Stitchbird

Cover Quilt

2012-01-23T15:35:00.001+13:00

One of my quilts and a cushion were on the cover of the November House and Garden and I missed it!

The quilt and cushion were sent off to NZ House and Garden many, many months ago for a photo shoot and returned. They did appear in a beautiful photo in the magazine at the time and I thought nothing more of it. So imagine my surprise when I was at the library on Friday and saw this...

The Princess and the Pea Quilt and the Far Far Away 2 cushion I made.

Now I would like to say that being very professional I just borrowed the magazine and came home quietly for a wee read - but no - I was very excited, told the librarian that that was my quilt there on the cover and rushed home to tell any one who would listen!

Including you!

Now I do not buy many magazines these days, I usually borrow them from the library, but I would like to have a copy of this magazine. Unfortunately it is no longer for sale, but if any of you have a copy that you have finished with I would be happy to purchase it from you. Please email me lyndy@stitchbirdfabrics.co.nz

Thank you

Happy New Year

2012-01-20T23:01:00.001+13:00

Today is one week back from our fantastic holiday. That blue ball of light above our heads is the timeball in Times Square New York.

We didn't get into the Square itself to see or hear Justin Beiber, Lady Gaga or Carlos Santana. But we met some other great people on the night - a couple from Guernsey, another couple from Montreal, 3 guys who had pulled a marathon roadie from Ohio to make New York for New Year and 2 young medical students from China. We had a great time in the cold, sharing stories - for me better than Justin any day. But Lady Gaga....

And no trip to New York would be right without a trip to Fashion Ave and to visit a very special dog...

Swatch at Mood (I will show you my purchases another day).

We are all big fans of Project Runway in our house.

So for 2012... as Tim would say...

Make it Work!

And the outtakes....

Me being stupid (a very rare occurrence ☺)

Spot the oops in the bunting

2011-12-16T16:47:00.000+13:00

This is what happens when you have no time and your in a hurry and you decide to whip up a little something else. Now if I was a perfectionist or it was for a gift I would unpick it. But is isn't so I won't :)

And a close up (not including the woopsie).

they have all been posted and should have been received by now

2011-12-14T18:06:00.000+13:00

The Christmas decorations which I made as part of the Kiwi Christmas Ornament Swap.

Meet Santa's helpers.

But which one is Rudolph? Nobody nose!

Christmas Holiday Closure and Delivery of Orders

2011-12-09T19:59:00.000+13:00

After much agonising I have decided to close Stitchbird Fabrics for a Christmas and summer holiday break. Last year when we went on holiday my lovely friend Margaret, looked after all your orders and fed our cat and generally was a great friend.

Margaret has moved to the Far North and we miss here a lot. Added to that we have planned a major holiday this year. It is Jack's last year at school next year and we figure that there are only so many family holidays left before he wants to do his own thing with friends or a partner. (Please note I am still a little bit disbelieving that my "wee" (6 foot 3) baby is almost an adult).

So I will be processing and sending orders until the 18th of December. So if you would like to place an order for some holiday sewing I will need to receive your order on the 18th of December at the latest. Any orders received after that date will be processed and sent when we return on the 13th of January.

So where are we off to? Well for me it is one of those bucket list trips - I have always wanted to spend Christmas and New Year in New York and that is where we are going. I want to go ice skating at the Rockefeller Centre and see in the New Year in Times Square. We are also spending some time in San Francisco and LA.

Now if any of you have any recommendations on things to do or see, shops to visit or places to eat I would be most grateful for any information.

Lego Bags

2011-11-24T20:30:00.000+13:00

These drawstring bags are a quick and easy gift to make for Christmas or a birthday. For the under threes you could always use Duplo instead of lego.

I have used the Play Blocks fabric but if you wanted you could always change the fabric and pop in a little notebook and crayons or a Polly Pocket. They are great activity bags for taking a few things when you are going out to a cafe or doctor's appointment and your children could decide what goes in.

I have been making these to sell at markets - but as always I find the pricing difficult. How do others work this out? Any suggestions.

Also I haven't really done a tutorial before but am happy to do one if there is any interest. Let me know. I will try my best.

Christmas Fabrics

2011-11-21T10:41:00.000+13:00

I am not a big fan of Christmas fabrics generally, but when I saw these ones I just had to have them. I have popped some aside for myself and although they only arrived last week there is very little left. If you would like some be quick!

1.Jovial Spots Cream 2. Nordic Fur 3. Isabelle Stripe

vote for an 8 day week...

2011-11-18T21:57:00.000+13:00

Do you think we could just slip an extra day into the week?

A secret day that nobody else knows about, that you can do whatever you want on.

And of course on this day there would be no need to do the laundry, make beds, go to the supermarket or cook.

Sounds entirely reasonable to me - a necessity really!

The lack of blogging is just a reflection of my life at the moment - a bit chaotic and not enough time. The end of the year is racing up and my eldest is in the midst of his exams - I swear I am more anxious about it all than he is.

Georgiana and Simon playing in the garden (shame they can't pull weeds)

There has been some crafting going on as well, more bears and lots of reversible headbands for markets. Also in a collaboration with Mr 16 to sell some of his Lego I have made drawstring Lego bags (there are no photos tonight but I will try and sneak a photo tomorrow).

Friday night sees our car turn into The Tardis as we try to put everything we need for the market into it.

Hope you are all having a great week.

playing with paper

2011-11-01T17:33:00.000+13:00

making more cards....

this one with a little Halloween theme going on. Can you tell I love Richard Scarry?

Including Christmas cards and tags - yikes it is only next month! Blank shipping tags are available for sale in the shop - if you want to make your own.

and a photo of Midget's paper play - a lot more complex than mine - a year 9 art project....

lace preserves

2011-10-26T17:48:00.001+13:00

With Monday being a holiday I have had some time for playing, including playing with some Kool Aid.

The laces came out with varying results. I think next time I will use a little white vinegar as a mordant (there was none in the house and I did not want to go to the supermarket, very lazy I know but I hate the supermarket!)

P.S. Off to play netball, hoping my bottom is all ok after last week's pain in the arse.

P.P.S. Go the Silver Ferns!

Frida is in the House!

2011-10-25T19:30:00.000+13:00

Love Love Love Frida Kahlo and I love this fabric Viva Frida which is now in store.

I have a skirt in this fabric and I will make sure I take a photo next time I am wearing it.

Frida rocks!

Kiwi Christmas Decoration Swap

2011-10-24T18:19:00.001+13:00

I am signed up are you? There is still time to get involved the final date for sign ups is 1st November and you can do so here over on Dione of Sew Funky's blog.
This will be my third year in this swap and it is a lovely way to connect with fellow crafters and also to receive some beautiful handcrafted Christmas decorations. In previous years I have made little houses, tuis and angels.

I am looking around for some inspiration for this year's swap.

One favourite magazine is Marie Claire Idees which has some lovely eye candy...

So many choices!

just put my but in a sling

2011-10-19T20:13:00.001+13:00

What do me and Dan Carter (another elite sports person) have in common?

We have both been struck down by injury. For Dan it was a groin strain playing rugby for me a strain of the gluteus maximus while playing netball. I would have thought that having the maximum sized gluteus I would have been in good shape, but apparently not.

You will be grateful that I am not sharing a photo of said bottom injury. But I will share one of Dan...OUCH!

Thanks Jockey for the photo ;)

technology breakdown - just call me Nigel

2011-10-07T16:29:00.000+13:00

Today has been a reminder of how much we rely on technology - computers and emails.

There have been some changes to the server that Stitchbird Fabrics uses that has had an unintended effect on my email. So if you have tried to email me either yesterday or today - my apologies. I have only just become aware of the problem and it is being rectified. If you have placed an order - yes I have a record of that.

It is amazing how out of touch you feel with no email - it is like suddenly being Nigel no friends.

ARgghh!!!!!!!!!

Fabric spotting and a great tutorial

2011-10-05T15:56:00.000+13:00

From not sewing at all just over 12 months ago Megan at Mousehouse is now a very capable sewist. Not only that, she remembers what it was like when you were starting out and she has started putting together some tutorials and blog posts for those who are taking their first steps on the creative path. And when you are starting out you need a good pin cushion and needle case and Megan has provided a tutorial for these here.

And I love her choice of fabrics ☺ - above is The Sewing Box teamed with Little Red ribbon and below Vintage Threads.

To the people who say "I wish I could could sew", I say "you can". Start with a project, like this, which will give you a quick result. Don't worry about trying to achieve perfection, just do it and the more you do the better you will get.

Thanks Megan for providing the tutorial and I am looking forward to the next instalment.

getting ready

2011-09-29T20:21:00.000+13:00

I have been doing Markets on both Saturdays and Sundays recently at the Wellington market.

I am supposedly meant to take a day or two "off" during the week. But when you work for yourself that does not necessarily happen. By about Thursday night I am thinking about getting ready for the weekend.

The things I love about doing the markets are the really great people you get to meet - both fellow stall holders and customers.

Some of my market buddies include Michelle and Nick from Whirlwind Designs, who make a whole range of items and amogst them the coolest wind sculptures, which are very apt for Windy Wellington. Here is Wendy...

And Jo from Blueberry Art with his soft German accent and cheekiness. He sells bags and hats which are all hand made by his wife Maggie. I will have to take some photos this weekend - they are amazing.

I also have some very helpful assistants Jack (16) comes and helps me set up and Midget (14) keeps me company in the afternoon and Mr Stitchbird makes yummy lunches and comes in and spends some time. Best of all it does not feel like work. That's what happens when you are doing the thing you love, with people you love.

rabbits, tennis and other gorgeousness

2011-09-28T18:23:00.000+13:00

Look who arrived in the mail today from Louise aka Prairie Mouse! I have called him Rafa. Louise and I share an appreciation of good tennis and Rafa, which is strictly sporting you understand. Rafa and many of his friends were knitted into the night whilst watching the US Open. Louise has posted the link to the pattern for Rafa for those who are interested. Louise - I love him and he is keeping me company at my computer.

And on my blog hopping travels - what did I spy over at es design - some gorgeous cushions made from vintage dishes. Eleanor and her team have a store in Marion Street full of scrumptiousness. I drool over her second hand mid century chairs, (one day...). I must admit to sometimes feeling intimidated by some interior design stores and the people in them - that whole too cool for school attitude - not at es design, they are just very friendly and helpful.

And some more gorgeousness from one of my lovely customers, Janine -

A Babushka and Cat dress. And this dress which Janine made out of one fat quarter of the the cat's meow...

Ada must be one of the best dressed babies!

The other gorgeousness is the lovely sunshine. Hope you are having a great day where you are.

Giveaway Winners

2011-09-26T21:02:00.001+13:00

Under very strict supervision the winners were drawn and they are:

The Baker's Twine Pack - Sunnybec

The Daiwabo Pack - Leonie

The Kokka Pack - Debbie

The Echino Pack - Jess

The Heather Ross Pack - Sarah Gough

The Spots Pack - Heidee Hantz

Congratulations! I will email you all regarding getting your addresses etc for posting your goodies.

And thank you to everyone else who entered.

P.S. Debbie - I do not have your contact details can you please email me, my email address can be found on my blogger profile or in the store.

Case Makeover - and last few days for the giveaway

2011-09-21T17:47:00.000+12:00

Before photos - found one tired school case at the op shop.

I loved the lettering - I think JNC went to Palmerston North High School. The inside looking a bit tatty.

And after...

I used steam a seam fusible web to line the case with the Vintage Roses from Kokka. If you have never used steam a seam before - there is a warning - it can be addictive. It is a bit like when you first discover sellotape as a child!

Also if you have not already entered the giveaway it is still on - you can check it out here.

A Thank You Giveaway

2011-09-14T22:42:00.001+12:00

Hi remember me? I fell off for a bit, but am trying to hop back on this blog thingy and I thought I would do so with the giveaway I have been promising.

Lots of new fabrics and bakers twine have arrived in store and there are 6 great giveaway packs to be won.

Here's what you have to do to enter:

Check out the giveaways below and select the 3 you would most like to win.
Leave a comment on my blog letting me know your threee favourites.
Make sure I have a way of contacting you - if your email is linked to your blogger profile that is fine.
You can be anywhere in the world Eketahuna or Timbuktu - I don't mind I will send it to you!

You don't have to become a follower or even like me on Facebook - I will like you anyway :0) and put your name in the draw - but if you would like to that is much appreciated.

So what is on offer? Is it good? If you have been a lurker on my blog and are yet to leave a comment this could be your chance...

The Bakers Twine Pack

10 metres of each colour of Bakers Twine in store. That's 11 colours.

The Daiwabo Pack

A fat quarter of each of the following fabrics...

Elephant Walk Green Canvas, Elephant Walk Blue/Black;

Pink Hippos; The Sewing Box

The Kokka Pack

A fat quarter of each of the following fabrics...

Owl and Partridge Blues; Vintage Rabbits; Watercolour Butterfly Purple; Babushka and Daisy Natural; Vintage Roses; French Bulldogs

Echino Pack

A fat quarter of each of the following fabrics...

London Natural, Car Box Turquoise, Mini Car Black, Scooters Black

Heather Ross Far Far Away 3 Pack

60 cms of Snow White and a fat quarter of the other fabrics shown here...

Snow White Fern; Clothesline; Horseplay Peach; Wildflowers Blue

Big on Spots Pack (because if you don't already know I am big on spots)

A fat quarter of each of the following fabrics...

Very Spotty Duck Egg Blue; French Navy, French Red, Going Dotty Green, Going Dotty Pink , Going Dotty Raspberry

I will leave comments open until at least next weekend (that's 25th September).

So thank you for supporting Stitchbird Fabrics and me in my crafting and blogging endeavours and lastly...

Good Luck!

Bring it on...

2011-09-02T22:30:00.000+12:00

It has been one of those weeks and I have nobody to blame but myself.

A speeding ticket for going 56 km per hour in a 50 km zone

Walking up to the car to find a parking warden writing a ticket - I was 6 minutes over

Going to collect my business cards for the second time... there still not ready... when I finally get them they are the wrong ones (not my fault).

Now that is 3. Do you think the big guy can stop messing with me now? I am grateful it is only small stuff and I am trying not to sweat it. But Mr S has been teasing me, going round making camera noises like he is a speed camera. Geez why did I marry him? Oh yes that's right because he is so supportive and was even seen selling fabric and trying to talk knowledgeably about fabric, patterns and the like. I guess he does listen to me after all!

Sorry this has been a bit of a no blog zone. I am still trying to make sense of the fabric that has arrived. I am hoping to do a giveaway next week to celebrate the fabrics arrival, so please stay tuned.

Night-night, I better go to bed as I have a big market in the morning.

And because I feel like a nice photo to end on....

Vintage Rabbits

No Words - Just Incredibly Moving

2011-08-31T08:53:00.000+12:00

there are at least 1500 reasons why I shouldn't be blogging....

2011-08-24T22:02:00.000+12:00

here are just some...

...back soon

fraulein roth (aka Little Red) is in the house

2011-08-21T16:32:00.000+12:00

When I received my shipment of ribbons recently 2 of the ribbons that I ordered were missing from the shipment. Oh La La (in German if I knew any!)

Had Fraulein Roth escaped the box?

Had she been kidnapped by a hard up delivery person trying to make a little extra on the side?

Had the wolf that travelled with her been denied entry into New Zealand because of his criminal past?

Luckily Fraulein Roth has since made the journey successfully and joins the other ribbons in the shop.

Happy Sunday.

colour happy

2011-08-20T17:44:00.000+12:00

The sun shone today.

This photo was taken late in the day, after Fabric a Brac - so may not be the best. My kid's have nicknamed this the Funky Baby Quilt because of the colours. Apparently it is only suitable for a funky baby with 'tude!

A close-up.

I decided on a very simple block pattern as that was all my brain could handle this week; plus I wanted a bit of instant gratification, something I could start and finish in one sitting. The finished block size is 6 inches. Interesting fact - you can get nine 6.5 inch squares out of one metric fat quarter (as long as you don't screw any up and cut them 5.5 inches ☺). As a more recent quilter this is the kind of infomation I need to know.

I am considering quilting it myself - most probably straight lines - but.... I could chicken out. So maybe I am still not a quilter, but only a topper?

Getting Ready for Fabric a Brac

2011-08-18T19:41:00.000+12:00

Fabric a Brac is back this Saturday in Palmerston North.

Fingers crossed that the weather holds off - please no more snow - we just aren't used to it!

If you live in the Manawatu it would be lovely to see you and please say hi as it is nice to put faces to names!

Plus thank you for all the good advice that having two quilts on the go is OK. I knew I could rely on you to give good advice.

The quilt top is finished, but I am waiting for some decent light to take a photo and then I will share.

I will finish this post with a photo of snow coming down at our place. Apparently this was a once in 50 years storm.

It didn't settle enough for a snowman ☃ but there was enough for a snow ball fight❄☺❄

Is it wrong to have more than one quilt on the go?

2011-08-17T19:59:00.001+12:00

Do I really have to finish one before starting another? The Swedish Forest fabric has arrived and I have been playing with fabric combos. I am liking this set...

1. Swedish Forest 2. Starburst Strawberry
3. Starburst Pool 4. Woodland Friends
5. Tree Stripe 6. Woodland Chain Pool

but think I will also add a little bit of this

Citron Pebbles

I have also had a reorganise of the organic fabrics in the store and they can all now be found under Organic Cottons.

sshhhh... don't tell it's a pressie

2011-08-12T20:12:00.000+12:00

a little zippered pouch for important wee things like coffee cards etc and a fabric covered notebook.

The notebook was made using the tutorial over on Clare's blog.

I used lite steam a seam for the notebook which was great to use, because it is slightly tacky so I could stick it on, readjust and then iron it (you will understand if you read the tutorial). A note though - making these may become addictive!

I will be making more of these, but next time I think I will add 2 cm or even 2.5 cms as my notebook was a bit bigger and I felt it could do with a little more fold over.

The fabric is Heather Ross's Roses from the Far Far Away 2 range.

P.S. if you need a tutorial for making zippered pouches Lisa has a good one over on her blog Big Little.

Bunting Cards

2011-08-11T17:48:00.001+12:00

I am a bit loath to call this a tutorial - it is more this is how I do it - for those who are interested.

These cards are a great way to use up all those tiny bits of fabric. I have a shopping bag full along side my sewing table and all the little trim bits which are too small for most things get popped in the bag. I then rummage through when I am looking for that little something for the inside of a bear's ear, applique or these cards.

For those poor people who don't have a stash of fabric (and I know there are a few out there) - don't worry I also have a paper alternative.

OK so here goes

I cut my pieces of fabric into small strips approximately 3/4's of an inch by 2 inches (or 2.5 cm by 3.75 cms). Don't worry about being exact, it doesn't matter.

I cut a piece of baker's twine twice the width of the card (you can do longer if you like, I will talk about this later).

Using a glue stick, put glue on the back of a fabric piece and then fold it over the baker's twine about 1/3rd of the way in from the end sticking the wrong sides of the fabric together. Repeat with each piece of fabric placing them on your baker's twine next to the last piece working towards the other end. You can reposition the pieces to where you like them while the glue is still tacky.

Now you can decide to leave your bunting rectangular in shape or you can take your scissors and make them into triangular shape - or even mix them up a bit. Just be careful not to cut into your baker's twine if you are cutting.

Now take your blank card and make a small cut using a crafting knife just in from each side at a level that you would like your bunting to hang.

Poke the baker's twine through the holes from the front to back on either side - I have used toothpicks, bamboo skewers, even a quick unpick to do this - just whatever you have handy and works for you.

Position the bunting so it is hanging the way you want it and tie the baker's twine at either side with a double knot. You can either decide to leave your card like that or you can snip the end of bakers twine and add another colour (or same colour) by threading it behind the other baker's twine and tie it in a bow to finish it off.

Alternatively you can use a longer piece of baker's twine and tie the ends together on the inside of the card after threading it through the holes you made in the card.

You can get a number of differnt looks depending on the fabric and card you use and how you cut your bunting.

Paper Version

In the paper version I used an old children's book and cut strips of paper and repeated the same process, BUT with the paper version I folded my paper and cut my triangular shape before sticking it onto the baker's twine.

Now before anybody tells me off for cutting up books I bought the book from the op-shop for $1 and the spine was broken - perfect for craft.

If you would like to give it a go there is bakers' twine in the store in a range of colours.

waiting for new fabric is like waiting for Christmas

2011-08-09T19:20:00.000+12:00

Well it is for me. I have so much new fabric arriving in the next few weeks I can hardly contain myself. I just love fabric.

There are some lovely organic fabrics from Monaluna on there way...

Swedish Forest

Soar

Fabrics from Daiwabo

I have also ordered a number of Japanese woven taupe fabrics which are amazing.

Plus lots and lots of new fabrics from Kokka and Echino......

Not long to go now.

3 little buttons

2011-08-08T19:29:00.000+12:00

that make me very happy - they were the finishing touches on this button back cushion made for a customer.

along with a light shade

Fabric is Robert Kaufman Paris Scene by Monaluna

And the winners are... plus another giveaway

2011-08-07T16:53:00.002+12:00

Thank you for entering the giveaway for the ribbons. The winners were drawn under close police supervision (yeah right) and are:

Peach Rainbow - Retro Daisies on Blue
Robin - Woodland Forest Friends
Make-do Mum - Schnickipu - I am having trouble contacting you please email me, thank you.
Greta @ topography - Love Chirp
Gill - Me and My Friends

I think it is amazing that you all chose different ribbons.

The other giveaway is not mine, but one that is being hosted over at my sister's blog. Lesley is an amazing glass artist and she is giving away a pair of her beautiful rose earrings. You may want to go on over and check it out. Lesley makes the glass roses and puts them with swarovski crystals and sterling silver. Divine!

ribbons, but not just any ribbons... PLUS a wee ribbon giveaway

2011-08-03T20:23:00.002+12:00

Gorgeous woven ribbons arrived today and are in store here. They are perfect for putting that finishing touch on your project.

Me and My Friends is by Susa Labim and I can't believe I did not know about her work before now - it is amazing - you can check out more of her work here

There are more ribbon styles in store.

If you would like to receive a metre of ribbon of your choice - please check out the ribbons in store now, tell me your favourite design and I will send a metre of ribbon to 5 readers (and of course your favourite one). I will most probably do the draw at the end of the weekend. Make sure I have a way of contacting you! Enjoy.

Comments are now closed - thank you.

FOUND! - One quilt finished and another one starts

2011-07-31T17:39:00.000+12:00

Thank you. Sometimes I think you just have to let go and admit you can't find something and what do you know, you discover it.

I found the strips of fabric in an old suitcase I use to store fabrics. I had looked in there several times, but I think I must have been having a boy's look, because on Wednesday I pulled everything out and went through it thoroughly and voila - there they were. So this weekend I was finally able to start my new quilt, here's one of the first blocks of my Fussy Fairytales Quilt using Heather Ross Far Far Away 2 fabric.

And after the shocking weather ealrier in the week the sun shone and we have had beautiful almost spring like days at the end of the week. Enough so I could get out and take some photos of my Sherbet Pips quilt.

The back using Kona Baby Blue

and with a little applique to finish it off.

I hope you have had some sunshine too.

It's official I am going nuts!

2011-07-27T18:29:00.000+12:00

My kids have told me this for years and my brother's kids call me and my two sisters the "Crazy Aunties" and usually I am quite proud of being slightly nutty, doolally, or if we are being polite a little quirky...

BUT

I feel like I am losing my marbles. I have cut 20 strips of fabric 1and half inches wide out of the Kona cotton solids and some Echino solids ready to make this quilt...

But do you think I can find them!

It is no use asking Mr Stitchbird for sympathy or if he has seen them because I will get a lecture about leaving my crafty stuff everywhere in the house. SIGH... I will keep hunting tonight, as I am ready to go on this project.

I will keep you posted as to whether I find them or end up cutting new ones.

What have you lost?

finishing touches - putting on the binding

2011-07-24T15:30:00.000+12:00

It is a cold wet day - so perfect for hand stitching the binding onto a quilt. I use snap hair clips to keep the binding in place while I stitch it down. I thought that was how everyone did it, but judging from some comments I have received maybe not. Any way I definitely recommend it as a technique to use.

Lucy wants to go to dance school too

2011-07-21T16:49:00.000+12:00

It is school holidays here and we have family staying. My niece Izzy is a JA at the NZ School of Dance and is dancing every day. Lucy doesn't understand why she can't go too - she is sure she could plié and chassé with the best of them.

Woolly Goodness

2011-07-14T16:03:00.000+12:00

There is nothing like new fabric arriving to brighten the day.

These are all 100% wool and are beautifully light and soft, they are now in the shop here.

I am inspired to make one of the otters

from Amy Adams book Countryside Softies

and perhaps a needlebook by Sue Spargo...

Hi Ho Hi Ho it is off to sew I go.

Blah, Blah and Double Blah

2011-07-13T17:23:00.000+12:00

I have been sick

....and very pathetic....

I think it may have been a case of cross-gender man flu.

I know my brain was not working properly.

Luckily I think I am through the worst and am hoping my brain may start to function (normally?) again.

Today I couldn't resist the $2 bunches of sol d'ors outside the local florist and taking a photo of some of the first brave spring flowers in our garden.

Camellia - Spring Festival

I hope you are all well and staying warm.

Craft 2.0 and Facebook

2011-07-04T17:07:00.001+12:00

There has not been much time for blogging lately - partly because of winter colds and snuffles at our house and also because I was crazy busy getting ready for Craft 2.0 which was on last Saturday. Now if I was any good at this whole marketing, self promotion stuff I would have told you all before the market... but... it just didn't happen. Thank you Sue for organising a great day.

But I did take a photo...

This weekend I am back at the Underground Market.

Also on the whole self promotion bit - Stitchbird Fabrics has got it's own Facebook Page. I am not necessarily good at this yet but I am trying and if you want to you can come and visit me over on Facebook and if you want to (no pressure :)) you could even "Like" us.

the week that was

2011-06-26T20:42:00.000+12:00

It has been one of those weeks...

Miss M off sick for 3 days

Miss M's Birthday on Friday - who can believe my baby is now 14

The present I bought her did not arrive in time as they forgot to send it

Also in case I have not mentioned it here, I still work part time as an independent HR Consultant and this week was involved in not 1 but 2 disciplinary meetings - not the enjoyable part of the job

And to top it all off two mumble %#* GST returns

But my gratitudes are:

My baby, fabric and clothing advisor and expert on all things teenage turned 14!

Jules sent Miss M a lovely cat by way of a sorry for late delivery

A group of lovely girls came over to celebrate Miss M's Birthday

Miss M loves her Birthday pressie...

Miss M's Owl

from Jewels Vine (For customers in NZ contact Jules direct as it is cheaper than buying via etsy)

A Giveaway

2011-06-21T16:22:00.003+12:00

The kind people from Huggies have provided two packets of Dry Nites Pyjama Pants for ages 4-7 to me to giveaway to blog readers. One for boys and one for girls. Now I am not looking at becoming a product endorsement blog; but I remember the nappy days and they are expensive so maybe if you get a freebie like this you can indulge somewhere else - a bottle of wine or even some beautiful fabric ☺.

If you would like to win these please just leave a comment (and make sure that I can email you). I will draw a winner in a couple of days time.

And stay tuned as I do believe it must be time for a fabric giveaway soon.

P.S. Because the cost of sending the Dry Nites internationally is likely to be more than the value of the pyjama pants this giveaway is limited to New Zealand readers.

Comments are now closed thank you.

Midget photo shoot

2011-06-19T18:03:00.002+12:00

I have been playing today with Midget's (my daughter's) hair ties. Starting Stitchbird Fabrics and having a blog has really made me rethink photography. I have never taken a photography course and have the most basic of cameras and no photoshop, so at times it can be a little challenging, but it is also lots of fun.

I was quite pleased with how some of the photos came out.

They are all loaded into the shop. I just need Blogger to do what I want with the photos :).

"Lucy was feeling a little light headed..."

2011-06-17T20:15:00.000+12:00

My very first Kinder Girl in the making. I have been wanting to make her for ages, I also want to make Reuben the Donkey and Parsley and Beet along with about a 1000 other things. These patterns are from the very talented and funny Jodie Carleton (are you reading this Jodie??). You can check out her blog for her adventures in softie making and underwear at Ric Rac here.

I know it's time to tidy up when...

2011-06-16T15:17:00.000+12:00

I can't find what I am looking for in amongst all the fabric samples and horror of all horrors I was ironing samples before they were sent out!

Now...

And not to be confused with fabric samples - 1 inch strips of Kona Cottons and Echino solid colours cut ready for a new quilt. I am in love with these coulours! I will share some of the first blocks soon.

Catching Up

2011-06-05T17:36:00.001+12:00

The past weekend I was in Melbourne with my sisters. 4 days of indulgent bliss!

Given the exchange rate there was not a lot of shopping done - as the prices were very expensive - but there was lots of window shopping, trying on and giggling. I loved all the colour and displays....

The flower stall at night

The Queen Victoria Market

I have just downloaded my photos from my camera, whilst drinking a lovely chai tea bought at the market.

Thank you to my two lovely sisters for being such great company and my family for letting me escape.

making and baking

2011-05-20T17:15:00.001+12:00

More bears, Harry is made using the Moda wool in Aqua.

Lola is rather posh and made from a cashmere wool.

And on the plate.... Afghan biscuits and Louise cake ready for my cousin and her family who are coming for afternoon tea tomorrow...of course we had to taste test them.

Happy Friday!

Fabric-a-Brac - fabric junkie heaven

2011-05-19T17:38:00.000+12:00

Fabric-junkie heaven is back!! Pick up fabulous vintage, unusual and modern fabric at fantastic prices at this free fabric fair.
Here is just one of the fabrics as a teaser...

And there are always yummy buttons and trims...

This Saturday at St Anne's Hall, Emmet St in Newtown, 9.15 am to 12.30 pm.

Proceeds from the fair support the Mary Potter Hospice. Josie the wonderful Fabric-a-Brac organiser has had to stop receiving fabric for the fair there is just so much. Tomorrow I will be halping measure and price ready for the big day on Saturday - we hope to see you there.

This is my haul from last year's Fabric-a-Brac.

Melboune - the ultimate girls' weekend away - suggestions please

2011-05-16T17:28:00.000+12:00

The excitement is building as my two sisters and I get ready for the ultimate weekend away in ...... Melbourne.

This is the time that we leave our families at home alone, eating bread and water and generally economising so we can have FUN! (I wish - it is usually when Mr S purchases major electrical appliances).

We take this very seriously - we have a girls' weekend bank account and every fortnight we put in $30 each towards our trip. Because we do not live in the same city we justify this in that we would most probably spend that much seeing each other for coffee and cake if we lived in the same city.

We have been doing girls weekend away for about 11 years now. Sometimes life plays cruel tricks and we need to get together and support each other in other ways - one year my eldest sister's partner was terminally ill, another my Dad was seriously ill and yet another my dear brother in law had to have a quadruple by-pass. But even when things are tough we know that next year it will still be there and we will have a bit more money squirrelled away.

So we have four days in Melbourne at the end of this month and I would love to know what recommendations you have for eating out, crafty girl spots and good shopping. We are also thinking of a day trip to Daylesford - is it too far for a day trip? Once there what would you recommend we see and do? And if we went on a Sunday would shops etc be open?

11 more sleeps to go.....

the pips have landed!

2011-05-12T16:13:00.000+12:00

Yes Sherbet Pips are now in store!

OK - so there is a lot of media hype about this range - but I still love it!!

I also received 8 free patterns for a Sherbet Pips Snowball Quilt and I will send these out with the first eight orders, but if you miss out don't worry because you can always download a copy from here.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T21:55:00.000+12:00

To all the Mum's out there Happy Mother's Day.

"It's the three pairs of eyes that mothers have to have...

one pair that see through closed doors. Another in the back of her head... and,

of course the ones in front that can look at

a child when he goofs up and reflect

"I understand and I love you' without so

much as uttering a word."

Emma Bombeck

Oh how I wish my Mum was still with us so I could give her a big hug.

gorgeous handprinted fabric

2011-05-05T19:57:00.000+12:00

Heleen of Ruby in the Dust is the designer of this wonderful range of fabric. Heleen and I talked about my stocking it in store - and believe me I definitely would - the quality and the design of the fabric is beautiful BUT and this is a big BUT if I stock it in my store I would have to put a mark up on it (I know commercial reality sucks sometimes!). My concern is that many buyers may not appreciate the difference between a hand screen printed design and a commercially printed fabric and the premium price that it deserves.

Plus I want Heleen's fabric designing to be a success and for her to sell truck loads of fabric and also make a good return on her creative design skills. So here it is - I am not selling Heleen's fabric but she is in her Etsy store here. Plus if you order before the weekend Heleen is offering freee shipping in New Zealand if you enter the code MAY11FREESHIP.

I know I will be placing my order, I love the In the Neighbourhood design above and the Early Birds...

Heleen also has a wonderful blog - Ruby in the Dust.

P.S. This product endorsement is done because I believe in this product and want to support NZ made creativity, not because I have been paid to do so or have received free gifts, which I do know goes on in blogland!

book club is at my place tonight

2011-05-04T17:42:00.000+12:00

All of these books except for The Passage were bought from The Book Depository (I always think of "suppository" when I hear this name - childish I know) for book club tonight. The Passage was a Christmas present which I loved, so have decided to share in book club as well.

In our book club we don't all read the same book at the same time. At each get together we each put in $10 and the next person hosting it takes the money and buys the books for the next meeting.

I have read all of the new books in the last two weeks except for Water for Elephants and I enjoyed them all. I didn't realise when I bought it that Sarah's Key has been made into a movie, but I have heard the book is a lot better than the movie.

Also while I was on line I could not help clicking add to basket for Block Party, which is not due for release until 1 June.

Anybody else got any good books to recommend?

crappy day

2011-05-03T21:48:00.000+12:00

Everyone has them I know, but today is one of those all time crappy days and not that I believe in using alcohol as a crutch (yeah right!) ... I think I need...

..... and in my google search for this image it came up with HOW MANY CALORIES IN A GLASS OF WINE? To that I would like to say P*%@ Off and pass me the chocolate.

it was meant to be quick

2011-04-26T16:52:00.000+12:00

... but took a lot longer than I imagined. I picked up a beautiful piece of silk(?) velvet in a deep royal blue/purple with an almost dimple effect from the op shop and thought it would look great as a neck warmer with some silk like scraps pieced together.

The fabric seemed to have a will of its own and wanted to move whenever I sewed, so after a session unpicking I had to resort to tacking the two pieces together before sewing. I would normally topstitch something like this around the edge, but I don't dare.

when cats go bad

2011-04-24T18:18:00.001+12:00

looks as though butter wouldn't melt eh?

On Friday I had planned a full day of sewing - including putting together a quilt, making some headbands and bears. I am very high tech here and instead of a design wall there is a design floor, for working on quilt layouts, with a sheet laid down and a stool to stand on so you get a good view of a quilt layout. This was all done the night before - with strict instructions that children were not to walk on it.

I forgot to tell one cat that she was not to have a party on it.

I arrived in the downstairs living room on Friday morning (aka sewing room, playstation den and hang out zone) to find quilt pieces in chaos.

(This was after I pulled the sheet back to reveal the mess she had made and tried to place a few blocks back). The evidence - a few extra "pin holes" that had been left in the blocks.

Under interrogation she said she was sleeping...

and that she had witnesses...

I did get some sewing done, but not as much as planned.

P.S. - I will have Sherbet Pips fabric (that Alley used as a dance floor) in store in about 2 weeks - cannot wait.

never judge a book by its cover

2011-04-20T18:08:00.000+12:00

It's true! Otherwise you might miss out on this....

or this

and the cover that I saw at the op shop minus the 50 cent price tag...

I ♥ vintage books

The illustrator is Barbara Cooney and with a bit of internet research I was able to find out that she won the Caldecott Medal twice and in her acceptance speech in 1959 she said...

I believe that children in this country need a more robust literary diet than they are getting. … It does not hurt them to read about good and evil, love and hate, life and death. Nor do I think they should read only about things that they understand. “…a man’s reach should exceed his grasp.” So should a child’s. For myself, I will never talk down to—or draw down to—children.”

sewing for the kindy kids in Japan

2011-04-14T16:52:00.001+12:00

Today was my first opportunity to do some sewing for the kindy kids (this is an appeal for handmade clothes and toys for children affected by the tsunami - you can read more here)...

Not the best photo ever but the lighting today is not very good. Don't you like the masking tape? I got that clever idea from Melissa at Tiny Happy.

The skirt is made from a baby needlecord and is very soft. I used the pattern from the simple skirt tutorial from Dana over at MADE (great sewing tutorials over on her blog - I will add her blog on the sidebar as a reference point as well!)

As for the t-shirt - yes it is store bought, but the elephant has been sewn on. I made Miss M a t-shirt like this when she was little and it was an all time favourite. I hope Japanese girls like elephants as well.

I am not the only one who has been sewing - you can check out what Lisa has been doing over on her blog.

If you are able to help the kindy kids please leave a comment or email me.

Japan Disaster Relief - Fukudamachi Kindergarten - Can you Help?

2011-04-11T15:35:00.006+12:00

Handmade Clothes and Toys Needed!

A Photo before the Earthqauke and Tsunami

Today I was approached by one of my customers, Yumiko who is coordinating disaster relief for a kindergarten in the Sendai region of Japan, asking if I could help. Yumiko now lives in New Zealand, but her family is from the Sendai region and her cousin teachers at the Fukudamachi Kindergarten.

Following the earthquake, the staff at the kindergarten have been working hard to clean up and are now ready to welcome the children back. Whilst almost all 200 of the children are safe, some have lost their homes, leaving them without clothing, toys and basic necessities. Many of the children will be traumatised by the disaster.

The head teacher of Fukudamachi Kindergarten has welcomed an offer of a care package of clothing and toys which will be distributed to the children in need. NZ Couriers have kindly donated free shipping to the kindy (from a single point in New Zealand).

Here's where we come in - can you help with a donation of handmade new items with the following considerations:

The children are aged 3-5 years

Clothing items are required more than toys
Clothing can include skirts, shorts, tops dresses, polar fleece, hats etc
Japan is heading into spring, but it is still very cool in the mornings and evenings in this part of the country (it is still snowing!)
Please consider weight and bulk.

It would be helpful if you included the age/size and if relevant gender for the item you have made.

And if you'd like to....

take a photo of you/your family/group and your item and email it to hapachica@gmail.com as soon as possible,
including the names and ages of those in the photo

As the kindergarten wants to create a photo montage of all those who have helped.

Yumiko has organised for items to be dropped off on 28 April 2011 in Paraparumu. I am happy to act as intermediary collection point and either drive or courier all the items I collect to Yumiko on that day. If you would like to donate please leave a comment with your email address or email me and I will send you my address for delivery. I will need to receive all items by 27th of April in order to make the delivery deadline of the 28th!

Fellow bloggers if you could also let others know I would be extremely grateful.

Whilst many of us will have given in a variety of ways I am sure, this is an opportunity to see something you have made with love go to help those in direct need in Japan.

Thank you in advance!

P.S If you would like you can see more photos of the adorable children at their kindergarten here

80's Nostalgia - the Original Poi-E Video

2011-04-10T21:23:00.000+12:00

For those of you non-Kiwi's this was a number one hit in New Zealand in 1984 for 22 weeks. It is all about taking pride in who you are and a slice of '80's culture. Just thought I would share. Happy Sunday.

PHEW! We made it....

2011-04-08T17:42:00.001+12:00

Wow that was a wild ride - and which one of you ducks farted in the box!!

All toys have been released from the box and have been asked not to play with the bubble wrap. We are happy to be the Wellington outlet for Golden Bay Toys. (Don't tell them they will have to go into a box tomorrow, ready for a market).

the changing of the seasons

2011-04-04T12:59:00.000+12:00

Autumn means apples from our baby apple tree

The last of the monarch butterfly caterpillars and a very scrawny looking swan plant

Rosehips instead of roses

NZ's Hottest and Youngest Home Bakers?

2011-04-03T15:51:00.000+12:00

The Twinkies - my youngest niece and nephew turned two this weekend. Their Mum put in a request for two aprons.

Made from Traffic

Made from Babushka Dolls and Cat (one of my new favourites).

Now these would look heaps better with models wearing them, but unfortunately they do not fit anyone in our household.

I made a similar apron for their older sister a couple of years ago, based on a pattern that I made up - but do you think I could find the pattern, so thanks Uncle Robbie for giving me all the vital measurements based on the original, over the phone. I will have to ask Aunty Sooz whether she will take a photo of New Zealand's Hottest and Youngest Home Bakers to share with you (they are super cute!)

Happy Birthday Sam and Maya!

the thing I hate most about sewing - is cutting

2011-03-28T17:08:00.000+13:00

Why does cutting fabric have to come at the beginning of a sewing project?

I have to psych myself up for cutting into fabric - especially when sewing clothes for myself. First there is always the concern as to what size am I exactly? Then there is all that precious fabric... yikes.

Today I have been brave and cut into some of the Nani Iro fabric. I have wanted to make a top for myself in this fabric for a long time.

This is the pattern I am using

It is New Look 6962. I have chosen the cross over top style, longer length and am yet to decide on the sleeve length. I am thinking about making them long for winter. The cutting is complete and I will let you know how the sewing goes.
Happy stitching.

flattered

2011-03-22T22:01:00.001+13:00

I felt very flattered this week to receive a Stylish Blogger Award from Julia. Julia's blog specialises in special occasion clothes for girls. Visiting her blog is a great way to check out sewing patterns! Thank you Julia.
In accepting this award there are a few rules:

1. Thank and link back to the person giving the award

2. Share 7 things about me.

3. Pass this award to other bloggers I have recently discovered and think are fantastic.

4. Contact these bloggers to tell them I have awarded them.

7 Things About Me

I married my high school sweet heart and we have been married now for 24 years - I was a child bride ;)
I referee and play netball, it is supposedly social, but we like to win - especially against the youngies
My local cafe knows my coffee order (I love my caffeine fix)
I am a real mix of ethnicities - Scottish, Swedish etc, but am very proud to be part Maori, my iwi is Ngai Tahu
I wish I could speak te reo and hope one day that I will make the time to learn
I have a terrible sweet tooth (and a fattus assicus as a result)
I used to call my elbow my "wilbowa" and zips "bizzes". I still call Jelly Tips "Wip Wop Welly Whips" and my children thought that was their real name for a long time.

So now you know a little bit more about me and maybe a few of my eccentricities (believe me there are plenty more).

Now to the hardest bit passing along this award to others who I stalk in the blog world. How do you choose, there are so many worthy recipients out there, so in selecting I have tried to think about those I have discovered more recently (so if you are not on the list I have been stalking you for a long time). And have limited it to three.

To Lisa over at Big Little who has just had the most beautiful baby girl and makes the most delicious things out of vintage textiles.

To Mary Jane over at Sweet Emmelie- I covet one of the quilts that Mary Jane has made and I want to come to the next birthday party!

To Megan at Mouse House - I am very impressed how you have gone from zero to hero in the sewing world in such a short space of time. Megan classified as a non-sewist when she first started her blog and look at her now!

Anybody else got some special blogs they want to share?

let there be light..

2011-03-18T17:47:00.000+13:00

A new lightshade made from Echino Flap - ready for the Frank Kitts Market tomorrow.

a present for a 3 year old friend

2011-03-17T17:02:00.000+13:00

After much frustration over my sewing machine yesterday, I did eventually finish this...

a little shoulder bag for a very special friend. I popped her name under the flap.

The body of the bag is made out of denim that I had in my stash and the lining is Going Dotty Raspberry from Kokka and the fabric on the flap is Babushka Dolls and Cat again from Kokka. The pattern was made up as I went.

Happy stitching.

at last some sewing

2011-03-16T20:10:00.000+13:00

Now I am cheating a bit as these cushions were made in December, but I did not blog about them at the time. They are made with Heather Ross's Far Far Away 2 fabrics which is in the shop.

I would post the product of today's sewing but is has not been without its trials - my sewing machine tension was off - I mean way off and no amount of turning the dial would find the right spot.....Sh*t, B.#**$.

I changed the needle ....... still no good - BUM. I want to sew! Plus I am already mentally calculating the repair bill - double BUM.

And then I resorted to getting out the screw dirver and taking off the foot plate and found the dust bunnies of all dust bunnies - in fact a whole family of dust bunnies lurking in there. Some of it was almost felt.....try again......aahhhh........all is right with the world again, I can sew.

Tomorrow I will post what I have been working on today - a gift for a three year old friend - I just need to get the right coloured thread to finish the top stitching.

I hope you have had more joy with your sewing.

still more fabric arrives

2011-03-08T17:35:00.000+13:00

OK it's official I have now out grown the store room and am going to have look for other options. Today a new range of fabrics arrived.

Vive la France by Monaluna, there is more in this range in the shop here

And caravans, you have got to love these retro beauties, they come in aqua and ivory. They remind me of my sister's caravan named Gladys. Also have you seen Trelise Copper caravan makeover for the Breast Cancer Cure - now I would love to go caravanning in this beauty

I love her sense of style!

a cold wet sunday

2011-03-07T08:57:00.000+13:00

With my sister in town, after the Martinborough Fair, it was a good excuse to bake and eat!

more new fabric and a free pattern

2011-03-03T19:19:00.001+13:00

This dress has been made using two of Robert Kaufman's organic fabrics Summer Flowers and Summer Swirls which have recently been added to the shop. (Please note this is not my sewing - but I do love it!) The Itty Bitty dress pattern is a free pattern created by Made by Rae ; Rae is very generous and has a number of free sewing patterns over on her blog, so it is well worth a visit - but play fair these patterns are for personal use only!

Also new in the shop are laminated echino fabrics (great for tablecloths, out door upholstery, bags and bibs) and also some echino nylons (for shower proof coats, bibs, bag linings and shower curtains).

Echino has also done a new range of extra wide fabrics - 152 cms wide. The fabric is lighter than the more traditional echinos with 15% linen and 85% cotton and is wonderfully soft. The extra width means it is great for those bigger sewing jobs I am already thinking of using some for a quilt back, now I just need to make some time ......... and clear a path to my sewing machine.

PS - thank you to everyone for your kind words on my last post - I think it meant that I was not in sooo much trouble with Miss M.

homework

2011-03-01T17:55:00.000+13:00

Miss M will most probably tell me off for showing you this, but oh well, I have got used to being told off by my kids. This year is Miss M's first year at High School and she finished her soft materials homework over the weekend. The brief was to make/decorate a container to keep all your supplies in for soft materials (sewing). She knew exactly what she wanted - a sewing wallet or hussif, which I am not sure the teacher had in mind, after going through my fabric stash and also her own (yes my 13 year old daughter already has her own fabric stash.....there is no hope for her). She chose her fabrics. My input was technical advice (order of construction, supervision of first use of rotary cutter etc) and some quick unpicking duties when frustration levels reached an all time high towards the end of Sunday (oh how I would love to have someone on hand to do unpicking for me!)

Above is the outside of her sewing wallet or hussif. Here is the inside (they had to include a list of materials).

and lastly her needle book...

All the materials used were from our respective stashes, so there is a reason that we need to keep such a good supply of fabrics, ribbons etc :)

Tomatoes -99 cents a kilo

2011-02-28T15:23:00.001+13:00

So many of our meals start with homemade tomato sauce. In a hurry - cook some pasta, stir fry some courgettes, beans and mushrooms and add tomato sauce and voila! Use it as a base for spaghetti bolognese, chilli, or a casserole.

You need:
1/4 cup olive oil
25 g butter
2 medium onions - diced
2 red or green capsicums (bell peppers)
4 cloves garlic, crushed
6 tablespoons tomato paste
2 kg peeled tomatoes
2 Tablespoons parsley
handful of basil - you can used dried if you have to - 2 tablespoons
1 Tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon chilli paste
2 teaspoon freshly ground peppercorns

To make:
Heat the oil and butter in a large pot. Add the onion, garlic and tomato paste and cook over a low heat, stirring occassionally until the onions are soft. Add all the other ingredients and simmer slowly in a semi covered pot for 45 minutes, stirring occassionally to prevent sticking. Remove the lid and continue cooking for a further 10-15 minutes until the sauce is quite think. Store in fridge.

We tend to do 6 kilos of tomatoes at a time and we do freeze some of the sauce, but beware allow some space for expansion when you freeze it.

To peel the tomatoes we pop them into boiling water and then peel.

Guess what we are having for dinner tonight!

1 metre, 2 metres, 3 metres, 4 - the new shipment arrives

2011-02-25T16:12:00.000+13:00

A new shipment of fabric has arrived and that means slogging through all the mesuring and cutting, taking photos and loading them into the store. It is happening, but it is a slow process.

Plus tomorrow I am out at the Frank Kitts Market - so guess what I will be doing on Sunday?

Some of the fabrics, like Melody Miller's first range, Ruby Star Rising, I bought without seeing physical samples and I wow they are amazing and I wish I had bought more, oh well there is always next time.

Vintage Ladies

Ephemera

Vintage Dishes

Better go - you know blogging was an excuse to skive off!

Take care and best wishes for the weekend, especially to all those in Christchurch.

Christchurch - there just aren't the words

2011-02-23T20:54:00.000+13:00

I start this post barely knowing what to say, words seem inadequate.

My home town and many of my family and friends have suffered in the worst way possible.

We are lucky in that all my family are alive.

My heart goes out to those who have been less fortunate or who are waiting to hear about their loved ones.

I find myself losing myself to the TV coverage - hating watching, but unable to turn away, waiting for glimpses of familiar places, people I know. This blog post has no photos - I could not go there.

What to do?

Give - there are a number of agencies collecting donations - Red Cross, Westpac.

Wellington City Mission is collecting clothes for those that find themselves without any.

Resene is collecting cans of food.

Calls have gone out to provide beds for those escaping Christchurch and have no place to stay.

All these things we can do, but is seems so little.

I wish I could have you all at my house, give you a big hug, a cup of tea and some respite from what you are living through.

Be safe
Kia Kaha
Arohanui to all

Remnant Sale

2011-02-19T20:03:00.000+13:00

I have a new shipment of fabrics arriving this week, the ship arrived yesterday so it is time to have a sort out of all the end of lines and remnants. I have loaded several into the shop already and there are still more to come.

I will be sending out a newsletter in the coming week, but thought I would give a heads up to my blog readers first. Some of these are fabrics that cannot be repeated so it is a last chance to get your hands on some of these fabrics at a reasonable price.

I have also received several new fabrics, patterns and magentic bag closures this week and they are now in the shop. Included in the fabrics are some moda 100% wool fabric, I use this for a lot of my crafting in place of felt and it gives a lovely finish.

And after much waiting (I ordered this fabric in October) 2D Zoo has arrived.

I used this fabric in one of the quilts I made for the twinkies (my twin niece and nephew).

Hard to believe that this was made before I had a blog and before Stitchbird Fabrics even existed.

Anyhoo hope you are all having a stupendous weekend .... must dash to get my fix of American Idol (and Steven Tyler).

in production mode

2011-02-10T17:42:00.000+13:00

I am at the Frank Kitts Market again this Saturday and I sold out of most of the reversible head bands last time, so today I have been in production mode. These are some of the headbands that have been made. I don't think any one would employ me to do this - I am too easily bored and too keen to skive off!

I also have some bears to make - I made a green bear a fortnight ago and he only lasted 5 minutes on my stall. I did not even get a photo of him, he was bought by a young couple whose little boy was in the neonatal unit at Wellington Hosiptal, so I hope he is working some magic there.

I also have to vileisofix some more of these guys. It is a bit of a trial to see how they go. These ready to go appliques are $5 for a bag of 5. I will also pop some into the shop - they aren't there just yet!

Also in production have been some more light shades - this one is on its way to its new home. I love it, I hope the new owner does as well. I realised that I seem to have photographed the side where most of the letters are upside down (duh) the print is multi directional and this is not a huge cock up - (although I have been known to do those - cock ups that is - they usually end up in our house, not sold to someone else).

fantails in the garden

2011-02-08T20:16:00.000+13:00

At this time of year a family of fantails (piwakawaka) come and visit our garden. I love watching them flit in and out of the trees. They catch bugs on the fly and swoop and swirl about to get them. They are also fearless around people - I think beacuse we help to stir up some bugs.

Photo from NZ Conservation Department (I can never get one to stay still long enough to photograph it)

When we were on holiday one came into the house where we were staying and I remember my Mum saying that a visit from a fantail was a message from the soul of someone departing this world. For a few days after I was worried that I was going to get a phone call about someone dying. Luckily there was no call, nobody we knew died (maybe he got the wrong house). Since then I have found out that some iwi (Maori tribes) believe that the fantail is a messenger but the message is not necessarily bad news - I think I prefer this version.

I love these wee birds and one even made it on to one of my quilts with his friend the kereru.

This is part of a queen size quilt that I made afew years ago for my son, it is loosely based on the New Zealand bush. (Sorry about the poor photo, it was hard to get a phot without the wind blowing the quilt - they don't call it Windy Wellington for nothing).

I wonder where the fantails go when they are not in our garden?

exhausted

2011-02-06T16:04:00.001+13:00

Yesterday was the Martinborough Fair. A country fair/market held in a small town one and a half hours drive from Wellington over a big windy hill road. The fair is only held twice a year and is huge.

I went over to help my sister Lesley with her stall and Miss M travelled over to help her uncle sell his toys. As my sister says she has a "toy boy" for life.

The day was scorching hot, I think my feet increased two shoe sizes and I felt like I was melting.

It was great to spend time with family and we get to do it all again on the forst Saturday in March.

special delivery

2011-02-03T17:08:00.000+13:00

I had request from my son for a delivery bag. J does a paper round and needed a new bag. After much deliberation between the kokka robots and the echino bicycle fabric he went with the bicycles. I made up the pattern as I went along using an old esprit bag that I had.

To give the bag a base I folded some of the fabric to the outside forming a triangle shape and stitched - a sort of deconstructed look. I also let some of the selvedge show, but was a bit bummed when the word bicycles got covered by the turned up fabric.

And the verdict from the delivery bag critic

Yup it's cool Mum.

some of the joys of having teenagers

2011-01-25T18:47:00.000+13:00

Yes there are some!

Watching the DVDs you love, that were considered too old, with them for the first time. These holidays we have been watching Love Actually (a personal favourite), the Bourne movies and 50 First Dates. Any other recommendations?

Reading young adult/teen fiction. These holidays The Hunger Games have been read by everyone!

This is the first book of the trilogy and comes highly recommended - everyone in our house loved them (beware they are addictive).

And of course there is always something very special at getting a big hug from my 6 foot something 15 year old son; and all the hormonal moods are forgotten when I get a special hug and massage from my 13 year old baby girl.

I love watching them grow and develop into wonderful young adults.

Please note: they can also drive me insane and rant and rave and even say the occassional swear word at times :)

back home

2011-01-21T18:13:00.000+13:00

After a wonderful time away, including morning walks on the beach ....

Building beach huts

Mr S being lifeguard

It is back to.....

washing, lots and lots of washing.

P.S. I am also packing for tomorrow's Frank Kitts Market, if you are looking for something to do I would love to see you.

Sand up the Wazoo!

2011-01-16T17:15:00.000+13:00

You will be pleased to know there are no photos with this post!!

We are having a wonderful holiday at the beach just outside of Whakatane. Building beach huts, swimming, reading books, playing games and -oh look at that - it's wine time.

Holiday Sewing

2010-12-31T17:43:00.000+13:00

Strike a pose...

This is Burda 9573. Midget decided she would prefer loose sleeves rather than the elasticated ones. The sizing is very generous and I would be inclined to go down a size if I was remaking it, but Midget is happy with it so who am I to say! Midget chose the fabric which is Heather Ross Snails Orange and Blue from the Far Far Away 1 range. I used the selvedge to put a wee motif on the pocket.

Happy New Year and Happy Sewing

E is for Elephant

2010-12-27T12:16:00.000+13:00

In case you were wondering this blog is mainly about crafting, but you may have had your doubts lately. That was because with all the end of year and pre-Christmas rush I just did not have the head space to be creative. Migraines have been lurking - I think I was more stressed about my son's end of year NCEA exams than he was. Then Midget finished at the primary school she has attended for the last 8 years and that was all very emotional as it ends a 11 year assocaition with the school.

But getting back to craft - I love elephants, they seem such gentle giants and they keep reappearing in my craft. Above is some doodling that I finished today. The guy below was made a couple of years ago and he stands guard at our lounge door proetcting us from the Wellington winds that threaten to slam the door. (Didn't realise how dusty he was getting until I took this photo).

He is very proud of his tail...

These guys have been lurking in my fabric stash.... I must admit to finding it hard to cut them up. I need the perfect project.

And these guys have been added to the shop recently, they are by Laura Wisbrun.

I can feel some more sewing coming on over these holidays! Happy sewing everyone.

Meri Kirihimete

2010-12-24T17:09:00.001+13:00

This is the wonderful Pride of Auckland Choir singing Rudolph. Meri Kirihimete everyone.

Me and Lois Part II - The NZ Christmas Mincemeat

2010-12-20T10:09:00.000+13:00

For WandaFish :) if it is good enough for Lois (or her husband) it is surely good enough for me!

NZ Christmas Mincemeat
175g seeded raisins
150g sultanas
100g mixed peel
150g currants
30g almonds blanced, peeled and finely chopped
grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
grated zest and juice of 1 navel orange
1/4 cup brandy
1/4 cup medium sherry
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground ginger
75g butter
150g dark brown sugar
2 large ripe bananas

Put the seeded raisins, sultanas and peel in a processor and pulse until roughly chopped. Tip out into a large bowl and add the currants, almonds, zests and juices, brandy, sherry and spices. Melt the butter in a large frying pan over a moderately low heat and use a wooden spoon to stir in the brown sugar. Peel the bananas and slice finely. Add to the butter and sugar and stir with a wooden spoon. As the bananas soften crush them into the butter and sugar mixture. Continue cooking for several minutes until the mixture is thick and smooth. Add this mixture to the remaining ingredients. Stir well and cover. Leave at room temperature and stir again the next day before putting in a covered plastic container in the fridge. If possible store for days or weeks before using. (Not in my last minute house!) Makes enough for 3 dozen mince pies.

I also like the tradition that you can count on a happy month for every Christmas mince pie you eat in a different house (or cafe). 55,56,57..... just kidding!

Happy eating

Me and Lois - Only in New Zealand

2010-12-19T13:03:00.000+13:00

It has been crazy at my place recently as I am sure it is for most people at this time of year.

This morning I have been baking my Christmas Mince Pies and using the recipe by Lois Daish (a food writer) that appeared in The Listener several years ago. I always use this recipe and every time I do it makes me smile because behind it is a story that I think might only happen in New Zealand.

It was Christmas Eve in 2004 and I had been hanging onto The Listener magazine ready to follow the recipe that I saw for Christmas Mince Pies, but when I came to use the recipe - could I find the magazine? - NO! Mr S had been busy tidying up and had put it out for recycling that day and it was gone.

Not to be put off I turned to the internet to see whether they had the recipe on-line. NO. But there was the number for the Listener in Auckland, so not caring about the toll call, I rang. I wanted to make those Christmas Mince Pies.

NO, says the Listener they cannot give me the recipe, but would I like to ring Lois and ask for it? WOW, you mean I can ring Lois? So I rang Lois at home and spoke to her very understanding husband who without any fuss gave me the recipe I was after. Only in New Zealand! I wonder whether they would do it today?

The recipe is yummy - but beware do grease your patty pans!

Almond Pastry
250g standard flour
50g almonds (I use 70 g as that is the size of the packet and I cannot bear the waste)
100g icing sugar
190g hard butter
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp very cold water (don't let your husband near it because mine tips it out when he is tidying up!)

Put the flour, ground almonds and icing sugar in a processor bowl. Cut the butter into dice and add. Pulse the processor until the mixture has an even crumb like texture. Combine the yolk and water in a cup and add to the processor. Pulse until the mixture starts to clump into larger crumbs. Stop the machine, lift the lid and press a few of the crumbs together between thumb and forefinger. If they do not readily hold togetehr, add a few more drops of cold water and pulse again. Top the mixture into a bowl and press together with your hands. Wrap in a plastic wrap and put in a cool place for 20 minutes before rolling out.

Makes about 24 small mince pies (I use mini muffin tins and I get about 36)

Lois also gives a recipe for the Christmas Mince which I must admit I do not use any more, being a last minute person I buy some good pre-made Christmas mince and use that instead.

I use mini muffin tins and bake the pies at about 190 degrees celsius in a fan forced oven for about 10 minutes.

Also because my children do not like dried fruit I usually make some raspberry jam pies as well - just use raspberry jam instead of Christmas Mince.

Happy Baking

frocking good - a new dress for Christmas

2010-12-10T18:52:00.000+13:00

Need a new frock? Then check out the lovely ones at Cast. I have just received mine.

This is not me modelling, in case you did not realise (in my dreams I have this figure!), but the lovely Catherine who is the designer, machinist, model, sales woman and everything behind Cast. I met Catherine at a recent market I was selling at and her clothes are beautiful and flattering, even to the more generously proportioned figure.

I also had my dress lengthened by an extra 10 cms (because I like to hide my thighs). Three days later my new dress, which I am in love with, arrived by courier.

Now I am working out how many times this will be worn between now and Christmas Day. I can see it becoming a firm favourite.

Thanks Catherine I love it!

good bye to the old and hello to the new - baker's twine

2010-12-07T21:10:00.000+13:00

If you have made a purchase through Stitchbird Fabrics your parcel will have arrived tied with a piece of red trim. Unfortunately the red trim is coming to an end and based on the age of the spool it came from my guess is that I will not be able to re-order. A google search did not even find Lawrence Textiles :(

So what to use in the future.....

Baker's Twine! Not only will parcels come tied with Baker's Twine you can also buy Baker's Twine in the shop here. With names like Maraschino, Peapod, Lemon Drop and Pink Sorbet who can resist.

Just a few photos to tempt...

Caribbean

Pink Sorbet

a beautiful day

2010-12-02T18:43:00.000+13:00

The sun is shining and I spent the morning at the Kibirnie Library sewing and talking to people about crafting. The mail had a couple of the Christmas decorations from the Kiwi Christmas Ornament Swap I am particpating in. And this afternoon I have been cutting fabric, filling orders and getting ready for this weekend's market at Frank Kitts.

One customer's fabric selection, I love seeing the combinations that people select. (Thanks Fiona).

From Christine

From Ella and yes I love it. It also has some cloves inside - so not only does it look good but it smells good too.

From Dione the organiser extraordinnaire behind the swap.

I am one of the last ones to send as I have been dithering as to what to make - too many ideas and not enough self discipline to stop procrastinating and just DO IT!! But I am pleased to say they are all finished and will be sent out tomorrow.

I hope the sun is shining wherever you are and if it is not that you are warm and cosy.

Wellington Advent Calendar

2010-12-01T22:51:00.001+13:00

If you live in Wellington, please click on this link - it is magical. (You can even click on it if you aren't in Wellington). It is fun.

Wellington Advent Calendar
Welcome to the Wellington Advent Calendar. Every day until Christmas we’ll reveal a wee treat for you, thanks to some great Wellington businesses. All you need to do is find today’s door and click on it to reveal what’s hidden. Come back every day to see what new treat has been revealed! Enjoy!

Pike River Mine Poem by Gary McCormick

2010-11-27T19:14:00.000+13:00

Sad, sad sad. Thinking of these poor men and their families...

Daisy is getting ready

2010-11-26T14:18:00.000+13:00

Daisy is a bit nervous about the market tomorrow, wondering if she and her friends will find a new home.

She will have to be up bright and early (no Saturday sleep ins). She has been watching all the cutting and packing going on - loads of fabric, cushions, lightshades, a gazillion head bands, hair ties and hair clips - a girl gets tired just watching.

P.S. If you would like to see Daisy and her firends she will be at the Christmas Knack Market at Berhampore School, 105 Britomart Street, Berhampore, Wellington from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm.

OMG - what have I got myself into?

2010-11-23T16:42:00.000+13:00

We are very fortunate in having a wonderful library and I am a regular, checking out magazines, novels and lots and lots of crafting books (the latest is above, Dare to be Square Quilting). Well the number of crafting books has not gone unnoticed, because now I find myself down to do a demonstration not only at my local library but also the neighbouring suburb's library - the topic - patchwork, christmas decorations and christmas gifts - a subject range broad enough to give myself plenty of wiggle room (or room to hang myself).

The library is running a series of art and craft demonstrations to show case the books they have available for loan.

Only thing is now I feel like a fraud - I am no sewing expert - I do things because I like doing them and I make plenty of mistakes along the way. For me sewing and crafting is not about perfection. But now the questions is what exactly to do? My thoughts in no particular order are:

a baby's bib
cool cards from old book illustrations (but is cutting up old books sacrilege in a library?? What is the etiquette here?).
the house and heart christmas decorations - as seen here, maybe some others?
a bag
and some patchwork blocks, including the wonders of appliqueing with vliesofix

What do you think? Any suggestions - what things do you make for quick and easy gifts? I also thought I could take some completed things with me. Like this pencil roll

Which came from the pattern in this book:

Free Hugs Campaign

2010-11-16T17:03:00.000+13:00

I just found this video clip via Sandrinha's profile on Blogger. Thanks Sandrinha - it is just what I needed today. Hugs everyone...Lyndy

a joint effort

2010-11-15T17:58:00.000+13:00

In my last shipment I received these bag patterns.

Echino Messenger Bag

Echino Pleated Bag

A lot of internet shops say how easy these patterns are to follow even though the instructions are in Japanese. Either I am really thick (this is a genuine possibility) or they are stretching the truth in the interests of sellling a pattern.

So with the help of Yuki, who translated the Japanese into English and my sewing knowledge we have tried as accurately as possible to translate these patterns into English for you. So a long time later they have finally made their way into the shop. When you order you will receive your patterns with the translated copy included.

Happy stitching

intimidated

2010-11-14T09:58:00.001+13:00

I am thinking of buying an overlocker, also known as a serger. I have only ever used my sewing machine and until recently I was using the basic bernina which I received for my 21st (just a few years ago). Which still goes incredibly well and now resides in Miss M's bedroom for her sewing.

But I would like to give clothes and bags that professional finished look and possibly even try some knits (sweaty palms and initmidated by these as well).

When I go into the shop my eyes glaze over as they start to tell me what is the best machine that does not cost a gazillion dollars. And lets be real here I am a home sewist, I do make and sell a few bits and pieces for markets but it won't ever have to deal with more than that. The machine recommended by Wellington Sewing Services is the Babylock 097 pictured above. The good thing about it is the front opens completely up for threading which I gather can be a bit a nightmare on some machines.

Does anyone have any recommendations? Things to look for? Avoid? As always your comments are appreciated.

my hat runneth over and the winners

2010-11-10T22:31:00.000+13:00

Amazing! Thank you to everyone who left comments on my giveaway. I went to use the hat for the draw but there were just too many entries and they would not all fit.

So Plan B - one of the totes from the shop (Mr Stitchbird's suggestion and very appropriate too). He also insisted on taking a photo of the draw including me. YIKES and without the red eye reduction double yikes.

So onto the winners:

The first name drawn and winner of the Heather Ross set is Amy Seven Stitches whose favourite fabric is the plain linen.

The winner of the boys fabric selection was Abi who came and visited me when I did Stash Rehash in Christchurch earlier this year.

The winner of the Zakka Style collection is Viv from Highway Cottage Quilter.

The winner of the Midget hairties and the Aunty Cookie appliques is Faith Hope Cherry

And finally and it is one of her favourite fabrics Jacqui from Hazelnuts (this was not rigged!) gets the Echino Birdsong. I hope you are feeling better soon.

I will contact you all via email tomorrow 'cos it is getting late. My apologies for the late post by the way but I have been the taxi service to touch rugby and water polo.

I wish you all could have won - so as a wee concellation (is that the correct spelling?) if you pop the word "gift" in the promotion code at the checkout in the store you will get a 10% discount off your purchase.

Happy stitching everyone

the coveting is over

2010-11-08T21:35:00.000+13:00

I have been coveting this book (Nuigurumi Style) for a long time now and when I saw it on etsy I squealed.

The book is now out of print so finding a copy can be a bit of a mission. I have been saving some brown velvet which will be perfect for the rabbit.

I am in love!

A big thank you to everyone who has entered the giveaway (next post down, if you still wish to enter) I will be drawing winners on Wednesday (NZ time).