~ aka Quilting Bloke

A short post - we had a little rain

2011-09-11T21:43:00.000+10:00

Been under the whether a little the last couple of days. Little dose of a cold... more frustrating than serious.

Have laid low the last couple of days and didn't get the camera out for our Sunday visit to the block, was a lovely day even tho it wouldn't make its mind up as to rain or shine. We lit the Stove in the shed and received visitors.

The previous owners of the property came up to show us what was were. Very nice process as the place was fire affected.

BUT we have our own water... not sure how much but some all the same.

Let it rain, PLEASE

2011-09-04T21:31:00.000+10:00

We finished the construction and the plumbing, tidied up and presto! We now have a tank on a stand. Now all we need is to have a little rain so that we can plan to get a water pump connected and plumbed to a sink for a little running water.

Got the mower up around the base of the dam and into the 'swampy' area... only bogged the mower once although was touch and go a couple of times. Lost the drive belt for the blades and learnt how to fix that on my own. Whilst I know help would have been at hand if I asked it was nice to do on my own.

Silly ebay post....

2011-09-01T21:37:00.002+10:00

Really now - only want brand new rocks with no wear and tear, just as well we don't want postage as well.

Item specifics

Condition:

Used: An item that has been used previously. The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully ... Read more

Honeycomb garden rocks. In good used condition.

This auction is for the rocks pictured.

Additional rocks are available at no extra cost to the buyer (if you need them!)

Inspections welcome - contact 0402 xxx xxx - pick up only from Lilydale, VIC 3140

Progress towards some water..

2011-08-28T21:04:00.005+10:00

This morning was a lovely but chilly start to the day. Just love the big blue sky and low clouds or fog if you are in the valley...

The last couple of weekends have been searching for and locating a tank and getting the mighty mower moving again.

Success on both fronts - tank from ebay and about $150 less than most retail prices, the stumps, concrete and re-claimed hardwood for the stand a couple of hundred. Now on the hunt for pipes and plumbing - we did find a length of polly pipe on a hard rubbish collection so will need a little more to complete that - then there is a water pump. That can wait a little as we have no water...

Today we had Leigh and father helping to build the stand in the stump holes we started last weekend when we delivered the tank, my house mates also come and joined us to assist.

The stumps almost done, deceptive that they are square is all in the angle of the photo...

Lumples even had a go on the mower...

Our little piece of Paradise

2011-08-14T15:14:00.006+10:00

Well time is up! I can now spill the beans - regular readers will be aware we often spent many weekends up at Taggery, and many times over the years discussed that we would like our very own piece of the place there.

Well... now we do... which will mean only one thing - we will now spend a great many more there.

Friday 12th we settled and took possession of the 'keys' to the shed. The property has been bushfire affected and once had a home. The previous owners held on for a while but decided that there time was to be elsewhere - we want to thank them for the opportunity to be the next custodians.

We had our first day yesterday up at 'Our Place', very nice to say that... mowing and walking over every inch of the place and touching to I guess take ownership in a hands on way.

We now have the fun and enjoyment of working out the next plans to add to the place, where and what to plant - connecting electricity, getting some water on via a tank and other comforts as time comes to hand.

The view towards 'The Cathedral'

Yours truly having a break from mowing...

Leigh with the mower...

Victor on the trailer coming home for repairs...

The shed will have to be our base for a time until we decide what is the next steps and save a whole lot more to afford to build a little house.

We will be mixing this up with my sewing,

Life ~ Labermese, sewing and secrets

2011-08-02T09:45:00.007+10:00

It has been a while, then life does take turns of occupying you and taking over. Many things happening here in aka land.

There is a certain work project that I have been focused on for more than a good number of years that is now in transition to operational status, I have been mostly working from home as there is an 8 hr timezone difference. This has meant that the past few weeks have been hectic and busier than I care for. I sense that this has peeked now and that I will be able to attend to normal life very soon.

Labermese - OK I am sure that has you! as a youngster I grew up with many animals, cats, dogs, rabbits, mice and I am sure there were others that came and went.

The latest member of the non-human variety is a cross in personality - a Labrador and a Burmese... In reality he is a Burmese... but the behaviour is telling me otherwise. I have a cat that thinks that all food is his and he should have it now... and that sitting on your feet when you are standing is a good idea - even to try whilst you are walking. Just as well we have no elderly folks around the house.

Was trying to get a photo - but would not keep still this morning!

I have been doing a some sewing not nearly as much as I would like, completed 5 Sunday squares - that is now 500 1 1/2 inch pieces. I am most pleased about that. The circle game is at the finished stage for the blocks... and now having the joiners done 10 so that I can assemble the top.

Secrets ~ well they are secret so I can not say, but will be able to spill the beans in another 10 or 11 days, suffice to say that it is a new long term project that Leigh and I have been planning for and working towards.

Hello Blog

2011-06-08T22:58:00.002+10:00

Dear Blog,

I have not forgotten you - and will dig up photos of completed blocks of the month.

Sunday Squares - 3

2011-04-10T20:59:00.003+10:00

Hope we all have had a lovely Sunday ~ little blast of winter today even so we had a nice day out visiting friends in the country. Fine food, good company and a little cutting of squares for the next group - I have not completed the 100 squares so I might not get to Sunday Squares 4 next week.

Not the normal table for the photo so I think it looks a little different in the photo. I knew that we wouldn't be home in time for photo in daylight when I like to take the pictures.

This is a detail within the showing a little scrap of 'From little things' found last weekend.

Block 11 - and a little applique

2011-04-09T08:35:00.005+10:00

Ahhhh - Saturday, don't know about you all but I am living for the weekends at the moment. Strange thing about them is they seam to take forever to come, but arrive in a blink then ~ whoosh they are gone!

Anyway ~ it is an early start today, sitting here with the little man on my lap, have done and hung the first load of washing on the line and completed a row on the 3rd block for Squares... you may be lucky and get the third instalment tomorrow as I have done 6 rows of the 10.

I have for your viewing pleasure today ~ Block 11 of the Circle game.

I had to applique the centre circle into this because as much as I measured, checked - then measured etc, it didn't work to plan A. It was interesting as I thought this would be a walk in the park... easy... then that is the fun of this project to challenge my sewing skills.

I think the simple answer was that I was just that tiny little out when sewing, which stretched the angles and made the centre a little too large.

Sunday Squares - 2

2011-04-03T10:58:00.007+10:00

Happy sunday one and all, here are some pics of the new block. I have block 3 ready to go and will most likely do that once I have attended to 'The Circle game' blocks that arrived this week.

I went to Amitié yesterday for a little fabric addiction therapy, found about 10 more pieces from the extensive scraps bin that will go into the Squares project ~ after all you can never have too many different fabrics in this kind of quilt. I even found and purchased 4 meters of Liberty for the back of 'The Circle Game' ~ well pleased with that as well.

So without further rambling... some fabric candy for you all!

Block 2

Blocks 1 and 2 together..

Back for 'The Circle Game'

Let there be light!

2011-03-31T20:26:00.003+11:00

I have a hobby light from the Daylight company which give a good amount of light for the evenings so I can sit and vegetate with the idiot box and my favourite project of the day. Unfortunately the globe went to G O D.

You would think that it would be an easy thing to resolve anyway it took a bit of effort and contacting the Daylight company to find someone who could sell me a globe... arrived yesterday in the post along with my monthly dose of BOM.

So I have light and additional project all in the same day... so what to do the apron that is well abandoned or the BOM or squares? hmm

Squares win tonight as I can not be bothered with the machine and I am a bit tired to draw templates for the BOM - for your image today another angle of Squares from the weekend, I am onto the next group of squares 5 rows so that should be ready for the weekend.

Sunday Squares

2011-03-27T13:43:00.008+11:00

I am pleased with how this is beginning to take shape. So far I am not sure of the final quilt so until then I will make some more of these.

This is 10 rows of 10, you will see my iphone for a size comparison. I do like the scale and am pleased that I didn't go for 1 inch squares.

NOTE: this is all hand stitched not machine pieced..

When taking the photos I noticed that I had this one here on the camera - forgotten that I took it on our last weekend in March to Taggerty.

The morning mist was wonderful.

We have a very helpful little fellow at home ~ Alakazam is learning how to do the dishes, that is when he is not stalking Miss Tigga...

Thought that I would try a video....

Hope you all have a lovely week...

Happy Saturday

2011-03-26T08:38:00.005+11:00

It is starting to get a chill in the air in the mornings and the days are getting a bit shorter with the mornings all up the creek with light as DST is making the perceived time all screwy.

Had a good week and completed some more squares for the new project - 250 of them or 10% of the total for those technically minded.

Statistics 2500 1 1/2 inch squares - and as I do about 12 stitches to the inch with some back stitching, that 200,000 stitches and we should have a top done.

I have even joined some - 40 to date, you will just have to deal with the teaser as I can not be bothered this morning getting out of a warm bed!

Photograph colour is awful, as the photo was with the light on...

Blocks Nine and Ten

2011-03-21T22:17:00.002+11:00

Back on the game, the circle one at that as well....

Now up to date ~ I have even started on the next Long term project... think that I will have to cut a few more out before a couple of pics - doing the Squares so far have cut 104 1 1/2 inch all from scrap. You may have to wait until I have at least 300 before pic's but that shouldn't be too long as this 100 was an afternoon anyway.

Block nine was a lot more fun than block eight...

I was not sure about the orange ~ then should trust this pattern... it is not about one piece of fabric it is about it all..

Block Eight - success!

2011-03-07T20:24:00.005+11:00

I found after I un-picked this that the easiest technique for making was to make two groups of 3, sets - then join though the middle like the instructions for block one.

There are some puffy bits on a couple of the "leaves" however - blind man would be happy, and they will disappear with quilting.

Most pleased now I can attend to block nine and we have the latest block just arrived - just as well I waited as the fabric fairy put in one of the pieces that is used in that block - mwah to you!!

Growing boy

2011-03-01T20:05:00.005+11:00

Vet today ~ vaccinations and a little weigh in.. 2.45kg that is .55 more in one month and only 20 weeks old.

Sewing absence

2011-02-28T19:25:00.005+11:00

Not sure why - but having a blockage on sewing at the moment, must be the work stuff that is not leaving me in a good space to sew... but we are now at the end of the month and the post a few days ago is the limit of the sewing for the month... not good that I have not finished the months blocks, at least I have put the boarders on all the others.

We took the van up to Taggerty for the weekend for some R&R, noice! One of the things that Leigh has been wanting to do is to have a smaller awning for when we are touring, the problem is that if you go to a manufacture or to a reseller they see caravan and charge the proverbial arm and leg. So the solution was wait and find something at a garage sale that would do.

So this was it, doesn't really provide more than shelter a the door so you don't get wet and can have a couple of chairs and a small table under cover.

We took a drive up to Mansfield on Saturday and then returned by a road from Booni Doon, turning left off the bridge as you return to Melbourne and following the road. This will take you all the way to the Eildon township. The drive follows the lake side for a good while before taking a sharp turn and heading into the mountains. Then follows the ridge line most of the way, there were many points where the views to the valleys and lake. Spectacular - really spectacular... just to think that this is only about 80% capacity.

We thought - here is the best place for a house ~ well the best place that you could see from the roadside.

Master Alakazam survived his first weekend of abandonment ~ my house mate said he was the life of the gathering that he had while we were away and that all who were here are now Cat fans.

Ta-dah certificate of occupancy

2011-02-19T20:35:00.009+11:00

Drum role - they are in and out of there new room and right now as I write this little Alakazam is zonked out and sleeping on Leigh. All that remains is a little paint - however as it is on the inside will have to evict the furry ones and keep them out until is at least touch dry, seeing as the blue on has a tan poor.

Cost - total was less than $150.00

Pleased as punch

He was not scared just busy busy

Master bossy boots...

The Circle Game - hmmm

2011-02-19T08:51:00.006+11:00

Life is busy ~ work is nuts...

There are attention issues to very complicated sewing challenges... at least the little furry one is interested in chewing the camera, I had this mostly together and had to un-pick the whole thing - most interesting indeed.

Guess that I will have to bash the living daylights out of it and have another go!!

Kitty palace

2011-02-14T22:29:00.006+11:00

I have wanted to build a kitty palace for the furry ones so they can sit and contemplate catching some Magpies, smell the breeze and generally get some extra stimulation.

So without much ado here is the frame and the deck of the mansion, sans the wire to contain them or method to ensure the draft and warmth is contained during the colder months. That is all for next weekend.

The entire structure so far is held on by tec-screws and being tightly wedged into the window frame. Total cost so far $109 - plus borrowed tools and nails etc from Leigh's father.

Of course ~ in case you forgot who for... yes that was the WHO ME - it wasn't me it! Look from Master Alakazam.

He did go from sleep to attack...

Navel gazing on a hot summers night..

2011-01-30T22:50:00.007+11:00

It has been an interesting month adjusting to life with the little Alakazam who the other day weighed in at 1.9kg at the vets (when we could keep him still enough for the scales to register) during the booster shot for his vacations.

He finds all manor of games, in-fact life is just a game for him - we have had adventures a plenty in the bathroom from swimming in the 'little-porcelain' swimming pool. Bath time has been fun, the usual kitten behaviour of running the gauntlet of the edge of the bath not showing the slightest concern with the little dip ~ he has even jumped on my chest whilst in the bath, the old cotton real, square of cardboard - sox's, jocks (must put them in the clothes hamper). There really is so much to do - the bestest toy tho is Tigga...

Much to Tigga's delight the cleaning must get done, I use a Swifter floor broom out to sweep the house - that is the best game trying to ride the top of the broom, Tigga is pleased as he leaves her alone during that game.

I have finished with much difficulty cutting out the back-ground fabric, not that the drawing of the shapes or managing to ensure that I was economical with the fabric - no sir… the issue is that templates, pencils, scissors or in-fact anything that I am holding or using is a plaything to a baby burmese.

We are designing a cat run at the moment - to provide some outside time as they are both inside kitties - I will take some pics once we get this underway - but essentially the run will be about 1 meter wide, 2.5 wide and 1.7 high - nice timber deck with wire and a door via a window.

---

Sewing has been limited to preparing the background and finishing the block that came with the back ground. Considering another project a play on colour and make either a 1 inch square or 2 inches square quilt with all the scrap that I have left from my hexagon and last years BOM. Also certain that there will be some from this years BOM that will make there way into a like that.

Block Seven

2011-01-08T16:30:00.005+11:00

Had a little fun yesterday with this, Master Alakazam thought that the plastic templates were toys and have some lovely little chewing marks on the corners I guess they only get used for one block so it doesn't really matter.

I have not had a kitten for such a long time and totally forgot how much fun they are ~ this one seems to think that all food and I mean ALL FOOD is his - such a proud little fellow when he took off with his half chicken neck.

Tigga has given in...

2011-01-05T21:33:00.005+11:00

Well, if at first you get pushed away ~ as a friendly little fellow you just have to keep trying and find a new approach.

See, if I hop up and have a snooze on the lounge with her, she will not get upset.

Then if you are really smart you wait until you hear the zzzzz and slink over even closer.

If you are really lucky you will get away with it...

Was lovely to see this today, Tigga even started to clean him a little which of course he loved.

Friends in the making

2011-01-03T22:25:00.006+11:00

Well it has not taken long we are almost friends... and you know what - Miss Tigga doesn't have any say in the matter...

Alakazam

2011-01-01T19:26:00.003+11:00

Happy new year to one and all we have a new arrival in the house - meet Alakazam

Any tips on photographing a Little active Blue Burmese boy full of the energy of life?

Four, five and six

2010-12-22T20:34:00.003+11:00

I finished these a couple of weeks ago but not gotten around to taking the pics.

So here you go.

I think the one above is my favourite so far

Bye bye Angie my little love bug...

2010-12-14T19:09:00.007+11:00

Whilst it is extremely sad today and will be for sometime, I give thanks that I had her for so long. What joy they bring to your world ~ Miss Angie ~ even you have run out of purrs and head butts your love lives on in us all.

The first picture I have October ~ 2002 she came to my home as a nine month old from a breeder who had her in a run with the others ~ she just wanted a home which is what she deserved, she gave un-abounding amounts of affection which I will miss.

Goings on...

2010-12-13T21:13:00.007+11:00

Been very busy over the past couple of months, mostly was nothing that I was not expecting with a conclusion of a major project at work.

However the past week has had some goings on or not goings on which are a little less pleasing. My poor little Angie is not doing well again and is costing a small ransom in vets fees. But when you see them suffering you have to do something, to a degree so long as we are not causing harm or prolonging suffering the cost is secondary.

Here she is recovering from her 'procedure' last week. I promise you that you do not want to know more. Things are not moving the right direction at the moment even tho she is not losing too much weight (I am having to fee her with a syringe ~ most trying I can attest to).

Tomorrow off for some x-rays and some more tests so fingers crossed.

Now we just need her start eating and pooping on her own and we will be OK again for now at least.

In other news, not a tremendous amount of sewing I am keeping up with block of the month and have finished 4, 5 and 6 just need to take some photos and post them soon. Might even see if I can get some secret stuff done for Christmas.

October - Block Two and Three

2010-10-11T22:39:00.003+11:00

Have had a bit of a sewing blockage and not really been doing very much ~ don't ask about the apron as I am sure someone will remind me soon enough. I have no idea where the year is running to at the moment either... but

Anyway I did enjoy the BOM this month even if JK is evil with the one on the right!!! Circles in Circles of a circle with squares!

Leigh and I have been going to a few Orchid shows of late and picked up a couple of these, some in flower others with 'promise' of maybe flowering if we neglect them the right way next year.

I have had the one below for about 10 years now it has been potted once. Sometimes watered, weeded when the onion grass is annoying ~ so here is the result - every year without fail so far it is covered in white flowers. Will post as soon as they come out which will not be that long.

Sunday was a lovely day in Melbourne! one not to be waisted and we didn't! We took a run up to Taggerty to see some friends and had a lovely picnic on the way home on the Black Spur.

Block one - The Circle Game

2010-09-05T11:33:00.003+10:00

This was a bit easier than I thought - even tho the points in the middle were a bit tricky - nothing that a good dose of steam will not fix.

Now that I have dealt with this I had better do the apron as promised.

Let the game begin...

2010-09-04T16:48:00.003+10:00

I had a lovely surprise yesterday - the first package for the next BOM arrived.

'The Circle Game' by Jenny Kingwell of Amitié.

This leaves me with one issue - do I make the apron as promised or jump straight into the 1st block....

Photos Green Tea Sweet Beans

2010-09-04T10:33:00.004+10:00

Good morning, it is not a good day for photography - I can not get the the line to hang this so that you can get a good view and hanging against the window doesn't work as - 1 not enough front light or 2 to much back light.

I did like the flower garden at the bottom

Do you like the combination of the backing? I think it works very well...

On the bed - this may not be the its final home - shh that might be a secret...

GTSB BOM finished...

2010-09-02T18:47:00.003+10:00

Great to put the last stitch in place, will get some pics over the next couple of days if our weather is fine enough.

The binding drama was resolved by just joining it all even tho half of the fabric was on the other angle. bloody 45º things...

Weekend workshop - Updated

2010-08-29T15:14:00.003+10:00

Well a little more than a weekend - I booked a day of annual leave so that I could join in on the 2 day workshop. Exploring the textural concepts and stitching with all manor of fibers.

Head is still spinning about the possibilities, to couch, coral, Double triple doozy stitch. Where can I 'steal' I mean acquire more interesting threads and fabrics in quantities that are one not going to break the bank or two be so much that I will not ever us it all.

I think I will be getting some occasional packages from Sue directly, I hear that there is a store in Melbourne that may make some notion packs to get some interesting items as well...

Does the collective blog-land know of any good simple and easy to understand tutorials of stitches? of the online variety of course. If so please post a comment so that we can share them all.

Results - nothing like the depth that Sue Spargo does, however that does take some time. I think this will be a nice little sideline project to add to other projects in-between some of the larger quilting activities.

Many thanks Sue, the gals in the class and the team at Amitie for making this well worth undertaking.

Magnolias and a small sewing problem

2010-08-22T12:24:00.004+10:00

Happy Sunday - After the expected dismal efforts of the major parties this weekend. There is a chance that this maybe a positive outcome for the election - so long as Mr Rabbit is kept in his burrow, I thought that I would try a positive blog.

I am always encouraged by this time of the year when we have our Magnolias in flower. There is something about the clarity and colour of the blooms against the winter sky.

~ I didn't notice the mower boy...

Now for the sewing issue!

Anyone - can you see the problem! I do hate cutting fabric on the bias - never really works for me... next time I will do it at a shop so that I don't stuff it...

I am joining in for a class with Sue Spargo at Amitié next Friday and Saturday - here is the homework... done... Tick to me.

Pambula

2010-08-10T21:51:00.003+10:00

Well it is amazing what a few days away will do - pics speak for themselves I think.

Green Tea - the Backing

2010-07-03T16:41:00.005+10:00

After much ado attempting to correct the wayward behavior of the Pin Thief (we think this is a lost cause). The sewer of the house has managed to finally finish Green Tea and Sweet Beans.

If our whether would be a little kinder in the next day or so I will take a bigger picture and post. I spent a couple of hours examining 67% of the available stock - no was not that bad but always a lot of fun to go this or that or maybe this..

Here is the selection to-date .. now to decide if the Spots are in the center or the Flowers are in the center or if I will change my mind completely.

~ Update - Thanks for the note Andi, I was not that clear I am planning to use both of the fabrics. Whist you are correct that it was a lot of work, in the end as it was measured and delivered as a BOM it was not that overwhelming. I am looking forward to the next one...

Ever lose Pins and Needles?

2010-06-06T23:09:00.011+10:00

I am normally very careful to try to avoid leaving Pins and Needles in places that will cause effects of injuring others or myself. This afternoon I sat down to do some more of the boarder for the Green Tea and Sweet Beans quilt. I have 2 sides done, working on the third now would be nice to have this completed next weekend as a trip to buy some backing will be in order sooner... any way I digress.

Normally I use the arm of the couch or the pin mouse, first reached to the arm of the couch for them and nope nothing zip ~ not a pin to be found! hmm most strange, OK some new ones from the mouse then, note a pin was in it... not wanting to accuse of the two legged members of the house, that would just not be fair! no not at all...

This was most puzzling until a few minutes later I saw the culprit...

Thief, ever so innocent!

Miss Tigga jumped up to offer her assistance! sitting on the arm of the couch! yes this is like 'The Cat sat on the mat'! Carefully she pulled one pin out.. and spat it out fortunately it landed in my sewing bag, then another and another and so on! I even found a needle with thread beside it on the floor in front of where I sew most evenings...

Although she thought it was a great game... not so sure the sewer in the house...

Update: 07/06/2010 ~ found yet more pins today on the floor that I had missed

Under the Kitchen Sink

2010-05-30T22:08:00.005+10:00

Completed ~ only slightly over due ~ Christmas gift to Leigh. I must confess that I didn't select any of the fabric with the exception of the back as it was a Kit that was on sale at Amitié sometime last year.

The happy recipient!

Even Miss Pangie was pleased ~ or that she was watching the Magpies feast on the Pork roast leftovers in the back yard... I do love the Feathered Magpies...

Pillows

2010-05-09T21:26:00.004+10:00

There is a class that is being held by Sue Spargo, later in the year in Melbourne. This is a must do for me, kitties love them... or was it that the couch was drenched in sun! :)

These pillows were from 'Secret Santa and the Easter Bunny' not made by me...

Even tho they swapped sides..

Amitié BOM - looking great

2010-05-09T21:06:00.004+10:00

There has been a lot of sewing happening over the last 12 months ~ even if this is not reflected on the blog....

Following are some pics of the Block of the month that I have been doing from Amitié in Melbourne. I choose this as a project as it had many very interesting blocks that I can learn how to sew better from.

This is now just missing the boarders which have not arrived, I will of course blog about this and the sneak preview of the XMAS quilt that I must finish for Leigh.

De Wildt Cheetah Centre

2010-03-22T06:25:00.006+11:00

After being collected by our hosts and taken for Breakfast to a Botanical gardens, this included a nice stroll around to see waterfalls, eagles, weaver bird nests. Very nice way to start a Sunday morning indeed.

Following this we collected some provisions for the afternoon, and drove to De Wildt Cheetah Centre. I am a little tired this evening and find it hard to express the experience today so the photos can do the talking today, will consider an update sometime depending on the schedule.

Cheetah, Cheetah, African Wild Dogs and Impala..

Maropeng - Rhino and Lion Park

2010-03-21T05:23:00.011+11:00

Has been a big day, this is a big country and getting around takes some time. Here are some highlight pictures ~ a couple of them especially for the liberty fairy.

There were 5 Females at the park all with Calves..

Some young Rhino's in care...

Tortoise Tea!! same as TT :)

Now for some puddy tats!! big ones!

This is about 2 ~ 3 months old..

These were about 7~ 8 months old...

A Black Leopard...

Shhhh - don't disturb cat @ work in the afternoon sun...

Dear Mr E Lump, Aunt Mable is not on an Island in the Pacific!!!

It is easy to see why it is called a Pride...

This is the sneak preview of tomorrows event!!

Hello from Johannesburg

2010-03-20T06:06:00.003+11:00

Well, I am kind of surprised that I have not made a post since Jan 1! little blogging absence that I am sure has resulted it the hordes of people watching to believe that I had fallen off the face of the earth.

I am here on a business trip to train and ensure that a product release is ready for a go live in the coming weeks. So far the trip has been busy to say the least - I am sure that you okes don't want to know much about that. Here are the few happy snaps that I have been able to take.

I left Melbourne late on a Tuesday and spent 17 hrs overnight transiting in Perth for a very comfortable flight on an SAA plane (with 2 seats - thank you very much) got some sleep and arrived at 4.30 am on Wednesday morning. Talk about a red-eye flight.

I promise that the pictures and story for tomorrow will be more interesting.

Pick and Pay - amazing shop looks like a photo shoot..

On a wall for the short stroll to the office...

Friday afternoon at the office...

Where abouts

2010-01-01T18:22:00.002+11:00

Hi - I am over here at the moment --->
just click on the link to our other blog and have a read and leave some comments if you would like.

More Photos

2009-11-29T23:21:00.005+11:00

Not much to say this evening ~ the photos can do the chatting...

This shows the binding and backing ~ love the Liberty!

Some more detail and introducing the other project recently finished for Bill!

Flying in the breeze at least this one will clear the ground!

Hexagons finished!

2009-11-25T23:30:00.006+11:00

Hexagon project completed – the Liberty fairy tells me that it was 21st November @ 6.30 pm!

Lovely and healthy 195 cm x 223 cm, that large that I could not fully suspend the quilt from the clothes line!

Binding frenzy

2009-11-20T00:03:00.002+11:00

Hello all - been missing in work land over the past couple of months, but have been steady on the Triangles and binding for Hexagons! about to turn the second last corner on the quilt and may get that completed this weekend.

Planning some pictures over the weekend as we are away over the mountains at Taggerty with the Van - will be great to get away for the first weekend of the season.

New Toy

2009-10-25T23:42:00.004+11:00

Those who have been used to posts including lovely glossy picture of projects and events that I have been enjoying - sorry I still have to replace the camera since the house was broken into.

Anyway - got myself a new toy as I am going to start to bind the hexagon Quilt very soon as it completed (minus the binding) - I even have to take some pictures of a new quilt that I have completed in my blogging absence. Not to mention the many block of the months that I have also been working on - busy busy...

I used this over the weekend and was amazed at the ease in sewing the binding on!! ponders the thought of leaving on for ever as it is my new best friend. I have a kit to do from Red Mama - and an idea of for a Simon design for my scraps and lots another solid colour - not sure just yet.

I must add that I have borrowed the image from Bernina - the foot is the presser foot number 50.

strange contacts

2009-10-25T10:43:00.004+11:00

I think it is interesting to get a strange 'hello' message out of the blue. When these come from people who you don't trust and are known to tell a message that is convenient to themselves and their 'truths'.

It is even stranger when these are from sources that should be under no illusion that they are no longer respected as there actions proved that they were not worthy of acknowledging in fact worth crossing the street to avoid them. Even stranger is that there are clear indications that you have (edited - deleted them from your own list of contacts) been deleted from a contact list, yet they engage on a fishing expedition for Intel, or some such thing to boost there ego - or maybe even continue the great tradition of being a bully...

My truth is that I was able to say hello, without the need to share my true thoughts and opinions – and yes I know that I have many of these. I guess that I know my faults are many, I live with these and try to manage on a daily basis – those of others should be best left to them...

Well! I'll be buggered!!

2009-07-13T20:34:00.003+10:00

NOO!! don't be rude!!

I didn't think that I had a 1/4 inch foot! not sure why ~ actually maybe to read the manual could be a good idea... now where did I put that!

This is going to make life a whole lot easier!!!

PS 21 Hexagon flowers quilted as there was a Pattern Malfunction with a new project!

Hexagons - Basted

2009-06-28T22:51:00.004+10:00

I have been wanting to post that I have finally finished the top of my Hexagon Flower garden quilt!! But thought that you would not believe me unless there were some photos as well.

It has taken about 15 months to get to this stage, now this should not put anyone off making one, it was really not 'all' about this quilt, I finished 1 other, made 2 from scratch and several bags during this period. Not to mention the mother of all projects at the office pushing systems with the team to a global level... but we don't talk about the 'W' word here!!!

I am still not sure about how to quilt this ~ inside the center and outside the flower block or outside center and outside the flower block etc - I know I will use Perl 12, but gosh what colour, multi or all the same... That can all wait a little..

I do hope that the next block of the month turns up soon as I need a new hand project ~ and yes there is at least 2 others on the drawing board at the moment aside from the block of the month from Amitié "Green Tea & Sweet Beans."

So - here are a couple of photos!!

Some of you may remember the back of this one ~ the Liberty Fairy who visited for my birthday last year..

Poor Angie - what a week

2009-05-27T12:26:00.003+10:00

Well there has not been a lot of progress on the Hexagons the past week was mostly consumed with dealing with a small member of the household who was suffering sever constipation.

Angie had this problem last year which when we dealt with it then was straight forward and resolved in a couple of days. This time things were very different - she had the procedure to resolve the - ummm blockage, but for some reason just didn't bounce back.

I took her back to the vet after a couple of days as she was not eating or drinking - and starting to suffer for that, so we were to use a syringe to force some food and fluid ~ now let me be clear here, forcing anything down even the most compliant cat is a challenge. Doing this to one who is going down hill rapidly was very stressful for both cat and owner.

Angie ended up back in care at the vet on Monday and was placed on a drip, given a strong dose of an Anti-biotic and force feed. Some 28 hours later when I returned to collect her she was eating on her own and not looking like some half staved and emaciated waif.

I will take a pic of the stylish new hair cut for here - heheh she won't mind that much. :)

Nice to have the head-buts this morning and stereo purring in bed last night... Back to sewing during the week, or at least tracing and cutting out... think I have cut 8 (seven per group) new flowers and about 50 or the backgrounds that leaves about 80~90 left to cut up.

Hexagons Update

2009-05-18T10:21:00.002+10:00

I completed another row last night, that makes a total of 13 rows by 9 rows. We now have a measure - of about 90" x 71" inches or 230 x 180 cm. Did a trial run on the bed to see the effect, who wouldn't!!!

Photo - from file and to be replaced

Was both exciting and disappointing at the same time, it really looks fabulous and will have to wait for some daylight to take a photograph - the disappointment is that I now have to add another row to the shorter of the sizes This will extend the width (which is actually the length) to about 82".

Whilst I am still enjoying this project and find it very rewarding I have decided that there are no new projects until I have the top finished at the least. This means about 181 more Hexagons to cut out and sew to really finish.

I will be a happy to put down and start something else before basting and quilting as that is another process altogether and will need some careful planning and much procrastination.

Completed Coin Quilt

2009-05-12T19:09:00.005+10:00

Hiya all,

I finished this over the weekend and as usual had fun with the photography. I must get the older camera sorted that takes much higher quality photos.

The pictures don't do it justice... maybe some more when it is washed and about to be delivered to the new owner...

Hanging from the Dinning room window...

Yes there was a change in plan for the binding... alas I could not bring myself to plain!!! We don't do plain!!!

Shock horror!!! 60,000 kids on the train!

2009-05-06T12:02:00.007+10:00

Hello fellow bloggers,

Can you imagine the horror of the morning ~ arriving at Ringwood East station to be confronted with 60 000, students all attempting to board the train (my personal train at that) for the daily drudge to the office. OK just a normal days trip to the office and there may have been less than 60 000 students on the platform.

Well, you may ask was this the horror trip from hell? I was pleasantly surprised that it was an enjoyable trip, as enjoyable as a commute to the office can be anyway. There were Connex staff on the platform!!! Surely that must have been due to advise from the School not good fortune that Connex was aware of things happening on their network.

I would like to congratulate the Students and Staff for their conduct this morning, well mannered and polite young men and women. It was a nice surprise, equally it is a pleasure to commend their behavior, as it is important for them to be aware they have conducted themselves in a manor which is considerate to the community. ~ which school you may ask?

Yarra Valley Grammar!

Binding indecision

2009-04-27T11:49:00.003+10:00

I finished quilting the Nareda's Coin Quilt a couple of weekends ago and am very happy with the result. I have quilted this one more extensively than any other that I have done. The lines are about 2 inches apart excluding the Coins which are done about 1/8th of an inch from the seam.

Almost the same angle but night shot.

This shows the two fabrics on the back...

I did choose a binding fabric which I like but am not so sure about with the actual quilt now that it is trimmed to the edges. So the fabric will either be added to the stash (which is fine as I really like it anyway) or just used. Besides it is a good excuse (as if one really needs one) to visit a fabric shop.

I am using the time to be busy with Hexagons - finished the 12th row at the weekend and have been a little beaver marking up and cutting out the next batch to make what should be the final row - yes a commitment to the width - now to be decisive with the length of the quilt, will I add 2 or 4 more single hexagons... why is this so hard to stop!!!!

Maybe that I have another 2 projects that I want to start that may help to focus that decision. One is a Wonky star quilt using some Silk fabic that I was given by Nareda and the other is a kit that I got on sale at Amitié.

hmmm do I need these?

2009-04-16T14:09:00.005+10:00

Laser helps you get straight cuts in paper and fabric

No I have not purchased

Okay, so we're not quite at the point in the future where everyone has their own flying car and, possibly more disappointing, we don't have personal laser cutting instruments. But judging by the way people drive while still on the ground, we're probably not ready for flying cars or laser cutting instruments for that matter. Still, a geek has to dream about such things, right?

For now we will go with these Laser Guided Scissors, that will at least help you make some straight cuts. The built-in Laser helps you get straight cuts in paper and fabric, whether gift wrapping or working on a project at home or in the office.

For making accurate straight cuts in paper and fabric
Ideal for gift wrapping, craftwork, assembly, scrapbooking, photos
Push button will turn red laser on/off
Length: 8.25" (21 cm)
Blade length: 3.5" (9 cm)
Takes 2 LR44 button cell batteries (included)

Source

Nareda's Coin Quilt - Ready to quilt

2009-03-10T09:11:00.005+11:00

Have to say that I am surprised that this project has gone as quickly as it has – now I could understand it if I had the trusty sewing machine going and was zipping it together with that - alas I had a sewing disaster and decided that it was the machine - not the operator (we all know that is wrong) so I hand sewed this Quilt top. I started sewing this just over 2 weeks ago and have now completed the top and joined the backing as well.

The size is 72 inches x 76 inches.

In this photo it is only just 'blog' ready. was missing the boarders and a row - but I think you will get the picture of what it is - yes I am very pleased with the result.

So it is off to get the wadding and the binding fabric during the week... and back to Hexagons...

Some Wonky Stars for the Victoian Bushfires

2009-02-14T16:42:00.006+11:00

If you are looking as I was follow this link,...

In my last post I mentioned that I was looking for a project to assist with... this is what I have found. Camp Follower Bags and Quilts has started a project. So I ducked out to get some backing material and here is the result.

These will be in the post on Monday morning for the Alice...

There is a great tutorial for this found here ....

Victorian Fires

2009-02-10T20:52:00.005+11:00

The appalling lost of life, property and habitats from the tragic Victorian fires have left me rather numb! I expect that I am not alone with these feelings and as such been trying to find within some sense of this. I had been thinking about how to post about this and if I really should. As there is an abundance of images online of the tragedy which has ended so many lives early will continue to cause upheaval and distress to countless others.

The conclusion was it can do no harm and maybe it will touch someone ~ that is all that is required and possibly help me to process this tragic event.

Whilst I am not aware of anyone close to myself or immediate family and circle of friends that have lost loved ones or their worldly possessions. I do and can understand this loss from personal family experience.. There is something about other disaster events that do not in my estimation come close however the result is the same.

Cyclone Tracy - My parents lost all there possessions and a 10 day old house, I was with my Grandparents in Canberra and answered the phone a couple of times (which was rather strange as we didn't have one at home) only to have the caller hang up as I was not making much sense to them. Finally ~ Grandfather beat me to the phone ~ it was news that they were desperate for that my parents and youngest brother were alive and without any injuries.

The reality check is that we lost our loved pets and our belongings and although there were tremendous danger and we knew a people who lost a child - we were lucky and life continued, we even went back a few years after.

There is the untold damage which is not measurable, that is our emotions. This I think had a large effect on our Christmas's and possibly still affects my Father. I was discussing the fires with him and his comments to me were obvious that events of this nature will have a profound and long term effect on those people who are directly effected.

I am also keeping my ear to the ground to see if there is another more practical project that I can assist with, I will put a post about it here when I find it.

In the meantime my heart goes out to all affected and you are in my prayers.

:)

Nareda's Coin Quilt - Ready to sew

2009-02-07T19:01:00.007+11:00

Not withstanding the fact that Melbourne had the hottest day (CBD was 46.4º C - and much hotter in the burbs where I live easily add a degree or two) since they began recording and keeping records. NOW fellow bloggers and readers ~ this could just be a normal spike in the weather pattern and not the end of the world... alas that is a story and yarn for other places and experts.

Bright and colourful of cause ~ masses of Liberty fabric... 26 different fabrics... hmmm might see about some more from the stash...

ALL of that aside I have managed to plan and draw the quilt in Illustrator to same size then cut out all the Coins and White backgrounds. There are even some nice scraps for the Hexagon Quilt that is now going to get bigger...

I have reserved 73 inches of the white for the rails and boarder. You can also see the pattern, which I have recorded the details of how much is required to make the top. To date there are 90 coloured pieces cut and 86 white pieces cut... in all I need 86/85 respectively. So there are a few extras.

In the supper sized world we live in this is for a single bed - but should have a finished size of 75x72 inches...

:)

Nareda's Coin Quilt

2009-02-05T21:56:00.008+11:00

Well here is the beginning, fabric is purchased and have selected a pattern that I will make. I am amazed that a pile of fabric like this will turn into something that is a wonder to wrap yourself in!!

This is a collection of Fat 16ths selected with Nareda on a mission to Amitie just before the Australia day weekend ~ they are arranged as a fan (ok kinda) the white is the background is more a clotted cream than pure white, the other large pink flowers will be the backing. Really don't know how I am going to be able to contain myself and do a plain binding as I have been asked!! gasp!!

Yes there is a fair amount of Liberty in the stash!

Another-coin-quilt is the insperation and design idea that I will attempt. Not particularly hard as a project. But different to all the others that I have done ~ except that there is no such thing as too many colours!

Thank you Nettie for permission to use your photo

If we don't have a 43º weekend I may even start this weekend.

:)

Is this about Quilting or Caravaning?

2009-02-01T22:57:00.008+11:00

It seams to be a good question, well actually I like to think it is about many things that I enjoy to do! It is summer after all and the height of Holidays and any excuse to get away from the city.

I promise that the next post will be some sewing projects ~ after all Hexigons are now on the 1oth row!! One more and I will put aside to make another by machine.

Walking home with supplies, the General store is a real gem we found some fantastic local olive oil...

These are some pics of our last weekend away ~ Australia Day weekend... what is does it mean to me to have a national day to celebrate our nation. Well it doesn't get much simpler than to head away and spend some time in the van with Leigh...

Both vans from a distance...

This year was a treat!! We were visited by a dear friend, one of the few who I have has known me since my very early teens. That is more time ago than I care to remember.!

We headed up to Taggerty together with Leigh and his family... Didn't do much except to relax and generally have fun in the outdoors.

We saw the Australia day Parade in Marysville on the way home ~ would like to say we planned it but alas it was really just chance. What a tremendous sense of community spirit they have...

Effalump visits Gundagai

2009-01-15T11:36:00.007+11:00

As you can see our favorite Friend and faithful travel (not with Sun Glasses) companion is once again with us ~ this time he was visiting the 'Tucker Box'. This was on day two of our recent trip to Canberra and Southern New South Wales.

He does have many uses! travel mascot is just one of them...

Here is the traveler again ~ this time as an escort to his little cousins!!

Holidays ~ but a distant memory!!

2009-01-12T13:19:00.010+11:00

Updated Pics...

Well they are over! done and dusted! Have to report that it was a wonderful time this year sharing time with Loved ones family and some touring with the van. We spent Christmas day in Melbourne with Leigh's family then on boxing day we took off for a quick 10 days away to visit my Dad and his partner Jan.

There was a question from Anon ~ Yes Christmas was most enjoyable and a memorable day...

Day One: we left Melbourne and wound our way up via Yea to Seymore then traveled to Holbrook. Where we over-nighted - lovely little park. and most inexpensive - they take will give an RACV discount if you are looking for a better price on the already cheap price.

http://www.holbrookmotorvillage.com.au/

Days Two to Five: Canberra, was great to spend some time in Canberra with Dad and Jan, as Canberra is a regular haunt on our travels we didn't do that much, earned our lodging by doing some weeding for them... We did have a nice little picnic down at Cotter Mouth dam and a drive to Tiddbinbilla Tracking station. It has been a long time since I was down that way I couldn't believe how far south the Canberra sprawl has gone... Wonder if it would be easier to commute to Cooma than Canberra City!!

Day Six: Canberra to Oberon ~ we left early and drove to Goulburn, as usual Lake George was a dust bowl! We had a bit of a snack and a break in the park after stopping for a photo at the big Merino. Next was the run up via what is going to be in my opinion a very popular tourist drive in the near future, The Tablelands Way

See the link from Google Maps... was a great run. We stopped for lunch at Taralga a lovely little town (in desperate need of a little caravan park) easy driving and most scenic the only point that was a little tricky for us towing a caravan was the run out of the Abercrombie Gorge.

We stayed at http://www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au/index.htm

View Larger Map
Day Seven: New years Day ~ We got going as early as was reasonable for New Years day and drove the short but winding road down to Jenolan Caves. Now I had not seen them since I was a little tacker - have to say they were not a disappointment. Just check out the website and you will see for yourself.

Leigh had never seen a cave like this and was suitably impressed. After this I wanted to show he a quick glimpse of the Blue Mountains proper so we drove across to Katoomba for a late lunch. Of cause we didn't get to see much as it was tourist central being New Years Day ~ enough for Leigh to decide that we would like to pay a return visit in the future.

http://www.jenolancaves.org.au/

Day Eight: Cootamundra ~ After a lazy start to the day we headed down off the Tablelands to Bathurst for some much needed GAS (LPG).

We headed to Carcool for a cuppa then had lunch on the river at Corwra.

We thought these signs were fun...

Where are the horses...

This is a basic and nice little park ~ green lawns, clean facilities and close to the main shopping part of town so we were able to stay hooked up to head off earlier the next morning. There is no Website for this park however the contact details are available from Visit NSW see link below.

http://www.visitnsw.com/town/Cootamundra/Cootamundra_Caravan_Park/info.aspx

Day Nine: Towcumal ~ This was the longest run of the trip and mostly an easy day even tho it was a bigger distance than we like to do in a day. There is not much to say about the Newell Hwy. Much prefer the run across from Bathurst a bit more work and harder driving, slowing to conditions solves that problem.

Day Ten: Home ~ not much to write about getting home! except that we didn't really want to come home. We were enjoying the touring and life on the road...

;)

Secret sewing business

2008-12-19T14:06:00.003+11:00

Last night had a hankering for some sewing and none quilting related... so I decided to pop down and join in one of the Thursday evening 'secret sewing' run by Jennifer Kingwell on most
Thursday evenings.
Time: Thurs 7.30pm – 10pm
Date:
Jan 15, 22, 29.
Feb 5, 19, 26.
Mar 5, 19.
April 2

Click here to download full class list

I had much fun making what may or may not become a Christmas gift... so I have decided to not say what it was – leave as an Auto post as the Secret Sewing Post for 25th December.

Thanks Jennifer – will try joining a class more often next year..

:)

Tweek to the header

2008-12-16T12:18:00.002+11:00

Hi,

I have decided that after a bit of an absence from here that a new look was and is required... I really should be able to make this thing look a whole lot better and personalized without having to have a completely hosted solution at some other location.

What you see now is a section of my Hexagon project with the colours tweaked and distorted ~ just cause I can... Was kind of interesting attempting to align in with the rest of the template nothing that a little maths would not solve.

I hope that with a little magic and the wonders of a 3G network and a modern phone that I will be able to post whilst on Holidays this year. That is if Optus can maintain their F&^ked network.... that is another story tho relating to getting $650.00+ credit from them and an new phone from Apple.

:)

Really - a post!!

2008-12-15T12:07:00.006+11:00

Hello all....

I hope you have not given up on this space as I have been so busy with the rush to finish a Work project as well as settle into the new digs...

Well and truly settled in now and working on projects - even completed the XMAS quilt that I have been busy with - Photo to come later today as there will be enough light when I get home.

This was at the basting stage – was actually dark when I got home finally... so new photo tomorrow

Looking forward to the Christmas break - we are heading away with Leigh's new (to him) Caravan... so looking forward to having some photos of that to upload. Can you believe an old van (late 80s) that doesn't need new curtains - and the upholstery is in perfect condition - and only just a touch of Brown!!! Might have to make some new scatter cushions and a dedicated Quilt for the van...

Just a bit of a shame that the cushion classes are on week days... cough cough....

Blogging absence

2008-10-29T23:23:00.005+11:00

Gosh Bronwyn – your right I have been absent a while,

It has been a while since the last post.... well what has been happening. I have almost finished the top of the quilt that I am making for a Christmas gift. Hour or so and I will be able to assemble.. best get a crack on with it.

The distraction has been moving home... After many many months of traveling from Yarraville to Ringwood I finally jumped and moved closer to Leigh. Most of the move was without much hassle for a do it yourself job... only one item that was damaged legs on my sideboard which has always had a tenuous grip on life. Well ever since I have owned it at least!!! Not the end of the world as we will be able to repair without much drama.

Have some rental curtains that need some adjustment... they will just not slide open or closed! Ponders if I will discuss with landlord or just attend to the issue... bugger it... will fix it, and on the subject thinks that some new curtains in my bedroom will be required.

Homophobia - the fear of gays breaking in and rearranging the furniture!

As this is a rental I think it will not be an Amitié job as it is just too expensive for that... so Spotlight here I come... unless there are some other suggestions of good 'cheap' fabric shops in the outer east...

Take care and will be back soon with the a cushion adventures of the Anna Maria Horner fabric I have.
Simon

The Liberty fairy has visited...

2008-09-19T13:26:00.007+10:00

What a blessing, to be visited by the Liberty fairy, there is more than enough here for me to back the Hexagon quilt that I am addicted to! In fact there should be enough to make some pillow-cases as well.. what a delightful combination it will be.

This was exactly what I was hoping to use! the warmth and scale of the fabric – not to mention the quality and feel... will be a perfect match for the rest of the project.

Thank you my Liberty fairy! I am totally gob-smacked!! and overwhelmed!!

Half of Row 8

2008-09-15T21:55:00.006+10:00

Hey guys – I have had a lot of fun this evening reading some blogs, if you haven't had a laugh in a while... or need a reality check on your own normality. I would suggest that you read some of the wonderful links off my links...

Miss Angie

Miss Tigga

Dear Dancing with Frogs

2008-09-14T22:20:00.008+10:00

I was at Amitié on Saturday – just for a little dose of Fabric, I managed to find some wonderful Anna Maria Horner fabric which will become the cushions for some chairs that I brought last week – That is another story all together and another blog...

Photo - Anna Maria Horner with thanks.

I had the pleasure of meeting Dancing With Frogs – who made wonderful comments about the my Hexagon project (Just started the 8th row today – OK actually finished half the row, it is the in between one which is easier). I think that Ms Frog was concerned about the number of stitches and pieces that are in the quilt. It is indeed a large number, however they are only one at a time, and yes it is addictive. Never let the numbers or the stats stop you from making one of these wonderful quilts.

On another note I am attempting to deal with my Hexagon Addiction... I have started a quilt for a lovely young lady – Leighs sister Heather it is even the beginning of knocking off the Christmas list of tasks and gifts. The Pattern is Darling Buds.

This is the stash – cut and ready for sewing...

Mum's Quilts

2008-08-31T22:37:00.010+10:00

Dear, fiona, Cathy, Louise, Maggie, Colette, Serena the team at Amitie and anyone else sending emails - Thanks for your kind words and support.

I was back at work this week after a lovely 3 week break. I took some pics of some of my mothers Quilts on a recent visit to Canberra. Was there less than 24 hours so we kind of ran out of time to dig them all out and take pictures. That just means that I will have to do some more – come to think about it I have another 3 here that I can post sometime soon...

I thought that I would share some of the inspiration that she left me us with... and of cause a few new pics and a story is a nice thing as well.

Hope you all have a wonderful week.

This is one of my favorite quilts - prrrrrr

I was looking for another one of the Hexagons that Mum made, was more detailed than this and random - had forgotten that she had made a Flower Garden.

Mum was always doing these kind of whimsical things, I have a couple of cushions which are on my bed that are like this...

Best not show Leigh's mother anything to do with Turtles...

I do like the scrappy feel of this one – I even have quite a few of these in my stash from Mum. There is even a UFO in the stash. Project for sometime soon.

Oh to be famous

2008-08-12T12:10:00.005+10:00

Funny thing about blogging I only post when we have something show about a project,.. I have not posted for a few weeks, don't have a project completed or at the next stage of completion. It is not that I have not been active or working on them. However it is a pleasure to say that I have been included in a story on Living Creatively you will need to scroll a little but hey it is there.

I have finished the 5th row now on my Hexagon project – must say it is beginning to look fantastic, and even tho there are a huge amount of tiny little pieces that sometimes get tiring drawing and cutting out, every-time that I get a couple more on the top I get excited and think wow this is fun.

You really don't want to know the statistics about how many pieces - however here is the guess..... about 1148 hexagons, or about 6888 seams, or about 138,000 stitches... and that is without doing any quilting.

Hobo Bags - 1, 2, 4 and 7

2008-07-14T01:44:00.005+10:00

Here are some of the other bags.. now I just have to get a picture of bag number 3, from memory it was a nice bag...

This is Heather's bag – a Christmas gift

This is Dawn's First bag – for Christmas

Dawn's elephant bag – for a Birthday

Lucky Tracy gets this one – for no particular reason

Introducing Alice

2008-07-13T14:06:00.006+10:00

Albert was a little lonely - so we have created a partner and friend for him... so without any further waffling...

Alice – my Liberty girl... the nice thing is that Amitie sell Liberty scrap or little bits as fat sixteenths! and you can make this pattern with 3 of them.

Here they are together, just hope they behave while we are at work.

My first toy - updated

2008-07-09T11:52:00.007+10:00

Introducing – Albert!

This was a bit of a challenge – then what is life without a challenge, I am looking forward to the next pattern. This is the first soft toy I have made! The pattern is from Audrey and Maude and was not as easy to follow as I was expecting either that or was being a dunce. Not that it matters – next ones will be much easier to assemble.

I have been told that I need a Turtle as the next Softie
- Tail optional

Brownyn – the scones were so yummy, Leigh is going to add a little more 'Orange' for the next batch. Most likely some zest of the orange.

Hobo Bag Number 5

2008-06-30T11:27:00.005+10:00

I call this one my turkey bag (mind you I don't think you would have any issues putting a medium sized Turkey in it) it is called such because it is now kicking around Turkey and was made with a 'Middle Eastern' feel with the fabric.

I am told that it gets comments everywhere.

Owner: Susan Walsh

Hobo Bag number 6

2008-06-30T10:15:00.007+10:00

Had a great day on Saturday visited Amitie early as I was on a fabric mission, returned home and was faced with an Oil and filter change on the car and then for the creative part... Bag number 6!

I love making these bags – naturally I never keep them! This one has been posted to the new owner...
This project was about 3 hours on Saturday from start to finish. Not including the selection of fabric and what seams to be usual habit of missing the lining sashing or the handle fabric (was the handle this time). There is a problem with the pattern and the supply list, so had to raid the stash for the handle.

I also spent a bit more time on my Hexagon Project have now completed 2 rows, will add another photo of it when I get a chance to get a nice picture of it.

Hexagons - 2 rows competed

2008-06-23T13:00:00.005+10:00

Here is the latest picture of Hexagon's - I am finding it hard to photograph as it is very long and narrow at the moment so getting a true perspective is rather difficult. There are 9 flowers on one row and 8 plus 2 /1/2 size flowers to finish the ends.

Leigh's Quilt - Finished

2008-06-22T22:39:00.004+10:00

It feels great to finish a project – I have already passed this on to Leigh and it was so nice to see the smile on his dial. I finished this at his place tonight – could hardly bring it home with me !!!

Here are some temp photos as I didn't have my camera with me and they never seam to be very good at night anyway. Will wait for the weekend to take some new pictures.

Leigh's Quilt

2008-06-17T13:13:00.005+10:00

Well it is Leigh's Birthday today – Happy Birthday sweetie...

This is the quilt that will be getting lots of snuggles very soon.... bit of a shame that I didn't get to finish it in time for today. It is not really a bit surprise anyway as he has been watching it grow over the past months.

Only have a couple of rows to quilt and then off to visit Amitie for some binding at the weekend.

Update 18-06-08 – The pattern is called Nimble Thimble, I purchased this as a kit from Addicted to Fabric in Canberra and kind of expanded it as it was not a large quilt.

Bronwyn asks how did I do the image in the image – I combined the images in Photoshop. Not a very difficult task alas not one that is easy to explain here, contact me by email and we will see if there is a way we can show you how to do this.

Hexagons

2008-06-11T09:37:00.004+10:00

Here is a bit of a teaser for the hexagons... some are joined, alas this project on hold for a short while while I finish a quilt that I have started at Christmas for Leigh.

The colour has been so much fun...

Queens birthday weekend

2008-06-10T12:56:00.013+10:00

Well – that is the last official long weekend until the end of this year. What a shame we should have a lot more of them. They are good for the soul and general wellness.

As promised – some photos of the Van with nice fresh Curtains and seats... WOOT – no more yucky brown stuff. Have to admit that the green scatter cushions are just cheap ones from a $2 shop.. but the colour is good.

As close to the old photo as I could remember... even listened to the metal note to clear the table this time!

This is the reverse image – with my Hectic from Amitie some pillow cases and of course Leigh's hefalump guarding the van.

What did we do? well mostly nothing! some more nothing and then enjoyed the day out at the Alexandria Truck, Rod and Ute Show. Now for a little extra joy there was a quilt show on the side – what a combination!!! I have to look it up but there is a group that I think meets the 1st Saturday of every month, now to plan a few weekends so that this will fit into the plans.

Like this Quilt – am told it is rather traditional - this is in a bright colour way – quilt is by Corey Witlox from Alexandria Quilters group

NO need for the Husband chair (not that there is a real need for one as I am very lucky that my interests are well supported) as he could wander off looking at the big toys for a while. I was amazed just how many people were there, there were blocks and blocks of Trucks, Rods, Utes and a few cute guys to boot...

This doesn't even come close to the amount of people.

How Cute is this Yellow toy... and they say we spend heaps on our hobby!!

Love the colour – Orange is so strong

Regards

Poor Angie

2008-06-03T00:47:00.007+10:00

This is my little Angie - poor thing is now wandering around the house following my every step as she spent the day in hospital having an internal clean out – the less said the better!!

Vet says she will be all OK now, but I should watch her. What I would like to know which one is using the litter - NO please you don't need to tell me thanks...

hmmmm

Update 5-6-08 - Angie is much better today, and everything seams to be moving in the right departments..... :)

My First quilt

2008-05-31T09:11:00.011+10:00

As a gift rather than the one that I first made, pics and a yarn about that are yet to come – have to say now that I am making them myself, what a wonderful thing it is to have someone spend so time effort and in this case LOVE – Thanks MUM. I am sure she knew that I would treasure this as I do, thanks were said and it is a real treasure today.

The dark blue at the bottom of the photo is the back of 'Hectic Eclectic' ...

I was living in Brisbane at the time, and after my mother saw the bed that I had she decided on the log cabin quilt that I should have, Mum really had a great colour eye and could see the big picture - I have several others and will take photos for here at another time. I think it sparked my interest at the time and remember thinking then that I would like to do this, then thought well how girlie..

Bronwyn – you are so right, I don't think that this is girlie at all. I like it – and the process produces wonderful results that I and others who receive the gifts.

It was not long after I found the exit to the closet that was my world - remembering too quietly burn it after I found the exit ( ok ok - there was nothing quiet about the burning). Life events and career kind of took over and I put the quilting interest to the back of my mind. - think doof doof boom boom...

The log cabin quilt is now about 15 - 16 (don't really want to count the years) and starting to be a little worn in places, so I am using it less and less.

Thanks for reading - aka Bloke

gasp - Early 80's van fabric...

2008-05-28T23:30:00.006+10:00

I warned you – the van is great, but let me tell you the curtains and cushions were past their prime a good many years before it was Leigh's. There is nothing nice about Brown open weave and beige with brown plastic hooks that are half broken.

It is now a very different place to be as they have all been replaced and have lovely silver plastic eyelets.

This was really my first venture into the world of sewing in the middle of last year, whilst away at Pambula on an annual holiday with the family.

I will post a few new pictures after the June long weekend as we are heading away for that weekend with the van.

Just begin

2008-05-28T22:44:00.001+10:00

Gals and friends,

Well have been badgered (encouraged) to begin this – it is a bit like starting a Quilt really, it will never finish and it will never be seen if not started.

So here we go – what is it that started this process... It was my partners Caravan... if you had of seen the cushions and curtains well you would have had a fit... so borrowed a machine off a friend and sorted all of that out.

I have to grab some pictures and post them - that will be a task for the weekend.

Here is a preview of the Hexagon project. The estimate at this point is that there will be at least 1054 pieces - have done most of the flower centres.. and begun to join them.

Daylight will mean a better time for photos - of this and the other 3 projects completed and well – almost completed.