Bright Red Cherries

New logo for Bright Red Cherries

2011-02-25T10:10:00.002+10:30

Bright Red Cherries has a new logo and I totally love it!

Here it is in reverse

I'm organising a new stamp and labels too. Best dash now as Ced is hindering my typing with one hand and I have a market to prepare for. x

5 months today

2011-02-11T08:37:00.003+10:30

Today my little Cedric is 5 months old.

I can't believe how fast the last 5 months have gone. I have friends who are due in April and when I see them they are in to their 3rd trimester... seems like they only told me they were pregnant a few weeks ago yet I feel like I was pregnant for YEARS!
I've kept a diary for Cedric to read when he is older. It has little snippets like 'Today you tried mashed avocado and squealed with delight' and 'You had a shower with your Dad today and you loved it' It's great to be able to go back and read all the things he's done in just 5 months.
Cedric is often a very serious little boy but I did manage to get some photos of him smiling in his highchair today.

Haven't got a real laugh out of him yet - just great big silent smiles. He's saving that first laugh up for something hilarious.

Back to my cutting and sewing now. I've had ordered for 17 bibs plus am making 2 spool bird mobiles for a friend and also have market prep to do - all before the 26th... I can do it :)

My Creative Space

2011-02-03T08:44:00.003+10:30

Well the bub is back in his bed sleeping much earlier today than usual. Makes for a nice quite morning of internet browsing and sewing before we head to the Mum and Bubs movie session at the local cinema.

Later today My Creative Space will be filled with gluing backs on the brooches I've made for the market I have coming up. A friend suggested that E6000 glue is the best and so I'm giving it a go. The hot glue gun I was using was a bit of a disaster as some backs fell off brooches that I'd sold. Thankfully they were to friends that were able to let me know about the problem.

Thanks for stopping by - if you have time check out the other blogs that are participating in My Creative Space hosted by the lovely Kooyotoo.

Oh and if you fancy a brooch check out the give away I have over here - would love to here your tips.

Cherry

Hipsta Hooked

2011-02-02T17:18:00.003+10:30

Have you seen Hipstamatic the iphone app that allows you to create photos with different effects.

Mr G would say I'm a Hipsta Duffus but I'm hooked!

It's been all about staying out of the heat at the Bright Red Cherries house. Even the sewing room is too hot to go in to so instead I've been cutting out bibs in preparation for sewing. I've also been working on a few more ideas for products to have on my market stall. So far I've got my brooches and bibs plus key rings. I'm hoping to add eye masks and I'd like to come up with a shape for a mobile.

Was a bit disappointed to find that Bowerbird stalls are $500 at a minimum... Oh well bit much for Bright Red Cherries so early on in the piece. On the up side I had though that Lollipop markets were booked out for 2011 but turns out they aren't so I'll get sewing and set up my next stall at Fullarton Craft and Plant so that I can take some photos to go with my submission.

If you have any tips for me I'd love to hear them. I'm so new to all this!

For those that do have tips for markets I'll have a bit of a give away. Add a comment and then in a weeks time I'll pick names out of a hat for one of my brooches. You can pick the brooch you want from my Bright Red Cherries Shop Now shop.

To market to market

2011-01-23T10:17:00.003+10:30

This little piggy went to market!

Yes that's right Bright Red Cherries was at the Fullarton Plant and Craft market yesterday. We had a lovely time, meet some swell people, sipped coffee in the sunshine and shared our creations with our customers.

Here are some snaps from the day including one of my little C wearing his bandana bib.

Embroidered Brooches - good enough to eat one customer said!

Keyrings

Tea towels and serviettes

My little C x

Back again

2011-01-12T16:30:00.005+10:30

Hi all - well I've been away for ages! Can you believe my little bubs is now 4 months old!

The last 4 months have been a blur of sleeping, feeding and lots of lovely smiles and cuddles. I just love being a Mum to this sweet little boy.

I've also been inspired to create my own little crafty business selling the vintage brooches I made while I was on maternity leave.

You can buy them online here or you can visit me at the Fullarton Plant and Craft Market on the 23rd of Jan.

To celebrate the launch of the shop there is free postage and 10% off for those that 'like' the page.

Now off to visit some blogs I've missing for long time.

Cedric Nicholas

2010-09-17T14:47:00.002+09:30

On the 11th of Sept we welcomed Cedric Nicholas in to our lives. Born at 5:21 in the afternoon weighing 6lbl 10 and a picture of perfectness.

I almost have no words to describe how amazing it was and is.

D-Day

2010-09-07T10:22:00.003+09:30

Well it seems that even my bank knows what today is...
Although it's in the back of my mind I'm not dwelling on it. In fact Mr G and I have decided to go to lunch together to celebrate.

While waiting for lunch time to roll around I made this pencil case to hold all those random pens and pencils that seem to gather on the tray on top of the microwave. It's been years since I put a zip in anything and I'm impressed I even remembered how to do it.
Next two jobs are to make reversible bags out of these fabrics. The floral below was found at the Way We Wear Fair last weekend. A score! 4.5 m of seersucker for $45. They lady that sold it to me said it was 1950's but I'm wondering if it's older than that.
The fabrics below were salvaged from Vinnies a few weeks ago - massive pieces for only $2 each. Sometimes it's amazing what you find when you have time to look!

Will post up the bags when they are done.

Checkers for Fathers Day

2010-09-07T10:08:00.004+09:30

Thought I should share what I made my dear old Pa for Fathers Day this year. A checkers board with covered buttons as the pieces.
When we finally agreed on the rules everyone took turns to have a game with Dad. Mum and I both lost but I decided that was the best thing to do on Fathers Day. My brother however wiped the floor with Dad! Oh well - better luck next time Pa.

Baby Shower

2010-08-30T14:09:00.009+09:30

I never thought I'd have a baby shower but I'm so glad I did. The friend that organised it did a wonderful job (thanks Lou! x x) and it was just as I hoped it would be. A delicious afternoon tea with close friends (and no games!)

There was even a few surprise gifts from friends overseas which made it all the more special.

Thanks to all my darling friends! x

A parcel arrived

2010-08-30T13:56:00.002+09:30

A parcel arrived today! I love snail mail and even more so when I'm home to receive it rather than having to wait until the parcel is back at the post office ready to be picked up.

Today's parcel was a gift from a friend who lives in London and has recently purchased a sewing machine. It was a lovely surprise! A handmade blanket for the baby, one of the first things to be made with her new machine. A letter accompanied the blanket explaining..

"Maybe since you are so good at these things you were wrong person to sew for but I have tried. It was nice sewing away and thinking about the baby as I did it."
I just love it - handmade things are so special and being a crafty person I know the time and effort that goes into sewing a gift.

Thanks Sarah! It will be treasured x x

Little birds

2010-08-27T12:10:00.004+09:30

I've had a picture of the mobile that I wanted to make for the baby in my head for - hmm longer than the baby has been a bump in my belly!

I bought the photo hanging frame from eBay and made 10 Mister Blue Birds from the Spool pattern to hang on it.

I had to rejig the way the mobile hung as all 8 of the birds were on the same level and it all looked a bit crowded but now that's done and it's hanging I'm thrilled!

The baby's room is looking lovely now - The chair in the picture was a present from Mum. She covered it herself. It's just what I wanted!

On the baby front - we had an appointment with the Dr yesterday and the little monkey has gone from engaged a month ago to now not engaged... Ho Hum... have to say it kind disappointed me. It's very hard to not feel like It's because I've done or not done something. Of course sensible me knows it's nothing to do with that but it's still a bit of a disappointment.

Perfect weather for making

2010-08-25T14:50:00.007+09:30

It's raining here today - a lot! I'm lucky though that this is the first day that haven't needed to leave the house. Well that's not entirely true - I did have to time my visit to the supermarket but that's all.

Yesterday I hit the jackpot with embroidered doilies at a few ops shops on the way home from my acupuncture appointment. For $10 I scored enough to make all of these!

Here are some closer shots of some of my favourites.These little flowers remind me of the flowers in the garden from the house I grew up in.
I just love the blue in this little one. And just for fun here are some silly photos of me taken today. I've been wanting to make sure that I have some photos of me pregnant. Just a bit of fun really. I look like I'm in the shower with clothes on... And here is my 'I'm a little teapot' pose!

My Creative Space

2010-08-19T10:03:00.003+09:30

It's finished! Hurrah! I bought the yarn for this dress about 18 months ago. Since then the little girl it was for has grown too big but my niece Olivia is just right for it.

It's been a long time since I've joined in with the my creative space meme. It's lovely to be back. Maternity leave so far is just what I hoped it would be. Time on the couch, crocheting, crafting, sewing and cooking. Oh and a few sleep ins and afternoon naps. I could get very use to this.

Next project is to add some pretty bias binding to the towels I have for the baby and plan something yummy for dinner.

Gifts for friends

2010-08-17T11:53:00.003+09:30

All of a sudden I have all the time in the world to spend making gifts! It's fantastic!

A friend went on a very long oversea trip recently and gave me all her Frankie magazines (20 of them!) So exciting! About 10 of them left me with doubles so I've been having a lovely time cutting up the spare ones to use on cards for friends. I made this card the other day.

I've also been spending time making earring and brooches for friends as gifts. The earrings below went to a friend on the weekend, along with a brooch I forgot to photograph and the brooch below will be off to another friend after I've made the rest of the present.

I really love making gifts for people but find that when I finally get to give them the present a feeling washes over me that it's a 'handmade gift', like I'm being cheap. Now I know that's rubbish - personal gifts are wonderful! But... still each time I feel like I should accompany the gift with 'I made it' like it's a flaw in the gift rather than extra special.

Anyone else suffer this?

Nesting

2010-08-13T15:21:00.005+09:30

I never thought I'd spend my few weeks of before the baby arrives 'nesting' but I guess I've proven myself wrong considering that today I've washed out the cutlery trays in the draws and cleaned the microwave, inside, outside and underneath (very gross..)!

Also trying to stick to the rule, 'if you see a spiderweb you have to clean it up - not think I'll do that later'. So far it's 5 out of 5 for me.
Yesterday I washed all the white things we have for Little G. They looked so sweet hanging to dry and next to Mr G's shirts they look super tiny!

We've never been a household that irons anything but again the nesting has kicked in and this afternoon I've decided to iron all the whites that were washed. Might have something to do with the lovely ironing board cover I picked up while op-shopping today.

So that's 5 days down of leave and not once have I been bored! I could get very use to this.

How many is enough?

2010-08-10T20:45:00.003+09:30

So far I've made 6 bibs for the baby. They are so cute that I think I could keep sewing for days before getting bored of them.

Today was my second day of maternity leave. Feels totally surreal to be on maternity leave - and to think that I read today that at the end of this week the baby is considered full term - sheesh!
Mr G says bring it on. He's tired of waiting! Suddenly thought I've decided I'm right here for a bit - what in goodness name do I know about looking after a baby?! I've read up about birth and labour and am totally OK with that but sleeping, feeding etc... I'm hoping it's on the job training.

My First Tutorial

2010-07-21T15:39:00.003+09:30

Just finished writing my first tutorial that will be tested out at the next Adelaide Brown Owls meeting. If it goes well I'll post it up on the blog

Granted it's not a very unique pin cushion - I'm sure there are loads of instructions on how to make these pin cushions but when I sat down a few months ago to make mine for the Foxs Lane swap I just followed my instinct rather than searching the web for instructions.

Fingers crossed the instructions I've written are OK!

A new addiction

2010-07-20T18:29:00.003+09:30

Recently at Brown Owls we had a workshop to learn how to make covered buttons in to earrings. Wow is it addictive! Just look at the lovely selection I made Saturday afternoon.

What is it about covered buttons that makes us crafty types crave more and more! You'd think 6 new pairs would be enough but now as I look at my stash of fabric I can see so many more options.

Granny square blanket complete

2010-07-15T18:21:00.003+09:30

It's complete!

Yes it was started in January while watching the Australian Open.

And true I did say it would be a Granny a Day...

But somewhere along the line I learnt to knit and then got distracted...

Finally though after 6 months its done - and the best part - I am thrilled with it.

I hope our little one loves it too. After all my brother still has the blanket mum crochet him when he was born. He might now be 24 but and the blanket might be under the bed rather than on it but I know 'blankie' is still loved.

Where have I been?

2010-07-06T18:14:00.010+09:30

I got an email from a friend today that simply said 'brightredcherries has been quiet'... and indeed he was right - I have been quiet. I was so chuffed though to know he was even reading that I promised I would post tonight.

Even thought the blog has been quiet - I've been pretty busy. Here are some things that have been filling up my time.

Making baby gift for a friend that's due a few weeks before me. I just love Jho's owl pattern!

Finishing off the pram blanket for our little baby

Setting up our baby's room. It now looks very different to the dressing room it was a few weeks ago!

Finishing my first ever knitted piece - a jumper for the baby

Growing this bump (thought this one seems to happen without much thought)! 31 weeks today and healthy healthy healthy say the Dr!

Happy days and 4 and a bit more weeks of work - Hurrah!

Warmed by knitting by Cathy

2010-06-09T16:39:00.003+09:30

While my knitting is going very slowly - I am still loving it.
Have a look at this video - it makes me want to knit every thing and it looks so warm on such a cold day.

All sorts of making

2010-06-06T16:39:00.004+09:30

My niece's 1st birthday party last weekend gave me lots of wonderful excuses to make things. I made the bunting and some yummy treats for the party.

The Butterfly cakes were even better than they look! I'll be making these again that's for sure.

And the perfect present for a little girl? A Bubbly the Owl of course! If you want to make one you can pick up Jho's pattern here.

Here she is with her Mum opening her gift. These are the best moments when it comes to handmade presents.

Happy Birthday Olivia!

Birthday Bunting

2010-05-31T19:00:00.005+09:30

On Friday night and Saturday morning I spent many hours cutting and sewing like a mad thing. The task, to make a birthday sign for my niece Olivia's 1st birthday. Something which I was totally proud to be asked to do.
I had wanted to make a tutorial but time got away from.
I even had Mr G helping taking action shots!
and ta-da the finished product!

If only I needed new PJ's

2010-05-31T10:50:00.002+09:30

I would buy these ones for sure!

My Creative Space

2010-05-26T22:02:00.004+09:30

Inspired by a friend I decided it was about time I rejoined the My Creative Space meme hosted by the lovely Kootoyoo.

Of course there are always a few projects on the go at our place but the one I'm really enjoying is making the Star Wars crochet characters. Here is the finished Chewie.

Next I'm going to start his co-pilot Han. Can't have one without the other after all. The patterns I purchased from etsy are excellent - the detail on each piece is amazing. The Chewie is made from Angora - super soft and is brushed quite firmly once finished to achieve the fluffy look

Next on the needles once the jumper is complete is this hoodie for the baby. I just couldn't resist how cute the picture is!Thanks for stopping by!

Frailein Orchard

2010-05-24T12:21:00.008+09:30

Posts seem to be few and far between at the moment... I've been busy crafting but haven't got around to taking any photos.

I've bought an excellent pattern to crochet all of the Star Wars characters for Mr G (massive fan!). He says that they are really a present for the baby but I'm doing them for him - even if they live in the babies room. So far I've made the Chewie but I'm not happy with the yarn I used so I'll head back to the store to see if I can find anything better.

I've also been knitting a jumper for our little one. I'm totally chuffed that I've managed to knit the back, front and sleeve so far - one more sleeve and I'll be able to show you the finished product.

I've got my niece's first birthday party this weekend. I'm in charge of making bunting with her name on it! Bit excited about that project. Will post a photo to show you how it works out.

Oh and this is coming up!

Opening night
Wednesday June 2nd, 6pm
Urban Cow Gallery, 11 Frome Street, Adelaide
Exhibition runs until June 28th

You really should check it out!

Postpack full of treasures

2010-05-09T16:45:00.004+09:30

Just finished round 1 of Mothers Day. We had a picnic in the back yard with a build your own burger station and pavlova for dessert. MrG has taken lots of photos to record the day so when he's sorted through them I'll pick some to share with you.

For now though I wanted to share the beautiful pack of scraps I picked up from the badskirt website. The second I saw her post about selling her scraps I knew I had to be in on it - Amy uses beautiful fabrics that often leave me drooling over her blog and shop too. Here was the chance to own my own little collection. Hurrah!

I'm going to make an Owl for our little baby (kicking me as I type) from some of these gems.

To all the Mum's hope you've had a lovely day!

Apple Cream Cheese Muffins

2010-05-01T17:34:00.003+09:30

This afternoon I baked a batch of Apple Cream Cheese Muffins. I found the recipe on Prudent Baby - a blog I've recently discovered is full of lovely baby things to make, buy and be inspired by.

For the recipe check here. I haven't tasted them yet - I'm waiting til the cool. Not sure I got the filling right. I think it should have been more in the middle than close to the top. Oh well - I'll just have to make another batch!

A birthday weekend

2010-04-27T18:30:00.006+09:30

My present!

Dessert made by a friend

Photos from our picnic

A great weekend!

My Creative Space - First Baby Things

2010-04-21T19:15:00.006+09:30

I've been away from my creative space for a while and now I'm a wee bit early for this week. First trimester exhaustion and nausea were to blame and then I just seemed to be busy with other things. But I'm back! Hurrah for me!

Mum bought me (well the baby) some little white tops from Cotton On and I've decided to trim & decorate them. First up is green blanket stitch. That's unisex right?

I'm still very happy with our decision to not find out if it's a boy or a girl. There aren't many surprises in life and this one is going to be a big one. Plus if I knew I'd open myself up to so many things I wanted to buy - this way it's much easier on my budget.

ps - If you are wondering why the image is sideways ask blogger... I could not for the life of me get it to load the right way.... Dinner was ready so I gave up!

Maternity Clothes

2010-04-21T11:39:00.004+09:30

I'm starting to get used to the idea of maternity clothes. My clothes are just starting to not fit quite right. Skirts still do up but under my ribs which is not very comfortable or flattering. My skinny jeans are way too tight to do up and although I could probably manage it's probably some form of child abuse to wear them.

On the weekend I went through my wardrobe and put all the things that fit up one end and all the things that don't up the other. At the moment it's about half/half but I can see it's going to become a case of reviewing each week.

I bought a pair of Mavi maternity jeans on the weekend. My giddy aunt are they comfortable!Everyone should own a pair for those days that waists dig in! Super excited about them as they were half price, dark denim, skinny leg and fit my butt. They are nothing like I would have expected to feel in maternity clothes. I feel excellent!

I picked up this today from TopShop online. I could not resist it - I mean it's just the sweetest cardi I've seen and with conversion rates like they are including postage from the UK it was just over $50.

With the volcano debacle in the UK I'm sure it will take a while to get to me but I can wait - it's well worth it.

I've felt the baby kick a bit now, at least I think that's what the feelings are. It's such a lovely feeling. Like little reminders that there is a little person on the way and that they are 'doing good growing' as we say in our house.

Something from 1955

2010-04-14T12:07:00.002+09:30

Originally uploaded by Daisy.Sue

Join in with Pip and see what you find

Best photo ever

2010-04-13T11:14:00.001+09:30

Enough to bring tears to my eyes, our little baby at 19wks today.

Email from the baby's Grandma 'oh my goodness I think I am going to cry'
Email from the baby's Grandpa 'Man that is awesome - and it looks beautiful too!!!'

Oh so cute by Cathy

2010-04-13T10:22:00.004+09:30

I found this pattern book yesterday - so cute - cant wait to get knitting.

Archie likes to floss

2010-04-12T20:07:00.003+09:30

Meet Archibald - he's the newest member of our softie family. He likes green vegetables, flossing his teeth and playing chess when it rains. He doesn't like the smell of fish, it makes him sneeze. His friends call him Archie.

turns out I can knit

2010-04-12T19:43:00.003+09:30

Yes after going on (and on) about how I'm a crochet girl I tried my hand at knitting. A friend inspired me after she told me she taught herself to sew a zip in using youtube.

A week or so ago I learnt how to cast on (although I seemed to have invented my own 'special way' since...). Over the next week I practiced rows of purl and plain and can now recognise what row I'm up to if I have to put the knitting down to cook, eat, sleep or go to work.

While at Grandma's for Easter Sunday mum showed me how to fix up dropped or added stitches (with a crochet hook - I DO like that bit).

Finally when at the fabric shop S*******t (agh that place makes me CRAZY) while waiting 30 minutes for them to refund the $10 they had charged (yes charged) me for the birthday voucher I was trying to redeem (bunch of rocket scientists they are...) I picked up a simple pattern for a scarf that had a V made from purl and plain. I'm very chuffed with my progress. It did take me a while to get the hang of bringing the wool to the front or the back when changing to and from purl and plain.

Check it out!

a special dress

2010-04-03T19:51:00.004+10:30

This time a year 1 year ago it was the night before my wedding. I spent the evening at my parents house, we had pizza for dinner and then Dad and I watched Father of the Bride while Mum finished off the petticoats for the bridesmaids.

Today to mark the occassion I took my dress out of the cupboard and MrG took some amazing photos with our new camera.

while cooking dinner...

2010-04-03T18:10:00.006+10:30

While cooking dinner tonight I taught myself to cast on. Quite an achievement really as I've always had a bit of a metal block when it came to knitting.

Since then I've managed to remember how to knit and to my surprise purl as well! Here is my progress

I used this very helpful video on youtube - super clear and no fingers in the way of the stitches!

Dinner was handmade gnocchi with roasted tomatoes, bacon and sweet onion - Will certainly make this one again - it was awesome and devoured before I got to take a photo of the meal.

Almost a year ago

2010-04-01T20:29:00.004+10:30

On Sunday it will be our 1st wedding anniversary. It's been a wonderful year and I still get a kick out of saying 'my husband' and I think I always will it's a great way to start a sentence.

MrG bought me the most beautiful bunch of flowers to celebrate. He took one of the vases that we used for the wedding back to the florist and asked her to fill it with the same flowers I had in my bouquet. They are breathtaking and I just had to share them.

Pin Cushion Success

2010-03-29T21:39:00.004+10:30

After staring intently at the pin cushion on my last post I decided I had a fair idea how it was made.

Yep that's me, rather than actually trying to find a pattern I just decided to give it a go and I have to say - I'm quite pleased with the result!

All ready to post to my swap partner - I hope she likes it.

Pin Cushion Inspiration

2010-03-22T20:23:00.004+10:30

I've signed up for a swap that Kate from Foxs Lane is running. The response to the swap has been amazing - 115 Swappers!

Tonight I've been searching for a bit of inspiration on flickr

Originally uploaded by rusewcrazy

At the moment I can't decide between some quilting, some crochet or something a bit more traditional like the one above. I just love the simplicity of it and how beautiful the colours are. I will share the project as I go Just needs to be in the post by the 16th - I can do that!

A new diary

2010-03-13T15:09:00.005+10:30

I've had my eye on the 365 journal in the new KikkiK store in Adelaide. Even since I saw it I've loved the idea of keeping a journal off my 29th year (starting end of April on my birthday). However MrG and I are try to live off one wage at the moment so things like that are not on the 'need' list.

Instead I've covered a spirex notebook with fabric I picked up at Stitches and Craft last August. I'm thrilled with the result! Though it doesn't have the chic look of the KikkiK version it is covered in some of my favourite fabric and makes me smile each time I look at it. Plus being spirex if I write something I'm not happy with (my spelling is terrible on the best days...) I can tear out the page. I guess that's not true journal style but it suits me!

I got the idea from a tutorial I saw recently but for the life of me I can't find the link... sorry. It was a very nifty idea though using double sided interface (is that what it's called?)

Think I'll offer this idea as a Brown Owls project this year.

My Creative Space

2010-03-10T20:38:00.005+10:30

Sometimes plans don't work out like you planned. Tonight was originally planned as a Brown Owls movie night but Mum had been offered free tickets to a show for the Adelaide Festival. A tough choice between Owls and the theatre but I decided I'd go to the theatre.

At 6pm though plans changed again, we were unable to get the tickets and it was too late to make it to the Owls meet so Mum and I found we had a free night to spend together.

We spent the evening learning how to make Kanzashi flowers from Kanzashi in Bloom and watching Handmade Nation.

Here is the brooch I madeNot too bad for a first attempt and I'm hoping to do a Brown Owls workshop on them in April.

Sometimes plans don't work out liked you planned but it's those times are sometimes the most fun! This time it was great - I found time to be a bit creative!

For other creative spaces see Kootoyoo's space

Book Worm

2010-03-03T18:18:00.004+10:30

My craft projects seem to have stalled recently but to keep myself busy I've been reading lots more which has been wonderful!

Image borrowed from here

I read My Family and Other Animals a week or so ago and am now reading Emma by Jane Austen.

My Family and Other Animals was fantastic - easy to read, wonderful flow and even had me giggling at some points. I enjoyed it so much in fact that I bought the DVD and have watched that since. It was also very good!

I'm finding Emma a lot easier to read than I found Jayne Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë, which I was surprised by as Emma was written earlier and I had assumed would be written in a similar style. I do keep picturing Gwyneth Paltrow though which is a tiny bit frustrating and proof that my rule of reading a book before seeing the movie is a much better way to do things. It lets you imagine the characters rather than having images forced upon you.

Next on the reading list is The Six Wives of Henry the VIII which I picked up at a second hand bookshop today. We've recently started watching the second season of Tudors which has renews my interest in this period. It's so fascinating!

Aiding to my reading obsession has been this site - I know it's not 'Australian' to buy overseas but they are so darn cheap and free postage too...

Adelaide Stitches & Craft - where have you gone?

2010-02-23T15:24:00.003+10:30

I'm sure I read last year that the Stitches and Craft fair was coming to Adelaide in 2010 but it's not mentioned on the website anymore... Anyone know what happened? What shame... I was so excited!

----post edit----

Just received an email from S&C. The Adelaide show had to be cancelled due to conflicting dates with a competitor. Such a shame! It's back on the cards for 2011 though so keep your crafty fingers crossed.

ART of knitting by Cathy

2010-02-21T20:59:00.005+10:30

Back on the blog again. I have been very busy with the Knitting Nancy project, working two jobs, still trying to paint each week and knitting. The creative process was quite a long one - working out pictures, size and frames. The first few took quite a while, lots of unpicking but once I was on a roll I enjoyed the process. Hope you all like them. (the colours are a little washed out in the photos) Try to get into Irving Baby the exhibition is great.

My Creative Space - Princess and the Pea

2010-02-17T21:58:00.003+10:30

It's finally time to show the completed Princess and the Pea project...

We've just finished setting up the exhibition and my oh my are there some very creative people in the group. Hopefully we'll have some photos to show you on the exhibition blog in the next day or two.

My favourite part of my piece - the tiny handles on the pink mattress

My least favourite part of my piece - having to think about a price. The pieces don't have to be for sale but I thought I'd see if there was any interest in it so I've added POA on the tag - however.. I've no idea what to consider an offer if anyone does ask.

Fingers are crossed for the opening tomorrow night!

Last preparations for Knitting Nancy's

2010-02-14T12:48:00.004+10:30

At Brown Owls last Thursday I made these broaches for our Knitting Nancy's Exhibition that opens this Thursday. Each artist in the exhibition has one to wear on the night. They were super easy to make, only shame was that I did have to sacrifice some knitting needles in the process. Just need to sew a safety pin on the back of each one and they are done!.

Finally preparations for my exhibition piece are also being completed today. I haven't posted a photo as I thought I'd wait til Thursday to show you all. Check back then and all will be revealed!

Sunday afternoon scones

2010-02-07T14:09:00.003+10:30

After 3 phone calls and 10 MMS to and from the scone queen (Mum) with step by step inc photo instructions I've finally plucked up the courage to make my very first batch of scones!

Just in time for afternoon tea!

Growing up scones were something that Mum made on a weekend - no recipe needed. I've always been impressed that she use to make them with no measurements and that they worked every time. Impressed and overwhelmed which I guess is why it's taken 28 and a bit years for me to try it on my own.

To keep to tradition I've memorised the recipe rather than writing it down... shh it's a secret!

Thanks Mum x

My Creative Space - Fabric Treasures

2010-02-04T14:31:00.004+10:30

For my space this week I thought I'd show off some of the beautiful fabrics I picked up from Tessuti while in Sydney in January.

A top?

A dress?

A skirt?

Another dress?

A skirt?

I haven't been brave enough to cut in to them yet but hopefully in the next few months I'll be able to show you tops, skirts and dresses.

Check out other creative spaces over at http://www.kootoyoo.com/

Heidi's apron by Cathy

2010-02-01T17:34:00.004+10:30

I was invited to a kitchen tea for Heidi who is getting married in New Zealand on the 13th Feb. Heidi loves pink, baking and crafting so I couldn't go past making the Flirty Florence Apron by Audrey and Maude

Heidi loved it

I loved making it - I think I will making more as birthday gifts

My Creative Space

2010-01-28T18:10:00.002+10:30

Hello there and welcome back to My Creative Space!

I have to admit my space has been slow lately - combination of heat, holidays and exhaustion has left me lacking the creative spirit. Certainly wasn't the plan for the holidays - esp when I spent more than $300 at Tessuti during the break!

Before the lull started though I did made this dress from Vogue 8552 . I did have A LOT of help from Mum (Thanks Mum!). So happy with the result - I even wore it to Christmas Eve celebrations.
The other craft that's been keeping me going in the lull is Granny Squares for my blanket. I'm very happy with how it's looking. Even if I did totally make up how to stitch them together... I had no idea you were suppose to crochet them together... I just stitched them with a wool needle and the yarn I used for the boarder.

Check out more creative spaces over at Kootoyoo's

Melting Moments

2010-01-26T20:51:00.004+10:30

Part of the Public Holiday was spent baking Melting Moments inspired by my dear friend Marcia. Marcia use to look after me when I was a little girl and we spent many afternoons baking these biscuits and eating the mixture (well I ate the mixture.. 3 year olds do that!)

Thanks for all the fun afternoons Marc! x

Progress

2010-01-24T19:14:00.004+10:30

To breakup the crocheting I decided to sew the first 9 squares together this afternoon.

Probably should have woven in the ends before taking the photo but it was close to tea time and tacos were calling.

6 made, 1 more for a week!

2010-01-22T07:25:00.004+10:30

One more and I've made my batch for the week. Can't honestly say it was a granny a day - more like 2 or 3 every 3rd day.. but hey, I'm getting there.

I'm making them from 4ply cotton yarn and a size 3 hook. Plan is to edge them all in cream and join them up for a cotton blanket.

Just Stitchin'

2010-01-16T12:17:00.004+10:30

I seem to have lost my mojo for craft at the moment. Not sure if it's the heat or being back at work but the need/desire to get busy making is absent.

With the little motivation I have though my hands have been stitching this while watching the tennis.

The aim is to have it complete by Monday so the Australia Open can be watched stitching the eco tote I bought from Sublime Stitching. I purchased this one just in time as they were limited edition and are now all gone!

When the craftiness fairy visits again I'm planning to join in on Pip's Granny A Day 2010. I'd like to make a cotton granny square blanket.

Knitting Nancy

2010-01-05T14:47:00.003+10:30

Just over 6 weeks until the exhibition!

Christmas Stash

2010-01-05T09:43:00.003+10:30

I thought I'd share with you some of the fab presents I received this year. Just what a crafty girl wanted - I must have been a very good girl in 2009!

Floss from my grandparents - so pretty!

Books from MrG's parents - I LOVE the covers (promise I'll read them one day too)

Golden Books from Mum and Dad - plus a copy of Heidi which was my favourite when I was little.

Cal Patch's book - Design It Yourself Clothes. I'm busting to start some of the projects in this book. Imagine.. patterns that really fit ... me!

So glad to have this week off work too - we arrived home from Sydney on Sunday night and are now looking forward to a week of chilling out at home, movies (Fantastic Mr Fox & the Lovely Bones), the beach and a few special dinners with friends.

Will post more soon - inc Sydney snaps and my trip to Tessuti!

I spy with my little eye...

2009-12-28T16:51:00.002+10:30

Olivia on her Christmas play mat!

The baby play mat that I made for my niece was a huge success!

I love these days between Christmas and New Years Eve. They are full of good food, afternoon naps, a few good drinks and wonderful company.

We're off to Sydney on Wednesday for 4 nights. Should be great fun - even more so as we'll have lots more afternoons with this little one. Hurrah!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T17:29:00.002+10:30

Today has been a very busy day - starting with food shopping and 7am. Since then I've baked, sewn, cleaned and wrapped - all with carols on in the background. I'm feeling totally Christmassy!

This is the first year that I am hosting one of the Christmas meals - Breakfast! Feels like an important moment going from going to your parents house to having them come here.

I've decided to make Jamie Oliver's Mexican Breakfast and then serve fruit salad and yogurt and banana smoothies. With any luck the weather will be perfect for breakfast outside. I can picture how it will look and I hope I can make it work. I have an image of red napkins, white flowers and white plates and glasses. If it hangs together I'll take a photo or two.

Where ever you spend the holidays this year we at Bright Red Cherries wish you happy and safe travels. Thanks so much for your support and comments - that way we know we aren't talking to ourselves!

Merry Christmas! x x

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2009-12-20T18:07:00.003+10:30

The biggest and smallest members of our house are asleep. MrG would have been very annoyed if I'd photographed him sleeping so instead here's the smallest one Omar.
While the others sleep I'm in the back yard looking at the dress pattern I've just bought. It's been a very long time since I made any clothes. Usually the fear of it being a disaster dissolves any motivation... This dress is my holiday sewing project and my mantra... go slow, follow the pattern, iron seams when told to, be patience and unpick if necessary. Will see how I go!

This is the fabric I've chosen. I just love the blue in it and if the dress works there is a cardigan in Verinika Maine that matches perfectly.

The 'Me' Wardrobe

2009-12-20T17:58:00.004+10:30

When I saw the theme for this week I couldn't refuse the opportunity to show off my new favourite piece.

Earlier in the year a friend was visiting from London and she brought with her the most beautiful giant clutch bag. It was amazing! I couldn't find it anywhere online but... it must have been my lucky day... Look what I found in Jigsaw today!

Maybe I should wrap it as a Christmas present from me to me!

ps - Even better - Mum bought the red one so now we can swap!

pps - More 'Me' wardrobes over at MMAM

MOCCA, Molly Mae Rose ,Moving & Making by Cathy

2009-12-18T08:46:00.005+10:30

MOCCA - this was a lovely little market I went to in Manuka (Canberra) at the Child Care Centre - here's just a quick glance at some of the lovely stalls

This is Posie's beautiful stall - I stood for ages looking and chatting - got some stunning fabric - but cant show - sshhh - xmas presents

I went specifically to look at this stall - two Canberra Brown Owls - Poppy,Bean and Bloss and Button Tree Lane - just stunning ladies - and yes i did buy things - one I will show later and the other - yes another pressie

I just loved these lamps from The Owls are Hunting :( no money left

OMG - dino tails what fun from Mr Mudge

Yes here's my new toy - Molly from Poppy, Bean and Bloss - she came with her name another set of clothes all packed beautifully in a calico bag. I have lengthened her name just a little to Molly Mae Rose (back when i was pregnant with my son (William Thomas Elliot) this was the girls name I had planned - she is well and truly loved by all.

ps my husband picked her out!!! what a softie....

I am so hoping I can pin someone down for 30minutes or so to help me decorate the tree - its no where near as much fun doing it by yourself - i'll show you at the finished product..

My crafting/painting space all ready to be unpacked - back from Canberra - I will show you the finished product...

These are the calico xmas trees waiting to go on printed red card - I needed my bits and pieces that were packed in the boxes - all good - once unpacked ready to go - I'll show you the finished product - whoa I betting get cracking the day is flying by

cheers

New little friend

2009-12-17T18:53:00.003+10:30

A new little friend made by my crafty friend - she's very clever!

Holiday Reading

2009-12-17T18:35:00.003+10:30

We're on the count down to holidays now, 4 work days or 6 sleeps - either way - I'm excited!

I finished reading Jane Eyre last weekend - it was great! It did take me a while to read though 2 months to be exact... the old language was a struggle on nights when I was tired.

I've picked up something a little more modern for my next read. Audrey Niffenegger's Her Fearful Symmetry. I'm already a few chapters in and I can tell I'm going to enjoy it.

One of the setting of the book is Highgate cemetery in London. MrG and I did a tour of the cemetery while living in London. It was amazing and so very beautiful. In fact I'll find some of our photos and post them up one day soon.

Not sure if I'm being optimistic but I also have 2 other books on the reading list for this summer, Goodbye to all that and The Big Sleep plus 4 magazines, the 2 latest Frankies (yep to bust to read the last one before the next came out..) a Peppermint and a Mixtape.

Holidays are from the 24th to the 11th - bliss! We're off to Sydney from the 30th to the 3rd. I've never had a NYE in Sydney so looking forward to seeing the fireworks in person rather than via the news the next day. I wonder how they will compare to the London fireworks - now they were someting special!

if only I'd thought of it 11 years ago

2009-12-14T18:47:00.003+10:30

I had a very delayed eureka moment last Friday. 11 years to late (if your counting). ..
When was filling out my Uni applications 11 years ago I thought of things like Mathematician, Chemist, Accountant, Programmer.
What I should have thought of was, Home Ec teacher! Now that I've thought of it I can not believe I missed it. What have I been doing for all these years (writing Software Requirement documents...) when I should have been here 'Bachelor of Education (Design and Technology Education) - Home Economics'.
At school I remember being asked What do you like to do... How did I not answer, cook, sew, be health and teach people... I'd like to shake 17 year old me by the shoulders so I don't miss the point.
Any way - it's now on the one day list, or maybe the before I'm 40 (12 years to go) list... At the moment there are other things that need to be done. Working 9-5 saving for a house, thinking about a family (!)
I did however email the coordinator to see if it's possible to study some of the course part time/external. I think that's the only way I'll get there by the 40 deadline.
---post edit---
Of course - I wouldn't change the last 11 years, it's how I got here now and well if I hadn't been writing Software Requirements I'd never have met MrG and become MrsG. Now I'm getting sappy... G'nite all

A Red Christmas

2009-12-13T18:20:00.003+10:30

I think I went a little overboad with red this Christmas... Still it does look pretty

Saturday things

2009-12-12T11:06:00.004+10:30

Just got back from the Guerrilla Craft Market - Such a clever idea!

I wore my latest brooch to the market and had lots of complements (Donna they love your work!)
I picked up these porcelain buttons at the markets - haven't decided if they will be someones Christmas present or stay in my stash... it's tempting to keep them!

Today is going to be a quite day - well we need to food shop but aside from that it's down time. Tomorrow I'm going to a friends house to learn how to make Waldorf dolls. Should be good fun.

Have a lovely weekend! x

Christmas at T-Chow

2009-12-10T09:34:00.007+10:30

What fun we had last night - our last Brown Owls for the year was celebrated at T-chows in China town. We had a Kris Kringle - and our craftiness was on full display . What a fabulous group we are!
A big thank you to Tracey and Cherry and all those involved in the projects at Brown Owls during 2009 - it has been great year - I cant wait for next year to start.

My Creative Space

2009-12-09T22:19:00.002+10:30

I've been squeezing craft in where ever I can these days... The Christmas list keeps getting longer as each day ends..

This little doll was sent to my little friend Ruby who turned 4 the other day. Her mother said that when Ruby opened the package she said 'Oh mummy it's the doll I've always dreamed of' - Wow comments like that make it all worth it!
Next is the progress on the Princess and the Pea project for Knitting Nancy's. A very kind fellow at work made the wooden bed frame that I will be able to cover with crochet - though I'm tempted not too - the bed is so cute!

Finally the Red Christmas Stars that I have been working on - Quite happy with them, though MrG says it needs green too if it's going to be Christmas. Next job is the string of white stars for the red wall. With the next batch I need to try a different starch. The powder stuff I bought was rubbish... (or possibly I didn't read the instructions..

Pins & Needles - by Cathy

2009-12-09T12:17:00.007+10:30

I decided it was a about time I recycled my old pincushion (filled with sawdust) to the new one I bought the other day at the Goodwood market - Stitcharooney
Any way while I was in the process of transferring the pins I started to find needles that had managed to push all the way through. I had pulled all the pins out then I started to feel around and decided I might recycle the saw-dust and while transferring the saw-dust to the jar out came all the needles!!!!!!!!!!!!
154 needles and 5 sewing machine needles! Wow I wont need to buy needles for a while.
When all that was complete I cut away the fabric and now I have to think of something to do with those lovely little people that looked after my pins and needles for all those years.

A trip to Grandmas

2009-12-07T19:49:00.003+10:30

I spent Saturday at Grandma's house learning how to applique. We had such a lovely time.

After the lesson we went though Grandmas stash! It was like Christmas come early. Grandma has the most amazing collection of fabric - including some amazing Liberty prints and the most amazing part... She gave me a whole box full of fabrics and cotton reels, lace, trims and ric rac!

Plus these patterns - I can't wait to try them

Grandma kept a photo album of all the jumpers that she made to sell at markets - it's a beautiful collection and she has give it to me to look after. I'm very proud! x

Birthday surprises continue

2009-12-06T21:52:00.008+10:30

Sunday was a cultural delight - we started at the National Gallery seeing the Masterpieces from Paris and then had lunch at the National Portrait gallery. This was followed by hearing Reg Mombassa launching his new book. It was fabulous hearing him talk about his own paintings - we then went back to the national gallery for another look at those amazing Musee d'orsay paintings - i have up loaded some of my favourites.

This is Reg's new book cover
Reg's little ode to xmas

I love the patterning in the sea and on the mast - this is by Maurice Denis

I just have a thing about paintings of people sleeping - by Edouard Vuillard ( the lino cut Tony gave me was called 'afternoon nap')

This was amazing - i have only ever seen a photo - it looked like it was painted yesterday - so vibrantStarry Night OMG !!!! I have never really been a huge Vincent fan but I certainly am now !!!

Have had the most wonderful birthday this year.

Birthday weekend

2009-12-06T21:18:00.007+10:30

Saturday we went to Bundanon - Arthur Boyds studio and had a picnic on the Shoalhaven river a painting of shoal haven by Arthur Boyd

My birthday cake - brulee mmmm

Birthday delights 2

2009-12-06T21:02:00.005+10:30

Then I was back in Canberra on my birthday - i had worked and got home at 8.30pm to a party for two with banner/poppers/blowers/flowers/chocolates/yummyfood/beer/wine and presents
heres my birthday card Here are my presents

Then Tony told me all about my birthday weekend !!!!!

Birthday delights

2009-12-06T19:16:00.007+10:30

I have just had my birthday and have had some absolutely delightful moments - just wanted to share some - a beautiful dinner at Cherry's (stunning food and gifts - yes I got shoes!!!!!)

on the 28th when i was in Adelaide

Where ever I leave my hat, that's my home

2009-12-04T19:05:00.004+10:30

This weeks theme queen is Tania over at Myrtle & Eunice - a blog favourite of mine! She's picked 'Where ever I leave my hat, that's my home'

I've had the little knitted chicken above for as long as I can remember. Whenever I go away from home he always comes with me.
Why have I taken the photo in the top kitchen draw?.. Because when I was little (4 or 5) Dad had a magic trick that he use to do each morning. The chicken would 'disappear' and then always reappear in the draw when I was going to get my spoon too eat my weetbix. The game never ever got old!

This little bear is the other thing that always comes with me. He's from Mum and was a present from her at one of the toughest points of my childhood (I was 12) when a good friend was killed in a car accident. Mum gave him to me so that I'd always have something to keep near me when I was feeling sad. I still keep him with me x

Pop over to Pips to see more 'My Place and Yours: Where ever I leave my hat, that's my home'

Spinach Gnocchi

2009-12-04T18:58:00.002+10:30

I just sent this recipe to a friend so I thought since I'd gone to the trouble of typing it out I'd share it with you all. It's the meal I served at a dinner party last weekend. The recipe served 8 as an accompaniment to the rack of lamb.

Spinach Gnocchi
1kg English Spinach, tough stems removed
2 large knobs of butter
1 1/2 onions, chopped finely (leave the other half an onion for the tomato sauce)
150g plain flour 300g ricotta 4 egg yolks 200g parmesan, grated Ground nutmeg Extra parmesan to serve

Wash the spinach, spin it in a salad spinner or shake it dry.
Heat a large saucepan or wok over a moderate heat and add the spinach (you may have to do it in batches). Use tongs to toss it in the pan until wilted.
Drain well in a colander, squeeze out any excess liquid and roughly chop. Heat butter in a frying pan over a medium heat and add the onion. Cook gently for 7-8 minutes or until soft Add the spinach to the frying pan with the softened onion and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes.
Let it cool slightly.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl, sift in the flour, add the ricotta and mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the egg yolks, parmesan and a 3 or 4 pinches of nutmeg. (at this point I decided the mixture was too wet so added more flour - it was just a bit too sticky to hold it's shape in a ball, I only added about a 1.3 of a cup)
Using 2 teaspoons, shape the mixture into rounds and then place them on a lightly floured tray. Chill the gnocchi for at least an hour (I had it in the fridge for about hours - the longer the better I think)
To cook the gnocchi bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil then add the gnocchi (I cook in two batches so as not too overload the pan)
Once the rise to the surface the are cooked. Carefully scoop them out with a slotted spoon and drain well (after the second batch is cooked I throw them all back in the water and re-drain them, just to make sure they are all hot when served)
Serve gnocchi on the plate with tomato sauce on top.

Tomato sauce for gnocchi
3 garlic cloves
1/2 brown onion (keep the other half for the gnocchi)
800g tin crushed tomatoes
handful of basil leaves (add to your taste)

Chop garlic and onions and fry (with oil) until golden
Add tin tomatoes, when simmering add basil leaves and salt and pepper
Simmer until slightly reduced (or until you think it tastes OK... I cook by taste!)

I served this with a roast rack of lamb and a side salad.

So yummy, I'm hungry all over again!

My Creative Space

2009-12-02T19:34:00.006+10:30

Again I'm busy with Christmas presents. When I made 6 sleeping masks a couple of weeks ago I would never have guessed that I'd need more.. Mum has asked me to make some for her (to give as presents) and I've since worked out that they are a very nice gift so I'm making more. I've got this batch half way though. and this fabric waiting to be cut..I'm also making yoyo's for the playmat I'm making for my niece. After the disaster with the felt shrinking in the wash I unpicked it but tore some tiny holes in the mat... (very frustrating). The yoyos are an attempt to hide the rips without it looking like I'm trying to hide anything... cross your fingers for me. I'd love to show you the mat but it will have to wait til after Christmas.

Check out Kirsty's place for more creative spaces.

Wedding Style Guide- Vintage Splendour

2009-12-02T19:20:00.005+10:30

Wow! Exciting news! Our wedding is in the latest edition of Wedding Style Guide. I'm so happy with the photos the selected. The whole thing just looks amazing.

What wonderful memories x

A surprise wedding present

2009-11-29T11:28:00.005+10:30

Last night MrG and I hosted or first 'real' dinner party. We've had people over for dinner many many times but it's never felt like a real dinner party. This time though it certainly did. The guest list was Mum & Dad, good friends of the family Penny and Tony and my brother and his girl friend.

I'd been planning the meal for a few weeks now and it was a big success! I served rack of lamb with handmade spinach gnocchi and tomato and basil sauce. I did take cooking photos but in the haste to serve the meals forgot to take a photo of the finished plate... Ops!

The most exciting part of the night though was the surprise extra wedding present that Tony and Penny gave us. They did give us a beautiful Jamie Oliver saucepan on the day but Penny decided this was a bit uninspired so the next day bought us this Royal Albert plate. I LOVE IT!

My Creative 'Christmas' Space

2009-11-25T22:16:00.005+10:30

My space at the moment is full of Christmas projects. Most of which I can't show you as I'd hate to ruin the surprise...
What I can show you thought is the Christmas Grandma Twinkle Stars that I found here via here. Aren't the pretty! I've been searching for patterns for a few weeks now and was thrilled to find this one! I just love the white stars on the red wall.

Now for the big news - the winner of last weeks give away via random.org is....

June at Noon! I'll be in touch for postal details.

Happy Creating! x

moving home with all my toys - by cathy

2009-11-24T10:11:00.005+10:30

I am packing up all my crafty/art things today - my 'longer' stay in canberra is over - its been a very creative time - i will be making shorter visits back to Canberra next year - so i need all my 'TOYS' where i will be mainly living - Adelaide - yah !! - I will have to get used to bringing smaller projects back and forward to canberra - i have tried to pack projects already - see the quilt bag photo - i put in some photos of my sewing things all packed - then i thought wow i can see the top of my sewing table so thought you might all like to see that too

My Place and Yours :: My Collection

2009-11-21T12:12:00.006+10:30

Kate from Foxes Lane is this weeks theme queen and gosh has she picked a fun theme - Collections!

There are lots of things I could have shared but I've settled on teacups. My collection is a combination of pieces I have from my Mum's and Grandmother's collection, some are new, some are thrifted and some were presents. All have lovely stories behind them.

Next is our pin board. I collect lots of things here. I like to think of it as an archive of our lives. It has postcards, birthday and wedding invitations, letters, exhibition invites and lots of things that make me smile. If you look close you can see a photo of MrG and our niece Olivia.

Thanks for stopping by! You can see some other lovely collections over at Pip's Cherry x

My Creative Space

2009-11-18T22:07:00.005+10:30

Some more inspirations entered my space today. The postman delivered 3 parcels!
From the top, a thank you card from my little friend Hollie. I made her this Ruby doll for her birthday. She's since named the doll Wiggle and no amount of 'oh really, I think she looks like a Ruby' has changed her mind. Doesn't matter though, especially since when she opened the parcel Hollie said 'Oh I've always wanted one of these' and gave her a big hug. Now that made me smile!

Next the buttons, I won these on a Blogtober giveaway that V for Violet hosted. Thanks so much! I love them and can't wait to get creating.

Finally a card from my very creative mum (who shares this blog with me). Mum bought the most amazing stamps last weekend and made me a card with them. Thanks Mum x

There was one more parcel that arrived but it's a Birthday present for Mum so can't tell..shhhh
Although I'm on a little sewing break I did make these eye masks a week ago. I guess a girl only really needs one mask but I got a bit excited to see what all the fabrics looked like quilted so made 6. They'll come in very handy for Christmas presents and... big news... our first Bright Red Cherries Give Away! Just leave a comment on this post and include which one is your favourite. I'll pick a winner randomly next Wednesday and post the details on the next My Creative Space.

See more creative spaces over at Kootoyoo

ps - did you hear the news.. Stitches and Craft are coming to Adelaide, thanks Gillian for the tip off!

Thanks Burda - by Cathy

2009-11-18T16:43:00.005+10:30

I got a 'free pattern' to work - yah - from burda style. I have to admit I haven't had luck in the past - it did need a little tweeking but not difficult at all - so if you want to make the dress just email before you cut your fabric out (sorry I am too lazy to go into explanations now) Its called the coffee date dress - it is comfy and flattering - betty and I both love it!

In search of other creative inspiration or 'Mum I need help'

2009-11-17T12:09:00.003+10:30

Unlike Mum, whose been making some lovely things, I’ve had some bad luck with sewing lately and it’s kind of crushed my creative inspiration.

Last night’s disaster was washing the La Fleur playmat that I have made for my niece.... the felt face shrunk in the cold water! Grr! I avoided temptation to throw the shrivelled mess in the bin and set to work unpicking all the quilting on the face (cheeks, face, eyes) and have managed to save the rest of the mat. I’ll buy new wadding today and fix it up over the weekend. Oh what a day!

I’m leaving the sewing until Mum’s back in Adelaide again – Mum I need your help....

As a motivator for trying something other than sewing I have bought a copy of June at Noon’s embroidery pattern. Gretchen embroidered this house for the Quilt Project that I was part of. Will start it over the weekend – It might take me months but I’m in need of a non sewing challenge! Go check out June at Noon - it's a lovely little shop and there are some lovely giveaways on her blog too!

reversible skirt - two for the price of one

2009-11-16T14:59:00.005+10:30

I just love the idea of reversible clothing - I bought this pattern by Betty Kingston and made it up last week - I have worn it non-stop - I just flipped it to black when I went out to see a local band the other night. The red and black fabric has a very fine stripe and the edging is some lovely japanese fabric I bought through Tessuti. The black skirt has side pockets and little covered buttons and the red skirt has the little square pocket and feature bows. I also bought a vintage Vogue dress and reversible coat pattern (I will make the dress first but may tackle the coat as we move out of warmer weather).

A win in the kitchen

2009-11-15T14:02:00.003+10:30

Ok - the sewing might not be working for me at the moment but I did manage a win in the kitchen. Last night dinner was 'awesome'. I made Mexican Breakfast from Jamie Oliver's new book, America.For a slight twist I served the wraps with bacon and sour cream.SO TASTY! There is nothing like a new cookbook to motivate me to cook.

reaching the limit..

2009-11-14T11:43:00.003+10:30

Well it seems that 7 days of 40+ is my limit! I'm hot, grumpy, sweaty, tired and in general not so nice to be around...

Thursday night while cleaning the BBQ I got grease all over my only summer nightie/house dress. I've washed it but no luck - still ruined.

MrG and I are trying to save for a house so I though instead of buying a new nightie I'd try making one, I can sew, right?! I had seen pillowcases turned in to nighties but turns out that must only be for children and people of smaller builds... When I cut the bottom open just to see how it fitted it got stuck on my hips... had to get MrG to help me pry it off! Not a confidence booster you can be sure...

So then I thought I'd try and cut a new nightie off the ruined one. Also a disaster... you know measure twice cut once - well I just cut... Did I mention the heat is making me crazy?! Another piece of fabric ruined and the bad mood has set in...

So I've tidied the house, Heat also makes me claustrophobic! and shut the sewing room door. I'm not going back in there until either the heat or the mood has shifted.

Tomorrows post will be far more cheery - promise!

x

My Creative Space by Cathy

2009-11-11T07:32:00.006+10:30

I thought it was about time I showed one of my paintings. In the past I have had long breaks between painting - for all kinds of reasons - not the least being - the feeling of terror in picking up a brush again and wondering if I can still paint - I am trying to overcome this problem by painting first thing everyday - in my PJ's - it seems to be working a treat - I have one completed painting - the commisioned portrait you can see above and another two on the way - yah - fills me with great joy to get going again!

Getting to know Betty

2009-11-10T08:22:00.004+10:30

Yes I finished the dress - at last - loads of unpicking to get it fitting just right. I had to tweek the pattern to get it to fit just right - just the top really - the skirt has a lovely tulip shape.

I learnt something very important about Betty though - she just stands straight all day long - I need to bend move stretch my arms etc etc - and guess what the dress is a little too snug :(

It cuts into me when I move my arms forward - well I suppose I could avoid that movement altogether - mmmmm - it cant be undone as it is signed sealed and delivered eg seams all trimmed. Oh well - you live and you learn - the pattern I used was Vogue V8511

Plans for Christmas…

2009-11-09T18:58:00.002+10:30

Christmas is all about spending time with family (of course) but when you’re a couple that are driving distance from both families how do you decided where you spend lunch and dinner?

Growing up we spread Christmas over two days. Christmas day with one family, Boxing day with the other. Then on the next year we swapped. It worked out well especially because both mum and dad come from big families, one of 7 (Mum) and one of 6 (Dad). That makes for huge Christmas lunches 2 days in a row and 30+ cousins total. It was great fun – swimming in the pool, present swapping and eating til you were busting.

These days though I have to consider MrG’s family too, which is no problem at all – I love them dearly however the domino effect is that their respective families need to also be considered (again totally fine) and so on…. When I think about it if you follow the chain total strangers end up effecting where one might spend Christmas day… A funny thought really.

This year’s timetable is:

Breakfast at our place with Mum & Dad, my brother and his girlfriend
Lunch with MrG’s family including his sister, husband and baby girl. It’s the first Christmas with the next generation – so exciting!
Supper/Drinks/Dinner at my Aunts to see my Grandma and Grandpa and cousins that are here from all over the world.

It will be a big day but it’s worth it – I love Christmas! Lucky I do too as we do lunch again the next day with Dad’s family. If you need me on the 27th I’ll be lying down!

The photos above are from my Kikki-K purchase that arrived today! Love it!

Meet my new friend Betty

2009-11-07T13:08:00.003+10:30

I cant believe I have been sewing for 40 odd years and have not considered buying a dress makers model - well I bought one on line at last - my husband decided that she should be called Betty -Don's wife in MadMen - his favourite TV show.We are still getting to know each other and in the picturte I have here the dress ended up being way too big - Betty and I like our dresses a little more fitted. It has turned out to be an absolute boon for photos for ebay sales.

I have also included a picture of my latest purchases - not sure why I bought so many Amy Butler bag patterns - I think I have this idea of matching bags and dresses and then the other day I found this link to how to make your own shoes - I was just about delirious - OMG matching shoes.

Sleeping Beauty

2009-11-07T12:09:00.003+10:30

I've managed to get a whole lot of craft time in lately. MrG's been working late so the evening have been free to craft.

On Thursday night I tried out the Amy Butler sleeping mask patten from her book In Stitches.

The pattern called for a quilters ruler and muslin, neither of which I had so I substituted with cotton and a paper back as a ruler...

For a first attempt at quilting I'm pretty happy with the results.

Lessons learnt:

Paperback books do not make good quilters rulers.
Thin wadding must be much thinner than the wadding I used. Pattern said 4 layers... I used 3 and it's way to thick.
Be careful pinning through so many layers and if you do prick your thumb stop what you are doing and check if you are bleeding... Lucky the blood came out in the wash.

In fact with practice and my new quilters ruler I think I've found what I'm making for Christmas presents.

My Creative Space

2009-11-04T18:40:00.005+10:30

My creative space this week includes my owl softie for Mirabel and another Ruby doll for my friends daughter Ruby.

My Mirabel softie is using a pattern from One Red Robin

I'm really enjoying the process of picking colours for the Ruby dolls and then selecting a basic outfit for them. This little one has a red gingham apron. I'm going to include a little note with the present to introduce Ruby to her new friend Ruby. Something that gives the doll a little story, 'likes to cook, esp cheese cake. Loves listening to stories and picking flowers in the garden.' Something like that...

In my Blog HQ post I mentioned my and Princess and the Pea crochet project for Knitting Nancy's so I thought I'd share some of the details.

Knitting Nancy's is a Fringe exhibition that I'm taking part in. For my piece I was inspired by Follow the White Rabbits embroidery pattern for the Princess and the Pea.

I've made a bed frame out of cardboard to use as a pattern. I'm planning to crochet a cover for the bed and then cover a wooden version of the bed in the crochet. Then I will crochet lots more of the mattresses and pile them up on the bed. I also have a plan to crochet a frilled bed skirt. Finally I'll add a felted green bead to the bottom of the pile. In my head it's going to look amazing.. Every now and again I get freaked out that it will be a disaster.. Cross fingers!

a (slight) addiction

2009-11-03T20:33:00.004+10:30

I have a small addiction to buying fabric - but don't we all (my guess is if you are reading this your a crafty type too). In the past week I've bought these. The green and white one are from ebay and the others are from s_o_l_g_t. Mind you the service in the city store is... well lets just say I might have something to add to my 'What's Hot, What's Not' list... Maybe it's on purpose so I stop going there...

I also have an addiction to the new penguin orange classics - I own 5 so far, have read none and have a voucher from Borders for 3 for $20... So tempting... They look so pretty on the shelf and I get a strange sense of satisfaction from looking at them.

A day at Vinnies

2009-11-02T18:00:00.004+10:30

Mum spent the day at Vinnies today with Grandma (Grandma works there) and came home with the most lovely things for me!

The blanket is crocheted with chain stitch woven through it - must have taken hours to make!

The apron is based on this nursery rhyme

Sing a song of sixpence a pocket full of rye,
Four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie.
When the pie was opened the birds began to sing,
Oh wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the king?
The king was in his counting house counting out his money,
The queen was in the parlour eating bread and honey
The maid was in the garden hanging out the clothes,
When down came a blackbird and pecked off her nose!

If anyone can tell us more about the rose doilies we'd love to know more - we think they are 1950s, they look like the are printed on very fine stiff fabric and delicate velvet finish.

Sunday jogging

2009-11-01T18:46:00.003+10:30

I went for a jog this morning and came across this little rocking horse at a garage sale - super cute! Ran home grabbed my purse, ran back and now he's all mine.

Nothing like a reason to get you running!