bugandpop

Human Spirit

2011-11-04T07:50:00.001+11:00

Did anyone see the Motor Neuron Disease segment on Channel 7’s Sunday Night? It featured my cousin and his truly amazing wife who are only in their 20’s and have been given so much to deal with. It meant a lot to Stacy to share her story.

Learn to sew?

2011-09-21T21:05:00.001+10:00

I know you have seen the dress before, but after a lovely response I have decided to do a sewing class at Frankie and Swiss where you can leave with the perfect summer dress. It is a great beginners project with lots of confidence building and we will work through it in a small class step by step even if your current sewing ability is straight lines. I am tentatively thinking

Saturday 15th Oct 12:30 – 5ish for $60.

It is BYO fabric and you will need to purchase the pattern (let me know before you do though).

Summer Children at Play Quilt

2011-09-06T11:19:00.001+10:00

A couple of weekends ago I was lucky enough to go on a weekend away with some lovely crafty ladies. Of course I had such a lovely time that I managed to take no photos at all – thankfully Andi did a great job for the slackers like me, but did I manage any craft?

Poppy doesn’t like sleeping under a sheet so with hopefully warmer weather coming a light summer quilt was in order. While the gorgeous Parade fabric was new, the rest was linen from the stash (whenever Lincraft have a 50% off fabric some seems to come home with me) and the backing a clearance at Spotlight forever ago. While a definite fan of pattern, the pared back look of this seems perfect for summer. Now it is patiently waiting for some plain pink binding …. and some warmer weather.

Frankie and Swiss

2011-09-05T07:31:00.001+10:00

So last weeks bits turned into this. The super lovely Michelle (whose photo I stole .. umm borrowed) and her sister Jacqui have started up an amazingly exciting new business, Frankie and Swiss, where you can print your own designs on fabric right in Melbourne (Head spinningly good – there should be health warning with this as it WILL keep you awake at night with amazing AHA moments of possibilities!) There was a little call out on twitter for a sewing bee and after seeing this cute pattern by a Sydney designer ‘Pattern Runway’ last week, I thought it would be perfect combination for showing off fabric design and summer fun.

The fabric is based on Dawn Tan’s Lemon Spaghetti, and as I have no artistic ability, being able to work with an artist who is ace was even more fun (and a bit of a privilege!)

Even though this project was never going to be for me, it has been one of the most fun and inspiring projects of the year. Good luck to the Frankie and Swiss ladies and for letting us all join in with the brave - following a dream.

How to know when it has been too long

2011-08-31T07:39:00.001+10:00

It has been so long since there has been some garment sewing the poor overlocker threads – courtesy of cats smooching tails – are looking like macramé, but there is an exciting new dress on the boil.

Basting

2011-08-17T07:04:00.001+10:00

Basting, the most despised of a quilter’s jobs – apparently this is all a matter of perception as this member of the family seems to think it is tops !

But it’s Eeeeettttccchhhhhhyyyy

2011-08-08T06:33:00.001+10:00

Any woollen item that enters our house is promptly met with Poppy screams of “I am NOT wearing it – it is itchy!!!!” but she was so happy to snuggle into the ripple blanket while I was making it that she begged for her own. As luck would have it the wool went on sale 40% off. We went into Lincraft and she was given a VERY specific section (We don’t want to be crocheting with that horrid fluffy yarn or the pompom one!) to choose whatever colours she liked. It was so cute to see her feeling empowered to make any choice, so 14 rainbow coloured selections later this is what we ended up with and now she tells me her favourite colour is not pink – it is rainbow – yippee! She did ask though if it would be ready the next morning …..

Don’t you hate that

2011-08-03T07:47:00.001+10:00

Last row and ran out of white! So close yet so far. It is now entering the dangerous “weaving in of ends” stage that seems to of cursed many a better crafter than me!

Things I love a little more than I should …

2011-07-22T07:50:00.001+10:00

Do you have things that fit into that category, mine should also say chocolate too.

My shoes

The new Heather Ross III. I bought only the one print, enough to make Poppy this dress out of the snow white one

And I just HAD to get some of the parade fabric from Sarah Jane - obviously I am ahead of my time with all the embroidery designs from Poppy’s quilt turning up in fabric!

The owl clock that Poppy made at her home class with Dawn. Two hours of crafty goodness at your home all supplied for $45 is brilliant and how I love this clock and the self portrait she did.

Instigram on my new phone ( I know, said phone is not that new to most people!)

A ripple in the ripple

2011-07-21T07:15:00.001+10:00

Couch craft is dangerous in winter - there were plans for dress cutting last night but instead curled up on the couch for an hour of this. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I should share this one here in case I ran out of steam and it ended in a really long scarf instead of a blanket. There was a decision of orange or purple but Caleb assured me orange and white were the way to go. The pattern will be another 2 repeats which seems pretty doable at the moment. I am off solo to Brisbane in a couple of weeks for a wedding so airplane downtime should be my saviour!

More creative types over here

4

2011-07-13T08:34:00.001+10:00

Poppy had such a lovely birthday weekend that she started it at 4:30am on Saturday - mental note, do not have a party on a different day to her birthday! Dawn did a great job at her party if anyone wants to do fun crafty day she is definitely the lady for the job! A Charlie and Lola story and giant cardboard cupcakes kept all the kids amused.

Katrina made her a fantastic hopscotch cake that she adored.

Of course I completely forgot to take a single picture until the last guest left (thankfully Dawn was here and took some), the compensation was at least it happened to be my favourite photos ever … even if she does look like she is getting ever so big!

Unfortunately I didn’t have enough time to make her dress, not that she cared. (I did finish it though this week and she declared she hated it and would never ever wear it.) Then the school holiday craziness started. Imagine my enjoyment when on the first day Caleb came up with chicken pox spots and we were stuck in isolation for the first week!

I am still alive ..

2011-06-20T06:36:00.001+10:00

….. I have a crazy work deadline of Friday …… a little girl who is turning 4 on Sat …… that has been up at 5am all last week in case it was that morning ….. and the birthday party extravaganza on Sun …. hopefully I will be back next week ….. or asleep in a corner

More Winter Dresses

2011-05-31T07:32:00.001+10:00

First up the clever Katrina of Windsor Deli who is the master of desserts and Italian cooking (sugar and carbs how could we not be friends) got coerced on Twitter yesterday into some gnocchi making classes. My cooking needs any help possible and I couldn’t think of a more fun way to do it. Let me know if anyone of you would be interested and we can keep you in the loop.

Not to sound like I am too keen on myself but I have been loving the latest lot of Poppy winter dresses. I have used the same pattern for all and replaced the ribbon tie for elastic and button and done different waist ties. The hem length on the pattern is quite short as you can see in the first photo so it was lengthened for the second two. The pink cord is decorated with a crochet flower and some little cherry action on the denim dress pocket.

The purple echino was from the patchwork on central sale with spotty Spotlight denim pants from the last creative space post.

Creative Plans

2011-05-26T14:20:00.001+10:00

This is not an unfamiliar story I am sure, I went into Spotlight to buy plain denim and ended up with loads more. Often due to the quality and other reasons that people love to bag Spottie and my aim to only buy fabric for projects usually I can stick to my list. While these were around $20/m I am happy to pay for something different and nice weight.

Plans are for some sweet special dresses, the spotty denim for pants, heart denim for a pinnie and the blue flowers has already made it’s way into the jacket. Now all that is left to sew it all!

I also picked up these on the $10/m table from the Patchwork on Central sale.

More creative spaces in there new home.

Needle Felting

2011-05-25T15:23:00.001+10:00

At the insistence of Brown Owls I seem to be expanding my crafty repertoire - first crochet and then last week I was lucky enough to join in with Cintia’s felting workshop. There is nothing as relaxing as poking the crap out of something with really sharp needles – LOVE. In 2 hours we all easily managed to make a macaroon and the sweetest little mushroom (which seems to be MIA ie. stolen by small fingers).

How could I walk away without my very own bag of woolly goodness and have started on a flower for Poppy and a Pokeball for Caleb (don’t ask). I picked up lots of earthy colours in the hopes of making some little creatures soon.

If you are in Melbs there was talk that Cintia may be persuaded to do more classes - fun, portable, not overly expensive and stabby - what more could you want in a craft? Even if you wanted to just have a crack there are lots of great you-tube tuts as well.

Seeing Double

2011-05-17T07:19:00.001+10:00

When going on a big jet plane, sometimes it is nice to go with a friend.

My late Softies for Japan organised by the fabulous Lexi! Pattern.

Yay Jacket Time

2011-05-16T07:37:00.001+10:00

Why is my model standing on the couch poking out her tongue - well why not. Her new winter jacket is fully lined with cord for some extra toasty-ness and the outer fabric has a really interesting texture and is part of the new winter selection at Spotlight. Most importantly it is a darker fabric with pattern so hides the mess that she seems to attract but still enough pink to pass the test.

The white lace trim are my new favourite way to fancy up her pants.

Often when you talk of making your kids clothes, there is the “is it worth it for the price you can buy” and sometime it is more the enjoyment but the cord and buttons were in the stash so the total cost was around $25. It is the same jacket pattern as last years.

Caleb’s beanie was one of my first finished crochet projects but actually fits Glen better (in my defence Glen does have a head the size of a toddler)

Winter Rising

2011-05-11T07:42:00.001+10:00

With the cold snap, the production of the kids warmer clothes is in full swing. Usually it is a time to try lots of new patterns but I have used only a few patterns and varied the fabric, which is actually quite a fun challenge.

I contemplated this year going to the shops and buying them clothes and I discovered I have become that annoying person, “look at that material and finish for how much!”. So expect to be bombarded with lots of sewing – let me know if I get boring - well as many as the temperamental models here will allow.

Excuse the mess, the choc chip cookie of co-operation and the lack of ironing. Pattern for dress from here in new My Folklore. Pants pattern is my old faithful one out of Lincraft linen and pink angalise trim.

Pattern from here.

Kids Art Class

2011-05-09T07:27:00.001+10:00

Last week Poppy was lucky enough to have one of Dawn’s “kid’s home art classes”. While Dawn is a beautiful artist, her gift is really being able to relate to children. She read a sweet fishy story and then creating of sea creatures was on.

Poppy was entranced learning how to ‘paint properly’ and use ‘Mr Crocodile scissors properly’ (you know those instructions that always sound better coming from someone other than their mother!) and her face at the discovery of glitter glue was one of the cutest thing ever.

It was a really great thing for Poppy as she can still be a little unsure around new people and places, so to have it at home with me around was perfect for her. Poppy had such a great time she was inviting her back again before she got to leave and is now going to do Poppy’s birthday party too! (Considering Melbourne weather in June I think it should be a really fun inside alternative) Poppy has asked Katrina to make her cake too so it will be a little bloggy birthday party.

Thanks Dawn for a great morning and letting me use your pictures too!

My Creative Space

2011-04-28T11:25:00.001+10:00

Oops, school holidays full of gastro and flu and a busy work it seemed like I was only away for 4 days but it seems to of been nearly 4 weeks!

My softie for Japan is nearly finished and will be express posted up to Lexi today, because there is nothing like leaving it till the very last minute. There were plans for more, but I hope someone will love my very wonky contribution. Super cute pattern from here.

More creative goodies at Kirst’s House of Miniature.

My Creative Space

2011-03-31T10:50:00.001+11:00

There has been lots of work, work, work this month and 1 night of sewing in a fortnight – unheard of. Poppy picked this lawn cotton at Spotlight and it is cut and pinned … so very nearly a shirt.

And buoyed by the success of Poppy’s hat, I have one on the hook for Caleb - pattern from the lovely Amanda, I bought it on Ravelry – yeah that’s right I am speaking woollen-ese all over the place. It is my 20 minute wind down at the end of work before bed. Not the yarn I would of picked but Poppy was adamant that it was perfect for Caleb.

More creative goodies at Kirst’s, here touch of drafting this week looks much more interesting than mine!

Finito

2011-03-30T13:42:00.001+11:00

I love that some blogs do gorgeous photo shoots before they make it to blog, this one was on the way to the car. I LOVE this hat, which is a little sad. Mary’s suggestion of the pompom on a string – perfect. According to Poppy the pom pom has a name and is her new pet. She even wore it all day at kinder despite the sunny day yesterday.

My Creative Space

2011-03-24T10:52:00.001+11:00

LOOK, I made something out of wool .. and it can be worn …. by a human ….. in public. Sure I had to pull it apart and start again about 4 times, but mostly due to charging in and not reading and understanding the instructions. Even with that crochet is really enjoyable - the motion speaks to me … well the motion of the treble stitch cause that is all I can do. I have started another hat – for Caleb or Glen depending on how big it finishes! Footnotes of thanks to Miss Kat and Miss Mary xx .

Creative wishing well and a fresh cuppa apparently at Miss Kirst’s

Future

2011-03-23T08:13:00.001+11:00

The kids were discussing their careers the other day in the car.

Caleb is going to be a palaeontologist / rock star and said to call him Jet from now on.

Poppy decided a doctor or garbage collector – both of which pay pretty well I think so carry on. Her fall back option – butterfly.

Glad to know the future is safe in the hands of youth.

My Creative Space

2011-03-18T10:36:00.001+11:00

That is right, I am attempting to learn woollen-ese. No heckling required! Kat tried to learn me a granny square … again. I fear this experience may of required a wine when she got home.

There will be people with actual creative skills at Kirst’s

Have you seen over at Lexi’s that she and Calico and Ivy are collecting toys for kids in Japan devastated by the earthquake. Such a lovely idea, after a donation a gift of love.

Shirt for Poppy

2011-03-16T08:02:00.001+11:00

I haven’t had time to sew as much as I would like lately but I did finally get this one finished, it has been 3/4 done and patiently waiting! The pattern is from one of my Japanese books and stashed fabric.

*Notice the start of frozen ankle disease about to take hold on those pants

My Creative Space

2011-03-10T09:30:00.001+11:00

I mused a while ago about the dinosaur quilt so here is an action shot. The stripes and embroidery won out. It all seemed to be coming together quite quickly until I see that post was over a month ago – time is not my friend!

More creative goodies at Kirst, and her new quilt-y goodness.

Nippers

2011-03-09T23:45:00.001+11:00

So the long suffering readers will know about Caleb’s long running hate to love journey of water. Since the swimming lessons had been going so well I decided Nippers (surf life saving for the littlies) would be a really fun summer activity. It was a bit of a shame that the Melbourne weather didn’t feel the need to commit to a summer. The other benefit was for Caleb to get in ‘loosing’ training – you know the annoying kid at the party that falls apart as soon as he looses – yeah that was mine. It has been lots of fun and has definitely helped. Saturday was their inter-club competition and Caleb got a 2nd and 3rd and he was really happy.

After the group Poppy and Caleb ended up on the paddle board and Poppy pushed him out into the water and while he was trying to sort out what to do he floated out too far to put his feet down. Of course this was the one week I didn’t wear swimmers so I waded out in my jeans before the young life saver offered (reluctantly) to go and fetch him. Unfortunately for the life saver the look on his face as he entered the cold water only made it even funnier.

*No Caleb’s were hurt in this story. He was in no danger, I could of easily reached him and he wasn’t distressed at all.

chill

2011-03-09T00:00:00.001+11:00

So the colder weather has bought in the short pants - I tried to tell the kids they were French but before they had some frozen ankle disease I thought I had better make some new ones. This is Poppy with her new pants, in her hand picked fabric and rocking her new do too.

My Creative Space

2011-02-24T07:58:00.001+11:00

Last week when Glen asked me to make a quilt for a workmate’s new arrival I was so excited that he asked for something quilt-y that despite having heaps in the sewing backlog, jumped into this project. I knew straight away that the Fairy Bread quilt from Pip’s book would be perfect (Did you see Kate’s lovely one? ).

Instead of doing french knots just on the top these are pulled right through with a surgical knot on the back so it should have a really nice texture once it is washed. I am a strange creature that enjoys binding quilts so added that too in some Dr Suess yellow dot (coincidently from Kate too!). I used a stashed blue linen/cotton blend for the front from a Spotlight sale to hid stains and Japanese boy prints on the back. The wadding is a new polyester one from Spotlight so it will hold up well to lots of washing and not much quilting (fingers crossed) and it is a really lovely weight.

I loved this one so much that I now have plans (yay more plans) for a lap sized linen one for Poppy with pink Liberty binding and longer ties on the front and the french knots on the back, instead of the towel that she drags out now!

Lots of more creative goodies at Kirst’s house.

In the interest of blogging honesty – this was actually last weeks post and it has taken me this long to take a picture and hit publish , but it is actually finished now and the new owners love it – which is always a relief!

My Creative Space

2011-02-10T21:59:00.001+11:00

Do you sometimes feel like you have too much creative space, not that I am some sort of crafting genius or anything but there are always so many plans and things I want to get done, that sometimes I have to remind myself “a hobby is meant to be fun!” Yet another planned quilt, this one for Poppy. She loves her embroidered one, but she still wets the bed and while it has been holding up to the repeated washing I thought a back up was a good idea. She also hates the top sheet and sleeps under just he quilt so want a light weight and thinking of flannel sheeting as wadding ?? All the prints were from the stash with some Kona solid action.

Lots of creative goodies over at Kirst’s.

And thanks for all of the Mum love, she finally got the electricity on yesterday and was touched by all the generous thoughts.

And thanks for the help in the quilt vote, the bottom was my original layout so think I will run with it!

Indecision

2011-02-09T07:25:00.001+11:00

I laid out my planned quilt for Caleb and then made the mistake of asking Glen for an opinion and now I can’t decide. The dinos were going to be appliquéd on but now thinking an embroidered outline might be better and then once dino fascination passes the outline can be unpicked? What do you reckon, I want to bring in some red?

Busy hands

2011-02-03T06:45:00.001+11:00

Thanks to everyone for their lovely words last night, I spoke to mum first thing this morning and she is ok which is a huge relief. Whatever damage she finds when she heads out really is of no consequence. I hope that there is no loss of life anywhere. The eye passed right over her at Mission Beach with a horrifying one hour of eerie calm. They have water leaking from the ceiling so what she will find of the top story at day light is hopefully not too heartbreaking. Fingers crossed for everyone up there. *Just spoke to her and damage is pretty minimal considering with the roof and car port intact. Hope it all looks as hopeful for all the FNQers*

Busy hands made a start on a quilt for Caleb’s new room. Moore creative peeps at Kirst’s.

Distraction

2011-02-02T18:00:00.001+11:00

See on that map by the #5, Tully, that is where my Mum is. She is assuring me the eye may miss her. We will know later tonight. I will be crafting and keeping my hands busy and my mind as quiet as possible.

It is also my Nan’s birthday too. I miss her. I reckon she would of loved checking out the crafting action. She was an inspiration and planter of sewing loving seeds. I will be thinking of her too as I potter around tonight too.

Hope that is all good in the morning – for all of them up there!

My Creative Space – Loungin’

2011-01-20T14:34:00.001+11:00

Hot off the presses last night and getting lots of use already is the bean bag made from Sew La Tea Do and the kids love it. Next is a pink one for Poppy’s room too and buoyed by the success, I may even make some for the lounge room too! The kids rooms are in the middle of a overhaul and a very long to do list. This fabric, which I adore, is from Ikea.

Thanks to Kirst for hosting another year.

Intent

2011-01-12T09:30:00.001+11:00

(I have had this in drafts and not published but with the floods it does seem frivolous) With the new year comes thoughts of new intentions. This year I really want to focus on ‘do less – laugh more’ - not giving myself so much to do and not taking it all too seriously. Naturally if I make the list any longer then there are millions of things that are trying to fit in.

This year Poppy is in 3 year old kinder 3 mornings a week, but I am struggling with this decision and am considering making it 2 mornings again. Isn’t that the eternal parenting balancing act! An extra morning would be great and relieve pressure from me to get work done at night, yet it really is our last year, next year 4 year kinder will have more hours and then school all so quickly! Thankfully she still sleeps in the afternoon so that makes working a full time job while she is still home easier. Enough babbling.

On the crafty front, my resolve to sew more for me has been aided by a dressmakers mannequin for Christmas – I am very pleased with her so far and working on some Colette patterns and fabric stashed since Christmas 2009 with the best of intentions! And while I don’t think not buying fabric for 2011 isn’t an option, the intention is to not add anything to my stash – buy it and use it.

I am still a Queensland girl and hurting over the scenes. Lots of people are doing an amazing job – Donate here and Auction and bidding on crafty things here.

Two Zero One One

2011-01-05T13:41:00.001+11:00

Happy new year – hope you haven’t thought me rude for mot saying it earlier but have been spending more time enjoying holidays with the kids than the changing of calendars. We have been home holidaying, and I always enjoy it (sad but true).

Fixing up the kids rooms is high on the list and Caleb and I did this really fun and easy project yesterday and he really loved it. With some beloved dinos, some material for backdrop and then let him loose to create some prints for his room (the main challenge was to shut up and let him do what he wanted). Then off to Officeworks to get 8 of them printed for the princely sum of $7. We got 6” x 8”, bigger would of been better but since Caleb was in charge he didn’t want them too big!

Festive Much?

2010-12-23T08:58:00.001+11:00

So ignoring the in-laws ‘here is 2 placemats with an IOU for 4' more’ and the fact that mum’s present isn’t even started and Glen’s shirts didn’t get past the fabric buying stage I can’t wait for Xmas. Last day of work today and ignoring the flu symptoms because I have 2 weeks off – so excited! Now I just have a few holiday projects to keep me going.

Hope you have a great festive time and enjoy those loved ones and doing lots or little - whichever works for you best and thanks for popping around and keeping me company and giving me inspiration and friendship – appreciated more than can be expressed.

Super Six

2010-12-20T07:48:00.001+11:00

It is official, we made it to 6 and the first year of school. The last few months have been a challenge with all the change and expectation catching up to my little man.

We took him after 2 years to the psychologist and she was so pleased and said with what he has learned he would probably wouldn’t even be considered on the autism spectrum. That doesn’t mean he is ‘cured’ just that the early implemented techniques have really made a difference. It was a really proud moment for not only him but I even let myself have a little ‘yay me’. Lots of work and time and tears and still weekly challenges seemed worthwhile.

He did a great job at school with another ‘Student of the week’ for trying hard and a report card with beautiful compliments about the sort of person he is. He is super excited about Grade 1 and his teacher and has done a great job making some really good friends. A huge relief after our 3rd school to find the right fit.

There are not words to express how proud I am of Caleb and how well he has handled himself and how excited I am to see the man he is going to be – all to quickly for his Mum’s liking! If you are a parent dealing with the early stages (that are really hard) it is not easy but it can get better.

Holiday Plans

2010-12-16T08:19:00.001+11:00

Only 2 more days of school and Prep is done – wow. Poppy is finishing up all her activities and one more week of work for me and then 2 weeks off – YIPPEE.

I do have some holiday plans though

making bread at least once a week
kids to take a photo a day (I expect lots like this one)
bike riding, park visiting, zoo, you get the idea
wrapping lots of presents and putting together lots of unwrapped presents
sewing for MYSELF
fixing up the kids bedrooms
feel like I am having a holiday even though we are staying home
lots of baking with the kiddies
hope to build a walking/exercise routine (hopefully to help with the above point)
more Melbourne kid ideas
looking forward to having some time to waste

What about you – any plans for the hols?

Dinos Rule

2010-12-15T07:33:00.001+11:00

Caleb had so much fun at his Dinosaur Diggers party, while it isn’t cheap it was worth it. He was in heaven and even the non-dino obsessed were enjoying it - mainly due to the fact that Sandra was fantastic. At fossil dig time, Caleb was still madly fossicking after 20 minutes!

For the goodie bags (sewed with dino fabric of course) I did some gingerbread dinos and the dinosaur eggs of questionable appearance made it in and have received glowing responses.

For the cake I wanted to do dino foot print cupcakes that made out a 6. It didn't quite turn out as good as the head vision (that seems to happen with me and my limited cake abilities but unlimited ideas!) but the kids didn’t care and the birthday boy loved it. One of our guests was allergic to food colouring so the lovely Katrina at Windsor Deli extracted the colour for me out of parsley and spinach for the icing, so cool.

Plans for a mushy post on Sat, his actual birthday and 6, how did that happen!

My Creative Space

2010-12-09T08:12:00.001+11:00

So it has taken me this long to get round to uploading the photos as this last weeks creative space! While madly trying to finish the teacher gifts that have made there way to creative space before I am also working place mats for the in-laws. I used this fantastic tutorial to make the spider web block. While the result is gorgeous I am thinning I may make this a centre piece and then make the actual place mats strips or I am just going to run out of time.

I also finished up the lap quilt for Caleb’s teacher this morning. As soon as he saw it finished he had to take it in today so a quick snap fresh out of the dryer was all I could manage.

And most importantly I really wanted to thank Kirst for being such a great host.

When all else fails …

2010-12-01T07:03:00.001+11:00

What better fall back for some instant gratification after some sewing frustration than a pink summer dress for Poppy - You are guaranteed love at first sight. Pattern from new favourite Japanese book.

Pleasant Surprise

2010-11-29T07:11:00.001+11:00

Have you seen Emily Martin of Black Apple fame’s new book? Since I have loved her artwork and dolls forever I HAD to get a copy – for Poppy of course and $20 odd dollars seemed pretty good value. When it came it was so lovely that I thought I would share it. There are so many gorgeous characters and even scenes, and at the back are a stack of make your own clothes and people as well as other ideas for your paper doll family.

For a pleasant change there is lots of boy characters too so I am going to cut out half to Poppy and half to Caleb. Caleb is loving drawing shirts and pants that we cut out and add heads and funny names too so he should really enjoy it. I ordered another copy for a classmates birthday coming up as a good school holiday present.

*No-one has asked me to write this, I just wanted to share. You do have to cut all the pieces out and unfortunately the pages aren’t perforated or spiral bound.

My Creative Space

2010-11-25T13:50:00.001+11:00

Caleb’s birthday is just around the corner (6!!) and the party is in a couple of weeks – eek. It is dino crazy and we are having a ‘planned party’ but still wanted to fit in a little hand made fun with Caleb. I found a tut on how to make your own dino egg that they could chip away at – if you squint really hard it looks like an egg doesn’t it – no still looks like poo. It is also made with tonnes of coffee grounds and stinks so perhaps 20 6 year olds don’t’ need additional stimulant. Drawing board again.

Bet there is more classier spaces at Kirst’s.

Hi

2010-11-24T08:55:00.001+11:00

While there has been a lot of sewing there has been some ‘not quite rights’ of late. Things not quite fitting, blah – blah – blah. Here are a few things that have passed.

This is the hat from Pip’s book, while it didn’t fit Caleb it is a very cute addition to the present pile.

I adapted a long sleeve pattern to make this circle yoke top, the arm holes are pretty airy but I am happy to ignore that. The Heather ross was a donation from the lovely Kate.

Shark on your ass swimmers and white binding at legs. The camo material was from Melanie (thanks very much!).

I was really happy with this dress from a few creative spaces ago, the pics aren’t the best, temperamental model! I am working on a pink version (as requested by temperamental model)

The lead up to Christmas is feeling a little daunting, but I am trying to ignore it and keep ploughing through my handmade gifty list. (Note to anyone planning children – don’t have them the week before Christmas!) I am thinking a little cookie baking from Windsor Deli (her choc chip cookie is being modelled by Caleb at the beach). Have you checked out her blog - lots of cute recipes and I really love “the cook and the chef” using in season ingredients that she is doing in conjunction with Mish.

Next up some placemats for the inlaws. Congrats if you actually made it this far!

My Creative Space

2010-11-11T09:42:00.001+11:00

Still lots of bits and pieces going on.

Handmade gifts for young blokes are hard work. Hope that he likes the shirt and it fits! I am on a button search - thinking little wood ones. The fabric is Kaffe Fasset Ikat and pattern is another Japanese one. Glen wants one too.

Some little stitchy inspiration.

And a hat for Caleb from Pip’s new book.

More Creative space gold at Kirst’s.

I promise next week a really long – lot’s of crap I have finished but haven’t had time to blog – post, these things really do get finished I promise … except the dress from last week which I still haven’t started (why do your own projects always get put to the bottom of the list?)

My Creative Space

2010-11-04T14:19:00.001+11:00

Got the quilt top finished from last week so just need to sandwich it all together and attack it with the Perle.

Then hoping to get a start on the Colette wrap dress, the pieces are all cut.

More creative goodies at Kirst’s.

My Creative Space

2010-10-28T08:01:00.001+11:00

With all the drama trying to find a school that worked for Caleb his current teacher is such a lovely lady that I really wanted to make something a bit special for her Christmas / Thank you present. I don’t really enjoy making bags so a lap quilt it is. The majority is scraps with my new found love of solids (quite a bit of Kona solid has been purchased thanks to the AUD) in her requested colour palette of blue and green and tufted tweets for the backing. To be honest, it took forever to decide on a pattern and there was going to be much more detail in the blocks but time isn’t my friend so hope it is still interesting enough.

More creative wonders over at Kirsty’s.

Simply Spring

2010-10-27T13:03:00.001+11:00

Inspired by the lovely Kate and her tutorial these appeared in 2 hours last night. You have to love that, from half a yard of fabric no less so 2 very cute skirts for around $5. I used 5 inches for the top and 10 inches for the bottom to fit Poppy. The flowers are an Alexander Henry and the pink is a really nice cross weave. I was expecting it to be like a shot cotton, which it isn’t at all but has a gorgeous texture to it. The hem detailing is one of the fancy stitches on my machine that never get used.

I was lucky enough last night to make it into Pip’s book launch (even if it was with both the kidlets who were thankfully pretty well behaved) for Sew La Tea Do, and it is a really lovely book. There are plans – like there needed to be more – of hats and embroidered pillow slips and other lovely things that you expect from the lovely lady herself. (bad blogger who took no photos)

Yay Sunshine!

2010-10-25T11:23:00.001+11:00

Poppy and I were so excited for the arrival of some sunshine yesterday we hit the beach. She is wearing her yellow jacket from My Creative Space a few weeks ago, because seriously if you have a bright yellow jacket – it NEEDS embroidered bumble bees.

Short Cut

2010-10-22T13:38:00.001+11:00

I am not sure if it is the first really lovely spring day but I have toying with the idea of a new short do. Apparently it is the Hollywood trend. I do like these starlet’s new locks. Images from here.

My Creative Space

2010-10-21T08:24:00.001+11:00

This week some new swimmers for Caleb. The blue camo print from the lovely Mel and the plan is a little shark appliqué action. I am going to ditch the velcro fly for just an elastic waist, not sure how that experiment is going to go? The dress for Poppy is one of the patterns from the Japanese pattern book and nearly finished.

I am waiting on some fabric to arrive to get into more of those Christmas presents and despite telling myself different have yet to make myself a dress for summer. Hopefully I can get into it soon! More creative goodness at Kirst’s.

Too Busy to …. Blog

2010-10-20T14:02:00.001+11:00

I have been sewing lots and finished up a skirt for me but haven’t had time to photograph it. I seem to of fallen out of the photo taking habit which I am trying to get back into. 2 new pants for Poppy as they both have managed to grow out of their pants by an inch a month before they wont need them anymore. Gees even this post has been sitting in drafts for a week.

My Creative Space

2010-10-14T07:48:00.001+11:00

I have about 300 WIP at the moment which isn’t my natural state at all, I much prefer to start and finish so I am trying madly to maintain order. Over the school holidays we had a train trip to the city so I ‘happened’ to make our wanderings pass Tesutti. I have wanted to make Poppy a yellow coat all winter but couldn’t find any wool so settled for a linen spring coat (until next winter anyway). It is from the same Japanese pattern book as the winter coats from earlier in the year and with the strong AUD this other summer pattern book has come to live with us too.

More peeps at Kirst’s, the light to the creative moth types.

My Creative Space

2010-10-07T07:35:00.001+11:00

The quilt is finally finished so now thoughts are already turning to Christmas. At Poppy’s child care she has up to 8 carers, and this simple scarf tutorial is the answer. All the strips are cut and ready. I really want to make a homemade Christmas this year so hoping if I give myself enough time that I can achieve it this year.

And another pair of pants that fall into “love a little more than I should” category. It is the Oliver + S pattern with the pockets and front panel left out, it is also full length not 3/4 with a linen trim on the bottom. After searching for some suitable fabric for the dino obsessed boy, I decided to do a little triceratops sketch and embroider it on the back linen pocket.

More creative peeps over at the lovely Kirst’s.

Japanese Summer shorts

2010-10-05T11:29:00.001+11:00

Occasionally I make stuff that I love a little more then perhaps I should - these definitely fall into that category. A standard elastic waist pant that I made a little longer and curved the bottom and finished with white binding. Really easy and only half a yard of fabric from here. Lots of summer sewing at the moment and am really loving the quick projects!

My Creative Space

2010-09-23T09:04:00.001+10:00

The quilt managed to find its new home on Sat night but has taken me this long to make it to the blog. (School holidays while trying to work is quite a juggle) I feel like I am cheating a little as it isn’t really a work in progress but there isn’t much else creative happening at the moment. After a year, and having changed the design lots I am really happy with it and Poppy loves it. Thank goodness it didn’t go on her bed and then she demanded a Dora one.

So many lovely ladies have helped me out as I plodded along. The border and binding fabrics are from Central Park Patchwork and the service was really good.

More creative goodness over at Kirst’s, even if she is school holidaying I took the liberty of spacing anyway – I am that kind of guest.

My Creative Space

2010-09-09T07:32:00.001+10:00

Nearly up to binding – yay! (it is the stripy fabric at the bottom of the photo) My deadline was this week but the good thing about the ones I set in my own brain I can extend it out a week.

Caleb has a dress-up birthday party on this week-end, so filling Batman request.

And the present for the birthday girl – a Poppy girl with some white outfits that she can decorate with glitter pens. Not having any 6 year old girls I am hoping that she likes the idea.

More creative goodness over at Kirsty’s. Thank you too for all your lovely words about Caleb.

I forgot to mention that you can get your lovely Poppy pattern from the equally lovely Fiona.

Proud

2010-09-07T08:06:00.001+10:00

Caleb is Student of the Week and while there are more weeks than students (everyone has to receive it!) still so very proud – and he got it for being the best at swimming (not skilled, but trying the hardest).

Part of Caleb’s Asperger’s Autism for him has involved a huge aversion to water, but holding him in a bath or the first swimming lesson meltdowns seem so much longer than 7 months. His swimming teacher has done an amazing job this year in his one on one lessons and I would love to be able to express to him how truly amazing Caleb’s progress is and how much his kind supportive words made a huge difference to Caleb - but teenage boys don’t really understand that kind of stuff.

There was a little hesitation with sending him on the school swimming lessons - in a group, having to get himself dressed and feeling over shadowed by other kids, but he has handled it beautifully.

It has been a really hard first year and at the start of term 3 he started his third school. The other schools weren’t bad they just didn’t suit him. There was a lot Mama guilt being carried around about not questioning and considering more, but some things can only be gauged from the inside. At the end of term now there is a huge sense of relief – he is much calmer and gaining so much more from school. It is a good week.

What is Dad?

2010-09-06T14:51:00.001+10:00

I asked the kids for what they love to do and why they love their Dad and embroidered the response. I didn’t want to edit them too much, Poppy did come up with some nice ones as well as ‘stinky poo poo head’ – but you know the age where there it is hilarious. And seems only fair since Dad was the one that started it. Embrace the WONK.

My Creative Space

2010-09-02T13:20:00.001+10:00

Hundreds of safety pins and hundreds of little stitches, not the most creative but I am madly obsessed with finishing this now.

There is also an embroidery for Glen for Father’s Day – not sure what hope I have of getting it done before Sunday though!

More creative goodness at the always lovely host Kirsty’s

Fussy

2010-09-01T13:04:00.001+10:00

Fussy cutting goes against my usual fabric tight-ass policies, but sometimes there are exceptions. These gorgeous piggies were originally gifted to me by the lovely Amy! I am a little obsessed at the moment about getting this quilt sewn, whether this will last through the hand quilting bit remains to be seen.

Ice cream Dress

2010-08-29T22:10:00.001+10:00

I realised that I hadn’t blogged the Oliver + S final dress for the social. It’s the fat quarter of Heather Ross bikes that has been stretched to it’s limits. The strips are just on the front which I sewed first and then used as a template to cut the back out in one piece.

My Creative Space

2010-08-26T07:55:00.001+10:00

Not sure how creative 64 triangles cut and re-sewn are? These will be the corners on each of the panels for Poppy’s quilt and am just over half done. I have been giving my multi-tasker a huge work out.

This sheer fabric from Tessuti has been waiting its turn for over 12months. I bought a shirt this week that I want to utilise as a template.

More creative peeps at the always lovely Kirsty’s – I will save you from my initial bad glue puns

Off to Neverland

2010-08-24T06:59:00.001+10:00

My cute little Peter Pan in his Mumma made outfit and Caleb made sword, complete with alfoil jewels for book week. Even his hair suits and he loved it and so easy to make.

Sorry Mum …

2010-08-22T22:10:00.001+10:00

… but if that is the worst daughter thing I have done in 32 year that isn’t too bad? Done by the fabulous Holly at Voodoo Ink, should finish healing in 2 weeks, still pretty red and raw now.

Before I went I had to take the kids while I voted – Caleb asked what we were doing – I said deciding who was the boss of the country. Caleb’s reply –” But you are already the boss Mum are you just going so that you can make the speech?”

My Creative Space

2010-08-19T07:26:00.001+10:00

I have been crossing lots of unfinished projects off my list and was getting a little excited until I wrote a list of new projects and filled in 3 pages.

Monday is book day at school so one very green Peter Pan outfit for Caleb mid-construction.

While organising summer plans I found this vintage pattern and was thinking of the playsuit - what do you think – is it too babyish for a 3 year old?

And a little hand print action.

More creative spaces at Kirst’s

Petal

2010-08-18T11:45:00.001+10:00

The doll quilt for the Down Under Doll Quilt Swap is 99% finished and ready to go in the post. Overall I was really happy with it though there is a bit more wonk than I would of liked. I hope my partner likes it and it isn’t too busy. Thanks so much to the lovely Kate for organising and including me.

Stitch + Stitch + Stitch

2010-08-16T09:52:00.001+10:00

I am having a moment - it is feeling a little self indulgent - all the embroideries finished! For some reason the quilt top part is making me nervous, not quite sure why. The best cure may be to jump right in. I love the linen base, it was quilter’s linen from Spotlight, the creases though make it horrid to photograph.

Patterns from Comfort Stitching

Pattern from September House

Pattern from Sarah Jane Studios Original prints from Black Apple

I can’t pick a favourite, fingers crossed they all work out together.

My Creative Space

2010-08-12T14:06:00.001+10:00

My computer died on Friday so I haven’t had much room for creative. I really want to finish up the 90% jobs floating around before I get into some summer goodness (lots of sketches and not much more) and actual QUILT CONSTRUCTION – woo hoo. The embroidery panels should all be finished tonight then wash, iron and sewing.

I have finished up my quilt top, learnt a lot which is good for me and hopefully ok for my partner too as it isn’t as perfect as hoped.

More creative goodness at Kirst’s temporary house of wonk.

We went to the zoo yesterday …

2010-08-09T07:44:00.001+10:00

The sun was out. The wind was cold. The cherry blossoms blooming at the Japanese garden – spring must be around the corner.

Happy 10

2010-08-08T07:21:00.001+10:00

One of my favourite internet ladies – Sophie – has tagged me in a happy 10 things meme.

1. Of course the family, but especially when you get the glimpses of the friends that Caleb and Poppy are becoming. These usually come in between bickering but those moments are gold.

2. Sewing, goes without saying, but when we head out and each of has a little mama-made I really love that, especially if someone takes the time to give them a compliment.

3. Swimming – the laps have been non-existent for a while now, but the swoosh in the ears. (To clarify, Ian Thorpe is not worried, I just do breathstroke in the ‘nana lane’)

4. Hanging out with my crafty friends, in computer land or at Perle’s or any other excuse really. I feel really lucky to of found a great group of people that I normally would of never found. I hate that at the mo’ there isn’t enought time to blog and comment as I would like.

5. Music – When I first got my new car I forgot to turn off the headlights, battery went dead, no stereo for ages. Once the music returned I have trawled through all my old CD’s and enjoying sharing it with the kids (I haven’t had to listen to a children’s CD in months – yipee! unless you count Jack Johnson Curious George). The current favourite is Spearhead, the kids love it. We have been making an effort to turn off the teev and listen to some tunes instead. I have to figure out how to download some tunes (so techy I am)

6. Colour – always, can’t stand being dressed in all black.

7. A cup of tea, some stitching and alone time. Half an hour on the mornings of Poppy’s child care and I feel re-newed, especially if there is a Baker’s Delight scone too or a lamington.

8. Sweet – tooth – no explanation

9. Seasons – I love being cold in winter and hot in summer. One of the reasons I love Melbourne so much.

10. Community – We have been in our house over 4 years (not bad for a renting) and the longest I have ever lived in one place. Familiarity is nice for a change, the local people and places, even though it isn’t ours it is home.

I know there had been quite a few tagged – so if you haven’t had a go – you so should, it is nice to have an excuse to think about what makes you happy and grateful everyday. Thanks Soph x

My Creative Space

2010-08-05T09:48:00.001+10:00

I was thinking there hadn’t been much creative since last week - the day after the circus Caleb got a horrid cold and conjunctivitis and has lovingly shared it with Poppy and me. The stuff out of noses this week could stunt double for Jaba the Hutt (though I haven’t been moved to whip out my gold bikini and hair buns). We are slowly on the mend now but we finally got around to making a dinosaur badge that he has been asking for for ages. He loved them so much that as you can see they have grown into a collection (he is a boy who loves a collection!) Yesterday when he told me he was going to make dinosaur badges with his son it seemed even more special – there is a lot to be said for felt, safety pin and some cardboard.

And of course, some embroidery on the couch is perfect when you are feeling under the weather. This was aided by Glen taking the kids out on Sunday morning for me to have some time – it has never happened before, but sooo good. Brownie points for him, which he used all up when I showed him said embroidery to be asked what was it! Can you tell she is blowing a dandelion. He suggested adding some yellow so you can see it better – what do you reckon? I added a little texture to it as well.

For more creative spaces pop over to Kirst’s, the house of luova sankari (see you aren’t the only one that whip out a little Finnish, lets hope the translator was nice to me)

On With the Show – This is it

2010-08-04T08:04:00.001+10:00

Let me share with you some mum lessons from last week. At the school there was a circus performance involving all the kids. I had concerns – I did – but don’t want to tell of him of defeat before he has even made it to the battle lines.

I also had concerns about the group swimming lessons through the school and he has handled them like a pro so I didn’t want to sound like a nagging mum at the teacher about how I don’t think he can do things – I want to be the cheer leader on the sidelines.

I should of asked lots more questions about the organisation and never of taken Poppy for a 2 hour performance that finished 1 1/2 past her bedtime. Super proud – he did his routine a la hula hoop like a pro, but they didn’t sit back with the parents and stayed in their class groups, seated at the front so you couldn’t see them, especially when you are up the back trying to convince the un-impressed 3 year old of the exciting merits of yet another poi performance.

Let just say the finale was not only the kids that did a great job, but also the mumma who had to go on stage pick up child having meltdown with other child on hip screaming who had hurt him as she was gong to get them. What the teacher thought was stage fright was complete sensory overload (Asperger’s kids are quite sensitive) and over 2 hours of dance music and lights was too much. By the time we got to the car he couldn’t even open the door and put on his seat belt and was shaking and sobbing.

So ask more questions if you are concerned. Don’t feel like you are being a pain because the teacher doesn’t mind. And make sure the video gets your best side as you make your impromptu entrance, look forward to getting a copy of that DVD. I should of known better.

Once I got him off stage I reassured him how amazingly proud I was of him – and I really was. He did a great job and when I spoke to him the next day, when he had a little bit of time, he told me that he really enjoyed doing his performance for everyone. I am glad he got to have that moment, next time I will just organise to have him sit back with me so we can leave when he is ready – live and learn.

My Creative Space

2010-07-29T14:18:00.002+10:00

Last weeks scraps for the Doll Quilt Swap are slowly emerging, using this tut that was originally done in felt with glue.

The last ice cream dress is slowly taking shape, with the fat quarter being stretched as far as possible, fingers crossed the end result looks ok.

I spied this fabric on Flickr and while I haven’t bought much at all lately - had to buy some of this for a spring dress - not sure why I love it so but I do. I really can’t wait to get into some warmer weather sewing for me which is just as well as I was in the shops last week (it doesn’t happen often) and there is no convincing me that 80’s fashion is back people!

More creative peeps at Kirst’s – the creative goddess herself, she is even making herself some clouds.

Ice Cream Top

2010-07-27T09:29:00.001+10:00

Even though this was finished last week it has finally made its way to blog land. The fabrics are a combination of red anglaise yoke and Saffron Craig in Yellow for the bodice. It will be super cute in summer with red tights or denim skirt. I still have one more dress in the works and don’t forget more Ice Cream Social fun at Amy’s till the end of the week.

Andi and Mary don’t read on, but did you see the Fabric Shack has half price shipping until the end of the month – so I think that means $6 for an envelope that they will cram in 9 yards! They seem to have lots of new lines too, like castle peeps and tuffed tweets for $8.20/yd and kona solids $4.20/yd. You can buy in yard increments too if you don’t need a whole one – found via true up.

My Creative Space

2010-07-22T09:55:00.001+10:00

There seems to be a few things floating around in my space this week. I had some shirts that I cut out for Poppy at the beginning of winter that are still patiently waiting, one more ice cream dress and I may even get some buttons and cuffs on the shirt I started making for Glen many moons ago. The most exciting thing is that I have finally caught up with winters sewing. Yes I know it is the end of July, but that still gives me a few months before summer requests roll in. It is a perfect time to get into some summer dresses for me – that were planned last summer!

The lovely Kate invited me to join in the Down Under Doll quilt swap on Flickr so these are cut ready for a little fabric-y experiment.

And finally back into the embroidery again. Did I show the finished beach girl? i have one panel left until I can finally start putting the quilt together, it has only been a year!

More crafty goodness at Kirst’s ladies lounge

An Apple a Day

2010-07-21T23:02:00.001+10:00

I broke the rules on this one quite a bit. The original pattern has a V in the middle of the yoke, but since the Kokka Apples is quite heavy I opted to leave it straight.

I also changed the pocket details to an asymmetrical apple in red cord and added some Perle 8 embroidery for the stalk. The red stitching on the denim seemed an important detail so that altered the yoke joining method but still with a similar result. You should never be afraid to give a bit of yourself into a pattern I reckon

Ice Cream Social

2010-07-20T07:04:00.001+10:00

Have you seen the Oliver + S Ice cream social hosted by the lovely Amy and Kate? It started on Sunday, but it is never too late to join in, especially when ice-cream is involved and Amy is doing some fantastic instructions if you are new to fabric construction.

I am attempting one of each view. This is the View A dress with Kokka apples and lightweight denim body.

Saffron Craig yellow dandelions with red analgise yoke is going to be the shirt option.

And in an amazing feat of tight ass fabric usage I am attempting to use a fat quarter of super sweet Heather Ross bikes to use in the striped option.

Pink jacket Version 2

2010-07-19T22:08:00.001+10:00

Half way through I was concerned it wasn’t turning out as good as the plan in my head. Poppy was certain that it had to be pink, but was it too purple - so added on the pink butterflys at the pink ric rac toggles and thin pink ribbon to highlight the seam details. On the original jacket the toggles would come undone, but these are much shorter and seem to work much better. The bottom of the sleeves are trimmed with the selvedges, don’t you love the fuzzy selvedges on wool? The fabric was a perfect weight for the jacket and she didn’t seem to mind it wasn’t as soft as her old one – in fact she loved it – thank goodness. Sorry for the pics, the weather has not been very conducive of late.

My Creative Space

2010-07-08T11:58:00.001+10:00

It has been flat out with school holidays and work this past week, but thank you so much for all the Parsley confidence, she is one happy elephant!

The last few days we had someone in to look after the kids in the mornings for a change of scenery. Yesterday, at the park though we forgot to bring home Poppy’s jacket. The executive decision was to take it as a compliment that someone decided to take it home by the time I realise it was missing. The original plans to turn this fabric into a dress, but since it is the only pink and wooly in the stash it now has a new purpose in life. It is heavier and scratchier than the wool but here’s hoping it passes as she only had the one jacket! I am still deciding on what detailing to got with but using the same pattern as the original.

More creative spaces over at the lovely Kirsty’s house.

My Creative Space

2010-07-01T09:20:00.001+10:00

Once there was a little elephant, Parsley was her name, who had big dreams of what she could be. When she tucked in the trunk night her mind wandered to places far beyond peanuts.

Paging Dr Parsley …. she wants to help sick kiddies smile or even lovely ladies like Miss Curly also of the Pops family. (Here doctor’s hat is temporarily MIA)

Prima Ballerina Parsley … even though it is have to be a pachyderm on your toes that isn’t going to stand in her way (would you).Is it a bird (a really big, big bird), is it a plane – no it’s Super Parsley with her faithful side kick the Pop-inator, keeping all those in Eletown safe from the evil Grownup Grumps. Maybe she could be a Princess with horses to ride and jewels to adorn.

Or maybe, just maybe she would be lucky enough to one day be …. the love of a little girls life, her best friend and confidant.

Just Maybe? Sweet dreams Parsley.

Parsley’s bed / wardrobe are from a paper mache beauty box from Spotty. The bed is just a stuffed fabric envelope with Aunty cookie quilt. The wardrobe is coat hangers cut out of thick cardboard and super glued to the top of the box so the clothes don’t fall out and are all kept together.

More creative bits at Kirst’s. All my creative credit this week goes to the fantastic and inspiring Jodie, the original Parsley creator. Sorry I cheated this week with an already finished creative space, too tired for any new exciting plans yet.

Pink Princess turns 3

2010-06-28T22:52:00.001+10:00

While Sunday was cool at least the sun was out.

There were pink presents

pink cake pink party frock a pink table, pink balloons and pink food.

There were handmade party hats out of cardboard – so easy and gave the kids glitter pens and stickers for a little crafty action.

Instead of goodie bags full of sugar (which I do love) I decided to paint paper mache boxes with bright Porters paints chalkboard. It was $20 for 500ml but there are other plans for it so it wasn’t too bad. They were filled with chalk, pencils, coloured paper, water activated paints and stickers and some token chocolate. I thought it would be a good thing to keep in the car for child amusement emergencies while out and about. They would make quite neat gifts too.

Parsley came out really cute, but she deserves her own post hopefully tomorrow.

My Creative Space

2010-06-24T13:00:00.001+10:00

party, Party , PARTY this week.

The goodie bags with lots of ideas and not much action yet. As with the DIY party hats.

The party dress in need of waists and hems and arm hole detailing.

Parsley while finished is waiting for some snaps to hold her outfits up, no strip tease please! And she needs a place to live.

Caleb wants to make her fairy wings and have not even contemplated that one yet, may have to pick out store bought one.

The super sparkly cape is actually completely finished, that is one tick at least!

So when there was an hour last night it was spent finishing Poppy’s dress for her friends party today that she has refused to wear as it isn’t pink enough – I wont have to worry about that on Sunday. We decided with our pink tights and shoes it could pass for ok. Note the PINK drink in the photo!

More creative goodies that are hopefully more organised at Kirst’s House and she has out my favourite – flocking an floss!

Boys Will Be Boys (warning – rant ahead)

2010-06-23T06:57:00.001+10:00

There is no generalisation that I despise more than “Boys will be boys”. Sure boys can be more physical than girls but is that by nature or because it is sub-consciously encouraged in boys with those personalities and discouraged early in girls if it is their innate personality. There is no suggestion that boys should sit quietly in a corner and play all day, I love nothing more than seeing both my kids running around yelling and rolling down the hill at the local park. What I am baffled by is the enabling of our boys to carry on with socially unacceptable behaviour - if fighting is not OK at 25 or 15 why do people turn a blind eye at 5. The school playground should be somewhere where kids are able to take a break and run around and freely interact with peers, not games that take the veil of ‘superhero’ games which is really code word for pushing, in your face, that with increased excitement that is so common at this age, degenerates to hitting, punching, kicking and biting and favours size and strength. Maybe I am being unfair to expect the same thing from both Poppy and Caleb? Maybe I am being unfair to expect too much from school, but my real guile is when I see his behaviour change because he thinks that it is acceptable to push your little sister or hit. So ends frustrated Mama rant.

Something crafty at least - Do you remember Caleb’s foray into softie making – we are still working our way through the book (in order of course). This one is Lucy’s Monster and is actually a really good one for kids to do. You draw the outline and sew around it which is much easier than worrying about seam allowances and if there is a little wonk it doesn’t really matter. I drew the outline on tracing paper so it was super clear and just tore it off once he was finished sewing.

My Creative Space

2010-06-17T07:12:00.001+10:00

The elephant wardrobe is still under construction this week, but the birthday girl doesn’t want to be outshone by a pachyderm so the party frock is underway. The dress is quite a simple silhouette and hoping the fabric and the fullness will do the work. It had to be pink, thankfully the gorgeous babushka fabric from Kelani is one pink I can definitely live with.

More creative goodness at Kirst’s house.

Clever Friends

2010-06-16T22:18:00.001+10:00

I have loved Sam’s gorgeous drawings for ages so when I was lucky enough to win a brooch it too forever for me to choose which one I liked the most. How cute is Rapunzel and the cards are quite hard to write notes in and part with.

Cath has started making the most divine brooches too at My Bearded Pigeon. Once I saw the beautiful orange butterfly there was some instant reversible denim headband sewing. It is the perfect home for it and a robot maybe needed very soon.

The super clever Cath is also a finalist with her amazing red deer stitching in the Feeling Stitchy competition , have you voted yet?

Winter Dresses

2010-06-15T10:03:00.001+10:00

Many moons ago on a creative space far, far away there lived a couple of Poppy dresses waiting patiently. While they have been finished finding a chance to take a decent photo hasn’t been so easy, hooray for a little bit of sun.

This is a simple elastic neckline and cuff dress made with Heather Ross from the last Amitie sale. Instead of casing the elastic I used the ‘elastic zig zag’ stitch on the machine and stretched the thin elastic as I went, so much quicker and sat better.

The deer fabric is one of my favourites, added to the stash from Patchwork on Central quite a while ago and teamed with glittery denim yoke and bell sleeves. This one brings a smile every time with a little retro vibe. I could of ironed it before I took the photo but that just means we are friends now and I don’t feel that I have too.

Do you think you get more of an idea on a hanger or on the child? I can never decide?

My Creative Space

2010-06-10T11:28:00.001+10:00

Parsley although a little wonky is still pretty darn cute. This week’s mission is an elephant wardrobe for our lovely lady. Feeling pretty proud of myself considering there is still 2weeks to go till the B-day, but as usual there are 3 millions plans in the works.

More creative goodness over at Kirsty’s

Foxy 8

2010-06-09T23:44:00.001+10:00

There doesn’t seem to be as much of me in the blog of late so when Miss Kate started this little one why not join in. A couple of weeks ago was bloggers without make up and have been thinking about it . Although confrontational at the initial thought I have been pondering why that is. It is not that villagers are chasing me away with pitch forks so why does posting photos seem like such a big deal – what message does that send to my daughter. So anyway I got over myself and I am going to refrain from saying derogatory things like ‘ignore the bags under the eyes’

1. Favourite meal to eat? Thai and Indian or anything with chocolate, yes please.

2. Do you have a quirky eccentricity? Nothing that sounds as exotic as an eccentricity. Um I don’t like fruit. I wont drive in between 2 trucks if I can help it. I talk to myself a lot. I always say orange if I mean green. I think that the card is almost as important as the present. Like to eat something sweet at the end of every meal.

3. My middle name? I don’t have one, Dad just decided that was just another thing you had to learn how to spell – high hopes. Both kids have middle names that start with J and for some reason that seemed important at the time,

4. I am passionate about doing the best job that I can for my family. If they can look back and think that they were supported and loved that is enough for me.

5. Thongs or Birkenstocks? Leftover from being a Queensland girl thongs for sure, even in Melbourne mine get a work out for as long as humanly possible and ignore my blue icy toes.

6. Who was I before I had kids? Pretty much the same - work wise still have the same job working from home. There was definitely more money and time but much less laughter. There is certainly confidence that has come for me as a mother.

7. Have I ever been arrested? No, usually a rule follower

8. This weekend I ~~will~~ have? Early morning swimming lessons every Saturday, it is not like there is going to be a sleep in anyway and then kid wrangling and working. Finally got the car radio working and enjoyed playing CD’s that brought back lots of long forgotten memories and sang badly and loud.

My Creative Space

2010-06-03T11:35:00.001+10:00

Usually there is one project on the go, I really don’t like having heaps of unfinished projects floating around but that seems to be the theme this week.

The music girls from last week finished and a bit of beach action in the cooler weather helps warm the toes. Only one panel left now though there may be a little quilt break as practical sewing sneaks in.

Elephant parts that will hopefully look less like an Alfred Hitchcock film soon. It is Poppy’s birthday at the end of the month and there are definite Parsley plans of grandeur.

Caleb pants that haven’t even managed a stitch in them yet.

A dress that is nearly done for Poppy that is awaiting hems and a little tuck in at the neck and another dress waiting patiently in the wings.

Phew, and thanks for all the lovely cape comments from yesterday. It really is super easy to do even without a pattern and done much like Kirst’s except not as cool. I can hope to try and work on a tutorial before summer but looking at the to-do-list?!

More creative spaces , that are perhaps more creative and less like a job list at Kirsty’s place

Cute Attack

2010-06-02T10:28:00.001+10:00

There was an idea for a little cape with slit arm holes that even though wasn’t going to be red but decided it had to be. The ladybug pockets speak for themselves and just enough of one of my favourite fabrics with ladybugs to line the hood. It isn’t quite how I pictured it in my head but loving the retro feel - Even the sad snotty child seemed impressed.

My Creative Space – Something to be said for Instant Gratification

2010-05-27T11:09:00.001+10:00

This is easily the longest panel and definitely into the 10’s of hours, but darn it if it isn’t my favourite as well. There were hopes that the last 3 panels would be finished by the end of the week, but ummm no. Original from here.

My beloved lap quilt on the other hand is only a couple of lines and some binding away from completion. This is my first machine ‘quilting’ (and that term is being used LOOSELY) and although hand quilting is still my beloved there is a lot to be said for quick.

Go and be instantly gratified at Kirst’s (in the crafty sense that is)

Fabric-y Goodness

2010-05-25T14:15:00.001+10:00

Hooray, it arrived already. I have resisted the urge to roll around in it , and am instead using the – yippee on holidays and Poppy is asleep – time to get started. Love it, the feel of the organic cotton is gorgeous and super happy with the service.

My Creative Space

2010-05-20T07:21:00.001+10:00

Apparently I have managed to loose yet another week and it has bee a busy one too. Unfortunately still can’t shake this bloody sickness so am having next week off work which is a big deal since I don’t get paid. This may mean that there is either more of me around or less – who knows.

There was a great time to be had at Sew It Together and lots of people have managed to share the fun long before my sorry organisation. Sophie was an absolute pleasure to have at our place for the weekend and the kids would of happily sneaked into her suitcase. The Saturday craft extravaganza was great and lots of truly adorable ladies and even though there was a lot of stitching time it doesn’t look like there was much achievement. There was unspoken plans to finish off the last 3 panels needed and half way through 1 is the most progress managed. I figure on the couch stitching still counts as rest for next week.

Sheridan did a thoroughly amazing job organising and sponsors and gorgeous goodie bags – too good really. I was so lucky to win a $50 gift voucher from Funky Fabrics – it was burning a hole in my pocket - so many projects to choose from and gorgeous fabrics to do them with until I saw this newly listed Birch fabric. If I was a fabric collection this is exactly what I would be, chairs, animals, birds! A lap quilt in all the chairy colourful goodness and divine mid-century frivolity, so excited. There may be a little quilting to do while on the couch next week too! (Glen finds my love of the chair a little strange, though I am not alone.)

Check out more at Kirsty’s the Queen of Thursdays

My Creative Space

2010-05-13T13:40:00.001+10:00

Second antibiotics and an attempt for early nights means that it has been little light on creative.

Pants in progress for Caleb with another set cut an ready.

Sew-it-together on Sat should be great, a whole crafting day so embroidery supplies, new book and quilting templates (still have to track them down as Spotlight didn’t have any – I know all look surprised!) hoping to be started.

And just so you don’t think your in the wrong place, Milk girl progress.

More creative goodies at the house of , Kirst’s.

Mother’s Day Addition

2010-05-09T21:47:00.001+10:00

So if not today when else can a Mum brag about her kidlets, regardless of talent. As a loving mum I dragged in Caleb to the bookshop in search of an embroidery book and Caleb stumbled upon a Softie book that he HAD to have. Here is our first, a goat - can’t you tell. He traced the pattern, cut it out and after a bash at feeding the fabric through the sewing machine we ended up with a few holes so he settled on the pedal of power while I fed it through. Great practice for a boy with fine motor issues and he LOVES it.

Once we were finished it was chauffeured to the bedroom to put with his “sewn treasure collections”. I asked what that was, he informed me that it was 0 before today and now it was 1. Guess what we will be up to on the weekend for the next year.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the ladies today, mine was spent mothering – should I be surprised and they really wanted to make the most out of it so started the day at 5:30 – so lucky!

My Creative Space

2010-05-06T10:50:00.001+10:00

Perhaps there needs to be a rename to Bug and Pop … and Floss as you guessed it – more embroidery. This black apple print seemed perfect for my milk lover. There are a few other prints that were planned for the 3 panels left, and then along came Sarah Jane and now maybe revision 315 coming up. Too many beautiful things! The quilt pattern is on paper and not changing at least.

Sewing plans - a new casual jacket for Poppy and some black cord pants for Caleb. Glen’s birthday is only a few weeks away so the ideas corner of the brain is working on that.

More creative goodies at the House of Flock and Floss (say that 3 times fast and not get into trouble) , Kirst’s.

Perhaps I spoke a bit prematurely

2010-05-05T12:47:00.001+10:00

It appears all that hooraying last week may of been too excited since my car blew up on Sunday and was deemed unfixable by Monday. So after having the same 1 car for 8 years we now have 2 new (used) ones in a week – not fun!

The sewing machine hum had not been heard for over a week, unheard of around here. Once the antibiotics were finished the sore throat has returned with a vengeance and taken my energy with it. There has been some crafty goodness of the stitching kind though.

The hair and face redone and worth the effort, pattern here.

My dreaming girl is nearly done too, just have to decide what she is dreaming of, perhaps a rainbow? Pattern here.

Other exciting news, heading off to Stitches and Craft on Friday morning, Stacey has even threatened to teach me how to knit. Even though the cash is pretty thin at the moment after the car carry on, my excitement has not wanned! If you are going to be around let me know so I can keep an eye out.