and needle folder using some of Rosalie's own fabric. It was lots of fun to do and I was very brave and even experimented with needle turn applique. I tend to avoid needleturn....

Remember Me?

2010-11-01T04:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies, Remember Me? My names Cathy and I'm the absent Friend in Stitching.

Andrew and I had an absolutely amazing holiday and have been home now for 2 weeks. We both return to work and neither of us are very keen at all.

This weekend I finally spent some quality time in my Sewing Room and have actually produced something. I have pieced a mini-quilt using the fabrics and pattern that I received for my birthday from Dawn and this group!! I will attempt to baste it and begin quilting it during the week. Now to look at the other blocks....think I am up to Block of the Month 5....

Greetings from Scotland

2010-08-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

Just a very quick post to say Hello to everyone. Andrew and I are having a wonderful time and seeing lots of amazing things.

The 2 tapestries below hang in Stirling Castle in Glasgow and are beautiful. I visited the Tapestry Rooms where there are weavers still making tapestries and to my horror ended up with the worst case of Sinus. Must have been allergic to either the dust or the fibres??

And of cause we were crowned King and Queen of the castle!!

Hope you are all well,

Cathyxx

The Holiday of a Life Time.

2010-08-04T18:51:00.000-07:00

The BIG day has finally arrived!

In 2 hours I board a plane to begin the holiday of a life time.

London, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Italy, Egypt, Turkey, Greece and Dubai here I come.

Ten weeks of holiday bliss!

The suitcase is at the door, clothes, laptop and off course the stitching is all packed!

I may be absent from Blogland, but will try and drop in occasionally to catch up with you all!

Do you think I will do any of this stitching??

Catch up soon,

Cathyxx.

Tassie Stitching Weekend

2010-07-14T02:47:00.000-07:00

Want to join us on a wonderful stitching camp?

Click on the pic to read all about it.

$50 for 2 nights. Goody bag included.

Grab your stitching, sit amongst friends and relax.

Do as little or as much as you like!

It's going to be FUN!!

If you are interested email us here!

Any mainlanders interested, we can probably arrange airport pick up/drop off (Launceston)

Hope you can join us!!

Cathy and Sarahxx

Bitten by the Hexie Virus!!

2010-06-30T19:20:00.001-07:00

Look what I've been making!! I am so in love with these little fellows!!

I am using 3/4inch hexagons and Garden Party fabric....so sweet!

Quiltaid Progress....

The quilt is altogether now. I only need to make the borders and attach. I am really enjoying this project, and can almost see the end of the journey!!

Weekend Catch-up

2010-06-21T01:02:00.000-07:00

I have spent a lovely few hours playing in my sewing room this weekend. I have made Blocks 3 and 4 for my Friends in Stitches quilt...only 5,6,and 7 to go and I will be caught up. I have also finished Block 1 of Natalie Birds Kitchen Caper quilt. There is no stopping me, I am on a roll.....and loving it!

Have a great week everybody!!

The Holiday's are Over!!

2010-06-14T01:52:00.000-07:00

Well its back to work today!! I have had a lovely crafty holiday, and I seem to have found my craft mojo at the moment, lets hope I can continue to work on my many projects once back at work and strike some sort of balance in my week!
I have managed to work on many things during the holidays and my night-time stitching box is overflowing. Do you do this when you are on holidays? Jump from one project to the next??

Project Number 1- The new BOM I just had to buy on Friday...Oops...my resolve to not purchase anything else slipped a bit! It is called Kitchen Capers and its a Natalie Bird quilt. I purchased it from Esme's. I just love the fabrics Lillian has used to make it...very pretty!

Project Number 2- My Collection for a Cause Tumbler quilt. This is my new bed quilt. It is 25 rows by 25 rows...I have about 6 rows together so far...must get it together to help combat these chilly winter nights!!

Project Number 3- The centre block of my Quiltaid quilt..lots of buttonhole stitching to do here!

Project Number 4-Block 4 of Down in the Garden. Progress has slowed here a little. The watering can stitchery is a little daunting...once I get started I'm sure I will enjoy working on it as much as I did the last one!

So lots of things to keep me motivated on these cold nights when I get home from school!
For those of us returning to work today....Enjoy and have fun!

Quiltaid Quilt update

2010-06-11T01:38:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last few days in front of the heat pump! Tassie might be a pretty place, but in winter it can be very damp and cold.
I have decided to work on my Quiltaid quilt for a while. Below is the centre block I have pieced and prepared for applique. I am going to blanket stitch the edges. I can needle-turn applique, but there are too many pieces, so have decided to use my favourite method. (some of my friends call me the Blanket-Stitch Queen! )

Below are the 12 completed blocks and the centre block of this quilt. I have really enjoyed working on this and am pleased it is starting to come together.
I still have another floral-applique border, sashings, corner blocks and corner baskets to do.
I'm sure I will finish it eventually!!

I hope you all have an enjoyable and productive Long-Weekend!!

Down in the Garden

2010-06-06T17:37:00.000-07:00

I am moving along quite quickly with this quilt. The pattern is called Down in the Garden and the designer is Leanne Beasley! I have finished the first 3 blocks and have 6 to go! Wait until you see the centre block, it is amazing...lots of stitching!

Here is a close up of the first watering can of flowers....there are four of these blocks...all a little different though!

Catch-up Time

2010-06-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

So what have I been up to in the last 5 weeks?
I have been really busy with work, spent way too much time on Farmville (have since blocked my application) and managed a tiny bit of stitching!

This is my latest toy...I should have no excuses now...I have the means to blog whenever... no more sharing with teenagers!

I've been taking this lovely lady for walks....how could you resist that cute face??

I had to purchase more of my favourite fabric...I was a bit scared I wouldn't have enough for future projects so I just had to buy more!!

And on the stitching front this is what I have been working on at night. I have actually finished 3 blocks now....will share tomorrow!
So this is a comeback...no more Farmville....but more blogging!!

Snapshots of a Crafty Birthday

2010-04-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

In April I had a lovely crafty birthday!
My wonderful "Friends in Stitches" group sent me lovely reproduction fabrics and a cute pattern!
My stitching buddy, Leanne gave me lots of wonderful stitching goodies!
My clever daughter Alex made me a wonderful Chocolate Coffee Cake and bought me a box of my favourite chocolates!
And my patient Mum made me a pair of warm woollen socks!
Thank you to everyone that made my birthday wonderful!!

Friends in Stitching Leanne Beasley Swap.

2010-04-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

In March my FIS group had a "Leanne Beasley" swap. The challenge was for ladies to make their swap partners something that Leanne had designed. Below is the parcel that arrived for me from Teresa.

And this is the lovely bag that Teresa made. The design is called "Jackie's Sewing Bag" from Leanne's book, "Living the Dream." Thank you Teresa, your bag is proving to be very useful. You can get so many crafty things in it at once, and I have already used it as an overnight bag!

Sarah's swap gift from me was this bag below. Many of the FIS ladies are in love with Rouenneries fabric so I decided it was a good fabric to use for Sarah. To make the bag I used 2 of Leanne's patterns. The panel/stitchery design comes from the centre block of Leanne's quilt pattern "Butterfly Garden" and I made the overall bag from Leanne's pattern called "The Waverly Bag."

I loved this bag so much I ended up making 2. I just had to have one for myself.!!

Back to Work

2010-02-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Its almost a month since my last post. We are all back to our normal life. Andrew is back at work, Alex is starting her first year at Uni studying Early Childhood Teaching, Georgia has settled into Grade 9, (although she has a dreadful head cold) and I am back at school with a new class of Grade 4 students. I am extremely lucky this year I have a wonderful group and I am really looking forward to working with them.

On the craft front I have been making slow progress. I am steadily working on a gift for my on-line Friends in Stitches next swap, and I have managed to finish the second last block of the Quilt Aid quilt I have been working on.

The postman was also very generous this week and gave me Rosalie Quinlan's latest pattern called Advent Angels. Alex and I are planning to both make this...I feel some healthy competition coming on...I wonder who will finish first!

Advent Angels patterns.

Rosalie's completed quilt.
(photo borrowed from Rosalie's blog)

My version of Lynette Anderson's Quilt Aid block.

Until Next Time,

Happy Stitching!

A Week at Beautiful Bridport

2010-01-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

We are all home from a very relaxing and restful week at Bridport. This is the 3rd year that a group of us have shared some of our summer holiday together. The group started at my previous teaching school. A few of us taught together and also had children that were friends so we decided it would be lovely to holiday together. The group has grown to include our families and other friends and each year we spend a great week at the beach.This year we shared our holiday with about 40 people.

The view from the Living Area Balcony....

The Beach where we spent most mornings....

A relaxing swim......

The ladies supervising....

(check out the teacher hats!!)

The mandatory sand fight...

Building Sand Castles.....

And as for craft....very little...
I started stitching a block of Rosalie Quinlan's Little Patchwork Village but apart from that I was too busy playing crib, lazing in the sun, beach walking, reading, chatting, over-indulging, and having the odd snooze.....

Block Roll

2010-01-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to show what I have be working on in my sewing room. I used a tutorial that Teresa had placed on her blog. This Block Roll was very easy to make.

Here is the finished Block Roll in use. I finished the stitching on this Quilt Aid block last night....only 2 blocks to go.

Below is a small project that has been in my "Kit Box" for a few years. It was one of those projects that you just have to have when visiting a Craft Fair..... It is my aim to make up many of these kits this year and get rid of them, so to speak....

Well back to the beach and sun....we are having a week at our favourite place...Bridport.

Holiday Stitching

2010-01-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Being on holidays is wonderful as you can do what you love most. This week I have read, sun-lounged, stitched, watched DVD's, napped and generally been a holiday slob! Bliss! I have managed to completed my FIS birthday stitchery and framed it.

This year the Friends in Stitching online group I am part of is running a BOM. The first block is January's block and its called Capital T. The Dresden Plate block was just me being inspired by the gorgeous fabric!

I have been working on my Quilt Aid quilt whenever I have a spare moment. I have 3 of the 12 blocks to complete then the middle and side border appliques....

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T23:18:00.000-08:00

I hope you have all had a lovely Christmas and a great New Year's. We have been very family focused this year. Spending Christmas lunch with my sister Fiona, and Nathan, Issi and Ruby, Mum, Dad and John. We broke from tradition and had a BBQ and it was so much better. After lunch we all enjoyed playing on the Play Station that Issi and Ruby received from Santa. For dinner that night we went to a BBQ with Andrews brother, John and his extended family.

On Boxing Day we had a "Left-over" BBQ at Mum's.

New Years Eve we went to a BBQ with friends at the Tiffin's and New Years Day saw us having yet another BBQ with my family at our house.

Thank goodness the Tassie weather has been co-operating and we have been able to be outside enjoying the sunshine on every occasion!

Things have been very quiet on the crafting side. I have almost finished my "Spring Cleaning"....have gone a little crazy this year and tidied every cupboard and cleaned entire rooms- walls, doors, windows etc..

I have managed to finish my little Kinder girls. I was making them for my daughters and nieces for Christmas but decided to keep them for Easter. The red lady is mine and the 4 girls can choose which one they would like.

The pattern for these ladies is from Jodie (aka Ric-Rac) and they are called Kinder girls. They are fun to make and are very sweet. I particularly like the reversible "frock" and little woollen shoes.

A Crafty Christmas

2009-12-29T00:37:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas. I certainly did even though Christmas Day seemed to stretch over 2 days this year. The festivities are almost over and I am heavily involved with cleaning and sorting out my house. (a ritual I tend to do between Christmas and New Year..) Once my house is in order I am then free to stitch and "play" with fabric til my hearts content....

This year I was involved in 2 Christmas Swaps. The first swap was Chookyblues SSCS. Below is a picture of the gifts that I sent my SSCS partner Marica in Sweden.

Below is my SSCS gift that I received from Caroline in the Netherlands. Thank you so much Caroline for the lovely journal and Christmas decoration.

The other Christmas Swap that I was involved in was with my online Friends in Stitching group. Below are the gifts that I made for Peg. The stocking is a Vivian Robinson design and was great fun to make...I will have to make myself one now!

And this is the terrific gift that I received from my Friend in Stitching partner Sarah....how lucky am I...a Bronwyn Hayes bag....

This year I have been working on the Quilt Aid quilt organised by Helen Stubbings. For Christmas my family bought me the finishing kit for the quilt. I chose to use the finishing kit designed by The Quilted Crow ladies in Hobart. I only have 2 blocks to go and I can start to use the kit...I am really looking forward to putting it altogether!

My girls even gave me crafty things this year. Alex bought me some new scissors and Georgia gave me this very cute stocking that she made at school and then filled it with choccies!

Last, but definitely not least is this absolutely gorgeous cushion. My dear friend Leanne made me this. She is such a good friend and very cleverly used the fabrics I am planning to use for my next bed quilt- Collection for a Cause- Heritage. Thank you so much Leanne it is sitting on my bed silently encouraging me to get busy and make the new bed quilt!!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

I was very lucky to receive this Tilda Angel pattern and kit as a Christmas gift from Karin in Norway this week. I hope you read this post Karin as I am unable to contact you to say Thank you. I have deleted our emails and can't remember your blog name!! If you read this post Karin, Thank you so much, it was a lovely surprise and can you send me an email so I can thank you personally!

I have been busy making these really sweet Bon bons. They are very quick to make and I have given them to many friends and used them for several Secret Santa party gifts this Christmas. It is a Anni Downs pattern and a really cute way to give a small gift or a box of choccies!

I would like to wish everybody a
Merry Christmas
and I hope to see you again soon in Blogland.

Secret Santa Christmas Swapping is Fun

2009-12-07T16:56:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe it is over a month since my last post. This year has been extremely hectic and I have definitely not spent as much time as I would have liked doing 2 of my favourite hobbies...craft and blogging. Never mind there is a light at the end of the tunnel...in only 10 days time I will be on holidays for 6 weeks!

I received my SSCS last week and I have just found out that my parcel arrived safely in Sweden today.

Above are the goodies I have received from Caroline in the Netherlands.

Below are the Christmas gifts I have sent to Marica in Sweden.

I have many things to share with you and I will try to be a Better Blogger!!!

Perhaps we could start a new group...BB's...along the same lines as AA.

"My names Cathy and I promise to be a Better Blogger...."

(Yes, I'm getting silly now!!)
Cathyxx

Rosalie and Leanne's Campania projects

2009-11-05T20:20:00.000-08:00

Above is a picture of Rosalie's display.

Such gorgeous things.

I am really keen to make the Dolls House quilt....will add it to my growing list!

Rosalie's Christmas Snowman stitchery.
This stitchery is cleverly mounted onto a canvas.... a good idea!

Another stitchery from Rosalie....so pretty and bright.....I would like to do this one too!!

Leanne's Craft and Needle bag.
This was the project that I worked on for the day.

My version of Leanne's bag.
It was a lovely project to work on.....

Campania

2009-11-04T00:41:00.000-08:00

This Saturday saw many Tasmanian ladies head off to Campania for the 6th Gathering held by The Quilted Crow ladies. A terrific day was had by all. The guest tutors were Leanne Beasley and Rosalie Quinlan! While the day was all about Christmas there was a definite Halloween theme in the air. The date of this gathering was infact Halloween. Dierdre displayed her amazing collection of Halloween related craft and several bloggers arrived dressed in witchy outfits!!

The beautifully decorated hall.

A Halloween Tree.

My favourite Halloween quilt. (apparently the pattern for this quilt was in Homespun last year....it is now a quilt I am keen to make!!)

A couple of happy witches.

Myself, Jo, Fiona and Dierdre.

Rosalie and Leanne sharing a few stories and the projects for the day.

Ladies having fun....stitching, chatting, laughing, eating, enjoying......

Stitching Angel Surprise

2009-10-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

I had a very pleasant surprise in the mail yesterday! All of these beautifully wrapped gifts arrived from my Stitching Angel. I don't know who my angel is, only that she lives in Salt Lake City.....very mysterious and sneaky!

And these are all the gorgeous black and white goodies that my Angel sent.....

A large black and white bag, a very cute cherry fabric bag, a pin cushion, a needle case, plus fabric, buttons, cottons and other notions....

The inside of the needle case...

Thank you So much Angel. I love black and white things and I love all of the things that you have sent! I have been very spoilt!!!

A Stitching Angel

2009-10-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

It has been more than a month since my last post. Very slack I know!!

I have been busy stitching during this time. I have almost completed 2 Christmas swap gifts, made 4 Quilt Aid blocks and stitched for my Stitching Angel partner.

Above are the gifts that I made for Jo. I thought it was very funny when I opened the email from Helen and it said that Jo was my partner. It was even more amusing because the weekend after that email I went to Hobart and stayed at Jo's house for 2 nights. I was so tempted to leave "Stitching Angel" messages around Jo's house but I thought that might have been a bit obvious...

Below are the first 4 Quilt Aid blocks I have been working on. I am enjoying working on these blocks so much. They are all different and the fabric Sachet Potpourri is just beautiful. Thankyou so much for this idea Helen....I cant help but think of those women in Africa everytime I work on a block ....

Block designed by Anni Downs of Hatched and Patched.

Block designed by Liz Stanway of Teddlywinks.(slightly altered)

Block designed by Rosalie Quilan of Rosalie Quinlan Designs.

Block designed by Helen Stubbings of Hugs'n Kisses.

Raggy doll swap

2009-09-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have had an extremely busy and tiring 3 weeks, however a few positive things have come from it. The first is that my back-yard is now under control. Andrew and I worked tirelessly to reclaimed the garden beds and found the plants in amongst the weeds!!

The other more exciting news is I have changed my work-load and I am now working .8 again. This means I now have Fridays off and only work an 8 day fortnight. Hopefully I will now have more time for me. I intend spending my Fridays catching up, hopefully going for a nice long walk in the mornings, spending more time in my sewing room, catching up with my badly neglected Blog friends and of course the mandatory cleaning and grocery shopping....

On the quilting front things have been a little quiet. I have managed a touch of shopping, just to keep me motivated....

Sachet Potpourri.

Elm Creek Manor books.

Curiosity has gotten the better of me and I have to find out what these stories are all about. I have read about 100 pages of The Quilter's Apprentice and am surprised to say I am really enjoying it. I thought it may have been a bit contrived and lame....but no it is proving to be a good read....

My on-line Stitching group has just completed a Rag Doll swap. I received the cute Raggy doll named Emily in the green and yellow. She was made for me by Sue and a big Thank you to Sue for her. She is sitting on my shelf in my sewing room. I made the dolly below for Tereasa!!

And finally I am still receiving Thimbles from kind ladies!! This particular one has come from Darwin....Thank you so much Vicki....my collection is growing!!

So hopefully I will be able to keep up with Blogging a bit better now that I have a little more "ME" time. I will try and visit some of my neglected Blogging friends today....the weather is going to be helpful....it is pouring outside again....not sure about that morning walk?..

Cathyx

Mystery Marathon

2009-09-06T18:59:00.000-07:00

My last week of term was very busy and tiring. I am very pleased to say that..... the school holidays start here in Tassie today!!

Last week was not very productive on the stitching front until Saturday.

On Friday night I drove to Hobart to attend Helen Stubbings Mystery Marathon- a quilting experience organised to help Helen's daughter Miss M raise money so she can experience the chance of a life time. Miss M has been accepted to take part in World Challenge and will be going to Namibia next September.

I arrived in Hobart about 6 and went to Jo's place. Jo very kindly invited me to stay with her. Jo and her hubby, son and special pooch Lucy, made me feel very welcome and it was wonderful to spend time with them. I also got to see Jo's creative sewing room....I am always intrigued by other peoples creative spaces!!

Jo and Fiona busily stitching!!

The lady in the back ground is Ange, another Tassie blogger.

On Saturday we stitched from 9 til 9 and boy were we weary that night. I had chosen not to take part in the mystery quilt because my end of term brain just could not focus on choosing fabrics etc. I must admit I regreted not taking fabric though.

Instead of making a mystery quilt I worked on Helen's block from the Quilt Aid quilt and am pleased to say I completed it!!

Many generous people donated special crafting goodies for the day. Below is a pattern that Rose provided for us all. I am keen to make the cute little pin cushion..

And finally the 2 finished Mystery Quilts......

I love both of these designs and they are on my ever increasing to-do list!! The fabrics used in the quilt below is just gorgeous and it is called Authentic!

So that was my busy Saturday.....Thank you to both Helen and Jo.......I had a wonderful time!!

Very Wet Book Week

2009-08-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

This week has been extremely wet, windy and cold in the north of Tasmania. I am really tired of the rain and feel extremely water logged and soggy!
On the stitching front, my sampler is progressing rapidly...I only have the middle section to go. There are 3 middles to choose from, a birth sampler, a wedding anniversary or an alphabet. I have chosen the alphabet pattern and it has a very sweet peacock in the design.

I have also been playing with these 2 Stitching Angel patterns this week. I have made them for a non-computer friend of mine so I know I am very safe in sharing them. I am really impressed with both patterns, they were fun and very easy to make. Thanks again to Helen for organising this swap. (NB these are NOT for my Stitching Angel partner!!)

This week at school we celebrated Children's Book Week. We all chose a book character and dressed up as them. Despite my charming daughter telling me I looked the same, I dressed as the old crone from Snow White. I was very realistic and I managed to scare a few of the Kinder children....it was lots of fun!!

Here is my class all dressed up as various book characters!!

Well that was my week!
We only have 5 more school days here in Tasmania....looking forward to 2 weeks of holidays!!

Weekly Report

2009-08-23T02:57:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take a leaf out of my friend Julie's book and start doing a weekly post. The plan is to post each Sunday afternoon and report on the week that was....

Alex (DD1) and I have been working on a very special quilt for Alex's friend Emily. The quilt has been a family effort. Alex designed the stitcheries and worked them with a little help from Georgia. (DD2) Alex and I then spent last Saturday laying out and stitching the top together. Leanne from Esme's then beautifully quilted the top and finally I am in the process of attaching the binding. Emily's 18th is on Thursday and Alex is hoping to present her with an original Twilight Quilt at school! The quilt was inspired by the girl's favourite books at the moment...The Twilight Series....

This week I have managed to achieve quite a bit of Television stitching. I have stitched 2 Tisket Tasket blocks, so I am up to date with those.

I have also rediscovered my love for Cross Stitch. My original craft obsession was making Cross Stitch Samplers. This sampler was a mystery sampler that I started about 5 years ago. I dont think I will ever frame it but I am really enjoying working on all of the little pictures....

Finally the postman was very generous this week. I recieved 2 thimble parcels. One from Mary in New Jersey, and the other from Christine in Queensland. Christine very kindly donated several thimbles to my collection all wrapped up in a lovely fat quarter of fabric.
The other parcel that arrived was my finishing kit from The Quilted Crow for my Quilt Aid quilt. This is a lovely quilt for a tremendous cause, check the Quilt Aid Website if you are interested in finding out all about it!!

Well that was my week. I actually achieved quite a bit. Enjoy your week and I hope you have lots of time for Stitching!!

Thimble Exchange

2009-08-12T23:53:00.000-07:00

I have been amazed at the number of people who have responded to my Thimble Exchange. I am pleased to say, I am definitely not the only Craft-o-holic out there...there are lots of you. I have received so many thimbles, cards, letters and lovely gift....it has been a real surprise.
The generous and lovely ladies that have helped fuel my addiction are Karmen, Candace, Mary, Oddbjorg, Anne Marie, Isabella,Lena Karen, Lyn and Debbie. Thank you so much for taking part in my Thimble Exchange ladies.
If you have not received a return thimble from Tasmania as yet you soon will.

And can I also say a great big thank you to Karin (no blog) who sent me the Tilda book...it is such a lovely book...Thank you Karin!!!

My Printer Box with all its new thimbles.

Happy Birthday Miss Issi

2009-08-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

My precious Neice turned 6 yesterday and on Sunday she had a special party with some of her friends and family. She was very lucky and had a balloon-making magician, lots of fun games and yummy food, and her clever Mum made her the best cake, a pair of ballet shoes!!

And of course I had to make a special quilt to celebrate the occasion. I used Leanne Beasley's"Ruths Quilt" pattern and Winsome fabric. So now Issi and Ruby have matching quilts...they can share a bedroom!

I also made her her own stitching bag and gave her a long stitch kit. Everytime she visits Issi asks if she can "do stitching" so now we are set.

And these are the roses the Balloon Magician made. He was a very clever young man (only 16) and he made alsorts of things for the party guests!

A Special Quilt

2009-08-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

Below is a picture of a quilt I helped make with other ladies from my old school. We made it for a very special lady and colleague who is having a challenging time at the moment.

A few of us meet for coffee and gave her the quilt on Friday.

Evandale Gathering

2009-07-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago I went to the annual gathering at Evandale. This years the tutors were Natalie, Brenda, Gail and the ladies from Blue Willow Cottage. It was a great day. Lots of stitching and heaps of giggles.....

The gorgeous Ladybird goodies designed by Natalie...definitely on the to-do list one day!!

Buttons and Bows designed by Gail.....also on the to-do list!!

This is the chatelaine I made on the day.... the amazingly sweet, helpful, and extremely bossing Marie helped me. (LOL) What a lovely lady...you would never have guessed she had been a nurse. If it hadn't have been for Marie and her organisation skills (yep, she bossed me well) I would never have almost completed this on the day!! I have always wanted to make a chatelaine....this one has a scissor keep, a thimble pip, a pin wheel and a needle case.
Thank you Marie, and thank you for a great day ladies!!!

Breast Friends Quilt.

2009-07-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

This quilt holds significance for me at the moment, as Im sure it does for all of us.

A special lady that I have worked with for many years was diagnosed with Breast cancer only recently and that was a real shock. She is going to be fine, but as her life has been really challenging in the last few years this was probably the last thing she needed.

Also my 17 year old daughter came home the other day very distressed. One of her close friends has just been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Obviously the young women in Alex's friendship group are feeling very sad, scared and a bit bewildered.

Is it my age or is this dreadful disease effecting more and more people?

Calling All Thimble Collectors

2009-07-05T04:47:00.000-07:00

While looking at Blogs this morning I came across a photo of an old Printer box full of thimbles that Hanne has collected. When I saw this I became a bit excited and came up with an idea!!

Photo borrowed from Hanne's blog

The reason for my excitement was because I knew what was in my garden shed.

After scruffing around in all our "not-being-used" things I found my own old printer box in all its glory...complete with decorative cobwebs.
It seems a shame to store the box in the shed, so I thought I might start collecting thimbles too....

(I hope you don't mind if I copy your wonderful idea Hanne?)

So my idea is this....
Is anyone interested in a thimble swap? I would send you a Tasmanian thimble and you could in return send me a thimble from your home place, town or country.
Let me know if you are interested !!

A Tisket A Tasket baskets

2009-06-28T02:24:00.000-07:00

All my baskets are full and completed!! I am thoroughly enjoying this free BOM supplied by Anne at Bunny Hill Designs...Thank you so much. I am making my blocks using Winsome fabric and the whole effect is very gentle and pretty!

Only a few days unitl the next block is posted. If you are interested in this pattern click on the button on my side bar and it will take you to Anne's blog.

Hobart Craft Fair

2009-06-28T01:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday saw Meredith, Leanne,Christine and myself up bright and early so we could attend the Stitcher's and Craft Fair.

We had our mandatory coffee and pastry at Banjoes at Campbell Town and then drove on to Hobart where we spent about 2 hours wandering around the stalls and quilt exhibition. The fair was a bit disappointing this year, with only a few good quilting stalls. Lots of beads, stamps and scrapbooking stalls for those so inclined.

I did mange to buy a couple of things though....

What visit to Hobart would be complete without a visit to the wonderful Quilted Crow shop? We visited with the lovely Deirdre and I purchased a little more fabric for my Dear Jane and the Easter Googies Cone kit that I have admired everytime I have been to the shop of late.

I also picked up my first block for The Quilt Aid quilt.
My first block is the one designed by Tassie's own Helen Stubbings. The block is just gorgeous and is called Bluebird of Hope.

QuiltAid is infact Helen's love child and she deserves a tremendous applause for all of her hard work....it surely is for an amazing cause!

A Tisket, A Tasket

2009-06-16T03:10:00.000-07:00

Well the holiday is over.... and I am back at work!! Crafting has ground to a slow crawl...

At the weekend I did manage to spend time getting my Tisket/Tasket blocks ready to stitch. I am blanket stitching them but have decided it is time to get over my fear of needle-turn applique. The blanket stitching looks good and I enjoy doing it, but needle-turn looks much more effective. So the next project I need to applique I am going to needleturn and not stress out too much if you can see a stitch or two.

These blocks are just so cute...I can imagine a very sweet cot quilt being made from them...just have to find a very sweet baby to make it for....

Noah's Ark

2009-06-09T01:05:00.001-07:00

As some of you know I have a Noah's Ark addiction, so when Lynette Anderson offered a free Noah's Ark Block of the Month last year I could not resist. I deligently kept up for a whole 3 months and then just collected the next 9 blocks, putting them carefully in the cupboard...as you do!!

As I am on holidays I decided that this would be a manageable WISP to complete this week...so here it is....
Excuse the bad photography, its winter and the light is not good, hence the photos are not good...

And here it is framed and hanging on the loungeroom wall.....

Busy Stitching Weekend!

2009-06-08T02:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the Queen's Birthday Long-Weekend in Tasmania and I have been a right sloth. I have sat on the couch, stitched, played in the Sewing-room and watched the entire first season of House...24 - 40 minute episodes...

I did force myself to go for a walk this morning,only because I had a huge case of couch butt and stitchers' back!!

So what did I do??

I looked through my Dear Jane book ...yes I have joined the thousands of mad women around the world working on a Baby Jane Quilt!

I finished the very first block-A1. (yes it is in reverse...)

Found my Noah's Ark quilt, and did a lot of the stitcher's. I did infact finish all of the stitcheries and will share the finished quilt top tomorrow... you can see how much I have stitched...these are all now completed... WOW!! (even I'm impressed)

I had a play with my Wonky Houses from Lurline's Wonky House swap...couldn't decide what to do with them so put them away again....
The blocks are from lots of Aussie ladies...Lynda, Anne, Mistea, Narelle, Shari, Peg and Erin....thank you ladies, your blocks are lovely.

So best get back to the couch...Season 2 is calling me.Have you ever seen House with Hugh Laurie in it...it is very funny, he is so sarcastic and rude in a funny sort of way...

Birthday Quilts

2009-06-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

Another "Ruth's Quilt" has been completed....the quilt top anyway.

The top is pieced and ready for quilting! This year I am trying to make quilts for my 2 neices for their birthdays. Ruby had her birthday in April and Issi's birthday is in August. As the girls are going to eventually share a bedroom their Mum decided she would like matching quilts.

They will look very pretty on their beds I'm sure!

And the Winner Is......

2009-06-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

And the winner is....

Sarah

I will pop the pattern in the post to you...Enjoy!!

I have been a bit of a lurker lately and havent left very many comments. As I am on holidays hopefully I can visit many blogs in the next week or so and catch up with what everybody has been up to. I knew going back to work full-time this year was going to be tricky, but I didnt think it would take so much time away from the things I love doing...

On a brighter note a stitching friend of mine and fellow blogger, Jen had the most gorgeous little girl a few weeks ago. Miss Tamsyn has the most angelic little face and came alone to her first stitching outing last week. I made this baby bag for Tamsyn out of one of my favourite fabric ranges....Wee Play.

I have lots of other things to share so hopefully will be back in the next day or so!

Happy Stitching, Cathy

Table Top on the Move

2009-05-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

I dont know if anybody remembers but way back in April 2008 this Table Runner pattern was supposed to be involved in a "Pass Around," unfortunately it liked my Sewing Room so much it came to live for about 14 months.... Well I have finally finished making it and it is time to pass the pattern on.

The Table Runner I have made from this pattern became part of a swap and it is now living at Teresa's house!

The idea is if you want to make this very easy table runner leave your name and I will draw a name out of a hat next Saturday. When the winner has made her table runner she will post a picture and give the pattern away to someone else. (hopefully a bit quicker than I did)The table runner has already been made by Pat and Deb and Leanne it will be interesting to see how far it travels.

So if you would like to make this Table Runner leave a comment and I will draw a number out of the hat next Saturday.

Platypus Family Fun!

2009-05-22T00:35:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Meredith and I had a lovely time making these little guys. They were so easy and fun to make. The pattern was in a recent -Homespun Magazine.

(I will acknowlegde the designer when I can find the magazine....I have put it somewhere safe and can't seem to find it...)

Ok here is the information as promised! The pattern was in the January edition of Homespun and you can find other information about the platypus family and Kate the designer here...

http://neverenoughhours.blogspot.com/2009/04/patterns-and-giveaway.html

Thank you for the info Chookyblue!!!

Georgia Cupcake

2009-05-17T00:20:00.001-07:00

Georgia is modelling her lastest fashion accessory!

We have spent the afternoon turning these very cute Natalie Ross stitcheries that Georgia has been working on into a very classy looking apron. It was a bit tricky...I tried to incorporate 2 patterns into 1 and after a bit of fiddling I think it worked out ok. It is a bit long and doesnt really sit on her waist...but teenagers dont wear things on their waists now anyway, do they!!

Using her very cute Cupcake apron she then made us these delicious Cupcakes for afternoon tea!!

Red White and Black!!

2009-05-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last night I was involved in a Table Topper Swap/Live Chat with my "Friends in Stitching" group. What a hoot that proved to be...you think 9 women in a room can make a lot of noise and confusion, try giving them a keyboard,alcohol, dog noises and stitching to talk about...totally hilarious confusion!!!

This is the gorgeous Table Runner I recieved from Helen. Thank you so much Helen it is definetly my colours and looks very striking in my Family Room.

Very little craft happening at my house at the moment, I am a bit end of termy and also struggling with a revolting head cold that won't go away. I did manage to finish this cute little bag during the week though. Leanne and I started making them one night last week, it was a very simple pattern....one I will make again Im sure!

My 4 Girls!!

2009-05-13T04:34:00.000-07:00

Alex, Georgia, Ruby and Issi. I love this photo....my 2 daughters and my 2 neices..

Is this a mischievious face or what.... what have you been up to Missy?

Miss Issi has so much personality!!

And Miss Ruby has been practising her facual expressions...this is Grumpy!!

These 2 are actually cousins....they look like identical twins 12 years apart....

Introducing One Fun Loving Scot!!

2009-05-04T22:37:00.000-07:00

This lady is such a Hoot!! She is our cheeky, hilarious, fun loving Scottish Stitcher and a real favourite of all Tassie Bloggers. Be happy Isabel we all love you and hope things settle down for you real soon!!

An Autumn Gathering

2009-05-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

Tasmanian Stitcher's were very lucky yesterday as they had a wondeful gathering hosted by The Quilted Crow ladies Leonie and Deirdre. The gathering was held at a quaint little town in the South of Tassie called Campania. Guest stitcher's were Tassies's very own Helen Stubbing and Woy Woy's, Natalie Ross. Both of these ladies had terrific projects for us enthusiastic crafters to produce. Leonie and Deirdre also had some special projects for us to recreate....I will share all of their goodies in my next post.

Here are some of my purchases...yes there was a shop presence there, thank goodness....

Shopping, stitching, cupcakes, lollies, cups of tea, nobody calling "Mum" and the best Vegetable Lasagne I have ever tasted....what more could a girl want....

The Campania Hall was beautifully decorated with Helen's, Natalie's and The Quilted Crow's outstanding quilts....

Sarah and myself learning the finer details of needle-turn. Thanks Natalie....it was great to meet such a happy and enthusiastic crafter....

Fiona and Jo

Sarah and Sarah

Leanne and Marina.

Thats all for now but I will be back to share the projects and other crafty pics.

Also stay tuned for a mystery guest appearance from a very funny, lovely scottish lady wearing a very pretty apron!!

Cathyxx

Butterfly Garden

2009-04-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

I have started playing around with Leanne Beasley's Butterfly Garden Pattern. I am making it for my older niece who is in need of a grown up girls quilt on her bed. I made her "Matilda's Station" when she was about 4 so I think it is time she had a girlie quilt.

As I want to make it bed-quilt size and Eliza's favourite colour is purple I have decided to make the background bordered squares pastel and then applique purple hearts and butterflies all over it. I may also applique pastel daisies as well?? I am going to leave out the stitcheries this time around.

The butterflies and hearts are only sitting there at the moment...when I have a few more squares completed I will start placing and stitching.

ANZAC Day Afternoon

2009-04-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

After a lovely Anzac Day Lunch it was time to sit and relax.

Ruby and Fiona relaxing on the lounge.

Issi doing what she loves....she sure is a chip off her Aunties' block....I've taught her all that she knows!

What a New Age Guy!!
This is my brother-in-law, Nathan, lending a helping hand!

And on the Home-Crafting front. I received another birthday parcel in the mail on Friday. Thank you Maree, it arrived safely and I love the fabric...beautiful! The sweet smellies were also very pretty...Thank you again for organizing this birthday swap Maree..it has been lovely receiving all these goodies in the mail!

ANZAC DAY

2009-04-25T01:37:00.000-07:00

ANZAC Day is a special family day for me. As a young girl I can remember many years of ANZAC days where we would go to either the Dawn Service or the 11 o'clock town march to watch my Pop march with his mates. We would go to these ceremonies and then have lunch together either at my Nan and Pops house or in later years have a counter meal in town at one of the local Pubs.

My memories are bitter sweet as both my Grandparents have now gone.

This year Fiona and I decided it was time to begin our own tradition for our families. So Fiona, Alex, Georgia, our Mum and myself all marched with Issi's school group. Nathan and Ruby also marched, but with Nathan's school group, and Andrew of course was with the Pipe Band.

Here is Miss Issi proudly holding an Aussie flag with her friend India.

This is Andrew wearing his Dads medals and in Full Scottish dress. St Andrews Pipe Band lead the parade this year.

After the parade we all went to our house and prepared lunch. Grandma and Alex made delicious sandwiches and I made some zucchini soup.

We all helped make some traditional ANZAC biscuits. Some helped more than others....I think Fiona and Issi managed to eat at least half of the mixture before it became biscuits though...

The mixture that did survive turned into yummy biscuits!

I had a lovely morning, it was so nice working with mum and the girls in the kitchen and I think we may have began our own, new ANZAC Day tradition! ANZAC day is such an important tradition and I hope we can repeat this tradition for years to come!!

A Lovely Birthday!

2009-04-22T11:56:00.000-07:00

It was my birthday on Tuesday and I had a lovely day. Lots of well wishes, lovely gifts and people making me feel really special!

I am part of Maree's Fabric Birthday Swap and here are all the lovely gifts that Mr Australia Post delivered this week. Can I say a huge Thank you to Narelle, Jenny, Maree, Jeni and Marc....your gifts have all arrived safely and the fabric choices are terrific....Thank you so much!!

The gifts all beautifully wrapped....

The gifts unwrapped. So many goodies....

My special friend Leanne also came to visit....unfortunately I was out visiting my neices and missed her, but she left these lovely patterns....Thank you Leanne, you know I have admired that quilt for a while now....

This is the piece of stitching that my "Stitching Friends" group gave to me....very appropriately it is called A Good Friend....something I can say I have many of!!

Thank you Everyone for making my birthday so Special! I had a really wonderful day!!

Cathy xxx

Easter Craft Projects

2009-04-19T00:46:00.001-07:00

I have had a lovely time this last week. As many of you know I have been on holidays, and I have spent my time reading, having "coffee", doing lunch and catching up. I have also managed to spend some time playing in my sewing room.

At night my stitching has been my Dear Jane Cross Stitch....a couple more blocks have been stitched.

Below is a photo of a gift I am making for a swap I'm involved in. I have used Prairie Paisley fabric....it is so pretty and country....will share a proper pic at a later date!

Below is another gift I am making for a special lady and her soon to arrive baby...I am really enjoying making this .... stay tuned!! It is unbelievable how many babies are arriving soon. I know of 4 lucky ladies about to become happy Mums in the next 4 to 6 weeks!!

I have been working on several other projects this week too and will share when I can take a clear photo of them....winter must be coming, the days are not as bright as they were and have struggled to get clear pictures...might be time for a better camera??

Until then....
Happy Crafting!!
Cathy

Leanne's Postcard Addiction!!

2009-04-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

My friend Leanne loves fabric postcards! I was not surprised when she decided to make Leanne's House Postcard Quilt from the book Romancing the Roadtrip. Being one of her stitching buddies she asked me to make her a postcard block for her 'Friendship Quilt'!!

Leanne asked us to write a little message on the postcard, and I decided to use a combined friendship and stitching verse.

Im sorry if I let you down Paul....Leanne's DH was sure I would write something cheeky or smart...but while I was tempted I really wanted to write something special for my dear friend!!

I am really looking forward to seeing Leanne's quilt finished and put together.

Easter Weekend!

2009-04-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

How did you spend your Easter weekend?

I shared my time between eating chocolate, reading the latest Jodi Picoult book, having Nanna Naps and finishing a quilt top!!

And would you believe.....

My Journey of a Quilter top is complete!!

I am having a lovely time playing in the sewing room trying to complete a few Wispers. Miss Milly is always close at hand to give advise... She loves sleeping on my toes....which makes fast movements to the ironing board or using the machine foot pedal interesting! I think she felt a little neglected this morning, as you can see, she was desperate to get my attention!

My Chocolate addiction has been appeased, I really dont care if I don't see chocolate again for quite some time!! Hope you all had a lovely Easter Weekend with family and loved ones!!

Happy Easter Everyone!!

2009-04-07T03:12:00.000-07:00

We love Easter at our house. Guess its because we are all Chocoholics!!

I came home yesterday to find Miss G decorating our little Easter Tree. My Aunt owns a very cute craft shop and she encouraged the tradition of an Easter tree a few years ago. Each year I purchase a new Easter decoration to add to the tree...I love this tree, it is so pretty and pastel. (not really me at all)

I hope you all have a very restful and craft productive Easter break!! I am hoping too!!

Journey of a Quilter

2009-04-05T02:08:00.000-07:00

I have been lurking in Blogland of late and not leaving comments or updating my blog very regularly. Work and Life have been getting in the way of what I really want to be doing...Stitching!!

In 4 more sleeps I will be on holidays for a week and I am really looking forward to visiting all my Blogging friends and catching up with what they have been doing!

I have been slowly plugging away at my Journey of a Quilter quilt and am on the final block. i am hoping to finish block 9 this week and then I can put it all together. Hopefully it will be an April Wisper.

On another note I am pleased to see our Dear Friend Mary is back in Blogland!

We have missed you Mary and I am happy to see you are back!!

Block 7.

Block 8.

Calling All Tassie Bloggers!!

2009-03-30T01:21:00.000-07:00

Evandale Craft Day is on again this year!!

All of those Tassie bloggers that usually go, I hope to see you there!!

Below is a copy of the invite from Christine!!

A Winter Gathering

I would like to personally invite you to a one -day workshop with talented tutors from Melbourne and Sydney. Enjoy a relaxed fun filled day with lovely food cooked by our Chef Sue.

This year we have all new tutors:

Natalie Ross - Natalie Ross in Stitches .
Gail Pan – of Gail Pan Designs.
Rhonda and Chrissie – of Blue Willow Cottage.

The Blue Willow girls will also have a shop presence .
Sally from Petite point – for all your thread needs.
Pauline from Calico Cross Roads – Fabrics and craft wares

Morning tea will be Sues’ famous scones’
Lunch will comprise of homemade soup served with crusty bread,
Followed by Lasagne.
Afternoon tea will be homemade slices.
Please inform us of any dietary needs when booking.

So come along, bring a friend or your stitching group.

Where? Evandale Memorial Hall (as always)– High Street Evandale.
When?– 11th July 2009
Time? – 10am – 4.00pm

Cost –still only $90.00 ($45-00 deposit non refundable)
Cost includes:
Morning tea, Lunch and afternoon tea.
Projects bag with all patterns; some starter kits , raffle prizes drawn through out the day and a door prize.

Please contact Christine Dearden on 0425 718 345 or e-mail ctdearden@optusnet.com.au

Please make all cheques or money orders payable to Christine Dearden.
P.O.Box 563 Werribee 3030 Melbourne Victoria.

Happy House Swap

2009-03-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

Nine Happy House blocks finished!!!

I have had a busy weekend building houses for Lurline's Happy House Swap. They were so much fun to make!! I used the 1930's fabric I purchased at the AQC.

Who watched the live telecast of "Sound Relief" this weekend, the music festival for the Victorian Bushfire Victims? It was wonderful, and it showed how supportive us Australians can be. True to this ridiculous weather of late, it rained throughout both the Melbourne and Sydney concerts.!!

Success and PIF gift!

2009-03-12T02:29:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Leanne gave me this gorgeous Stitching Wrap as a PIF gift.

Thank you so much Leanne it is wonderful!

News of my dilemma. Thank you so much to all of those kind-hearted people in Blogland who offered assistance in my hunt for the Winsome fabric. Thanks to Sally's lead I have tracked down the fabric, ordered it and am expecting its arrival on Monday or Tuesday!
Would you believe I actually found it, 30 minutes from my home at The Village Sampler...a gorgeous Quilt shop I used to visit regularly before work took over my life!! Debbie is the owner and she is always so friendly and helpful....Thank you Sally and thank you Deb!!!

Cry for Help!!

2009-03-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in the previous post, I have ran out of the darker pink that I was using in this quilt. It is the Benartex Winsome range. I was wondering if there was anyone out there in Blogland who may have a piece of it and would be willing to swap it for something else? I did order some from a lovely lady, but unfortuantely when it arrived it was peach and not dusty pink.... I am still trying to track it down on the internet...but am not having a great deal of success!!
Happy Stitching Cathyx

Pretty, Easy and Quick!!

2009-03-09T02:44:00.000-07:00

I had a big day yesterday at the machine putting Leanne Beasley's "Ruth's Quilt" together. Unfortunately I ran out of the dark pink fabric and couldn't finish it off. Nevermind, a few minutes on the internet and I ordered a fat quarter from a lovely lady at Busy Thimbles in NSW. Hopefully the fabric will arrive this week and I can then finish the last 4 rows and that means, another UFO almost completed. This has been such a fun project....very pretty, easy and quick!! I think I will definitely make this pattern again!

And the Winner Is......

2009-03-04T00:14:00.001-08:00

Thank you to everyone who congratulated me on my Blogoversary and for leaving lovely comments. DD1 and DD2 very kindly helped me cut up 63 comment slips and we then pulled the winning name from the bag....

The winner is.....

Purpleflowerpatch from Western Australia!!

Congratulations Jenny your new Stitching bag is in the mail!!!

Weekend in Melbourne

2009-03-01T11:01:00.001-08:00

I have had a lovely weekend in Melbourne.

Andrew, Leanne, Anna and myself headed off early Saturday morning. After a quick plane flight, a brisk walk and a shared breakfast at a little French cafe we arrived at the AQC. I don't think I have ever seen so many women in the one place before....it was ridiculously frantic and busy and exciting.

The first thing I did was meet up with fellow Tassie bloggers Jo, Sarah, Christine and Kathy. We then went in search for Gail Pann, and half an hour later we all stopped for breathe and headed off to SHOP! I did pop by to see Ric Rac and we said a very brief Hello, unfortunately she was so busy.... next time Jodie!

I made a few purchases, but on the whole I used great restraint!! My favourite purchase was Natalie Bird's latest pattern called All Creatures Great and Small....it appealled to my obsession with all things Noah!!

That evening Andrew and went to see Billy Eliott. It was amazing....moving, funny and emotional..... If you havent seen it I strongly suggest you do if possible, it is brilliant. !! After the show we met up with Andrew's friend Colin....a member of the Billy Eliott ensemble and had a few drinks with him. That was pretty cool!!

On Sunday Colin and his wife, Lynette, took us to the Beachcomber at St Kilda and we had a gorgeous breakfast on the foreshore there! I strongly recommend the Canadian pancakes!

After the manditory stop at the DFO and a whirl-wind visit to the Smiggle shop we headed back to the airport and home! We had a very exciting and busy weekend!!!!

Final February Finish

2009-02-27T09:51:00.001-08:00

My Christmas Quilt is finished. My lovely friend Leanne quilted it for me at work. Leanne is learning how to quilt on Lilian's Quilting Machine at Esme's Quilt Shop and kindly Stipple Quilted this quilt top for me.

I designed the top myself. I used the Ohio Star block, a bit of applique and stitcheries from Bronwyn Hayes' pattern called A Pocketful of Christmas. I am really pleased with the end result. I also made it with one of my favourite fabric ranges....Chocolat.

So this is finish number 4 for February...a very productive month. Things may slow down now...I have chosen projects that were almost finished up until now....the next few projects have lots of work left to be done!!

Bushfire Appeal Quilt Top

2009-02-26T11:03:00.000-08:00

After reading how Christine from Auntie's Quaint Quilts was donating a Quilt top to the Bushfire appeal I also felt motivated to help. I remembered this particular quilt top was in the cupboard and thought that it was probably very suited to the situation. So on Saturday when I visit Karen from Mrs Martin's Quilt Shop at the AQC, I will pass this top over to her so that it can be quilted and passed on to someone who will benefit from and enjoy it! I am absolutley amazed at the way people have got behind and supported the thousands of victims from the Victorian Bushfires....it truly is good to be Australian!!

Class Quilt 2009

2009-02-23T03:24:00.000-08:00

This quilt is an example of taking your obsession to work with you!

Last week I had all the children in my class design a panel about themselves using Fabric Crayons, I then took the panels home and made them into a Class Quilt. The quilt is currently hanging on a display board in my classroom. We will hold a "Names in the Hat" at the end of the year and the lucky winner will be able to take the Class Quilt home with them. They are all keen to win.

On Saturday Georgia was keen to practise sewing on the machine. She found a pack of Swell Charm squares in my sewing room and with a little assistance from me made this great bag. She is going to use it to take her things to dancing in!

Don't forget ladies only 6 days left until my Blogoversary!!
Happy Stitching,
Cathy

Fanfare and Drum Roll Please!!!

2009-02-21T13:08:00.001-08:00

It is official, Nice People Nice Things is finally finished!!!

This quilt has been a marathon effort. Even DD2 commented by saying "You have been doing that for ever." And it sure felt like forever too!

The stitcheries were fun, but the Quilt-as-you-go method of putting it together is definetly something that you only try once!!

Winges aside it is a beautiful quilt and I really love it. (now that its finished)

It is sitting in pride of place on Pappa's Chair!

Even Samual George, the family Cat inspected the end result!

Blogoversary Giveaway!!

2009-02-14T02:50:00.001-08:00

Well here it is as promised!

My 12 month Blogoversary is 15 days away and I have made one of the Heart String Bags as a give away prize. Lucky for me (and the winner) this bag is already finished and has been awaiting a plane trip since Christmas time.

The winner will be drawn on the evening of my Blogoversary, so leave a comment and you could be the lucky winner!

What would you use it for?

I have one and my "Ruth's Quilt" stitcheries are safely stashed inside it!!

Slow Progress

2009-02-13T04:55:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been very hectic. A new class, a new school and returning to full-time work has meant little time for craft or blogging. I have been trying really hard to complete my NPNT quilt and I am almost there- 2 seams to hand-stitch and the binding to go!! I am also plodding along slowly with my "Ruth's Quilt" stitcheries, I think I have about 15 to go?

My Blogaversary is less than 3 weeks away. I will post about my special give-away tomorrow.....Stay turned!!

Back from the Beach

2009-01-31T23:03:00.000-08:00

The unpacking is done, the cars are washed, the dog is happy and the washing is almost finished! We came home from the beach today. We had a lovely time and were glad to be on the coast during a pretty amazing heat-wave. The last 4 days have seen temperatures in the high 30's to low 40's. Temperatures Tasmania very rarely sees! Today is cooler thank goodness.

As a result of the heat I have nothing new to share. We spent our week keeping cool and I did very little stitching. Two "Ruth's Quilt" stitcheries was the total effort.

While I was away though, I did recieve this terrific award from Suzie. Thank you Suzie!!!

Dear Jane progress

2009-01-26T03:09:00.001-08:00

Thank you to Anne marie for the Kreative Award, you are very kind!

I must apologise to all those people whose blog I usually visit...I am finding life very busy this week and I know next week will be just as hectic, but stick with me, I will return to full voice. The holidays are coming to an end and I am in over-drive trying to visit with everyone and also finish off my huge list of holiday jobs. Having said that I am off to the beach tomorrow for 5 nights, so the list may stay incomplete! I will have my trusty lap-top with me at the beach but I dont know how well it will perform so blogging might be a bit tricky!

On a crafty note. We went and stayed with friends on Saturday night and while the hubbies were off golfing on Sunday Meredith and I did a power of stitching. I of course worked on my Dear Jane Cross Stitch. It was lovely doing Cross Stitch again. I dont think I have done any for at least 5 years and I had forgotten how relaxing it is!! Dear Jane grew quickly and it is nice to do as each little block is quick and feels like a new project....

Happy Stitching

Cathy

Dear Jane Cross Stitch

2009-01-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

Oh Dear Jane, I just couldn't help myself.

I fell in love with this Cross Stitch a few weeks ago while wandering around Blogland. (I'm sorry I cant remember whose blog it was on at the moment but I'm sure it will come to me)

One day I hope to make a Dear Jane Quilt of my own, but until then I am happy to settle for the Cross Stitch version. I havent actually worked with Cross Stitch for many years now but I am looking forward to working this. I thought it might be a nice project to work on this year in the evenings when I get home from work. My aim is to work a little block a week....

Happy Stitching,

Cathy

Tasmania's Beautiful Beaches and 2 Wisp

2009-01-19T23:52:00.000-08:00

Below is a picture of my favourite beach at Bridport.

Bridport is a small beach town on the North East Coast of Tasmania. My family came from this part of Tasmania and we have been holidaying at Bridport most Christmas holidays ever since I was a little girl. My parents brought me here and I now bring my children here. It is one of the places I can relax and really enjoy myself!

The photo below is of Binnalong Bay. This is another beautiful beach on the East Coast of Tasmania. This beach is part of "The Bay of Fires" and has been voted as one of the best tourist destinations in the world. Last week I spent 3 days with a couple of teaching friends of mine and we went to a beautiful restaurant called Angasi. This is the view from our balcony table! The food was divine!

I have been having a very busy week so far. Lots of visiting with old friends and socializing. On the craft front I have 2 WISP's on the go. I have been getting a few of my stitcheries from Leanne Beasley's "Ruth's Quilt" finished and I have also spread my Nice People Nice Things quilt out on the Sewing Room floor and am slowly stitching it together. It is now in 6 strips!! My aim is to have this quilt finished before I return to work on the 3rd of Feb!!

Happy Stitching

Cathyx

Californ 4 Patch Completed

2009-01-16T17:23:00.000-08:00

Another finish for January!

This Challenge to complete UFO's is keeping me very motivated! Once I return to work I'm sure things will slow down, but at the moment I'm on a roll!!

Thank you May and Kris, a terrific idea!

This is Alex's 17th birthday quilt, and it has been waiting for its binding for a little while now. Never mind, better late than never!

Pencil Rolls

2009-01-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

Another finish for January.

(Have you noticed I am chosing quick finishes....its not really cheating, they are all things I have wanted to make and I have had the pattern on my to do list for a while now!)

I came across these very cute Pencil Rolls on Blooms blog a while ago and she very kindly sent me the link to the pattern. The pattern can be found at Pink Chalk Studio.

Continuing my Multiple theme, I have now made 9.

My neices and nephew will be receiving these for Easter presents....Talk about being too organised!!

Happy Stitching,

Cathy

Hearts and Strings Bags- 1st January finish!

2009-01-12T00:52:00.000-08:00

This is my first finish for January 2009!

I purchased the pattern last year from Cranberry Crafts at Ulverstone and have been wanting to make a bag ever since. I got a little carried away and ended up making 6 of them.....some of my friends laugh at me as I can never make just one of anything. The pattern is called Hearts and Strings Bag by Apples of Gold, designed by J Knol and Y Tomlins. I have used one of my favourite fabrics- Wee Play.

Wicked was Wicked

2009-01-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Georgia and I went off to Melbourne for the day. George had asked for a ticket to go and see Wicked for Christmas. It was a hard job but I just had to take her!

We had a lovely day. Arrived in Melbourne at 8, had breakfast at The Pancake Parlour and then wandered around the Mall until 12:30. We made a couple of good purchases as most of the stores were still having their after Christmas sales. The one thing I find disappointing about Melbourne is that there are no Patchwork shops that you can visit if you go for a day trip!

Wicked was very good and well worth a trip to Melbourne to see it. My friends' son is in the Ensemble so it was nice to see a Tasmanian in the cast!

After Wicked we walked down to Spencer Street DFO. Georgia spent time in her favourite shop...The Smiggle Shop. After checking out the other shops we sat and had a rest, and as you can see the early start and busy day caught up with Miss George.
It was a lovely day, but we were both happy to fall into our own beds a little after 11 0'clock!

Challenge for 2009

2009-01-04T00:50:00.000-08:00

Life is starting to settle down at my house thank goodness. Christmas and New Year's Eve are over and packed away until December and I have almost finished cleaning and tidying each room from top to bottom. Soon I will be able to relax with either a good book or in my sewing room trying to finish off one of the many Wisp's I have.

I have signed up for May and Kris' challenge to complete 1 project a month. I figure if I can manage 1 project a month thats 12 projects in a year and that would be great!!

Below is "A bag of Dollies," a Rosalie Quinlan pattern that I made a while ago. I can't share what I am working on at the moment as they are gifts for a couple of you! Once I have completed these very late Christmas presents I am going to organise my 100th post give away so stay tuned!

Happy Stitching, Cathy

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T22:50:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a lovely New Year's Eve last night. There is nothing crafty about this post but there are some photos of what happens when you add alcohol to a bunch of fun-loving, risk taking school teacher's.

Andrew and I went to a James Bond/ 40th/New Year's Eve/ cocktail party at a friends' house. We dressed up and went as Odd Job and Mini-Me Odd Job! (My girls were very cruel and said we looked more like Laurel and Hardy...)

The birthday girl...Andrea, with Alison (Odd Job) and myself (with Odd Job make-up removed)

Couple of the girls enjoying a Strawberry Dacquari!

What James Bond party would be complete without the gambling!!

And of course the dreaded Singstar always rears its ugly head! Pussy Galore, Domino, Andrea and Karen enjoying singing along to Abba Singstar!!

Now that the festive season is over I plan to make my way back to the sewing room, so hopefully I will have some crafty things to share soon!

Secret Santa Swap

2008-12-26T23:30:00.000-08:00

I have unwrapped my SSCS organised by Chookyblue. My swap partner was Nancy from Patchwork Penguin in the US. Thank you Nancy for all the terrific goodies. I particularly like my new school bag....very appropriate!! I also recieved wool, 4 Christmas mug coasters, 3 patterns, 4 gorgeous fat quarters and 2 spools of thread!! I have been very lucky!

Below is the "Roses Tree" my daughter Alex made as the centre piece for the Christmas table. This is becoming a tradition in our house, every year Alex likes to decorate the table! The Roses Tree was a real hit with everyone, particularly my nephews! It is amazing how 4 teenagers can devour 2kgs of chocolates in one afternoon as well as eat a 4 course traditional Christmas lunch. Amazing!

Christmas Cooking!

2008-12-20T01:21:00.000-08:00

Well School is over for another year!!

Presents to buy and wrap.....Cooking to do.....House to clean....Garden to tidy.....

If I don't get back to Blogland before Thursday I hope you all have a lovely day and a

Merry Christmas

Awesome !! Your friend Julie is Cool!!!

2008-12-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

These are the words Georgia yelled when she opened her surprise gift from Julie. Julie from Georgia had asked me a few weeks ago if it was ok to send my Georgia a gift, and of course I said it was fine! Julie sent both of my girls a special t shirt and some special treats! Alex's t shirt is from Julie's own College. Thank you so much Julie!!!

Not only did my girls recieve a gift Julie spoilt me too! Chocolate, gorgeous fabric and a Better Homes and Garden Quilting magazine! Thank you....it felt like Christmas!!!

Almost Finished....

2008-12-10T23:25:00.000-08:00

DO NOT ADJUST YOUR SCREEN!

No you are not seeing double, I have almost finished...I still have a tiny teddy to make and a few pompoms to put on the puddings...but apart from that, it is finished!!

Just quietly, I was happy to make Miss Ruby one, but Dear Sister, if you have any more children, I will gladly lend you the pattern!

There are a few differences. The main one is the quality of the felt. If I ever make another one I think I will use wool...although it will be super expensive! The other obvious difference is the back cover. I was not happy with the funny looking wreath on the back of Bells so I put Angels on the back of Ruby's instead. (For those of you wondering who Bell is, it is my neice Issi, she informed me today that she would like to be called Bell from now on!! What a cute Miss 5 she is!!)

Christmas Craft Part 2

2008-12-07T23:11:00.000-08:00

Here is a few more of my Christmas Goodies!!

In my former life I was an avid Cross Stitcher! I love Shepherd's Bush Patterns and have made many. Here are a couple of Christmas ones.

Every member of my family, plus many of my extended family members have one of these Christmas Stockings. They use big count linen and 4 strands of thread so are fun to stitch and grow really quickly!

I made this Christmas Sampler Quilt at the Quilt Patch with Fran many years ago. It was good fun to make and it taught me many different techniques!!

A Christmas Table Runner.

This small Angel Quilt is a Debbie Mumm pattern.

Happy Christmas Stitching!

Cathyx

Christmas Craft

2008-12-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

I'm still blanket stitching like mad, trying and finish Miss Ruby's Christmas Counting Book. Here are a few Christmas goodies I have made in the last few years.

This is my front door adorned with a Debbie Mumm Christmas Wreath.

I attempt to make a Santa every year. Don't think it happened last year, and I'm positive it won't happen this year. Oh Well, I can always try and make 3 next year...

Happy Christmas Stitching Everyone!!!
Cathyx

Happy Birthday Miss Alex

2008-11-27T21:08:00.001-08:00

Ahhh!!! Don't you love this view!!!

One of my favourite places to be- on Sydney Harbour. And thats exactly where I was on Wednesday. My oldest baby was seventeen this week and all she wanted was to go to Sydney to see Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Being the wonderful mother that I am I ignored the cost and obliged. (cause I really wanted to see it too)

We had a lovely day. Left home at 4:30am and flew 50 minutes to Melbourne, then flew another 11/2 hours, arriving in Sydney at 9:30. We went for a wander around Circular Quay and caught a ferry to Darling Harbour. We had a glorious buffet lunch at the casino and then went to see the show.

Not sure who this Movie Star is....but she looks relaxed!!

The show was so much fun.... Alex and I were very impressed. I never thought I would say this, but Todd McKenny was excellent and even a bit buff!! We had the best day and arrived back in Launceston at 10:30 that night. It was a huge day and we were both very tired, but it was definetly worth it!!

Tassie Bloggers' at Ross

2008-11-22T13:53:00.000-08:00

Tassie Blogger's had a terrific get-together at the very quaint and historical town of Ross yesterday. People travelled from all over the state- Ridgley, Penguin, Ulverstone, Launceston, St Mary's, St Helen's, Launceston, GeorgeTown, Legana and Hobart to met and have a day of fun, resulting in a bit of stitching and lots of laughter. The day was organised by Jo and she did an amazing job! Thank you Jo!!!

Above is the little hall where we spent the day.

The table was decorated with Sarah's gorgeous roses and other goodies made by Jo.

Can you put a name to a face. Lizzie Leanne is the only blogger not here....she couldnt help her self and disappeared for some retail therapy with Meredith.

The Baubles.

This is where it all began. At the Campania gathering Sarah strongly encouraged us to participate in a bauble exchange...leading to a get together....leading to a terrific day!!

The pattern is an Anni Downs pattern.

My lucky door prize!

Thank you to Helen for a pack of her new greeting card range and to the girls at The Quilted Crow for the gorgeous fabric pack!

Thrown from the Nest!

2008-11-18T21:07:00.000-08:00

This Saturday I'm having a stitching day, in fact I'm off to a Tassie Quilting Bloggers gathering at Ross. Ross is a lovely town located in the middle of Tasmania. We're meeting at the Ross Bakery in the Stables that are set up as a meeting room.

There's 13 bloggers coming along and a few non-bloggers. Some of us have met at other gatherings. In fact Jo, Sarah and I got together after the Campania Gathering and decided that a Tassie Gathering would be good, so the lovely Jo has been really busy and super organised and has planned a day of stitching, chatting, eating and sharing for us all! Thank you Jo!!

This has come at a really good time for me. Work is rather stressful as I have just been officially informed that I will be being transferred to a new school next year. I am really excited about going to a new school but after 13 years in the one place I am feeling just a wee bit nervous! (In the Tasmanian system you do not "belong" to one school you can be moved around every 6-10 years.)

My current school has been a big part of my families life. Both of my children have gone to Primary School there, my neice is in Kinder this year, and I have made many lasting friendships. A good metaphor for how I feel would be the little girl in the sandpit who has been told to go away by all her friends, and that they dont want to play with her anymore!!! Very melodramatic I know, but you know what I mean!!

On the stitching and blogging front...I am working hard on Miss Ruby's Christmas Book, but have nothing to share. Also sorry if I havent visited your blog recently, I can't seem to keep up with you all at the moment! Life is just too busy and ridiculous!!

Christmas Is.....

2008-11-11T00:13:00.000-08:00

Lots of stitching is happening here at the moment but nothing to share as yet!!

This is the Christmas Counting Book that I made for my neice Isabella for Christmas in 2004. I am currently making her little sister Ruby one for Christmas and will share that too when I have finished......Shhh, dont tell her Mum!!

The counting book is a Natalie Ross pattern and she has just released it as a pattern to purchase. I was lucky to get my pattern from two early publications of Homespun Magazine.

From Pool to Vegie Patch!!

2008-11-10T00:46:00.000-08:00

We have a large backyard and in the space next to the kitchen/family room we had a pool area last year. While lots of people had fun in the sun it was alot of hassle and it was never really successful! So over the last couple of weekends we have converted this area from a pool area to a sandpit area and now it is a vegie patch!! Georgia and I had a ball planting all the different seedlings. We have corn, cauliflower, broccoli, capsicum, rubarb, spring onion, lettuce, cos, chinese cabbage, tomatoes, peas, snow peas, green beans and butter beans, cucumber, zuchini and carrots. If they all grow we will have vegies coming out our ears!!

Mamma Mia

2008-11-06T19:01:00.000-08:00

Look what my friend 2Paw made for us!! Purple for Alex, Pretty for me and Pink Cherries for Georgia. If you are keen to make one you can find the free pattern here.

I have already put mine to good use. It is the holder of the threads for my latest project.

Thank you Cindy they are so sweet!!

Look what came with Mr Australia Post an hour ago. My very own copy of my most favourite movie! Can you guess what I will be watching while stitching tonight??

A Night at the Beach

2008-11-04T20:35:00.001-08:00

This weekend in Northern Tasmania was a long-weekend. We had Monday off work to celebrate Recreation Day. Our friends Rhys and Meredith invited Andrew and I to have a night at their beach shed on Sunday night. We had a lovely time- dinner at the top pub, lots of lovely food, drinks, hilarity and laughter. It is quite funny how we have known each other for so long and when we are together we tend to know what each other is going to say. We even finish each others sentences! Scary!! We have know each other for too long!!

And of course there was stitching. Meredith and I could not have a night away without getting our craft out. I chose these 2 stitcheries to work on .... thought they were appropriate for a day at the beach.

Polka Dot Girls Stitching Group.

2008-11-03T00:38:00.001-08:00

I have had the pattern for Polka Dot Girls, a Bronwyn Hayes quilt for a while now and it is always in the back of my mind as something I must do. I discovered a Stitching group for this quilt on Wendy's blog and have joined in. The Polka Dot Girls Stitching Group has been organized by Raedene.

So after asking Raedene if I could join this group I raced off to the sewing room and organised my fabric and threads. I then headed off to my local and purchased the stitching fabric. So now I am all set. I just need to trace a couple of stitcheries and I will have begun my great Polka Dot adventure!!!