The Little Craft Store

New Yarn

2012-03-07T19:00:00.001+13:00

I'm happy to announce that our new winter yarn Freedom Spirit has arrived along with some yummy patterns.

2012-03-07T18:58:00.001+13:00

I can't quite believe that its Wednesday already - the week started off with a great fun modern quilters meeting in the evening with lots of laughter and discussion and I 'm really looking forward to the two new challenges that we set.
Two because we can't meet up next month so the next time we will get together is the 7th May so we thought we should try and fit a bit more work in.
Do you want to join in two ?

Source: old-fashionedcharm.blogspot.com via Hannah on Pinterest

Ok well the first one involves not cheating ! you need to choose a fabric or block that you don't really like and give it a go and see if you can change your mind about it - eg. I'm not a fan of toile fabric so I have to use it in my challenge others included hexagons, the colour brown, stars and solids.
It will be fun to see what everyone does.
Next up were each going to make an A4 mini quilt/mug rug using solid colours !

Source: flickr.com via Emily on Pinterest

If I come up with something as nice as this quilt by alittle grey on Flickr I will be happy :)

2012-03-05T13:38:00.000+13:00

How's your Monday going ?
This is going to be a bit of a short post as we are busy in the store today and I'm also scooting off a bit early today at 2 so that I can attend the retail trade fair this afternoon.
So What's new - well quilters will be glad to hear that the pearl cotton arrived this morning and looks yummy on the counter - sorry no picture I'll do one tomorrow. :)
Tonight is Modern Quilt Group 7-9pm come and join us for chat and to do some hand stitching with other quilters.
Wools are starting to arrive with new patterns and I have my fingers crossed that the new Misty Alpaca will arrive in another fortnight !

Weekly wrap up

2012-03-02T19:17:00.001+13:00

The weeks feel like they are flying by at the moment.
Well in hunkering down for a wild wet day tomorrow at the store - a weather bomb is due to hit Auckland and I think most people will be staying inside although I hope there are some people mad enough to run out and see me.
Things I'm loving this week....
Granny Square blocks

Source: flickr.com via Helen on Pinterest

I'm getting very tempted as it would look so good on my bed.

I love these star blocks from Fresh Lemons Quilts suck lovely bright colour combo's

Source: freshlemonsquilts.com via Helen on Pinterest

And I realy want to get my hands on some ofthe Hello Pilgrims range its just lovely

Source: etsy.com via Helen on Pinterest

Oh and one more thing to add to my sewing list I really want to try this converging corners block by Film in the fridge.

Source: filminthefridge.com via Helen on Pinterest

oh well I will have to put my foot to the peddle and get sewing,

A new quilt

2012-03-01T18:24:00.004+13:00

In my head Thursdays is now Modern Quilting day although no one has come to the afternoon group yet.
Today I cut up and sewed part of a new quilt top for the house this winter ( the boys are loving the last one so much)

It will of course be finished with a bit of white in borders to widen it up.
Then I might hand quilt this one.
I have been really enjoying hand quilting my single quilt - I have been using No8 pearl cotton which is SO smooth and nice to hand quilt with.

It has made me definitely decide to order some in for the store tomorrow the only question is what colours ? There are so many in the range I love the ones that Anne Maria Horner brought out so may be I will try to stick to warms and cools.

What do you think - Do you hand quilt ? What colours do you use it would be really helpful to get your advice on this one :)

Fresh on the needles

2012-02-29T20:06:00.003+13:00

It was kntting group this morning at the store and after a couple of lauhs at shop dogs new jumper ! ( its really zooming along I will post photo's tommorrow) I decided it was about time to start another big project for myself.
One of our girls was knitting a lovely vest top with Zara. I still haven't knitted a garment with even though I know how lovely its to knit with, so that was my starting point.

After an hour looking through Ravelry I remembered a top I had seen in one of the Twist Collective issues so went tofind it. Yes it was perfect what do you think ?

Its called Quintet and was designed by Melissa Wehrle.
Luck was on my side as we just happened to have the right amount of grey in stock - one of the upsides of owning a yarn store is that you can always start a project straight away :) if you compromise on colour. I dont have the exact match on the stripe colurs so I'm going with yellow, red and a coral which should look nice as well.
What's next on your needles ?

New stock and specials !

2012-02-27T13:33:00.000+13:00

HI everyone, did you have a good weekend ? Get plenty of crafting done ?
I spent last night working on some little felt kits to sell in the store but you will have to wait for the photo ;).
We had new colour arrive in Shepherds Baby merino

And a great new pattern book that covers ages 2 -10 for both boys and girls !

This morning I have been busy changing around the store and doing the displays in the windows , which is always good fun but quite hot work in this weather.
The gift corner is looking tempting !

Opposite is looking yummy and those with wool on the mind will notice that our bargain yarn pram is looking full :)

In the front window we have all of our sale products Linen bags are now $30 and calico ones are $6

The Koi Koi range is all reduced - body butter is down from $60 to $45 - hand cream was $33 and is now $25 and the stunning soaps are now $19 down from $24.
That's not it Umi's beautiful organic cotton wrap blankets are on offer to down from $160 to $100.

Phew - come in and see us you know you want to :)

Weekly Wrap up

2012-02-24T13:37:00.000+13:00

OK so today is a knitting day why knitting in particular ?
well when you have sepent an hour growling at the sewing machine and unpicking more than sewing , then its time to stop and do something else !

So I'm now knitting samples of our new winter yarns which you will all get to see soon at our big Yarn Tasting night.

A night full of wine and nibbles and lots of yummy yarns special offers and prize draws - when when I hear you shout !Mark down Thursday 22nd March in your diarys now and come and join us for some fun :)

But That's not all I'm playing with.

I have chosen a simple dog jumper to knit for shop dog in the hopes that I can get it to fit over his big barrel chest - then if that works he might get something fancier.These are the cute colours I have chosen , it should look great next to his red fur :) I'm using Loyal dk so I can wash it.

We had another great stitching session this week and I thought I would share a couple of photos with you from the night - here are all the girls working hard..

Feel the need to do something crafty ? Remember that its Stitch and Bitch tonight at the store 7-9pm $5 to covers the tea and cakes any any type of hand craft is wellcome :)

Crosses quilt and a new sample

2012-02-22T16:42:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone sorry the posts are a bit sketchy this week I have quite a few classes on at night.
I have a few pictures for you today first up is a quilt that I have almost finished just spotty binding in red to go on now

- I love how this one turned out its a single bed size and I have hand quilted it all :)

The flower fabric just finished it off nicely I was going to use plain white but I'm pleased I didn't as it makes the back special too. Its a bit wet and windy here so not great pictures.

Next I had to show you a new addition to the store ...

Baby is wearing a cute kimono wrap cardie which was knitted up by Chris, she has done a super job - this is a new yarn from Shepherds and a new pattern from Naturally.
She / he just needs a name can you think of a good - best name get a free copy of this pattern :)

images into quilts

2012-02-20T21:24:00.000+13:00

At the moment I'm totally in love with strong graphics and solid colors and this has me looking at the images around me in a new way

Take this cool printed graphic I can see this as a quilt all ready, its not hard to reprocuce - just straight lines but would make a striking quilt.

Source: ffffound.com via Helen on Pinterest

This doodle graphic drawing could be reproduced using paper peicing ...

Source: patternobserver.com via Helen on Pinterest

Like these..

Source: thelongthread.com via Helen on Pinterest

These bottle vases have been a favorite of mine for a while but they too could be a jumping block for a quilt.

Source: dahlhausart.bigcartel.com via Helen on Pinterest

This graphic has been in my head for a while and I'm keen to make it into a quilt. When you look at it you realize that its just two simple blocks and that those two blocks are atchually made up from the same unit.

Source: modishblog.com via Helen on Pinterest

There is even something about this image of crates that I love - I really am quilting too much !

Source: feeding-thewolves.tumblr.com via Helen on Pinterest

Sale up date

2012-02-17T18:38:00.000+13:00

Well it took me a while but now the fabric sale is online too !

Time for a quick weekly wrap up...

On my needles a new daybreak to match my gloves

On my to do sewing list
I really fancy making some little houses they will make cut gifts and I need some hand work.

Source: pinkchalkstudio.com via Helen on Pinterest

And I sooooo want to learn how to mini crochet so I can make super cute things like this

Source: allaboutami.tumblr.com via Helen on Pinterest

Felt Class

2012-02-16T20:50:00.002+13:00

In a couple of weeks we are running a felt class with the lovely from Adventures of Alex and Co.

Alex creates the most beautiful felt pieces out felt that she makes and dyes herself.
I first saw and fell in love with one of her elephants at the yearly Auckland Steiner school fair and immediately I knew that I wanted to ask her to do a class for us this year.
She has kindly offered to teach us how to make and Easter basket with little love birds inside it which should make a perfect little gift and we have planned the date so you should have enough time to whip up a few more before Easter.
We have a few spaces left so if you are keen its on 8th March 7-9pm please give us a call 849 3295 or email me shop@thelittlecraftstore.co.nz before this Monday 20th feb.

I'll leave you with a few images of lovely work

Stitch class

2012-02-16T16:13:00.004+13:00

We were very lucky to have a lovely group of ladies join us at the store last night for our first class of the Year. Our two hours of stitching and learning surface embroidery flew passed and was made easy and fun by our fantastic teacher Liz from "the stitchsmith".
I headed home with a mind full of thread colours and stitches and could not help spending a few mins (half and hour) on Pintrest looking at ideas...

Source: superduper.co.za via Helen on Pinterest

Source: facebook.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: embroidery.rocksea.org via Helen on Pinterest

Oh and before I forget I finished the quilt I love it and so do the boys :)

and the dotty binding finished it just perfectly

3 days of fabric

2012-02-16T09:28:00.001+13:00

Oops the store has been over run with fabric and we have more on the way - so I need your help to clear the shelves.
For the next 3 days all fabric will be $20 a meter and all fabric patterns will be half price.
Been waiting to start that quilt well today's the day :)

A yummy post from Isabel

2012-02-15T14:34:00.001+13:00

Knitting has sadly not resumed- still not ‘allowed’ to knit due to the RSI so no progress report once again, I’m afraid on the Little Minx or pending start of Nutkin. (see older posts)

So instead I’m quilting and trawling through Pinterest and blogs (in my new computer-using positions of course so as to prevent more RSI’s!).

So, during my Pinterest and blog travels, I have been falling madly in love with Amber/Yellow/Rusty Orange colours (with a little tango orange thrown in for good measure)...here are some of my favourites;

Source: etsy.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Gorgeous watercolour of flowers- digging the grey with the yellow too.

Source: flickr.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I can’t wait to have an outdoor area for eating on these warm summer nights- I love the mini plant gardens growing from the glasses/vases here. I could start on those now before having an outdoor area!

Seeing as this is supposed to be knitting and crochet blog, here are a few yarn related images I’ve also seen and ‘pinned’ recently;

Source: etsy.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Crochet flowers- these were used on wedding invites and also in the brides hair. Vintage chic.

Source: dustjacketattic.blogspot.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I still need to get over my fear of cables so i can create knits like this. One day.

Source: needsupply.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Hope you are all enjoying more knitting and crocheting than me- what are your current projects you are working on in the summer heat?

Until next time x

Source: etsy.com via Isabel on Pinterest

valentines

2012-02-14T20:52:00.002+13:00

Well its the end of another hot day here in Auckland and I'm settling down to a nice glass of chilled wine and some yummy chocolates care of the lovely MrT who I LOVE ahhh.
So I raise a glass to LOve with a mosaic of all things Crafty.

Source: flickr.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: ravelry.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: cfabbridesigns.com via Helen on Pinterest

And to end it my little baby well the only one who gets his picture on line anyway :)

Quilt kit

2012-02-13T14:41:00.000+13:00

I'm very excited to announce that we have our first quilt kit in store - I designed and made it over the weekend and I am really pleased with how its come out.
The fabric is brand new and comes to us from the henley studios Its been hard to find good boys fabrics but at last we are starting to see more.
The quilt top itself is super easy and designed for beginners or if you are a confident sewer its one that you could definitely get completed in a weekend.
I would love to hear what you think - the kits are $65.00 and you can get them in store and on the website :)

Weekly wrap up

2012-02-10T13:43:00.000+13:00

Sorry its been quiet this week I have been simply tired !
But I have been beavering away with bits and pieces so today you get to see lots of finished bits :)
Some of the images are a bit dodgy today as the camera decided to play up .

First up my can cans that were so quick to do I had them finished last weekend and already have another pair on the go but this time I will put a different cable in.

A block from "99 modern blocks" that mum up scaled and I finished to show of the lovely new Riley Blake fabric we have in.

Playing with stars

Another block from "99 Modern Blocks" We have this book in store for just $40 it really is worth it I'm having so much fun trying them out.

This is the week three star from the solstice series I still have to find some quiet time to attempt week two's paper piecing.

And here is a hot water bottle cover that I whipped up with the B.I.G. Panda yarn that has just arrived - I added my hand so you could get a gauge of the chunkiness.

Wow I got through more than I thought this week now I'm off to buy this panel that Jackie has just brought in to show me its just too cute to miss out on.

Source: robertkaufman.com via Helen on Pinterest

B.I.G. Panda

2012-02-07T13:28:00.000+13:00

Well its here and its as big as they said it looks so much fun that I'm planning on taking it to the craft group Lucky Penny tonight so I can have a play :)

I know its sunny but this yarn is soo light and will be so quick to knit that its the perfect project for now !

Modern Quilt group

2012-02-07T13:23:00.000+13:00

Morning everyone :)
Last night we held our first Modern Quilters Group which went really well there was allot of positive and interesting discussion around the table on what we thought Modern Quilting is and what we like. The big thing which really isn't a big surprise is that we all felt that the modern quilting is about the fabrics and the way we use them.
The fact that white was never used as a main colour say 20 years ago but is now embraced and you see it in almost every quilters stash as a staple fabric.
We talked about the different trends and how blogs and the Internet are cleverly manipulated by the big fabric houses to create a frenzy for certain ranges. About big prints, small prints, vintage sheets, solids - none of us are completely sold on solids yet !
To get us all in the sharing and exchanging of ideas mood I had managed to find some hard back note books at the warehouse so that everyone could jot down notes and this also made up our first group challenge to cover our books.
This is mine that I whipped up before group to show everyone.

I'm really looking forward to next month ( March 5th ) where I know we will all have a bit more show and tell - now what an I going to try before then ???? Decisions decisions

Ps. I didn't have the group discount cards last night but if you want to drop in the store next week girls they will be ready to pick up

Weekly wrap up

2012-02-03T14:29:00.001+13:00

Oooh I cast on a new knitting project at long last I'm knitting myself a pair of can can fingerless mitts for in the store I can never have enough of them once the winter sets in. The yarn used is a crazy Zauberball that I'm having a test of with the hopes that it will soon become a new product in store - it really is lovely and has beautiful variegation.

I put an order for panda's new B.I.G. yarn which is super cool and comes with a great pattern book great for beginners that want to get results fast. Especially using a 12mm needle !

Well I'm off to the lantern festival tonight and looking forward to the long weekend - we will be closed again on Monday as its a holiday.
Have a great weekend working on your projects or choosing the new ones that you want to start.

Knitting with Isabel

2012-02-01T18:58:00.002+13:00

Sorry a bit late getting this one up here's knitting with Isabel :)

12 in 2012

Progress on my first pair of socks of the 12 in 2012 has been slow. In fact, progress has now stopped.

I made an agreement with a nurse to stop knitting for two weeks whilst we try and get an RSI in my wrist under control at work. I’m fairly confident that my knitting is not too much too blame- I soon worked out when starting knitting two years ago that bamboo needles are my friend. This coupled with the fact that the pain only came back when I returned to work after Christmas signposts to me that I simply need to change the way I work at a computer each day. I’m hoping this week I will be given the all clear to start knitting again, and my Little Minx socks will be all-go again! Thankfully they will still count as my January socks as they were started in January.

Looking forward to my February pair, these will be Nutkin by Beth LaPensee:

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I can’t wait to cast on! (And cast off Little Minx!!)

Moving on, during my many hours trawling Pinterest- look what I found! A gorgeous (free) pattern for stunning zig zag blanket.

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

It’s knit on straight needles (not long circulars- though nothing wrong with that method- circulars are the way I’ve preferred to work for a while), across 10 stitches, joining up as you go so no ends to sew in at the end.

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

It can be adapted to be worked in to a scarf too- or a table runner I guess. There’s probably a million things you could do with the basic pattern! A great stash buster too, or something to use those end bits of yarn after completing a project. Love it!

Hope you’ve had a lovely start to the week all- hope to bring you progress pictures of my Little Minx socks next time I meet you here for a chat.

Isabel x

new fabrics and knitting patterns

2012-01-31T18:47:00.000+13:00

I hope you all had a lovely bank holiday weekend and are gearing up for another next week :)
I got lots of hand work done - I have almost finished hand quilting my crosses quilt and managed a few new blocks from a new book "99 modern blocks" which I have to highly recommend it has some very interesting things in it that I'm looking forward to trying.
I will post photos tomorrow.

We had some lovely new Riley Blake fabrics arrive at the end of last week Scoot for all the mums and granny's of little boys. I personally know how hard it is to find good boy fabric so I'm really pleased this has arrived.

The fly a kite range also came, which is so lovely with plenty of great co-ordinate fabrics.

We are having out first night group of the modern quilt group next Monday - yes I know its a holiday but you might want some R & R away from all the family by then ;0
.
It would be great to know if you are planning on joining us as I have a getting started challenge planned to get us all sewing :) and need to know numbers.
so pop a comment below or send me an email shop@thelittlecraftstore.co.nz

We are slowly starting to gear up for the knitting season in store the new wools will be arriving soon but we can still access and order anything that you are looking for. Its baby season againg and we have lots of knitters make cute little garments with that in mind we have ordered in some new patterns.

Source: naturallyyarnsnz.com via Helen on Pinterest

stars

2012-01-27T08:34:00.000+13:00

Mum and I got our selves organised last night and decided to do the first star from the solstice stars series, we had fun.
I don't think we have ever worked on the same thing before like this - we both approached it different ways not totally following the instructions (which may have accounted for some of our wonky ness but most of that we blamed on the calico we used ! ) and it was interesting to see the differences. No during photos sorry it was too dark.

I would recommend if you decide to join in, that on this star you press all your seams out so you avoid having bulk four layer seams at certain points - we both en counted this.
So what did we differ on well I decided to take a cutting shortcut on my half squares which gave me four spare squares in the end, but I think by looking at following stars that I will be able to use these up. Mum followed the the tutorial and cut all her triangles first.
Then we both properly made our first mistake after a long day and late at night we decided to trust our measurements and not trim our blocks down :) Hay we have all done it !
Which could account for them being different sizes Doh!

Next when it came to sewing them together (layout picture from fresh lemons) mum worked down in strips and I worked in four square blocks.

Source: freshlemonsquilts.com via Helen on Pinterest

We think it was easier to correct any mistakes doing it in the blocks I could see where things needed a bit of easing
Even though there were some things we would have done differently we really had fun and are very proud of our little stars.

Wedge shapes

2012-01-26T19:20:00.000+13:00

Hi there it looks like I'm back into evening posts the boys are nearly back to school and the store is busy so no time for a leisurely post in the morning anymore :(

So what have I been up to today well I have decided that this is my year to try new things not necessarily new crafts but new techniques.

Source: ahhhquilting.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

I saw these lovely wedge quilts the other day and thought "that's something that I haven't tried " so armed with some bright scraps I had a go.

I have to admit that there was some unpicking but in the end I was quite pleased with how they turned out. Now I'm sure your thinking what I thought when they were finished "Candy Corn" ! I'm a Brit living in New Zealand and have never eaten candy corn but get the gist of it, with this in mind there was really only one way that this project could go.
Black that's right I ended up making a very early Autumn table runner or Halloween one.

Now I quite fancy giving them ago in these fabrics

But that's if I don't get to distracted doing the solice Stars quilt along with fresh lemons do you want to do it to it looks great and they are already up to star number two so I better get sewing.

Source: freshlemonsquilts.com via Helen on Pinterest

PS. if you have been wanting to comment on any of my posts but have been put off by having to have a google account (like my mum) then I think I have changed the settings so anyone can comment.

Knitting with Isabel

2012-01-25T20:10:00.000+13:00

My Only New Year's Resolution This Year
I'm not one for making resolutions.
I used to as a child, but I can't recall doing so as an adult.
This year, 2012, I've bucked the trend of both myself, and the seemingly hundreds, thousands even,
of others that are 'resolving to not resolve', and have made one New Year's Resolution. And I think I
have my work cut out.
I have resolved to make twelve socks in 2012.

“Eeeek!”, do I hear you say? Because that's what Im saying somewhat not so silently in my head!
I have joined a lovely, excitable, supportive and sociable group on Ravelry (called '12 Socks in
2012', for all you Ravelers), where likeminded knitters and crocheters are convening en-mass to
unite in this challenge.
The lovely aspect of this group is; there are no rules. (Yay!). They are a relaxed bunch, with the aim
of us all being cheerleaders to each other to motivate, celebrate and maybe commiserate when
things don't go quite to plan.
The goal is one a month (but everyone is pretty relaxed as to whether that means one sock, or one
pair!), there are no rules as to toe up or cuff down, and no specific patterns required unless
participating in a knit or crochet-a-long.
For my first pair, I am participating in a knit-a-long of Little Minx, a pattern designed by Karen
Scott.
Progress so far? Take a peek; so far this

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

...has turned into this:

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

(please ignore the unsightly sock marks on my legs and the not so good lighting)

My first 'January' pair are coming along nicely (in between the quilting, cross stitching and
tramping I've been getting up to when not working). I've just finished the heel and now it should be
full steam ahead with the pattern repeats up the leg.
Oh! And I have had to get over my fear of cabling. Every four rows you cable every other stitchthat'll
teach me to not read the pattern properly before casting on- there was no turning back! I've
even learnt to cable without a cable needle to speed the progress.
I look forward to sharing my progress with you all- wish me luck for the year long project!
Happy New Year All!
Isabel x

Free knitting and quilting patterns

2012-01-25T12:39:00.001+13:00

Hi everyone I have woken up to beautiful sunshine and it feels good :)
Yesterday I had one of those sewing days where everything you touch goes wrong nothing looked right or I sewed it on backwards I really should have stopped at lunchtime !
It makes you realize how great patterns are all the instructions, no mistakes or wasted fabrics/yarn and it almost always turns out right.

Did you know that almost all of the brands we carry in the store have free patterns and resources on their sites ?
For example if you go to Naturallys new site they have patterns but you can also sign up to their newsletter and they send out new patterns and you can win wool too !
Ravelry is still one of the resources for knitters that we have found with literally hundreds of new patterns being added every day

All of the big quilting manufactures have free patterns on there sites here are a few links to get you started, free spirit. moda, riley blake, timeless treasures
its the perfect way to find a use for that beautiful fabric you have bought from us ;).
I have chosen a few of my favorite ones and printed them out so you can take them away with you - why not call in and have a look and chat about fabric ideas this week.

Fabric Bunting

2012-01-23T11:57:00.000+13:00

Morning everyone I have been busy doing a test run of our new Fabric Bunting kit but have had to stop as I dropped my mini iron and broke it Doh! I will have to wait until my mum can drop by with a spare and it was going so well.

These should be ready and in the store tomorrow so you can whip them up for yourselves - I'm really pleased that each kit contains hand made binding to match the fabrics, I love making binding and really think that it looks better than the store bought stuff.
Each kit contains enough to make 2 1/2meters of bunting and will cost $35, we will have a whole range of colours too.

I had to make a few hard decisions to do with the store over the weekend and one of them is that we are going to stop doing Sunday as there is not enough custom for us to staff that day.
I was hoping that Sunday's would take off and would be useful for all the crafty makers in Auckland who are normally at markets on a Saturday but it just has not been the case.
I will still be open on a Saturday 10 -4pm.

Weekly wrap up

2012-01-20T19:42:00.002+13:00

Its a bit late but here's the weekly wrap up.
This is my work in progress for the week it now has its border and back finished and is ready for basting and quilting.

And finally the fabrics I chose last year have arrived these were picked as I thought they would be great for summer dresses and skirts.

Remember to check out the new classes and clubs that we are running this year it would be lovely to see them all full of crafty people.
And as its anniversary weekend next week I wanted to let everyone know that there will be no Stitch and Bitch this month.

Michael miller

2012-01-19T17:12:00.004+13:00

I'm excited to tell you that we will now be stocking Michael Miller fabrics at the store, here's a sneak peek of whats coming.
Cute giraffes with teal and citron yellows and greys.

Then we have these cool backyard designs which I am designing a cool quilt kit for they will be perfect for little boys. Lot of very cute creepy crawlies are inside those jars :)

And we got delivery of our new 100% cotton batting its soooooo soft and yummy that shop dog and I just wanted to snuggle up in it , we restrained ourselves and cut it into big pieces instead you get a piece 100cm wide by 236cm long for $35. And if your looking for a neat trick to join your batting together we are also stocking a new tape that you can iron onto your joins and Ta Da ! every things stuck nicely together.

Our first modern quilting group

2012-01-19T08:05:00.000+13:00

I'm so excited ! today is the start of our modern quilting group - now I know its still school holiday so some might not be able to make it but if you have older kids why not bring them with a book.

Some things you might like to bring with you - a note book, list of your favorite blogs, an image of what you think is modern quilting, a quilting book your reading, a sample of your own work, a smile and some enthusiastic chatter.

Source: sewkatiedid.wordpress.com via Helen on Pinterest

Knitting

2012-01-18T09:12:00.000+13:00

Well you were supposed to get an Isabel post today but unfortunately we have a few computer problems with it so that will be next week.
So instead you get one from me :) This morning is knitting group and we would love to see you there - remember that we can take mums with babies in pram but unfortunately don't have the room to entertain toddlers yet.

Umm knitting well I still have three projects on the go at the moment a summer jumper that is never going to make this year as I have been bad and abandoned it slightly !

The other is a summer baby blanket which is nearly finished in some of this seasons new Wakiwi wool and cream baby merino, The last is definitely on hold as its a winter project and too hot to work at the moment.

But as always there is something new to catch my attention. On of my favorite designers Veera has brought out a lovely new jumper called follow the lines

Source: 100-rain.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

and sticking with the lines theme I would love to knit this jumper for my eldest as it would look great, unfortunately as it is pictured with a younger boy and when I showed him he said it looked dumb !!! What do you do with them.

Source: 100-rain.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

I may knit it anyway.

What are you thinking about knitting ? Do you have a favorite designer ?

Needlework day

2012-01-17T11:36:00.002+13:00

Yes its Tuesday so that means we have needlework group on at the store this afternoon from one you can bring any kind of project with you Liz aka The Stitchsmith will be here if you need some help or want to get some hand hints and tip you might even get to see a new product as she is always working on something new !
I spotted these cute embroidery patterns yesterday on Sarah Jane's studio site .

Source: shop.sarahjanestudios.com via Helen on Pinterest

And I love this idea of stitching into a retro leather bag - very cool.

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Helen on Pinterest

Hope to see you this afternoon :)

Felt Lovers update

2012-01-16T21:08:00.000+13:00

A little update for our wool felt lovers out there we now have a lovely new stash of wool felt in store.

There has been an increase in price and size you now get this much bigger piece for $5.50

Whooo Hooo Time to make felt goodies like this...

Source: michelleclement.typepad.com via karmah on Pinterest

or these cute pine cones...

Source: bhg.com via Jerilynn on Pinterest

Books - I love patchwork

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000+13:00

I have been borrowing books like crazy from the library recently as I want to increase me book stash and have found its the best way to find out which are the best books to buy - online book shopping is the only way to go now in nz and its so disappointing to get a book that does not fit with your style.
So I decided that you might be interested in what I thought of them all.

Source: amazon.com via Helen on Pinterest

I love patchwork by Rashida Coleman-Hale is a cute book filled with linen and cotton projects. Rashida writes a lovely blog and has her second book coming out now ( Zakka style ) but I thought I would review her first one today.

I was impressed with the good clear instructions and beautiful photography through out the book which is published by Interweave.

Source: whipstitchfabrics.com via Helen on Pinterest

Quite often I love a books layout but there are not many projects that I would like to try, but at least half of the 23 projects from the book are now on my list . I think its the mix of cottons and linens that appeal and that would fit into most of our houses making the projects more usable.
I decided to try one of the projects and followed the instructions almost to the tee ( I didn't have the right sized zipper ) It was so quick and easy to whip up this little cosmetic case that I think most beginners would manage it.

So Yes I would add this to my book shelf.

weekly wrap up...

2012-01-13T17:10:00.000+13:00

Well it was great to get back in the shop this week and see all of our customers and I'm feeling really inspired after having some time off :)

I thought I would wrap up the week with the info on our groups which all start back next week and some of my favorite images this week from pintrest.

Groups

All of our groups meet in store

Tuesday Afternoons – Needle work group 1 -2.30pm bring your hand work in for a chat

Wednesday Mornings - knitting group 10 – 12.30am whether you are a beginner or knit everyday this is the group for you to meet like minded yarn addicts

Thursday afternoon – Modern quilters day group 1 – 2.30pm find inspiration, share your work and do hand work it all about” modern”

Sunday social – A time to relax with your latest project 11 am onwards

Last Friday of the month – Stitch and Bitch 7-9pm come and join us for tea and homemade cakes and get some crafting done $5

The first Monday of the month – Modern quilters night group 7 – 9pm meet up and share info on books, blogs and chat about modern quilting

PINS

Source: flickr.com via Helen on Pinterest

I love the colour and the hand quilting on this one

Source: weshallsew.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

Beautiful modern hexegons

Source: blog.citycraftonline.com via Helen on Pinterest

I'm loving Amy Butlers husbands first fabric range - At last man fabric that cool

Source: redpepperquilts.com via Helen on Pinterest

Beautiful tumberling blocks from red pepper quilts

A skirt

2012-01-12T09:25:00.000+13:00

The other day I found a neat little tutorial over at Made blog showing you how to make a circle skirt.

Oooo I thought and yesterday I made one - not as quickly as I though it would take but I was happy with the result Ta Da !

What do you think. If you are going to give it a go I would recommend searching for the widest fabric for an adult size. and when working out the waist measurement to go smaller rather than larger I needed to take my elastic in quite a lot so it fitted.
But I would highly recommend it for people who want to try garment making for the first time.

Reflections and Preditions

2012-01-11T09:30:00.000+13:00

I'm sure that most of the keen sewers that are reading this have been following sew, mama,sew's reflections and predictions series where they are asking the movers and shakers of the crafting community for their views on the last year and what they see for the future.
Well I'm definitely not big in the crafting world - but I thought it would be quite fun to answer the questions hear and would love to hear your thoughts too.

Looking back at the 2011 sewing scene, what trends stand out in your mind?

I think that the increased use of quilting fabrics in garments was big this year. Circles and curves where seen all over the place - think of the stir that the single girl quilt caused. That quilt was also big with the group sew along's/ bee's which have been so popular this year.

What did you make that you’re most proud of?

I think I'm most proud of the quilt that I'm working on at the moment for my parents, but I have promised to really push myself this year so there's more to come :)

What was your favorite fabric collection or print?
With having boys I have really enjoyed seeing some lovely boys collections come out over the year and I loved Sarah Jane's children at play for Michael Miller sooo cute.

Do you have a favorite sewing book or pattern from the past year to recommend?

This is a harder one, there have been so many good patterns and an amazing amount of new good sewing books have been published this year that its hard to pick one.

I always go back to material obsession by Sarah Fielke and Kathy Doughty for good solid quilting advice. I have only bought one pattern this year swoon and yes I love it :)

What sewn projects have you seen this year that you absolutely love?
I love this map quilt and I am really keen to do something similar with a new Zealand map and a British map for each of my boys as one was born in each country.

Source: createstudio.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

Are there any trends you’re over and done with?

I an over flannel its just me and probably the fact that I live in a hot country !

And I have seen so much red and aqua this year in collections that I'm looking for something new now.
.

What are your thoughts about social media? How is it going for you? What do you love or hate?

I love the way that the Internet has connected us all as a crafting community the fact that you can find advice and tips just a click away. I can't understand Twitter ! I try with face book but I still have much to learn. I am totally addicted to Pintrest and blame Jackie for that one ;)

What do you predict for 2012?

I think we will see alot more sewing bee's on line and in person, more garment sewing sweeping the net and I have a feeling that we will see a few more men appearing on the quilting rounds. I'm hoping that we will see some more abstract geometric patterns hitting the stores.

Are there any bloggers, authors or designers who you think will be rising stars in 2012?

Not sure on this one but I think we will continue to get a flood of new crafting books being published this year as almost every other blog I read is talking books !

Can you tell us anything about what to expect from you in 2012? Any projects or life-changing goals you can share?

I want to really push myself this year lots of quilting, trying out more free motion stuff, I have challenged myself to try and make a garment a month which should improve my wardrobe. I am really looking forward to starting our modern quilters group as I know its going to be lots of fun.

Wow that took a while ! You may have noticed that I'm changing a few things around the blog at the moment I thought it was time to freshen things up a bit so bear with me it should all look good soon :)

Hexagon fun

2012-01-10T09:17:00.000+13:00

I managed to get a new hexagon dye for my store Go Baby just before leaving for Christmas and have been playing around with it at home.
I thought I would not have the patience to do all the hand stitching needed but surprisingly its a bit addictive.
Admittedly I didn't use the paper piecing method - instead I drew a 1/4" seam around each with pencil and used a straight edge of card to help fold it over, this means there is a lot less unpicking to do at the end and you don't have to cut out all those paper templates !

My mum also showed me a neat little trick. I had been tacking right around the whole hexagon to hold it in place ready for stitching, mum on the other hand just puts two stitches in each corner - it cuts down on tread and works just as well Thanks Mum !

So what have I been doing with all this hexagon goodness ?

These are medium hexes in our new ruby fabrics and the love is done in seed stitch.

Still quite a bit to finish off but I will shoe you when its all done I was inspired for the lettering by this image

Source: plentyofcolour.com via Helen on Pinterest

Next up I have been making large ones with some of my moochi yum yum fabric and I'm thinking about stitching them onto an old market bag which I drag everywhere with me.

sewing machine cover project

2012-01-09T10:06:00.001+13:00

Happy Monday everyone I hope you all had a good weekend.

As it was so wet we just pottered which was nice and I managed to get a project finished :)
I had been meaning to make a cover for my sewing machine for a while and decided that over the holidays it would be the first project I would do, its nothing fancy just practical.
On one side I have used up some of my scrap pile to make it all bright and summery and on the reverse I decided to go for a fall theme with lots of stitching.
I'm so pleased with how it turned out in the end and really it was a quick project once I started.

I also had to show you this mini calendar I got its just lots of cute owls obviously !

By Stacie Bloomfield

A little shop announcement I'm going to be back in the store working normal hours from this Wednesday 11th Jan. A little earlier than planned so pop in and see us - we have a nice big box of half price stock along with some new fabrics :)

Classes

2012-01-06T16:39:00.001+13:00

The following Class dates have been confirmed and I am now taking bookings

One off Classes

All of these classes cost $45 materials are included in the costthey will all run in the evenings 7-9pm

15^th Feb – The little Craft store stitch samplerclass

8^th March- making felt gifts for Easter

15^th March – making a clasp purse

16^th May – making a journal cover with fabric

6^th June – Stitch Sampler

Bookings are essential for the classes

Email -shop@htelittlecraftstore.co.nz

Plus remember that you can get 20% off on the website with this code "jan2012" till the 15th jan !

fab friday

2012-01-06T16:01:00.003+13:00

No I haven't deserted you but yes I'm still on holiday time so not getting around to blogging till later in the day !
I had a quiet morning in the shop and had some fun playing with one of the shops Christmas presents

Yes we now have a swift and ball winder that you can come and use in the shop hours of fun to be had I assure you !

the other little present we got was a lovely cake stand from my mum and it looks perfect in the middle of the table filled with some of our new scrappy pin cushions.

And here is a quick snap of the paper butterflies in the window.

open

2012-01-04T19:05:00.001+13:00

Thats right everyone you will find me behind the counter at the store tommorow morning between 10 and 1pm !
So you can all pop in for a crafty fix :)

Paper craft

2012-01-03T15:34:00.000+13:00

When your having a break its nice to do something different - since it appears I'm totally obsessed with crafts ( this last week that's what I have fallen asleep planning) when I relax I still want to craft but as I do sewing and knitting all of the time at work I tend to play with paper when I want a change!
These are a few of the paper projects I have been playing with this week.....

First up paper windmills fun and easy to put together but they make everyone smile, some of these I have just made as decorations but others have pins in so you can make them spin.

What you will need scrapbook papers, glue, scissors, pencils and some cool stripy straws

I have put together three templates for you so you can make different sizes the ones shown are medium up in the top image and large in the bottom image.
Cut out the templates - I would recommend the double patterned sheets of paper then both sides of your windmill looks pretty. You will need five sails per windmill.

You then need to decide which side you want to be the main pattern and with that side facing up you need to glue the bottom circle B to the top circle A.

When you have completed all five glue them together and either glue it to the straw or pop a pin through the center so it can rotate !

Making tiny covers for sticky notes

My little sister and I always send each other parcels filled with little things and in mine this year I got a set of sticky notes. I love sticky notes and these came as a set all together on the same piece of card and I wanted them split up to go in different bags so out comes the handy paper and glue again to make some quick covers for them.
The photos should explain this one ok :)

* OK does anyone know how I can add a link to a pdf because its driving me up the wall hence there are no templates up yet - if you want to draw your own mine are on a 1" cutting mat.

Happy New Year !

2012-01-01T12:44:00.004+13:00

Wow 2012 has arrived, a fresh new year that will be filled with new exciting adventures !
I want to thank you all for supporting me over the last year - it still amazes me when I log into the blog and see that my little world here has been visited by so many of you.

I have lots planned for this new year more projects and tutorials and you will be hearing from a few new voices on the blog along the way too.

There will be changes at the shop too with new groups and classes starting up - I can't wait for the modern quilting group to get started and I'm hoping that we might be able to persuade a few new faces along to Wednesday morning knitting group too.

To celebrate the new year I have spent the last few days up dating the website so its nice and full for you and now you can run and have a look because with this code jan2012 you can get 20% off everything from today until the 15th January !!!!

Two more things I have been pottering away at
Some cute stitching the full project is coming next week

Marther Stewart clip art butterflies for a new window display I'm planning - these are very cool the are atchually as big as my hand !

And of course I'm playing with this fella a lot we are heading out for a big walk now the rain has stopped .

Back again

2011-12-30T18:57:00.001+13:00

Well I have been pottering around the net the last two days and probably you have been too so I thought It was probably time to get back to blogging.
Did You have a lovely time ?
We had a lovely Christmas and all the little T's loved all their treats from Santa ( even though our oldest has now decided that at 8 he doesn't believe :( I thought I might get a few more years but not so).
I whipped out the runner and place mats that I did earlier in the year for a festive breakfast and they have been used ever since.

After some beautiful weather we have all been stuck in doors for two days with torrential rain but I have made tons of headway with all the projects I have planned while all three boys work their way through the new Tintin Wii game.
I have been wanting to show you this big project for a while now as its the biggest quilt that I have tackled so far and its a gift for my parents- mum reads the blog every day and I didn't want to spoil the surprise but now that they are tucked up on an aeroplane on their way to visit I think it should be safe to spill.

It still has a way to go finding just the right clear colour has been tougher than I thought and I buy fabric for a living ! Now I'm after the perfect orange and one more but what ? well I'll know it when I see it.

This is a sneak peek at another of the projects that I have on the go it looks like clear fresh fabrics have been my favorite this year - I'm using up lots of my scraps for this one but what is it can you guess ?

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T20:49:00.001+13:00

I feel bad I forgot to take a photo of the super sellers out side the store today - they had a fun time and spent most of their takings on sweets at the dairy.
I had a lovely morning with friends and regulars popping in to say merry Christmas, but the day has ended with a cloud with the news that Christchurch was shaken with three more big quakes making me wander what is happening under the ground there - My youngest loves to get books out of the library about science and last week we were reading about Volcanoes did you know that most new volcanoes are preceded by a series of earthquakes as it makes its way up from the core !
We live on a very volcanic Island and part of me wanders if we shall get a new volcano at some point down in Christchurch ? I have to now say I have no scientific idea if this is true and don't want to worry anyone its just a thought in my head.
On a crafting note I have moved my machine home from the store in the hope of getting some projects done over the holidays - last night I whipped up some new coasters for us to use over Christmas

fabric one side and felt on the bottom, the black and white is from the new sketch range that we have in store which comes in a beautiful rainbow of colours.
Now I shall leave you with well wishes as I sign off for a couple of days to spend some quality time with family and friends Merry Christmas everyone :)

Tutorials for 'different' Knitting Stitches

2011-12-21T09:30:00.000+13:00

After chatting about how I'm becoming a little obsessed withherringbone patterns on the last blog post, I started looking at differentknitting stitches. Hours later, and a few swatches to show for them, I decidedI wanted to share with you a couple of tutorials I found...

A tutorial on how to knit a 'Cross Stitch':

Source: mcinva-roomontheleft.blogspot.com via Isabel on Pinterest

http://mcinva-roomontheleft.blogspot.com/p/criss-crosscross-stitchwoven-knitted.html

A 'Rick Rack' scarf:

Source: purlbee.com via Isabel on Pinterest

http://www.purlbee.com/rick-rack-scarf/2011/11/15/whits-knits-rick-rack-scarf.html

'Star Stitch' Cowl:

Source: florriemarie.com via Isabel on Pinterest

http://florriemarie.com/2009/12/07/the-wren-cowl/

Looking forward to hearing about your knitting adventureswhen you try these tutorials/patterns... even if you just swatch to learn thenew stitches!

Isabel x

Giltter everywhere...

2011-12-20T18:08:00.003+13:00

Well the salt dough went in the oven as the humidity wasn't helping them dry, which meant we could decorate them today.

Lots of glittery fun was had by all.

Then this afternoon we set to work on the stand for my "mini me sellers" Both boys have decided that they want to come in on Friday and sell their products
So eldest Master T is making cute sherbet packs and this is his stand and his elf sign.

These are some of the tags that we made on the computer oh how I wish I knew more about graphics it would save me SO much time and money !

While Little Mr T has decided to sell his salt dough ornaments to a lucky few customers - so when you pop in for some last minuet supplies bring the kids too :)

And totally off topic I wanted to show you one of the finished cushions from our quilting course that finished last week this one is Shelly's and she was super pleased with the result.

If you want to come and learn the basics about quilting and have lots of fun then we still have a few places left on both of our new course date see the class page in the side bar.

salt dough fun

2011-12-19T11:28:00.001+13:00

Morning everyone the store is closed today due to lack of childcare so I'm at home with the kids and Isabel will be opening up from tomorrow - we close for Christmas on Friday at lunch time 1 o'clock.
so what have we been doing I have always wanted to try salt dough with the boys so this morning that's what we did...
1 cup of flour
1/2 cup of salt
1/2 cup of water

I got them rolling it between baking paper and them cutting they were both really pleased with the results

we then popped them outside to dry and took shop dog out for some fun

the Christmas elves must have heard what we were up to because when we arrived back there was a stash of Christmas glitter for us to decorate our ornaments with - they need a few days to dry so I will post a finished photo later in the week.

I hope that your day is going just as well and that you are having lots of Christmas crafty fun - stop by tomorrow to see what Christmas treat my eldest is preparing for you all this Friday !

Hello from Isabel

2011-12-15T10:43:00.002+13:00

Herringbone, Herringbone, Herringbone.

Yup, I mentioned in my last post when I was trying to findan iPhone cover to make that I'm starting to become a little obsessed with theHerringbone pattern.

In fact I'm not just searching for it on Pinterest and Ravelryevery chance I get, I'm starting to see it in all sorts of places, even whennot looking for it! For instance, I was delighted when I opened my new diaryand found it has a Herringbone end paper- yippee, a whole year of Herringbone!

So, a collection of Herringbone images I've foundinspiration in (and do feel free to click thereference links below each image to my Pinterest board where you will be ableto further click through to the source. There are many interesting blogs to befound this way)...

Source: pigeon-pair.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: hawthornethreads.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: blogs.babble.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: no-metam0rphosis.tumblr.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: thewallstickercompany.com.au via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Isabel on Pinterest

So, not all knitting this post I'm afraid, hope you don'tmind too much and that you may have found a new obsession with Herringbones tojoin in with me!

Isabel x

Last minuet gift making

2011-12-14T14:30:00.001+13:00

Yes you still have time for some last minuet making I have pull a few idea together for you ..
First up is this super cute tutorial on felt Christmas trees a perfect gift if you are heading out to a friends for a Christmas meal this year.

Source: thompsonfamily.typepad.com via Helen on Pinterest

Kindles and ipad seem to be the in gift this year so here are three great cover patterns
First one from My Poppet

Source: mypoppet.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

Next One Pearl Button

Source: onepearlbutton.com via Helen on Pinterest

Finally a craft a day hides the digital in the old :)

Source: a-craftaday.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

Martha is always a good place to start for quick crafts and I don't think you can go wrong getting the kids to whip up snow globes for their friends or the grandparents.

Source: marthastewart.com via Helen on Pinterest

Also this cute idea of decorating Cookie cutters makes a quick fun gift for the foodie in your life, a jar filled with all the dry ingredients for your favorite cookie and the recipe would top it off perfectly.

Source: marthastewart.com via Helen on Pinterest

Want to sew some thing well these little coin purses would be quick to whip up by sew timeless

Source: sewtimeless.net via Helen on Pinterest

And if that's not enough for you one of our lovely knitting girls told me about this quick treat to make - Take a pack of mallow puffs put a teaspoon of melted white chocolate on the top add green leaf Lolly's ( you can get them at new world) and a jaffa or tow and tada ! Mini Christmas puddings. To give them as a gift grab an empty egg carton and remove the label pop in some mini muffin liners and then your pudding and wrap it up with a big ribbon (if you have time the cartons look great if you paint them white ).

2011-12-13T16:50:00.000+13:00

this post is a bit late sorry its been a hectic weekend with people gearing up for Christmas the shop has been busy and I an just cream crackered at the moment all I have felt like doing is knitting and reading today.

I'm hoping that when the sun comes out I will get more motivated I have a copy the the swoon quilt from Thimble Blossoms that I really want to make up with the new ruby fabrics,

Source: thimbleblossoms.bigcartel.com via Helen on Pinterest

I also love this one for a machine cover I soo need one of these mine gets so dusty under the table at work !.

Source: thimbleblossoms.bigcartel.com via Helen on Pinterest

I also have a new dye for the shop Go Baby this time hexagons and i have had an idea to use the cute Japanese embroidery patterns from my doodle stitching book

Source: google.co.nz via Helen on Pinterest

surrounded by hand sewn hexagons mounted as mini art pieces around the house, I'm sure there are plenty of other summer projects that I will be tempted to try - What are you going to craft this holidays ?

ruby has arrived !

2011-12-09T17:18:00.001+13:00

Just as I was leaving the courier turned up with a huge box in it the long awaited Ruby collection from Moda. I have been telling all the fabric customers about this for ages and I'm so glad it has arrived in time for last minuet projects think bunting and aprons. I managed to grab some quick shots but will do a full Post with ideas for you on Monday Have a great weekend and remember we are open this Sunday 11 -3pm and sat too ;)

Brown paper

2011-12-08T13:23:00.001+13:00

I have spent a fun morning changing the main window its now full of crafty ways to wrap your gifts.
Since I know some of you can't stop by and see the window I will give you a run down :)

We have some lovely mason jars with fabric lids. As its coming up to the end of term these make great gift jars for teachers - fill them with chocolates or cookies made by the kids.

What about using fabric to wrap your gifts this year it makes them look lovely - I will be stealing this idea to wrap a certain favorite round chocolate treat this year and then they will go on the table on each persons plate.

Then as a girlfriend and I were saying yesterday you can't go wrong with brown paper it makes things look smart and just needs ribbon to jazz it up we have 3mt rolls of strong brown paper at the store for just $4.

Need to give some thing small and simple how about re rapping simple soaps so they look special .
Here's a quick how too...

You will need soap, gift wrap, cooking paper, tape, ribbon and optional stickers.

Cut your kitchen paper so it is just slightly larger than the soap and wrap the soap up its nice to use a cute sticker to close it.

Now cut tour wrapping paper at least 1 1/2" wider than the soap each side and wrap securing with tape.

Take the ends and fold over flat about 1 cm do this with both ends try to use just a small amount of tape to secure the ends.

Add a ribbon and you are done !

Want to try something new ?

2011-12-08T13:14:00.001+13:00

Well now's the time, we have some lovely Bamboo in store as well as summer cottons perfect to knit in the warm weather and if you haven't tried them yet now is the time with our 20% offer on all yarns in store.

a quickie

2011-12-07T22:24:00.001+13:00

Just a quick one some people have had problems with the new class pdf I sent out so here is a link to all the information which is now up on the website click me !

Stocking fillers

2011-12-07T10:44:00.001+13:00

We have some great stocking fillers in store now - beautiful paper toys and cool marble games

Also since its knitting morning we are having 20% off all our yarns in store till this Sunday so now's the time to stock up for your holiday knitting projects.

Isabels weekly post

2011-12-06T07:20:00.001+13:00

I need an iPhone cosy...

My iPhone had an accident....and now it's in the iPhoneheaven in the sky. Those who know me, will know how much I love my iPhone, soI'm sad :-(

There is a silver lining to this grey iPhone cloud though;the insurers got back to me today and confirmed they are honoring the claimwhich means I have a new iPhone on the way. So, a new iPhone equals a newcase...and this time one that's crafted.

So I've been searching, and have shortlisted thefollowing...which one should I choose?

Who? Ipod Cosy by Kayleen Grage.

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I know, I know....more knitted owls....but I LOVE them!!hehe And they always look best in grey yarn.

Cabled Kindle Sleeve by Emily Nimz

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I'm sure I can downsize this into iPhone size, and I lovethe small cables- not too chunky. I'll have to get over my fear of cables firstthough!

Herringbone iPhone Cosy by Brent Annable

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I think I'm starting a new obsession- Herringbone. Eversince the store's website and business cards have had a herringbone design onthem, and Helen's Owl cushion featured herringbone quilting, I've been seeingand loving herringbone everywhere!

Elsa by Ann Kingstone

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Love the delicate lace knitting over the chunkier greyknitting underneath. Again, I'm sure this can be downsized easily enough for aniPhone

Crochet iPhone Cosy

Source: pollyorange.wordpress.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Even I can probably manage this crochet- love the rainbowcolours, and how it will bust some leftover yarn from projects in my stash.

Monster iPhone Cosy

Source: chezbeeperbebe.blogspot.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Cute, cute, cute! A monster to protect my iPhone!

Quilted Cosy for iPhone

Source: sewhappygeek.co.uk via Isabel on Pinterest

And one for the sewers and quilters amongst us as I couldn'tresist- this would look great in the floral fabrics we have in store that areCath Kidston-esque.

newsletter and other stuff

2011-12-05T10:32:00.001+13:00

Just a reminder to all those of you who read the blog but who aren't signed up for our emails that you can do this just on the right here - That way you will get a copy of our December newsletter but more importantly we are sending out a pdf of all the new things happening at the store in 2012 !! Oooooh
We are sending this out Wednesday.

OK now whats on for this morning I though I would show you quickly whats on my to finish list, far too much really but that's what Christmas is about.

The summer quilt top is finished and I just need to decide on batting and backing fabric.

This little cot quilt is a customer commission - the lady got given fabric at her baby shower from all her friends and needed someone to sew it into a quilt. Its been a fun little project and I just need to quilt and bind it now.

Next a quick little hooded vest for my youngest using the little hotshot pattern by Julia Stanfield from Ravelry I only cast this on Friday night so I think it should be finished by the weekend. Its knitted in the brand new loyal camo prints perfect for our little man who loves anything military.

Next up I just got this lovely book from the library and thought I would tell you about it.
Written by Pip Lincolne from Melbourne store Meet Me At Mike's It is a really beautifully presented book.

I have to be honest and admit that I'm a sucker for good design and nice typography, I loved the way each title looked screen printed.

Often I look at craft books and find the projects a bit over simple but this one had several that I would happily try and very good explanations for the first time crafters out there.

So all in all I think its a good buy :)

Isn't this monkey back pack cute

There is still plenty more on that list of must do's so off I go to finish some - have a great day :)

flying away

2011-12-01T21:21:00.001+13:00

Oslo was finally finished I was quite happy with how he turned out but the finishing was rushed, next time I need to be more organised and plan some time for the project.
He has now flown off to patchwork passion ready for the guild display :)

What is modern quilting ?

2011-11-30T09:11:00.001+13:00

First sorry for the hanging title I started writing the post this morning and acidently left the title up !
So for those who have been waiting ( and typically I didn't get time for said project )

Today I need to put in some work on my challenge cushion for the modern quilters guild.
I have been thinking a lot about the guild and the above question since the last meeting.
The guild is not really turning out to be what I thought it would be, but its still early day so I will keep going.
I thought we would have lively didcussions on what makes a modern quilt, talk about colour and what a major role it plays, do quick fun challenges, bring along work and images that inspire the way we want to quilt. Even the forum is a bit disapointing !

So what do you do well next time I will suggest something new, but in the mean time I thought it would be fun to start a small modern quilters group at the store to do all the cool things that I was expecting from the guild ( I might expect too much but with the internet you have access to more that makes you want to achieve more, I think )

So I have penciled in two groups one that runs weekly on a thursday morning remember that we can accomidate small one if they stay in their prams. Next year I'm dreaming of a space large enough for a play area :)
And then one that runs the first Monday of the month in the evernings so that everyone else can join in too - What do you think ? sound good ?

So back to the question what is modern quilting ? Well its proberly easier for me to show you what I consider to be modern as everyone has a different veiw on this question in fact there are some very interesting disscussions going on around the net on it if you google. This is an interesting read
The following images are from some of my favorite modern quilting blogs...

Source: diaryofaquilter.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: incolororder.blogspot.com via Helen on Pinterest

Source: redpepperquilts.com via Helen on Pinterest

Its not that they are inventing a whole new type of quilting they are just coming from a different perspective, playing with the traditional blocks and then pushing then further or altering them slightly to make their patterns more personal.
Would love to hear what you think.

Advent calendar

2011-11-28T16:07:00.001+13:00

I sat down this morning and put together the last two Advent Calendar kits for the store, as I was counting pegs I thought up an alternative one for you if you have missed out on this years kit.
It is a this point that I admit that this little project took a lot longer than I was expecting it to but the effort is worth it.
The Advent tree...
You will need sticks of varying length and thickness and something to cut then, embroidery floss or ribbon, decorative paper, thin wire and some treats .

Lay your twigs out and cut them into decreasing lengths as shown use your longest thickest stick for the tree trunk.

Take you thin wire and use it to join the branches to the trunk, it does not need to be fancy wire I got this red type at the $2 shop.

Ta da ! You now have a tree frame .

Time to make your goodie bags you can really go to town with this bit and do anything ! I had some cute mint green and blue writing paper that I thought would look cool I used the numbers from our advent kits but if you google advent printable plenty come up.
I popped a hole in the top to hang them from.

Obviously I couldn't make something without a bit of sewing so I zig zaged around the edges of mine.

Inside I put lollies and little activities to do with the boys.

Now all you have to do is pop your tree into a pot (I used a polystyrene ball wrapped in wool to secure it but I think florist foam would be a bit easier) and tie all of your bags on.

This picture doesn't do it justice but I was very proud with how it turned out and the boys were quite excited when I brought it home :)
If you make one it would be lovely to see a picture.

more sewing

2011-11-24T15:49:00.001+13:00

What else could you do on a day when the rain is going sideways !
First I finished a few more of those lovely owls, they are so quick but so cute that I'm sure a few might come home to roost in the Christmas tree.
Then i decided to cut my moochi yumyum fabric, its been sitting quietly for weeks as I tried to think of the best project for it.

Then on Sunday I started work on a customer order ( yes we will sew for you) nothing flash just simple brick blocks and it hit me that this would be perfect for my crazy material. So it took me a couple of hours to cut the 10 colourways i made them into 4 1/2" x 8 1/2" bricks and then joined 3 bricks together to make a block.
I even managed to work out a way to make every block different ! not bad

After that I cut and put together another cushion top out of the new mod tod fabrics I'm going to have all the instructions for these in store soon.

more owls

2011-11-23T17:07:00.001+13:00

I did it again I bought something for the shop because it had owls on it !
Thankfully all the fabrics that go with this lovely big panel are cool too.

So what do you do with all this lovely fabric ?
Well you could follow this super quick tutorial and make some owls.
You can make at least four of these owls out of two fat quarters more if you make them smaller.
You need to make two templates like below my main piece measured 8" at the base and 9" high.
It works well using two contrasting fabrics.

Cut out a main shape from each fabric Tip - put your two fabrics right side together and cut them out at the same time.

And then a base piece in either colour.

Sew mains shapes together and trim the top point.

Pin the base piece, matching point ends and seams, make sure you leave a gap for turning the owl right side out - sew

Now you need to decide which way to fold your owl - pin the beak in place as you don't want to stuff it. Now give it some eyes I used my pinking shears to cut circles of felt and added buttons, sew them in place.
Now its time to stuff your owl if you are making this a s a kids stocking stuffer simply fill with stuffing and sew up your hole then gently tack your beak in place and you are finished. If you wanted to make these for the adults they work really well as doorstops - stuff the top half and then fill a plastic bag with some sand and put this in the bottom and sew up.

AHHH how cute is this little one :)

Stitched and Knitted Book Covers

2011-11-22T16:42:00.001+13:00

I'm deviating away from a solely knitting theme this week inmy post. All week I've been obsessed with searching for, studying, and beinginspired by amazing embroidered book covers.

Take a look at my favourites... they don't need any words.They are stunning- take a close look. One day I want to grow up into a crafteras talented as the creators of these!

I've thrown in a knitted magazine cover for good measure too:-)

Happy Tuesday!

Source: purlbee.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: purlbee.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Source: piccsy.com via Isabel on Pinterest

From Isabel

rushing around again !!

2011-11-18T15:50:00.001+13:00

I was hoping to bring you a nice big post showing you all the sewing I have been doing but it has been chaos today - I have spent the day unloading deliveries and serving lots of customers , so instead a few photos before I dash off to get things prepped for MrT's birthday tomorrow.

Lots of cute toys arrived and they just had to go straight into the window ready for the weekend.

And yes they are little dachshunds :)

These are the cute new sample owls that I have been busy knitting at night I'm hoping that we will have a sample of all the regular store yarn knitted into these and square swatches by Christmas.

And last a little bit of sewing I am busy working on some large scale blocks for cushion kits this is a star - but I've just notice the right hand side is the wrong way round good job I haven't sewn it up yet LOL

Its in the lovely new fabric which arrived in store this week we also have a very cute boy range just in so pop in for a look or head over to the website as I have uploaded it all.

What's in my queue? Week Two:

2011-11-15T18:40:00.001+13:00

Hopefully last week's post got the keen knitters (andhopefully the knitters in waiting) amongst you inspired. This week I'll finishthe top ten in my queue with the remaining five patterns waiting to be castonto my needles;

6. Twinkling Trellis Socks by Maria Ekblad

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Socks with beads? Intriguing! Maybe these are show offaround the house socks, for a little glamour and sparkle. I reckon these wouldlook just as good without the beads though too- but I think I will go the hogand try knitting with beads for the first time when these make their way ontomy needles.

7. Damson by Ysolda Teague

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I have to confess here, this pattern has been in my queuesince re-learning to knit nearly two years ago! I know it will be a quick knit-so I really have no excuse. I love the colour of the yarn in the photo too- andwill probably hunt down a similar colour for the shawl.

8. Owls by Kate Davies

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

I heart Kate Davies' designs. Owls is just the tip of theiceberg of her gorgeous designs- just wait and see how many you 'favourite' oreven queue when you search for her designs on Ravelry. Kate has even written achild's version of the pattern too because it's so popular. Remember the OwlieSocks from last week? Well this pattern is how my Owl obsession on knitsstarted. (I also know there is a certain other Owl lover around the store!)

9. Wispy Cardi by Hannah Fettig

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

Now, the Wispy Cardi once 'graduated' from my queue, but throughno fault of the pattern, it's somehow found it's way back here. I can't wait towear this one summer's day- but I had better get a move on, as 2-ply is goingto be no quick knit! Can't wait to tackle this challenge- (I know there are alot of stitches to pick up within this pattern)

10. Hostaby Nancy Marchant

Source: ravelry.com via Isabel on Pinterest

'Wow', was my initial reaction when I saw the colourcontrasts in this scarf. It will be my first Brioche project (a knittingtechnique), but I so want to squidge a finished Hosta- I think it's the Briochethat makes it look so fluffy and warm. This pattern was published in the TwistCollective; Fall 2011 edition- if you've not yet discovered Twist Collective-search it now on Ravelry- therein lies a whole new host of patterns to 'queue'.

Designing

2011-11-14T20:27:00.001+13:00

Well this is a bit of a late post - we were so busy at the store today that not only did I not manage to pull out the laptop I didn't have time to eat lunch either.
I'm such a nag with the kids about eating their lunches that they told me off when I pulled out mine to eat after school pick up !
Any way now I'm working away as usual, tonight's job is to catch up on some notes for class and to start planning our new range of quilt kits and clubs that we are going to start too.
Sitting looking at blocks and thinking about colours is fun and I won't complain but I am starting to need a way of trying out ideas, really what I think I need to organise is a design wall. Now these are quite clever things you cover your board with a sticky fabric and your cotton pieces stay on a bit like grown up fuzzy felt.
Anyway I did a little google search and found this how too over at oh fransson :) as I'm sure there are some of you that might to make one too.

Source: ohfransson.com via Helen on Pinterest

Summer knitting

2011-11-10T11:12:00.002+13:00

Thinking about your summer knitting ? Have you found that perfect yarn yet ?
Well I think it has just arrived !

Twilleys of Stamford's Freedom Sincere 100% Organic cotton is in store its so soft and sumptuous and comes in 11 beautiful shades. I have picked out my favorite five which have just arrived but I know that all 11 colours are available so just let us know and we can order it in just for you :)

We also have two of their summer patterns aren't they lovely, fresh and modern.