Esther's Blog

You Look Nice Today

2012-01-28T12:23:00.000+11:00

This is a sign created by a US artist called Tori LaConsay in and for her local neighbourhood. The reason I know about it is because I was sent an email from another blogger who wanted to get the word out about what happened to this artist. So, this last week I have been following this drama with dismay and interest.

The original sign beside H&M's copied goods

It happens that the major store H&M designed several items almost identical ( I would say identical) to her design and claimed the design as their own. Then branded a doormat and towel set with the design.

Tori LaConsay contacted H&M directly. Their response?

"We employ an independant team over over 100 designers. We can assure you that this design has not been influenced by your work and that no copyright has been infringed"

So then ordinary people began contacting H&M with their concerns.

Word quickly spread and in response to literally over a thousand comments, H&M responded as below:

"..we have merely been inspired.."

As it stands now, I have heard no more updates concerning how H&M will be compensating Tori LaConsay, hopefully there will be further progress on this during the next week or so.

For the record, these shots have been provided to me - I didnt go out and source them. I did, however, visit H&M's Facebook page to verify the above was actually occuring...and yes it is all unfortunatly too true.

What has been really interesting to me, is the flagrant abuse of someone's copyright. Do people understand what copyright means? How could a designer for a major brand like H&M think it was possible to get away with this? How many other designs are stolen...and get onto the maket without recognition to the real artists work?

Unfortunately, if thousands of people had not left comments on H&M's Facebook this would never have been (on it's way to being) rectified. I say unfortunately because it's a real problem when it takes this kind of effort to have existing Copyright laws observed. It shouldnt be like this.

Are we living in a culture where other people's work is simply up for grabs? A few tweaks (or not, as the case may be!) and it's a 'new' piece?

As fellow bloggers, I'd love to know what you think?

WOW: Waiting for the Postman

2012-01-25T06:43:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

Today my favourite washing machine broke down. 1 month out of warranty! I sometimes wonder if machines these days are programmed to self destruct as soon as the warranty runs out.

I am still waiting on the postman and my parcel. I was in two minds about posting my last post, but I am glad I did, as I now know another Melbourne Quilter (thanks SoozeM!) received her package which was sent out a week before mine...(Nov 21 2011) just last week. So I have hope it may just arrive...soon.

In the meantime, I am considering other colour options and ideas because I feel like I have to be prepared either way.

It's been very hot here, 35c yesterday and already climbing today. The chillis are loving it and when it cools down tonight I will be picking these for my DH!

PS.

I visit each and every linky posted here - if you dont see a comment from me it's because I was unable to comment. I have been having trouble with Blogger again regarding posting comments. Reading blogs, I hear that this is happening quite a bit at the moment. Please dont feel neglected!

Mystery BOM Colour Scheme...hiccup

2012-01-21T20:52:00.001+11:00

This is a picture of an Australia Post Van. It plays a somewhat important role in my day to day routine. Especially lately. You see, I've been looking out the window for it... spending the morning wondering about it....reaching the afternoon realising it wont be coming (again) and just generally being on the look out.

Why?

Because on the 27th of November 2011, Hanock's of Paducah sent a rather exciting parcel my way - a package full of new fabric purchased especially for the new Mystery BOM 2012. The fabric had to be new, it had to be special and it had to be available for any BOM Quilter who might happen to want to buy the same fabric range as I used.

So what's going on? It's not here yet! Yes I've made all the right calls and done all the right things and Australia Post is as unreliable and tardy as ever. I am not surprised that they have managed to not deliver my parcel. I've been informed that they are hearing this alot from Australian buyers. Interestingly, a parcel was sent out on Jan 04 2012 and arrived just fine this week. But it was only batting.

So now I have a dilemma. Do I wait? how much longer can I wait? The pattern is finished, the tester is done (and yes, it's beautiful), now I'm ready to jump in with the New Mystery BOM...which I love and which I happen to feel needs exactly the fabric I purchased. I am feeling like I will have to now buy another range...but have not been able to face that thought... until today. Now I am pressed with a deadline and a fabric crossroads.

For those of you who will be taking part in the Mystery BOM starting FEB 15th, I will be showing my full chosen pallette along with what fabric combinations will be paired together so that you can make a choice regarding your own selection of fabric for this BOM.

The only question now is, will it be my original colour scheme

or a whole new one

WOW: Pinning when I should be Wipping

2012-01-18T05:42:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

This year I have decided to really enjoy the Mystery Bom and this means running it longer that 6 months (which can be intense when applique is involved) and it also means I get time to finish some long outstanding WIPs and bits and pieces. It just feels like it's time to get a lot of my projects done. A great plan for a great quilting year.

So, what’s the problem? Pinterest.

When I should be Wipping, I am instead spending hours Pinning.

Pinterest is not new, but when it was new I decided to avoid it as I feared I would end up a seriously dedicated pinner. And now it’s all too late. I pin every day.

I have concerns about Pinterest, on the one hand it feels instinctively rude to pin someone else’s work onto your own board, just because you feel like it.

And I worry that it encourages theft of original ideas and encourages an attitude of borrowing other people’s talent on a whim.

On the other hand, it’s interesting and a great way to come across useful things. And as each image links back to the original source, it increases traffic to it's original source. At least I think that's the idea. Whether or not it's just being used as grab visuals for new ideas... I dont know. I do still feel mixed about it, I must confess.

I am quite fond of these fancy cakes ...and never get tired of doors either. All these pins are on my Pinterest boards if you would like to pin or source their origin.

For me at the moment, it's far too hot to get any serious Wipping done, so it's been a nice distraction. What about you?

Do You Pin?

NEW Mystery BOM 2012

2012-01-17T14:10:00.000+11:00

Feb 15th 2012 is the start of a FREE New Mystery Bom

What will it look like?

Where are we headed?

Here's what I can tell you:

It's an applique quilt

It's a floral quilt

It's a wall quilt

No 2 quilts will be alike....

Stay tuned...

Peaceful Pathways Last Block!

2012-01-15T13:26:00.003+11:00

Part 6 is launched!

Today we arrive at the end

of our BOM Peaceful Pathways

with this final installment, Part 6.

Looking at it now, yes I love it as much as I did when I first designed it. It’s the perfect bed quilt…and as for red and white, well who could tire of having another classic red quilt in the house?

I’m really looking forward to seeing these quilts in the Yahoo Group as they get finished and quilted. As for me, well I’ve been clean short of time and haven’t managed to quilt it yet. That’s next on the list.

How is your Peaceful Pathways Quilt coming along?

Where can I find it? All my BOMs, patterns and blocks are available via my website and Yahoo BOM Group only.

WOW: My Travelling WIP

2012-01-11T06:04:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesday

My Travel WIP

This is one of those projects that I don't intend to finish any time soon.

It's so satisfying, time consuming and travel sized that I like knowing it's there. I love looking forward to getting some more of it done...without wanting to finish it any time soon. It's a long term WIP.

I will be a little disappointed when I finally do finish...because then I'll have to find another one of these special on-going projects.

I won this fabulous little hex stamp from the talented and lovely Bobbie Ashley (1 year ago? 2 years ago??) and I stamp my fabric leftovers and then hand sew them into these flower blocks above, I really enjoy it and it's slightly addictive. I think that I will make the quilt double sided so I will probably be finished in 10 years or so at my current rate. There's something just so wonderful about hex's!

This is my no sewing -travel sewing kit below: I have a lap table, my sketch book, some quilting magazines and an old makeup purse. My whole hex kit fits neatly in there along with thread, scissors and sewing needle and stamp. Easy and so portable! I can whip it out anywhere.

Blogger, I'm Home!

2012-01-09T19:20:00.000+11:00

How did it get to be Monday the 9^th of January 2012 already?

It feels like the year has started with a leaping run and I am only just deciding to get out of bed! I have had a kind of post festive season slump these last two weeks. It’s been so hectic and then so suddenly over …(and then we had the flu in our house in the middle of a heat wave. Exhausting!).

Oh 2012, it’s going to be a good year full of exciting projects. Now I just have to get a move on with my Quilty To Do List. And get busy. And stick to a daily schedule.

So no more of this:

which I really enjoyed over Christmas, which is unusual for me as I rarely drink

and there'll be much less of this

as my DDs have lost their festive 'motivation' to do all the cooking (sigh)

and no more indulging in those by the dozen...

and there'll be no more birthday morning teas like this...

or relaxing on the beach like this.

Phew! December - January in our house is really busy.

Just last night my DH and I returned home from a short break by the sea. We celebrated our 37^th Wedding Anniversary.

We went to Apollo Bay like we do every year. There are nicer places along the Great Ocean Road, but we are always drawn to Appollo Bay – I think it’s because of the visual impact of mountains and sea.

Every year we have our favorite spot, but because we were in Europe in October, we didn’t book it in time. So, we booked an unfamiliar hotel opposite the beach. We went for the ‘deluxe spa suite’ in a 4 star rating in the only free vacancy left in the area…which turned out to be somewhat less deluxe than we were expecting.

The bathroom was rather more 'run down suburban' than deluxe, with a child sized spa (I didn’t know they made them this small), grotty bathmats and DIY look renovation details and a hard, hard bed!

Look at this disgusting bathmat!! I couldn't believe it!

I was tempted to put it in the bin but worried that they would charge me for another one....

so I left it alone.

Instead of being on the 1^st or 2^nd floor as advised when booking, our ‘private balcony’ overlooked a lovely stretch of main road which was frequently visited by traffic and deliveries.

Maybe I'm just too fussy?? But I thought star ratings meant something?

Don't get me wrong, it wasn’t all bad news. Luckily the sea (directly opposite our room) was 100 metres away and it was so nice to be able to go back and forth and this made up for our lackluster accommodation.

I miss gazing on this already

and how, (after the festive season of indulgence),

am I going to get used to cooking healthy meals again??

Look at this beautiful dish served straight in the frying pan in a lovely restaurant- delicious.

Most days we were dressed for breakfast, then dressed for the beach, then changed at lunch and then dressed again for dinner -holiday outfit changes can be so time consuming and tiring.

Other than that, our other daily routine was waiting for the cafes to open at 8am each morning so that we could enjoy our first morning coffee. You see, I have spoilt my DH and he is accustomed to having his short black at 6am. So like clockwork, he was awake for his coffee. Now, I have been known for taking our coffee machine with us on holidays - but my DH declared that I shouldn't and couldn't as were 'on on a break' and would go to cafes.

And I made sure to remind him of this each morning as we waited for opening time.

On our last night, we couldn't be bothered getting dressed for dinner. So still in our beach attire, we went down to the local shops, and what the heck- we had a casual 'private balcony' meal of fried fish and chips wrapped in butchers paper. With streaming traffic for entertainment.

Eating off paper always feels like a holiday to me!

Well, the holiday is over and 2012 has begun!

No more eating out for all meals. It's high time to remedy some of my festive season excess with a diet I think. And then there's the shopping to do, and the dinner to cook and my WIPs to pull out.

See you tomorrow! Hope you're all back to routine!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000+11:00

Merry Christmas! This beautiful little film is a Russian production, however no language or subtitles are used so don't let that stop you enjoying it. The detail is simply lovely, it's a pleasure to watch and is suitable for children.

I am not usually keen on animation, but this one is so charming. Each part is 7 minutes long.

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T11:47:00.000+11:00

The tree is up, the tablecloth is ironed

and I am getting ready for Christmas. It's going to be a hot one this year,

with 32c today and 30c for Christmas Day.

Wishing you all a beautiful Christmas, wherever you are,

Love,

Esther

WOW: Christmas Baking

2011-12-21T11:29:00.002+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

You'll forgive me for being late in posting the WIP today. Usually I like to put up my post early in the morning. But this morning today I have been much too preoccupied with...

Christmas Baking!

My DDs and I have been hard at work because we are about to experience a few days of 30c over here and that's simply too hot to bake. So we have been baking ourselves busy to get everything done so it can be packed away and kept cool until Christmas Eve.

Here's the effort so far:

It's not a celebration without Peaches on a plate

(You can find the recipe here)

And it's not Christmas without Potica either...

(recipe here)

Actually this my DDs first potica made without my guidance so we had it cut it to inspect it and assess it over coffee ( verdict? a good first effort). Usually you would let your Potica rest at least a day - but we're on a schedule here!

This mint slice is so easy, it doesn't even have a recipe.

You simply wizz up biscuit into crumbs in a food processor and add half a block of chocolate so they crumb together. Then press this mixture into the base of a spring tin lined with grease paper. Bake in a 180-c oven for 15 minutes or until golden. The chocolate melts and sets the biscuit.

Then mix 5 cups of icing sugar with 2 tablespoons boiling water and peppermint essence to taste. The sugar should be smooth and thick - almost too thick to stir - custard like. Pour this over the biscuit base. Put in the fridge to set. Melt the rest of the chocolate and spread over the cold set icing sugar.

Release from from tin and slice thinly (or not so thinly as we opted for below).

These apricots balls don't have a recipe either. Using your food processor, you simply throw in 1 cup almonds, 1 cup dried apricots, zest of 1 lemon, juice of that lemon, and 1 tin of condensed milk (375mls). You know it's done when the blades of the processor stop turning! Then you roll teaspoon amounts into round balls and roll in shredded coconut. Really you could use any dried fruit and nut combo and we might even make it with cranberries as we have a lot of those.

What do you think these are?

they're walls to a gingerbread house my DDs are making

and these are the 'stained glass' windows !

I will post more pics as they progress with their little house.

And now, on the wednesday before Christmas, it really is my last opportunity to tidy up my sewing room (I've been doing this in segments all week). So with my DDs in the kitchen, I had better get on with it!

Peaceful Pathways Part 5 is Launched

2011-12-15T11:49:00.004+11:00

Part 5: Heart Blocks

This month you are making 8 x Heart Blocks

Simple.

It's nearly Christmas and of course we are all busy at this time of year, so you will be pleasantly suprised this month to find this block is simple and charming - just the kind of sewing for December. Next month is the last installment and the end of our BOM...it's been great fun and we are nearly at our final stitch. How rewarding!

Happy Sewing!

My BOMs are available via my website and Yahoo Bom Group

WOW: Christmas Stenciling, Sorting and Winding Down

2011-12-14T07:38:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas...and whilst many of you will be too busy to WIP over the festive weeks, I have decided to keep on with WOW because I love catching up with you all each week - even for just a few moments away from my To-Do List!

I've finally stencilled our Christmas Table Cloth in red, using the Red December pattern (I used the side border and centre blocks to create my table design.) It's classically Christmas and I love it already. I finished it yesterday and I am now winding down my sewing. It's time to relax, tidy up my studio and get into some Festive Baking with my DD'S.

This morning I started early on an important chore - refolding all my quilts. How exhausting! I'd forgotten how many there were, and had to stop to enjoy and fall in love with them all over again (well, quilts are beautiful!).

They have been around and about a fair bit this year at Guest Speaking occassions and it was time to give them a good shake out and re-fold. Actually I think that in the New Year I will start rolling them all up (to store them) around a cylinder as I want to avoid creases. The quilt cupboard is now neat again so I can think about the best way to store them in the meantime.

A Holiday Drive

2011-12-13T07:31:00.000+11:00

DH hired a car so we could go around at our leisure. And I loved being the carefree passenger with a camera! From Slovenia we drove to Croatia.

It was a ride with breathtaking scenery. The advantage of traveling like this is stopping whenever something grabs your eye. Every time you head out somewhere it’s a potential find.

Like this old flour mill. Isn’t it something? I couldn’t wait to get out and have a look

Here’s the old building made of stone. And farm workers represented in carved wood.

The best thing about being away is realizing how wonderful the ordinary is. With the sun setting over the hill, we could have been anywhere. But we were right there. And I’m so glad too.

The Pleasure of Detail

2011-12-12T06:41:00.000+11:00

Here I am in Maribor Town, Slovenia, enjoying a harvest installment

What really took my eye though, was the skilled craftsmanship on the buildings

These detail on these doors is superb. Unfortunately Google won't allow me to flip the pictures the right way around, but it's too nice not to show...even sideways.

google wont flip these pics, they are doors!

Look at these motifs….wonderful…

I can feel some designs coming on…

Yuletide Mysteries

2011-12-10T08:09:00.000+11:00

Over the years I’ve noticed that some household happenings only ever seem to take place during Christmas.

Take these tree lights below as an example. I remember winding them perfectly around a cardboard roll so I could easily unwind and use them this year- without any tangles or fuss.

However

This morning I opened the box to find this wiry tumbleweed waiting for me, knots, twists and all. It’s even collected some baubles along the way. Where has it been these last 365 days? What has it been doing? And where have the extra bulbs gone?

The other expected but nonetheless unpredictable happening…is the breaking of something. This is a biscuit gun. It’s brand new. I’ve had it a year but as it’s only used at Easter and Christmas, it still feels brand new.

It’s also newly broken. The top screw down cap simply split for no reason. My last biscuit gun (you can read about it here) also broke last Christmas, but I wasn’t’ so annoyed that time as it had lasted 30 productive years. I won't be buying another as this is the only brand I have seen around and I am not impressed with it's performance. I think it will be old fashioned biscuits this year!

I can't be the only one...

What's Your Festive Mystery?

WOW: Making Room

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

Today I am making room for Christmas. I still have our Christmas Table Cloth to make…so to create that I will need desk space. It's so disheartening to have to stop work...to make room. It signals that a major clear out is due. Or overdue.

This is what my table looks like most of the time. By lunchtime I expect to have it spic and span. *Wish me luck*

For those of you making Red December, this is the fabric I recommend. It's Robert Kaufman and the range is 'Marbleous'. Red is difficult to photograph but I hope this pic gives you a good idea of the print. The intensity is consistent whilst still having enough change through it to look lively. Just what you want from red fabric!

For my borders in the Red December pics in the post below, I used a local Quilter's Muslin from Emma Louise (Victorian Textiles) from her range called Holiday Red. Also excellent.

SacherTorte in the Sacher Cafe

2011-12-05T08:07:00.000+11:00

I love SacherTorte. I think it's the best chocolate cake in the world and every year we fly one in from Vienna for my DDs birthday (yes, they deliver!).

But it's nicer on location...

And for those of you who'd like to make it, well here's the official postcard recipe. I will definitely be trying this one out for myself!

A Gift for my 1618 Yahoo Group Members

2011-12-01T10:00:00.000+11:00

'Red December' is free to all members: I am so pleased to have this quilt top finished! And…It’s already being basted! Yes, full steam ahead! This is a WIP I’ve been looking to finish for a while now. I found it amongst my red stash months ago and thought, ‘why is this just sitting here???’

It’s been quite a red and white year for me. First Peaceful Pathways and now Red December. Do you know the feeling? I just had to get some classic red and whites off my Quilting To Do List and once you start one…well, the inspiration just keeps flowing.

I really do love it. I think I will have to have a Red and White Link Party on this site. I know there are lots of red and white beauties out there so it would be nice to give them an airing.

I can’t wait to hang this quilt and share some upfront shots. These will have to do for now.

I’ve been thinking about what a great year it’s been – and I’ve especially been thinking about all you wonderful readers who come along to see what I’m doing and share your thoughts. Blogging is very time intensive…but also very rewarding. It's nice to know someone else enjoys my little online journal here.

This is a pic of the borders. The special thing about the pattern is that the borders have been designed so that they can be created to make a table runner. Yes, really! I am currently making my own for Christmas this year, and of course I will share it right here when I do. As soon as I get around to it.

I have a very special group called the Esther Aliu Yahoo Bom Group and this fabulous forum is a place where members share and discuss my projects and BOMs. I’m also very fortunate to have 3 fabulous moderators who do a wonderful job keeping everyone informed and generally in the know. I get to see my quilts and designs made in lots of different colours / fabrics and schemes.

It’s a dream come true for a designer! How lucky am I?? Very.

The next obvious step is to share some of this joy I feel at having such a wonderful group, and so I have decided to share my latest pattern Red December with members for free.

Yes, free!

It's my way of saying thank you for all the support you give me throughout the year. I really love this pattern and I hope that some of you will too.

If you’re a member, simply go to the files section and download the PDF. You should know your way around by now! The pattern is free for the month of December, after that it will be on sale through my online shop.

Non-members can join the group at any time, for free, or purchase the pattern via my online shop.

Thank You!

WOW: Creating the border

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

So here we are. It's nearly December and I always go one of two ways:

1. Speed up and work non stop to get my WIPs done or

2. Start with intentions for 1... and get distracted by Dec 5th and move WIPs to the New Year list.

So I have been buckling down and working all day to get Red December finished. I've finally created the border (see below) since last wednesday and I intend to finish this beautiful red and white quilt this week. Yes, time is ticking. There's still plenty to do as we all prepare for festivities.

How are your WIPs looking?

Are you full steam ahead?

Or have you set your WIPs aside for next year now?

Crochet Christmas Wreath: Year 2

2011-11-29T19:37:00.000+11:00

Update: Christmas 2011

It's been a year since I posted this easy Christmas project and it's become one of my most popular posts! It's simple, so easy to personalise and the best bit? You can make it in a day. Yes, really. It's simple. If your haven't already, why not make it this year?

Finished! A Christmas WIP no longer. Here is my Christmas Crochet Wreath.

Last week I purchased a foam wreath ring. I had an idea to cover it with green crochet roses, and after knitting up a few of those decided to add some leaves as well. I wanted three white roses...and had thoughts about red roses too. As I already have a lot of red in my house with poinsettia's at this time of year, I decided to keep with mostly greens.

I have another crochet wreath WIP which is full of flowers, but I don't think that WIP will be quite completed until Easter (ish). Maybe.

Each year I aim to spend December winding down, but like last year, I find that I am speeding up. I don't want to enter the New Year with so many WIPs behind me. I am spending most of my days finishing finishing finishing.

This wreath is easy to make, you can have it finished in just a day or two.

4mm, 5mm & 6mm hook

I worked up a leaf in each of the above hooks and decided on working up in the 6mm as I was after lush foliage that was also quick to come together.

I covered the ring with a variegated yarn in greens. This was the trickiest and most time consuming part! The foam has to be covered evenly and neatly -and thick enough to anchor your stitches into when positioning your crochet into place.

This is what you are making: foliage flowers

The foliage flowers save you from positioning hundreds of little leaves separately

Make as many as you need to fill out your wreath / ring

Make some green roses as well as white ones to create interest around the ring

Stitch the foliage into desired position

The 'roses' are so quick and easy, they almost twirl themselves into position

I used 2 shades of green yarn

Then I positioned the roses and leaves around the ring

I purchased some bells last week when I purchased the foam ring...as I thought I would use them, however after positioning them I decided that I liked the wreath plain after all.

As the base of the foam ring is flat, it can be placed on the table or the door. I think I will hang mine...but I might still change my mind.

There are lots of options with this pattern project.

To Make Up:

US Crochet terms used

4, 5 or 6mm hook

100gm yarn to cover ring

Green yarn (yarn busting from your stash??) for roses and foliage OR

2 x 100 gm in 2 shades of green (this wreath used 85gm) you may need more or less depending on size & tension

20gms white yarn

I have kept the actual crochet super easy, mainly HDCs so you can do it whilst supervising in the kitchen or in front of the TV or with only half an eye on it.

Sorry - no diagrams! I love diagrams, so I know how frustrating working from text can be: I hope this is clear enough to understand:

For Foliage:

Chain 6, create ring, chain 6, slip stitch into ring (to create 6 petals)

Work into each petal:

Half Double Crochet x4

Double Crochet x 4

Treble Crochet x 4

Double Treble x 1

Chain 2

Double Treble x 1

Treble Crochet x 4

Double Crochet x 4

Half Double Crochet x 4

Slip stitch into next petal.

repeat until all petals are full, slip stitch to finish.

This will 'fill' each petal and create an arch. When you are working it up, you may think it won't fit. Don't worry, it will fit perfectly. Persevere.

If you can Double Crochet you can Double Treble Crochet...it's just three loops over the hook. Don't be daunted.

Make 15 (or however many you need to fill your wreath)

For Roses:

Ok, this is so super easy that you might end up with a ring full of roses.

Chain 20, turn

Half Double Crochet down row, chain 2 at end of row

Work into each chain:

5 Half Double Crochet until end. Tie off.

The row will twirl as you work. When finished, twirl into a rose shape and stitch into position.

Position across ring, stitch into place.

If you make this wreath, I'd love to see it!

A Visit to Lipica Church

2011-11-28T07:34:00.000+11:00

After a day with the Lipizzaner horses, we explored the local area as well. I always like to look in on old churches whenever I get the chance. This church is an old church right in Lipica. Isn’t it beautiful?

The walls are stamped, and there is also quite a lot of stencil work going on. I just loved the details. Light was fading fast outside, so the photos don’t show up as much detail as I’d like, but you can definitely get a feel for the place.

Maybe I see quilts everywhere, but the motifs here do look familiar

Just thought I’d share the moment with you…

Visiting Lipica

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000+11:00

I get so annoyed when google flips my pics like this!!

I thought I'd share my trip to the Lipiuca Stud Farm with you. It's such a beautiful spot that it's too good to keep to myself.

Lipizzaner Stallions are beautiful white horses which are bred in Slovenia and known throughout the world. The Lipica stud farm is a local and tourist attraction and even offers riding lessons to those who are interested. Personally, I was more interested in enjoying the company of these horses with my DH, which is exactly what we did.

Of course, admiring the stallions is one thing, taking a carriage ride is another...

These horses are so majestic. Interestingly they are born dark and lighten as they mature.

These shots are postcard worthy, so you can imagine how tranquil being there was…. Every moment with these horses was beautiful.

The whole day was wonderful and warm. During our trip this year we experienced Europe’s warmest Autumn in 90 years!

Of course I packed for a traditional European autumn…but that’s another story! And another wardrobe! I can’t complain because the sunshine was not harsh, but warm and gentle.

Oh and here's a pic of my sister Danica and her partner who joined us on our jaunt

WOW: Are You Quilting In The Pink ?

2011-11-23T05:30:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

In the last week I've had several unexpected requests for pictures detailing my quilting on In The Pink.

This is interesting, I wonder how many Pinky WIPs are out there?? I really love this quilt and it was a pleasure to make. I always love it when someone in the Yahoo Group posts an image of their latest In The Pink progress. It makes my day! I think some of you are getting this quilt finally finished in an end of year burst! I can't wait to see them when they are done.

Hearts Desire Inspires Another...

2011-11-22T09:25:00.001+11:00

When I sit down for my mid-morning coffee to check my emails – well it’s usually all very predictable stuff in there. But not this morning! Every now and then, I get a really wonderful email that makes my day, like this one below from Lucia Martins who was inspired by Hearts Desire to make her own quilt!

Here is Lucia’s inspired quilt, Bluebird

from what I gather on pinterest, it's needle turn

I think this design is really wonderful. I love it! It’s taken an element from Hearts Desire and created a whole new idea around it. Isn’t it great??? The colours, the scale and the detail is superb. I love the greens,the hearts, the vases, actually I think it all just works. I love the balance of the design. Of course I've shown everyone and they agree, it's lovely!

See more of Lucia’s work by clicking here.

(I've just spent half an hour in there admiring everything. I know, I know, how much longer can I ignore pinterest??? There are more great pics of this quilt there too.)

Hearts Desire is my previous BOM, and here’s my block:

Thank you Lucia

for sharing your beautiful quilt, I feel so privileged that you took the time to contact me.

I love seeing new projects and quilts created or inspired by my own work, that’s why my Yahoo Bom Group is such an exciting place – this kind of sharing goes on daily.

Growing Chilli

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000+11:00

10 weeks ago my DD decided to grow some chilli plants for my DH who is very keen on them. She didn’t do the pendulum trick at the nursery and back home we have since discovered that we have 2 male, 2 female. Can you tell?

I’m not giving up on the 2 male (above) because they do sometimes fruit. I hope.

Look at this one,(side pic, female) hopefully it will keep my DH supplied all summer.

Anyone else growing chillies? Any tips?

Coffee Holiday Habits

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000+11:00

With a coffee machine at home, I did wonder how I would get by on my travels without being able to make the perfect cappuccino within 3 minutes. This is a luxury I enjoy.

Well, I didn’t have to worry, I found coffee everywhere I went, and..

..being on holiday meant that I had to add cake alongside my coffee too

diet? what diet?

Well I thought coffee in Melbourne was overpriced, so Harrod's put it all into persepctive for me.

I usually pay AU $3.80 for a coffee, and my Harrod's coffee converted to AU $8.05

Coffee is now very much the same everywhere you go. It’s still overpriced. But a necessity nonetheless. Of course, after coffees I enjoyed other cafe delights too...

but coffee was the staple...

My school friend Vilinka makes an excellent coffee…and having known each other 40 years, we had a lot to talk about over our coffee. She is an extraordinary cake maker (see below pic!)…and a newly converted quilter! (maybe??…high hopes). She does own an Elna sewing machine and this a good start….

For someone who doesnt ordinarily eat sweets, I sure made up for it on holiday...

And lastly, a lovely slice made by my sister Danica.

Now I'm back home it's time to grind some beans and make some coffee and get down to work! Without the aid of cake...

WOW: Red December

2011-11-16T05:30:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

I must have 20 or so projects just like this – half done and waiting. So, this red WIP of mine has been waiting in the wings for quite some time. I pulled it out of my red stash shelf a few months ago and it’s been on my mind ever since. So here it is, I am calling it Red December because I like the name and I also plan to have it ready to launch in December (yes this year, hopefully). My first version that you can see here is stenciled and I am also going to make it in applique, it's just too nice not to. Also, I have too much red fabric not to, I'd like to use some stash!

It has 3 potential borders which I am still umm-ing and ahhhh-ing over, which may explain why it’s a WIP as I am going through loving / not loving each option all over again. Oh well, time for decisions.

Hopefully Red December (or perhaps Red January / February or March) will be a launch soon.

Yes, it’s been nearly 2 weeks and the roses are still alive and I am still enjoying them. No such thing as too much red about the house…

Peaceful Pathways Part 4

2011-11-15T06:03:00.000+11:00

Yes, we're already at Part 4! How time flies!

This month we are making the lovely patchwork style border. It’s worked in red and white (of course). This month is the final bit of hard work before we sail into the ending.

The more time I spend with this quilt, the more I love it.

I especially like how classic and easy if looks and feels at first glance, but how lovely the details are when you get to know it better.

The pics here are a bit shadowy as the weather was bright and stormy. Sorry!

I really like the white squares coming together to make the pieced hearts.

I just feel really glad making this quilt. And it's another for my red and white shelf.

Anyone else BOM-ing along with me?

Peaceful Pathways is my current free BOM

You can download the current month via my website or Yahoo Bom Group

The Awe of Flying

2011-11-14T09:42:00.000+11:00

Generally I don’t love flying – the noise, the air pressure, the recycled air and the airports.

But flying has its moments too. Especially if you are near a window when land comes back into sight, and cities roll into view. Because it’s so easy to forget just how remarkable flying really is.

That said, I’d rather be on a train any time!

But there's no denying how interesting it is to see the world from a birds eye view every now and then.

This was my favourite plane (from the outside), the Haribo plane! My children adored Haribo when they were young and I can just imagine how many young children love seeing this fly overhead!

For those of you who wanted to know, we flew Bristish Airways and were very happy with their service.

To Kindle or Not To Kindle?

2011-11-12T10:00:00.000+11:00

Update: 14th November 2011

A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to respond to my query. It was a big question for me, especially at this time of year - and I really appreciate the info you all provided. I read all your comments with great interest and I think the only way forward is to go with a Amazon Kindle.

There is a library in my state that allows kindle loans (which is nice) and I like that the classics are free (well, quite a few by the sounds of things). Now I just have to decide on the type. Do I want colour? probably. Is it realistic to read magazines on a kindle? Not sure, but can't see why not.

I have recently had no choice but purchase my >>first<< digital magazine subscription (there's no room left in any quarter of my house, it was an option of last resort). Well, it's fine. So I think it's possible that the magazine option could be a real one for me as well as the books, kindle wise. I'm not sure why some kindles have keyboards with them, I don't want to check emails or do anything like that, just reading and browsing.

I might even convert my DD to the kindle idea too, she reads a lot of very large (and impossible to hold) manuals and that kind of thing and I was amazed that they are actually in kindle format too.

Anyway, those are my thoughts on it at the moment. I really appreciate and value your comments on this.

Yes, I will get a kindle. Just decidining which one now. Will definitely keep you posted on what I end up with this Christmas!

Please keep commenting if you have anything else to add, all information is gratefully received.

That Is The Question.

When Kindle was first launched a few years ago, my DH offered to buy one, as much as a novelty as anything else. This was before they were even remotely popular and no one I knew had even heard of one. Back then, the idea of connecting books (which I love) to a computer of any kind (which I certainly don’t love and which always ends up in more work and frustration) was definitely not appealing.

But I may have changed my mind.

On this last trip I saw travelers reading kindle everywhere…and it just made sense. Do I think anything can compare to the pleasure of opening a book? No.

Can I fit a book in my handbag? Maybe. Can I fit enough to get me through a holiday? There isn’t enough bag space! There was an era when I would have travelled with a book and posted it back to myself. But times have changed and postage rates have drastically increased lately (has anyone else noticed this??) so that simply isn’t an option anymore.

If I get a kindle I will be purchasing it and I want to get the right one.

So I’d love any opinions from real users -

Do you have it?

Which one do you have?

Do you love it?

Was it worth it?

PS, I dont want to type anything(??) and I dont care about wi-fi or whatever.

My London Bus Tour

2011-11-11T08:08:00.000+11:00

The best thing I did in London was get on a bus. An iconic red double decker bus that drove around for 3 hours. Wow, what an eye opener! Taking in the city from the roof of the bus was so relaxed.

As a people watcher / building observer, I loved every minute of it! You could actually 'see' styles and fashions change as we moved out of one area and into the next. The same thing was reflected in the buildings from old to new to facades.

As a foreigner, London looks so historic, the wealth of details street after street really took me in. And I loved being high enough to see everything from a perspective I never usually think about.

As the bus drove around the streets, I randomly took these pictures whenever the bus stopped at a light or in traffic. The rest of the time I just leaned over the rail and took in the view. The best snaps are in my mind. I'm not really a document- every -moment- kind of tourist, I'd rather enjoy myself. I definitely recommend a London Bus Tour to anyone - it gives you a real perspective of the city.

There is so much beauty up there! And down below too....

If i'd had the time, I would have done it again. The snaps I have of this great ride are taken during red lights and occassional stops. It's a mixed bag! Just the way I like it!

this looks so english to my eyes

unexpected pink flowers in a grey spot

beautiful architecture

looking down or alongside statues (instead of up at them) was a nice change

as was getting as close as possible to beautiful building details

as soon as I saw the building below I 'knew' I was in London,

can't explain why, I must have seen it on a TV program

I really wish I could have got close enough and high enough to see the detail of the building below.

Is it an angel? a scroll?

It really had me thinking about the skill, legacy and values of craftsmanship and how buildings built today, by way of comparison, have no soul.

crowds / people / queues everywhere

London has definitely put my general queue annoyances into perspective!

This growth is not flora, it's actually a textile installation, a work of textile art. Well, this is what I was told, I didn't actually get off the bus to see the carpet for myself

London eye

it's Big Ben

WOW: Rose Table Runner

2011-11-09T06:08:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

The table length is 118 1/2 " or 3m

It started the night before my birthday. My DD’s wanted a table cloth for the big day. Honestly, I’m not that fussed. We have one for Christmas and Easter of course, but otherwise – and especially with a table this big, I usually opt for a runner.

I don’t know if you think about new table settings the evening before the morning they are required, but in my house this is actually a reoccurring theme!

It just so happens that last week right until my birthday I was sorting through my fabric stash and doing some tidying of my studio, and came across this beauty:

I purchased this fabric because I fell in love with it on sight. The roses are painted and although these images don’t do it justice, they are superb. The problem was that when I brought it home, I couldn’t cut into it. I didn’t have the heart. Also, the positioning of the design on the fabric meant that whichever flower I cut (if I decided to fussy cut) would cut into another bouquet, so that wasn’t a good use for it.

In the end, I decided to use it as a quilt back. But then thought it was too pretty not to be seen. So then I thought I would upholster a chair with it or maybe even create a screen.

Does anyone else have these fabric moments??

Well, Thursday night I pulled it out and we both fell in love with it as a table cloth. But covering the whole table was a bit much, so we experimented with a wide table runner. Well, I loved it.

Next, we agreed that we needed matching napkins and that the table runner should be plain – with maybe prairie paint binding in a matching yellow or peachy pink to the roses.

Just for the day, I folded it into size, ironed it down and made use of it unfinished until I have a moment to get it done properly.

So there it was – 5 hours until my birthday and another WIP started…oh well…

I will keep you posted and share the finished piece…when I get there myself!

Happy Birthday To Me

2011-11-07T10:08:00.001+11:00

Thank you everyone for your well wishes on my birthday!

It was my birthday on Friday.

I was really surprised when I checked my inbox this morning to find quite a few messages in there!

And now that I’ve mentioned it, I suppose I should share a bit of it…

There were flowers (red roses of course, what else??)

And a blue hydrangea too...

The day before, during the grocery shopping, I fell in love with a hydrangea and had to have it. Isn’t it lovely? I was torn between the white ball and the pink (it was an unusual deep pink) ball as well, but as they were wilted from being inside so long, it made my choice a bit easier.

And I bought it in honour of my birthday.

I really love this blue.

For my birthday lunch we enjoyed a Chinese Banquet. I am quite happy anywhere. But my DDs had arranged this as they are quite fussy. In a way I'm happy that they are because it was all just perfect...and I didnt have to cook a thing!

I’m not especially a sweet person, but the miniature deserts on the plate were so quaint and looked so lovely that I had to take a photo.

It was too much of a pity to eat them. I thought they looked like a quilting fabric I have somewhere in my stash.

Back home, my birthday cake was marble mud cake. I’m not usually keen on anything called mud cake – but it really is delicious. We are still enjoying it with coffee today.

The little bird is a bit of a joke as I always add birds to my projects, so my DDs added it to my cake as a little well-wisher.

In the evening my DH took me to a show at the Arts Centre and we enjoyed the city and stayed the night overlooking the river on the Southbank. Actually, for someone who lives here, I realized that I don’t usually see all that much of Melbourne!

My DH knows it very well but I really enjoyed it as a tourist. A tourist in my own city! Here’s a view from our window. Glorious.

Well, you can see why I still feel as though

I am in holiday mode. I am!

WOW: Still Unpacking

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

This wednesday finds me still unpacking and downloading and just generally trying to get back into the swing of things. How did November get here so fast???

Yesterday there was much talk about the 7 billionth baby being born. One thing that really struck me this time around in Europe, Vienna and London was how densely populated the cities are. Maybe I hadn't noticed before?? Maybe I'm getting older and see things differently? Maybe it's inceased enough for me to notice? I'm just not used to so many people.

Well, last night I learnt that Australia is actually the 3rd least populated population... I hadnt realised this and I think that over the years I must have become accustomed to space! The statistics were something like: Australia = 3 people per m2 and the UK has something like 246 per m2. I think that's incredible.

When I see so many people in one place 'for no reason' well, I don't know what to make of it!
Speaking of populations and birthdays, I have much to catch up on before my own birthday later this week. I better get on with it!

Festival Time: Hearts Desire

2011-10-31T18:24:00.002+11:00

big

thank

you to Amy

for once again organising this wonderful quilt festival. I always take part and look forward to meeting so many wonderful quilts and the stories beind them. It's getting better each year!

Usually I'm right in there from the very start on day one, but the month seems to be slipping away from me at the moment, so I'm glad theres still 5 days left to take part and enjoy.

My Quilt entry this festival is: "Hearts Desire"

I really love this quilt. It's still quite new to my stash and it's a quilt that I have always wanted to own, so having it finished feels really special.

You know, it was just one of those quilts I had to make!

It's an intense applique quilt, full of details that you want to concentrate on and perfect, piece by piece. Each block demands patience and skill. It's the kind of quilt that uses everything you know and then encourages you to try something new. I just love enjoying it.

Something I really enjoyed was embarking on this quilt with so many other quilters who were experiencing the blocks, month by month. Hearts Desire was a free monthly block of the month earlier in the year. Many beginner quilters started this quilt (and I'm pleased to add that they all did a fine job of finishing it too). We worked through it each month together, step by step.

For the applique, I used the applique freezer paper method throughout (tutorial on the side bar) and the end results speak for themselves.

This BOM is now finished.

You can purchase the pattern for this beautiful quilt here:

via my online shop.

If you'd like to take part in the next free BOM, why not join my Yahoo Bom Group? (see side bar)

Thank you for stopping by my Festival Post!

GO!Baby Winner! Winner! Winner!

2011-10-30T07:00:00.000+11:00

I wish I could give a GO!Baby away to each and every one of you. It's been a welcome addition to my quilting options. And like all of you, I was entering comps wherever I could to try and win one myself. So, I know how high the demand is out there to have one!!

I really loved reading each and every little quote / proverb / saying you submitted as an entry. How true they all felt! I loved each one and found myself nodding along in agreement.

Quite a few could have been my own often used favourites, so it's only fair that I share my own. I’ll mention one that hasn’t been enjoyed yet: it’s old Russian proverb –

"if I knew where I was going to fall, I would have put a cushion there"

How could I possibly decide between entries? Well I knew from the start that I wouldn’t be able to. So here is the random number generator that I decided would choose most fairly.

You’ll notice that the comp had 196 comments at time of closing (with a few deleted entries and doubles). I counted those out and added several allocations for quilters who did not enter online but who asked me personally to be included in the comp which took the countable entry number up to 199).

Thank you Random.Org and congratulations to Feather on a Wire who quoted "I quilt therefore I am".

For the love of Red

2011-10-29T07:00:00.000+11:00

Will my love affair with Red & White ever end?

“Around 1830, quilts made of red, green, and white became very popular, but it was not until 1880 when the cloth called Turkey-red was imported from Germany that solid red and white quilts could be made. Turkey-red was a good, permanent, non-fading red. Cloth made from American dyes ran and faded to pink within three washings. It took the First World War, when European imports were unobtainable, to start American dye makers on the trail of a permanent red. They succeeded in finding several; but it was not until after the Second World War that permanent shades of red became available in cloth of all price ranges.”

I could read about red fabric all day long….And I'm finding all these details fascinating.

I was lucky enough to receive this book, published in 1966, from a friend. I can’t believe that it’s found its way to my bedside table after so many years; it’s very readable and completely charming. I also can’t believe how far we’ve come, fabric production wise, in what is a relatively short span of time.

Luckily there is no impediment to stop quilt lovers making as many red quilts as their hearts desire nowadays!!

Red & White is a quilt classic,

and I'd love to know,

do you have one? or several?

WOW: Home Again

2011-10-26T06:30:00.000+11:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

It feels like just a very long time since I posted from my own computer whilst seated at a desk. I’m home again. My Wednesday WIP will be unpacking…and getting started on all the washing.

GO!BABY Winner will be drawn and announced tomorrow.

Stay tuned!

WOW: Too Much Of Everything!

2011-10-19T09:24:00.000+11:00

WOW= WIPs On Wednesdays

I'm still on my travels with DH. This is turning out to be a really fun WIP...and one that, for once, I don't actually want to finish!

At some point I will get myself organised long enough to share some pics!

What are you up to today?

Peaceful Pathways, Part 3 is launched

2011-10-15T09:00:00.000+11:00

1 Corinthians 13 (NIV)

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

Suprise!

I don't like launching over the weekend,

so I have brought the launch date forward to today.

Halfway through this BOM already (!!), in 3 more installments it will be a new year and a finished quilt. Not bad!

This month, we return to your beautifully embroidered text blocks and set them into border 2. We also add the corner heart squares (mine, above) and add the 3^rd HST border.

The quilt is really taking shape now

If you are making Peaceful Pathways, do consider joining my Yahoo BOM Group. Membership is and always will be free. It’s a great place to discuss the pattern, share ideas and post photos of your progress.

My patterns are only available via my website or yahoo group

WOW: What's Your WIP?

2011-10-12T07:30:00.000+11:00

Yes, I'm still away and loving every minute of it, but it just won't feel like a wednesday unless there's some WOWs on my blog.
So, what's your WIP?

WOW: Absent But Interested!

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone,

I’m still on my trip. I’ve been out of range quite a lot and I have to admit that I am really loving being plugged out! It’s been great so far, but I have been too relaxed to get around to downloading photos or anything like that yet. I can do all that when I get home.

I will say though, I did miss catching up with all of you for WOW last week so here I am, posting it up, because I do love seeing what stage your WIPs are at.

Have you all entered the Accuquilt GO!Baby comp below??

WIN a GO!Baby Fabric Cutter

2011-09-25T08:00:00.000+10:00

The folks at AccuQuilt are very generously giving away

a GO!Baby Fabric Cutter and 3 dies

to 1 lucky reader of this blog.

I have personally entered 3 blogger competitions to win a GO!Baby, so I know how big the demand is out there to own one! I am really delighted to be able to give one away to one of my readers. Whoever wins it, you’re going to love it!

ENTER NOW!!

Something I think we all do when we enter these comps, is scroll down to make sure our entry comment is there. So, to make things as interesting as possible (and I’m curious too), I am asking that you leave behind your favourite quote / saying or proverb in your comment.

Go to http://www.accuquilt.com/ and select 3 dies
Leave a comment at the end of this post which includes:
Your favorite quote, saying or proverb and
Your 3 selected dies

Goodluck!

The competition will be open for entries for 4 weeks

1 entry only per person

This worldwide competition is open to everyone

Your prize will be shipped to you from AccuQuilt directly

The winner will be selected randomly, using a random number generator

The winner will be selected and announced when I return from my trip

...

in the meantime

You can download 22 patterns from AccuQuilt for free, simply click below.

I have downloaded these and added them to my collection,

they’re excellent and definitely worth looking into.

My Challenge Entry: Light and Shade

2011-09-24T10:46:00.000+10:00

This post relates to my membership of the International Quilt Challenge. We have our own blog, why not take a look?

My Challenge Piece: 'Shadow and Sunshine'

The first challenge was set by Annabel: she chose Light and Shade. I already have a quilt called sunshine and shadow so I started calling my challenge that out of habit. It’s so connected in my mind, that I really have no option but to call my challenge piece Shadow and Sunshine.

It’s A3 size for those of you who are interested. We have no size restriction, but I feel that I do need a limit and I also like the idea of having like sized pieces at the end of the challenge cycle. That said, I might change my mind at any moment.

I was inspired by the idea that shadows are a degree of absence, not an absence.

I was in several minds regarding the quilting, I thought about detailed quilting for each section, but felt drawn back to the original idea I had had - quilting by straight lines, the direction light travels in. I quilted in tones of grey and yellow to create the light and shadow.

I quilted and basted this piece the day before my trip, after my DD and I had packed and unpacked my suitcase 5 times!! I was already a bit tired, but there was no way I was going to miss the challenge deadline!

I went for charcoal and gold for my binding

And breathed a big sigh of contentment when it was complete. I was really lucky because I had exactly 10 minutes worth of daylight left outside to take a picture in.

I do invite you to see our other member's interpretations of this theme, over at our blog:

http://internationalquiltchallenge.blogspot.com/

Light and Shade: finishing my challenge

2011-09-22T20:00:00.000+10:00

This is a post related to my entry in the International Quilt Challenge, of which I am a member.

I am very relieved top say that I managed to finish my first challenge on time. The day before leaving on my trip actually. Here are some pics of my progress. I did have a hard time selecting the thread, especially for the yellow shade. I felt that the yellow was too bright, but didn’t want it too subtle. Happily, I chose the right shade and it turned out the way I wanted.

I am really looking forward to seeing everyone else’s interpretation of this theme shortly!

The first challenge is Light and Shadow and the challenge deadline is the 23^rd Sept. I am really looking forward to seeing what the other International Quilt Members have been up to this last month….you can take a look too...

WOW: Fabric Arrival

2011-09-21T06:30:00.000+10:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

As I was heading out the door to go to the airport, a package arrived for me. Not just any old package, but the fabric range I have ordered for my next project! I quickly checked them over to make sure they were all there, they look wonderful in real life, and then had to leave them behind.

They have been ordered so that I can start my next BOM: it will be a 13 month mystery based on flowers, and it's an all round exciting project. I'm really looking forward to making it. New fabric does have that effect on me!

Wish Me Bon Voyage!!

2011-09-18T21:02:00.000+10:00

By the time you read this, I will be in the air, flying with my DH, just the two of us. Yes, we are up and away!!

This trip is a special one because it has a story behind it. When I opened my online shop, I boasted to my husband that I would fly the both of us to Paris on the proceeds. Well…of course I was joking. I don’t actually earn enough to cover expenses, let alone take holidays, I do what I do only because I love it. So I was very happy when my DH surprised me last week by telling me we were going to Europe. Yes, can you believe I only had 1 week to pack??? And organize things???

My DD took a snap of us packing the car….(is she eager to see us go?) We think so.

Both my DDs think the house could be a little less…..well, creative….so I have left strict instructions that none of my things or my studio is allowed to be 'tidied up'. I’m not too concerned (at the moment) because I don’t think 5 weeks is enough time for them to actually attempt tackling my studio. I should know, I’ve tried! I'll keep reminding them just to make sure I think...

I will post whenever I find Wi-Fi, just as I am now.

Those of you following my BOM, Peaceful Pathways – the next block will of course, still be posted as usual on the 15^th of October, I will make sure it is, wherever I am on my travels.

I also managed to finish a few little WIPs in the whirlwind that was last week…and I will be announcing an exciting competition as soon as I find time to type it up!

I will be checking in with my Yahoo Group and emails…but from more exotic locations than usual.

Esther's Occassional Quote for the Day

2011-09-17T07:00:00.000+10:00

How To Print My Patterns

2011-09-16T19:03:00.001+10:00

This is a question I am asked over and over. So I thought I would clarify some easy steps you can take to make sure that the pattern you print at home is as accurate as possible.

All of my patterns have an inch line or box. When you print out your pattern, check against this box for accuracy. Use a ruler or a professional standard tape measure. Both patterns in these images are accurate.

But what if your inch line or box isn't accurate? Please do remember that all printers / copiers have different options and menus. It's likely that your own printer wont look exactly like mine does here. These images are to guide you and give you a general idea of what to look out for:

This is my print option screen. Where it lists "Page Scaling" the option selected is NONE. This is correct and this is what we want. It means that the document will print as is without any automatic (and usually helpful) re-sizing.

In the snap below, the printer has automatically selected "Shrink to Printable Area". Again, this is usually helpful, but is not wanted when printing patterns. In this instance, you would select "none" as the option (just like the snap above).

In the snap below, the printer has selected "Fit to Printable Area". Again, this is usually helpful, but is not wanted when printing patterns. In this instance, you would select "none" as the option (just like the snap above).

It's quite common for printers to automatically re-size PDF documents. You may not have even noticed this feature. With my patterns, the work is always within the margins of A4 paper, so you don't need to think about whether the pattern will fit the page. It always will.

Make sure your printer is not adjusting your print out and also take a moment to look at the margins of the printable area, as in the snap below. Sometimes they can set themselves to half a page or 80% for no apparent reason. In this snap below, everything is fine and the pattern printed perfectly.

So, to sum up:

All patterns are set to print to A4 for easy home printing

Make sure that your printer is set to print to 100%
If your print preview shows that you are set to print at 95%, make sure the default "shrink to printable area" box is not checked. If it is, uncheck it.

Make sure your printer does not ‘re-scale– PDF documents prior to printing.

For all ‘re-scaling’ options, select none

For all ‘shrink to printable area’ options, ensure this is not set

Check that the "Inch Square" I add to each pattern actually measures an inch when you print it out. This ensures that you are printing the pattern at the correct size. If you do not print accurately, measure the difference and adjust your pattern accordingly.

I hope this clarifies any printing issues, now let's get back to doing what we do best....creating!

Peaceful Pathways: Part 2 is launched

2011-09-15T01:00:00.000+10:00

Peaceful Pathways: Roads and valleys that run up, down and over, wind and turn. Of course, there are endings, sharp corners and crossroads.

How is everyone faring with Peaceful Pathways so far? I’ve seen many beautifully embroidered text blocks by machine and hand and I'm looking forward to seeing what you all get up to this month.

With the 4 centre square blocks completed, I’m already thinking about the kind of quilting that would work on the pathways. I’m considering white quilted feathers at this stage.

My patterns are only available via my website or yahoo group only

WOW: GoBaby Brights Quilt

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000+10:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesday

Yes, I've been working on my GOBaby Quilt again

I’m thinking about a border of half square triangles – done the fast and easy way of course.

I love it. I’ve already got plans for the next top and a few projects too. I didn’t think I’d be this excited about a cutting tool, but I have been pleasantly surprised.

It’s Tomorrow, Today

2011-09-13T09:47:00.000+10:00

Update: 10:55am

Yes, I am using fusible throughout. That way I can simply iron into place. I plan to satin or buttonhole stitch afterwards.

I am still considering my options - because fusible is too expensive to use as freely as I want. I have so many plans. I'm thinking about glues like liquid stitch? But since it's not readily available where I am, I am thinking this through.

With fusible, even with the added cost, I still feel the advantages outweigh the cost. I am really still experimenting and deciding as I go. I will keep you posted. Working with this easy cutter is still new to me.

So if you have any thoughts, please share them, I'd love to know.

Oops, I forgot to post my GOBaby progress. Where was I? Oh yes, here we are

As I mentioned in my previous post, going straight into arrangement without cutting is a lot of fun and I’ve been playing around with brights. I have some projects – a bit different to what I normally do, that I’ve been meaning to make for some time. But you know how it is. With so many WIPs on the go, I never find the time. And to be frank, I haven’t been motivated to organise and cut…for the sake of experimenting.

Until now...

Still going ... will update again
tomorrow for WOW

Thank You Wyndham Quilters

2011-09-12T06:34:00.000+10:00

Well, I had a lovely time on Saturday, guest speaking at the Quilt In. Being a Guest Speaker is really such an honor and something I enjoy so much. Sometimes when talking about your quilts (or looking through them) do you sometimes surprise yourself?

I do. I forget sometimes how many quilts I’ve made. It doesn’t feel like it as you work through each quilt, but after a few years (I’ve been quilting for 11) it starts to add up.

As per the theme, I wore black and white and my something bright was my lipstick.

Come and See Me Today

2011-09-10T08:15:00.000+10:00

I've got my black and white...still sorting out the little bit bright part.

I have 10 minutes before I leave, so I'm thinking fast!

If you can, do visit the Wyndham Quilt In,

it's going to be a great day!

AccuQuilt GoBaby

2011-09-08T13:41:00.000+10:00

I’ve heard a lot about GoBaby and no doubt, you have too. I’ve been wanting to try one out myself for a while now, so I was really happy to receive this machine from AccuQuilt last week in order to do just that.

If you’re anything like me, you have a lot of beautiful fabric you want to put to use. The idea of quick cutting really appeals to me. And I have to say, the GoBaby does not disappoint.

Yesterday I pulled some brights from my stash and started playing. How easy is it?

Prepare the fabric

I cut several layers at a time

And put the plastic cover on and roll it through

As I'm rolling these through,

I'm daydreaming about how wonderful it would be

if all applique were this easily cut...

The result is perfectly cut shapes

I keep the cut away fabric, I like these ‘negative’; stamped cuttings, I know I will use them to great effect somewhere, possibly a border.

When I ordered the bird, daisy and feather dies, I knew straight away that I wanted to applique brights on a plain white background – I want a fresh and vibrant feeling quilt.

This is not my usual kind of quilt - and that's what I was after. Something that allows me to experiment more than usual. I have a lot of tools that, honestly, I don't get much use out of.

It's always a dilemna when I find new interestings things. Will I use it? Will I really use it?

I can see so many possibilities with this tool

Something a little whimsy. Something to have fun puzzling together, because this is how it feels, with the cutting done you are simply putting what you want, where you want.

This is my progress in one afternoon….

Today I will iron down my designs and show you what I got up to, tomorrow

In the meantime, why not take advantage of Accuquilts current free offer?

Click below to find out more

WOW: A Very Exciting Arrival

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000+10:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

Last week a little something special arrived in the shape of a parcel...

I was sick with the flu, so I wasn't able to enjoy it. I left it to sit on my studio table, surrounded by my shelves of fabric that this machine is going to help me conquer.

Oh yes, I have a lot of fabric and ideas. Today, I unpacked it and those ideas are shaping into a day of doing.....

Stay Tuned....

The Stencil Option

2011-09-05T14:09:00.001+10:00

Making Peaceful Pathways?
Have you considered the stencil option for your verses? Here's how I made mine:

From the pattern, trace the verses on a sheet of freezer paper which has been cut down to size. With a cutting matt and scalpel, cut away the letters. Keep the letter insides where required and set aside, you will need these to complete your letters when ironing onto the fabric.

When you have cut away all your verses, iron them onto your background fabric. Use a hot iron - no steam, and ensure that all the edges are securely fixed down onto the fabric. You don't want any paint leakage when you begin to stencil.

When all your stencils are ironed to your fabric, it's time to paint the stencils. I have chosen a clear red without blue undertones. You can see the two reds here. As the fabrics I will be using in this quilt are not blue-reds, I have opted for a clear red hue for my verses.

You can stencil with any appropriate acrylic / fabric paint and textile medium, according to the manufacturer's directions. I use Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic. This paint does not require additional textile mediums and is an environmentally friendly textile ink.

The two reds here are: Mid red and Bright Red. The mid red has blue undertones and I have used the Bright Red in this case. These pigments won't fade or wash away and are considered to last as long as commerically printed fabric.

Stenciling is straight forward. The most important step to remember is that your brush should always be a little on the dry side and that it is better to build up colour gradually, remember - you are not painting and your brush should not be heavily coated. Saturating the stencil in colour will result in leaking and smears. Work as dry as you can.

Before painting in the stencil, always work a little product off onto some scrap fabric or paper toweling to blot off any excess paint.

Dab a little onto the freezer paper first, to ensure that it is not too wet. Build up the colour gradually as you work.

Then leave the stencil to dry about 2 minutes, it should be almost dry.

Now gently peel the stencil away from your fabric carefully

Some paints require a curing period of up to several hours prior to heat setting. With Permaset this is not required, so within a few minutes of peeling away the stencil, heat set your paint by ironing over the paint for several minutes with a hot dry iron. Your stencil is now set and is permanent.

Remember to cover the stencil with grease / parchment paper to protect your iron!

Now the stencils are heat set and permanent, it's time to get them into position. In this picture below, you can see the stenciled fabric and the template pattern behind.

DO NOT PRESS your block with the paper behind it from this point on as the graphite may transfer onto your lovely white block!

Using AURIFIL thread (this is a heavier thread used for embroidery), and a plain stitch on my machine, I followed the lines of the template and simply stitched over them. I released the top tension on my machine (because this thread is thicker) and it stitches beautifully without knots or shredding. It's a delight to work with. And I stitched 2 lines very close together to create a thicker line.

I used the printed template as a paper pattern to directly stitch over.

And to achieve this thickness, I actually stitched 2 lines very close together

Now, the inner text is framed in red according to the pattern, which is how I wanted it. You'll notice that I have stitched another line around it in white, following the template. This extra line is for my own personal margins, it shows me where to add a seam allowance to finish this block when I come to set it into the borders.

For many of us, quilts are personal undertakings, and I am no different. Although I have been stenciling for a few years and am able to cut smooth flowing script, you'll have probably noticed the the text in these blocks is not perfect. However, I believe in the perfection of imperfections and in this case it is a sentimental imperfection for me - this is because I had my DD cut them out for me. I wanted her to do this and as you can see, she has never stenciled before! Therefore, some of the lines are jagged instead of smooth, so they do require some neatening up.

You can go back in with a toothpick and the original pigment ink if there is a larger

gap. You can also use Fabrico or Sharpie or Faber Castell Indian Ink in red or black. Basically, fill in the jagged and missed lines to make it as neat as cursive as possible.

I have not heavily corrected the text lines as I intend to sew over them at the quilting stage.

The red inner line to set the text, the white outer line to mark the boundary and then, I cut inside the last black outline (see template). Always measure twice and cut once and don't cut if you are unsure.

It is not necessary to cut this block down to size yet. I have been generous with allowances on this block as I know many quilters are embroidering and this shrinks the fabric down. My red stitching line didn't pull in, however it is a straight line. If you embroider or zig zag, you will have to test and re-measure. The template gives you 1/8th more.

This finished block measures 6.5 x 8.5inches with seam allowances, ready for setting into the border later.

A note on stenciling:
I used Permaset and the curing / iron times apply to this pigment only.
I have previously used and can recommend Jo Sonja Artist Paints and Textile Medium
There are lots of new products on the market, including paint stitcks, fabric fast pencils and crayons that will work just as well. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Stenciling is not a new technique, it is an old fashioned heirloom technique that is present in some of the oldest known quilts. It's definitely a method worth trying. If you are interested, why not try stenciling my Tulip Delight Table Runner - (on the sidebar) I have this project on offer for free.

Why not give it a go?

WOW: the dreaded FLU

2011-08-31T07:44:00.000+10:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

This year is shaping out to be busier than I thought; full days working at my 'hobby' and there's still so much to do and get done.

There are so many exciting things to get started on, that the last thing I wanted to WOW was this: this week I am recovering from the dreaded FLU. Lots of raw honey from the comb, lemon, tea and rest.

My Peaceful Pathways Stencil Tutorial will be up in the next day or so. I have snapped it, but it's sitting to the side for today.

I had my inexperienced DD cut the stencils (to demonstrate that really, anyone can try this method) and all 12 are now almost done. I am still going to stitch in the set frame.

Last night I managed to neaten her amateur lines (as her cutting wasn't as precise as I am used to...) but I had to go to bed after doing just this single one...

Always Perseveres? Well ....tries to anyhow...

IQC: Sunshine & Shadow

2011-08-30T19:09:00.001+10:00

IQC = International Quilt Challenge

This is my post from the IQC Blog which I am a part of

I already have a quilt called Sunshine & Shadow, which was made around a light and shadow design, so this quilt has been on my mind a lot - whenever I talk or think about the challenge.

It's just about September already and the year is really turning out to be busier than I could have imagined, so I have had to just launch in. Actually I reviving previous thouhgts about shade and light. My challenge work (untitled at this stage) is started, I am also working from a photo for this challenge (which I have just misplaced yesterday...)

I especially liked the idea Annabel raised when she was discussing the challenge theme, concerning shadow being a degree of absence rather than a void.

I am absolutely

going to finish this challenge

on time

Getting Ready With Reds

2011-08-29T14:53:00.001+10:00

To Test or Not To Test?

There's really no question....

Who's making Peaceful Pathways?? There are many of you out there who pre-wash as a matter of course for all your quilts. For those of you who usually don't pre-wash (such as myself), I strongly suggest that you should pre-test all fabrics to check for colour fastness when working with reds. I am one of those quilters who does not pre-wash as a general rule - however, when working with reds, I always pre -test and go on to pre-wash if required.

I love classic red and white...but this is a combination that requires extra care. Any colour bleeding is difficult to deal with (but can be avoided), so you want to make sure all your reds are colour fast before you launch into cutting and sewing.

This is how I test my reds before I start sewing

Select the reds you are planing to use and stitch them alongside some crisp white fabric.

use washing detergent and boiling water, and add each fabric option to this solution - individually.

If you add all your red tests in together at once, and you do experience running, you wont know which fabric is responsible, so repeat the process for each selected fabric.

Agitate the fabric in the soapy solution and leave it alone - about 30 minutes.

Clear water is the best sign.

If the water is stained, set the fabric aside and repeat this process. The second time around is to find out whether the fabric will continue to bleed...or whether it is stable after the first wash and rinse.

If the fabric does bleed, wash again until you achieve clear water. Then assess the fabric - is it still a nice shade of red? still a clear print? If it still bleeds after the second test, leave this fabric out of your quilts. Some fabrics continue bleeding and it's easier to discard them now than suffer the annoyance of bleeding later.

All fabric should rinse clear by the second test.

All fabrics should be colour tested - especially reds.
Fabrics that bleed must be pre-washed prior to use.
Fabrics which do not bleed - prewashing is optional, in my own opinion and practice.

Here are my reds. Once they are squeezed of excess water, I patted them down on a towel in preparation for a vigorous ironing test.

...if my cat will give up enough ironing board space...

Use a hot steam iron and press all the fabric to check for any leakage or running.

This is where the stitched white fabric is so important - press open the seams and inspect. You want to make sure there is no bleed in or around the seams.

This fabric is colour fast. You can see the seams are spotless and there is no colour run into the white. Ah, perfect! If only all reds were this easy...

I created a production line testing all my reds this way...

Now I am left with reds which I know are colour fast. And I have tested them alongside crisp white fabric, so I am confident that my red and white quilt will stay red and white - in all the right places.

As you can see, I tested small swatches which I cut from my chosen fabrics. As I know they don't run and are completely colour fast, I will not be pre-washing my reds prior to sewing as it is completely unnecessary for me. I am one of those quilters who doesn't pre-wash as matter of course.

Pre- colour testring means that in the future, I can wash my red quilt (this is especially important for useful quilts such as bed quilts) without that worry in the back of my mind that it might come out of the washing machine pinkish.

Quilts we make today might be around for generations, so any extra time taken in preparation is definitely worth the effort.

Always colour test your reds

WOW: the morning after

2011-08-24T09:47:00.001+10:00

WOW = WIPs On Wednesdays

My WIP today is getting back into the swing of things

It's the morning after a long day of car driving. How long? 1400 kms in a day!

Can you guess where we drove to? This is a random picture taken whilst we were having a about to go back again coffee. Yes, the ACT (on essential but uneventful family business). No art or quilts I'm afraid. Actually I didn't even go to the Capitol Theatre, it was just located outside the cafe we stopped at and I was fiddling with my phone when this random picture snapped. I don't have any photos of the trip as it was so fast paced. Today, at some point, I will unpack the car. I haven't got to it yet. The boot is full and we are all too tired. I have much to do, so I seriously need to get back into my routine and plans...fast.

UPDATE: 10:04 Typing this post has encouraged me to venture to the driveway and take a pic. Why? did? I? Pack? my? design? journal?? Are quilter's eternal optimists?

Making HST's... fast!

2011-08-19T18:24:00.000+10:00

This is how I quickly create Half Square Triangles (HST) using a paper method. Those of you making Peaceful Pathways Block 1 (my BOM), this is the method I used.

There are many ways to create HST: this is just 1 way. There are pre-paper printed sheets you can purchase, or you can trace a triangle template to make it the traditional way.

I like to do things as simply, quickly and as economically as possible. Above all though– it must be accurate! This method is accurate and simple if followed correctly. There’s no need to trim after cutting.

If you try this method, make 1 sheet first and then measure for accuracy to ensure that you are doing it right.

Also ensure that your stitches are shortened, approx. 1.8 stitch length

Now, in this tutorial, we are using the pattern sheet printed on A4 which is included in my Peaceful Pathways (BOM) pattern.

Firstly, cut away excess paper from around the pattern.

Making HST's fast

Cut 2 fabric pieces (red and white) slightly larger than the pattern. Place right sides of fabric together.

This is a picture of the trimmed paper template and pinned into position

Sew along the indicated red lines (sew directly over the paper pattern) and then turn and press the back of your piece with a dry iron to set the seams on the back of the fabric.

Note: the ink from the pattern transferred to my ironing board during this process (as it is facing down during this step), so I recommend using parchment paper beneath (or simply do what I do - iron down a sheet of freezer paper during sewing sessions to keep your board perfectly clean for your DH's shirts!)

Trim all the edges. You can’t see it but the fabric is beneath this pattern. Cut on all black lines with a rotary cutter and ruler.

These are cut apart pieces

Press open towards the darker side with papers still attached

Trim off the tiny triangle ears protruding

Remove papers

Measure your HST – it should be perfect. In no time at all, you finished 12 perfect 12 x HST (with seam allowance). How great is that?

Peaceful Pathways calls for 360 x HST which equals 30 x A4 paper templates with 12 HST on a sheet. So after this one, you only have 29 to go. You can make all 360 in a single afternoon.

What could be more enjoyable to do on a sewing afternoon? Easy! Perfect!