Mrs Sew and Sew

Progress my dears...

2012-01-16T19:55:00.000Z

Have a sort of Halloween theme in among my Wips so I thought I'd make progress one of them, this is "before"

This is a detail of the title stitched over one

an overview so far

Wipocalypse Jan 2012

2012-01-10T09:10:00.000Z

My wip progress this week has been intermittent, but as you can see I am very nearly there. Just another leaf and some boarder and "Z". Not smokin needles but certainly active one.

From little acorns ...

2012-01-05T15:54:00.001Z

Corny title when you see the stitching I know, but it is Thursday and my first stitching post for 2012! Not quite a finish yet, but good progress so far.

Bent Creek " Acorn Sampler" stitched on Antique Linen with recommended threads.

In addition I have been busy in the kitchen creating jars of jewel Seville orange marmalade.

Looking forward to my toast tomorrow morning.

WIPocalypse 2012

2012-01-02T08:39:00.000Z

Hoping my stitching mojo can be found among my WIPs I have signed up for the WIPocalypse.

My projects are:-

1. When Witches go riding : The Prairie Schooler 75% completed.

2 .Pins and Needles : The Prairie Schooler 50% completed

3. Trick and Treat Cat : M Designs 35% completed.

4. A quaker Christmas : ByGone Stitches 10% done. (Didn't think this qualified as completed!)

5. My Quaker House : Blackbird Designs 10% done.

6. Simple Little Quaker : Papillon Creations 95% completed.

7. Wedding Happiness : Verachtert 10% done.

8. Gingham Christmas : Just Nan 5% done.

9. Tiny Garden Scissor Fob : Shepherd's Bush 80% completed.

10. Acorn : Bent Creek : 60% completed.

11. Snappy Sampler : Bent Creek 5% done.

12. Morning Star : Blackbird designs 5% done.

Plus I am also intending to sort my stash - having duplicated some threads and charts recently, I really need to know what I have in my various bags! and get them into some sort of order.

Needles at the ready

2011-09-18T15:59:00.000Z

Needle activity on this blog has been sluggish to say the least this year - so I have signed up to this
my WIPs are numerous, they would all welcome some attention.

All I have to do now is to decide which ones....

Does looking through your WIPs count as stitching?

Happy New Year

2011-05-23T18:35:00.005Z

to one and all, hadn't intended to be away quite so long...

Have also had an unintended break from stitching, but that's a whole other story!

To prove that needle has penetrated fabric with thread, here is my current project from the 2010 JCS Christmas ornament issue.

La D Da 'Tis Red,

stitched on 40 count antique white over 2 using one thread of Gloriana silk in Ponisettia

I also wanted to show you this thrift shop find, isn't it beautiful

and I hope you'll agree - a bargain at £1.50!

To have and to hold...

2010-07-15T18:35:00.004Z

I stitched this for the happy couple.

It has been a year for wedding this year, DD was married in April, as was a work colleague and then last Saturday I took Dad to Skye for the wedding of a very dear friends' daughter. I saw Skye at its very best dressed in sunshine. The wedding was a treat, kilts apleanty, but sadly no bagpipes. I excelled at the welly tossing, but couldn't hit the Haggis!

Taking a road trip

2010-07-09T06:12:00.001Z

Off to Skye with my dear old Papa, to a wedding here http://www.flodigarry.co.uk/ I am hoping for bagpipes and kilts at the very least.

Bit of a theme ...

2010-07-04T20:00:00.008Z

Prarie schooler - When Witches go riding

Just Nan - Moon Riders - Jasper

Just Nan - Moon Riders - Jinx

M Designs - Trick or Treat

Maryanne Moreck - Pumpkin Fridge Magnet

Stitching away as you can see - hadn't realised I had a theme going.

LHN exchange to Aubree

2010-04-08T21:59:00.004Z

I have just read that Aubree has received her LHN exchange. She has taken some lovely photos here http://meadows08.blogspot.com/ I stitched Cherries, using recommended threads on 28 count Antique White linen from my stash, and made it into a tote bag.

Quaker RR 2010

2010-04-03T09:16:00.005Z

Here at last is the first section of our Quaker RR for 2010.

We are stitching "The Hunt" by Homespun Samplar, designed by Linda McNally

I am stitching on 32 count Zweigart Belfast Linen Antique White

Using Thread Gatherer Silk 'n Colours in Fading Ink
Having just posted this picture I can see a glaring mistake - looks like I'll be unpicking now!

So much for being finished.

HOE LHN exchange

2010-03-24T09:40:00.002Z

I received this lovely ornament from April in the recent LHN exchange on HOE.

Another finish

2010-01-13T22:23:00.002Z

Another stitched piece finished - well the stitching part at least! This is one of the delightful series that is designed by Carol at http://istitchaholic.blogspot.com called "Sew Autumn". It was stitched on a 40 count cream linen, using Gloriana silk "Autumn Arbor". It was a great stitch for me. Now just have to "finish" it!

A week of contrasts

2010-01-09T07:33:00.005Z

The white stuff looks set to be with us for a while longer, very picturesque, but chilly!
Because I have made a major counting error on my Willie's square, I was already to bin it! But wiser heads than mine advised leaving it for a while and coming back to it with fresh eyes, so that is what I decided to do. Here is my new start "Sew Autumn", stitched on 40 count cream linen, using Gloriana silk "Autumn Arbor"

My Willie square, the alphabet does not match up on the right hand side, I am 4 threads out - have looked and looked, but cannot see where I have "gone wrong. If you can see my error, please let me know, I will be very grateful.

Finally a HD for the new year, I completed this LHN Wool Needlebook for my friend Gillian, who celebrated her birthday yesterday. Gillian was one of the first people I met when we moved into the village 20 years ago. She has been a great friend, always ready with a cuppa and a share loved of all things stitching!

LHN Needlebook, stitched on 32 count Flax linen, using recommended DMC threads. Finished using brown hobby felt and buttons from Boyes.

I have also started a Rotation for my stitching this year, when having a clear out after Christmas, I discovered my paperwork for the rotation I did in 2006, I seemed to complete a fair number of items, so am having another go!

Thank you for your comments on my last post, it was a lovely welcome back after such a long break.

Time for ...

2010-01-01T21:01:00.006Z

an update!

Sorry if you thought I'd left the planet, just had an unintended break from blogging. A New Year often heralds a new start so here it is...

Firstly the return of my Quaker Friendship RR, isn't it just beautiful. I chose a hand dyed linen and Gloriana Silk "Autumn Arbor", the effect is really stunning. Thanks to Jinger, Deb, Sharyn, Marti and Lynda for sharing this stitching adventure with me.

Belated seasonal wishes to all, I received these very smart Emma Bridgewater mugs for Christmas, they make for a very festive cuppa!

and lastly, deep and crisp and even it is, making car deforsting a chore, but window viewing a delight!

Happy New Year

Clare

Alphabets old and older

2009-06-14T19:12:00.003Z

This is my progress on my Quaker square this week.

I am sorry the photo is such poor quality, I am just getting used to my new camera ( a touch too much flash there Butch!)
Despite the showers, I was out and about this week. I thought this inscribed tablet that I saw at Eggleston Abbey was just wonderful, especially when you consider it must be at least 600 years old!
I may just go back for a rubbing - when its dry.

Just Nan Exchange

2009-06-07T09:49:00.003Z

I stitched the Jingle tin for Tracy http://madstitching.blogspot.com/
I am happy to say that she liked it.

Location, location!

2009-06-06T20:07:00.005Z

Seem on a walk around our village earlier this spring - a welcome reminder that despite a dramatic turn in the weather today - we live in a very beautiful place.
This summer I aim to become a "local tourist" and catch up on all the places I see, every day, without really looking. Come join me.

From the Postman

2009-06-02T18:30:00.006Z

On Monday morning the postman brought me
This great HOE Just Nan exchange from April

As well as this beautiful Blackbird design , from Encarnacion, for the Blackbird Exchange.

What a great start to the week.

So far...

2009-04-07T13:24:00.004Z

This is the biscornu I stitched for Jen in the HOE exchange. The design was taken from the gift of stitching, using a pale blue linen and stitched with six strand sweets .
My christmas stitching to date - I am SO going to be ready this December!

A new start, Willie's Quaker Square #7.

No smoking needles - but progress nevertheless.

Look what came in the Mail...

2009-03-22T17:03:00.005Z

I had a wonderful week last week, my mail was full of delights, firstly my HOE Biscornu from Jane. Thank you Jane - it is a Thea Dueck design stitched on Pewter linen.

Then Heidi http://needlenecessities.blogspot.com/ sent me this super scissor fob, with an acorn and leaf charm on the end,I love acorns! She wrapped it in the above fabric - which I thought was a lovely way to wrap a gift.

Then Nicola http://talesfrommyneedle.blogspot.com/ sent me this beautiful pinkeep. We had planned to meet up when she visited the Dales, however I had a family event and couldn't make it. So she sent me this. It is a Prairie Schooler design. Aren't the colours so fresh .

It cetainly made my week.

Springberries Needlecase

2009-03-18T19:51:00.006Z

I stitched this lovely needlecase a design from Cinderberry stitches
Inside!

However I used a hand dyed thread, and didn't check for colourfastness.

As a result, when I steam pressed the design, the dye ran, as you can see here.

I was very disappointed, as I had planned to send it to a friend as a gift, my God-daughter, hearing of this, stepped into the breach and "found it a good home"!

I am working on a second attempt, with colour fast thread.

Why is learning from one's mistakes so painful?

QFRR - my progress on Jinger's piece

2009-02-03T20:12:00.002Z

I am participating in a Quaker Friendship RR. Here is my progress so far on Jinger's http://raeofsunstitches.blogspot.com/ piece.

A great big thank you to all who responed to my sock SOS.

It seems I was knitting on the wrong side of the needles!

I have started again - and will keep you updated on their progress - this WILL probably take all year, I am a very SLOW knitter.

(You have been warned.)

Sock SOS

2009-01-28T11:03:00.003Z

A plea for help from all you sock knitters out there. I am attempting my first pair of socks, and am struggling somewhat - my problem seem to be that I am knitting this sock inside out! What am I doing wrong? Suggestions or remedies greatly appreciated.

Secret santa Swap

2009-01-18T20:26:00.005Z

My stitching group held a secret santa Swap this Christmas. My partner was Heidineedlenecessities.blogspot.com/ and I stiched this cushion for her, it is a Lizzie Kate chart "Friendship begins with kindness".
Here is the full swap.

In return I was delighted to receive from Barbara www.granniesblog-barbara.blogspot.com. this host of delightful goodies. I have to say that the scarf and teacosy are most welcome, she also sent a lovely fabric bundle, threads and a book.

Thank you Barbara.

Happy New Year

2009-01-14T09:57:00.000Z

May I wish each and every one of you a Happy and healthy New Year.

Fair and Square - Autumn round

2008-12-09T06:33:00.002Z

Sorry you will have to view these beautiful squares sent to me by Gillie sideways! Can't work out why they have rotated, as they looked straight to me when I loaded them!

These are the square sent by me to Gillie.

Back at the wheel

2008-11-27T21:20:00.003Z

I hadn't intended taking a blogging break - believe me! But life has a way of dictating otherwise - and I have been really busy with lots of family and health issues that have kept me fully occupied.

I do see light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.

Normal service will resume - next week.

Meiow

2008-10-04T19:38:00.003Z

I made this pinkeep this week.

Kitty Cat by Twisted Thread
stitched on Gingham linen
using DMC threads

Fair and Square 9

2008-10-03T20:15:00.004Z

Prarie Schooler - Seasons

Stitched on 32 count Flax

using DMC threads

These are the squares I stitched for Stephanie M and in return she stitched me this - I just love the colours. many, many thanks Stephanie.

You may recognise the design as I stitched it for Suzanne in an earlier exchange, so I was delighted to have my very own version.

Oh Dear me...

2008-09-26T18:35:00.002Z

It just hasn't been my week this week...

Monday -was under the duvet alongside a multitude of cold/flu germs.

Tuesday - much the same as Monday, but this time without the duvet.

Wednesday - back to work and my phone died. DS dental appointment had to be re-arranged.

Thursday - the TV decided it would switch on , then half the picture would go, then it would go off. Probably needs replacing. Ho Hum.

Today - collecting DS from school to attend re-arranged dental appointment, when the car refused to move from the middle of the car park. Had to call DH for a rescue (luckily for us he works nearby). Made dental appointment, DS has to have braces! He is not a happy bunny. The car recovery man has moved the car, but the garage can't look at it until Tuesday!

Was going to see my Dad tomorrow, so have had to cancel that.

Do you think that's enough for one week?

I do!

Stitched

2008-09-20T06:41:00.003Z

Stitched up

Stitched in

unpicked.

Enclosed

encased

hemmed in.

Gathered together

flat felled

overlocked.

Steamed and pressed

The slow train...

2008-09-03T06:42:00.005Z

I had a wonderfully colourful win on ebay last week, as you can see!

I am collecting in preparation for a quilt for DD, who wants it to be "colourful" and "busy". I also purchased a basket for said quarters - which is filling nicely.

The post also brought these lovely squares from Vonna in the Fair and Square exchange - Acorns are a favourite of mine, and I love this LHN design.

No progress pictures, as most of my current stitching is for upcoming exchanges - I have also been enjoying the company of my DD who was home for a visit. Lots of chatting, but perhaps not as much stitching as there should have been.

This week I have a reluctant scholar as DS faces the prospect of school tomorrow, and I have a W.I. party tomorrow night, for which I am baking.

The nights are drawing in, and I don't feel ready for the long dark winter days quite yet - maybe I am just reluctant to admit that "summer" has been and gone, and that the umbrella I have had as a constant companion will needs be replaced by woollies and wellies and thick warm socks!

Thank you to all who comment, it is very welcome and much appreciated.

Fair and Square round 8

2008-08-17T19:13:00.002Z

Vonna has let me know that the squares I stitched for her in the Fair and Square round have arrived safely.

I adapted a design from Sampler and Antique Needlework quarterly, summer 2007.

Celebrate Summer

2008-08-02T16:15:00.006Z

Yours truely enjoying an ice on holiday last week.

The beautiful squares I received from Rowyn in the Fair and square celebrate summer round.
My progress on Simple Little Quaker to date.

Coo eee I'm home...

2008-07-29T19:29:00.003Z

Having had a wonderful week in Wales, visiting with DD.
North Wales has an abundance of beautiful coastline and places of interest, all backed by stunning mountain scenery. I would post pictures - BUT
I dropped my camera in the sand and it took exception to this treatment, can't think why!

So until normal service is restored here are some links of places we visited, to wet your appetite!
http://www.castlewales.com/beaumar.html

http://www.trinityhouse.co.uk/events_and_leisure/visitor_centres/south_stack.html l

http://www.theheritagetrail.co.uk/piers/bangor%20pier.htm

Thanks for all the wonderful comments people have left for me, and the 2 blog awards I received when I was on holiday. I am truely touched.

F & S Round 7

2008-07-09T20:18:00.004Z

I have just had confirmation from Suzannehttp://www.squaziandthechicken.blogspot.com/that her squares have arrived safely.

They were stitched on 32 count Belfast linen in Antique white, using DMC thread and embellished with Mill Hill beads.

Thanks to all who have taken the time to comment on my previous posts - your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated

The return of the blogger...

2008-06-29T14:53:00.006Z

These are the beautiful squares I received fron Suzanne in Round 7 of the Fair and Square exchange, I am just sorry that my photographic skills do not do them justice.

This is a more detailed photo of the square.

I haven't been altogether idle, although lack of posts may suggest otherwise. This is the biscornu I stitched for Nicola in a private exchange we did when she was in the Dales .

Adjusting to the "empty nest" is still an ongoing emotional rollercoaster.

Thank goodness for stitching friends - bless you all.

Adjusting...

2008-05-22T05:45:00.003Z

slowly to the void caused by our DD leaving home. The house is quiet, the atmosphere calm and unhurried. The bathroom surprises me every morning - it is tidy.

But we miss her, it is the small insignificant things, her hairbrush by the mirror, her one slipper by the sofa, her music in the background, the notes she left on the table, her cooking, and her suduko. Good luck Baby Girl.

My nest is empty...

Fair and Square to KathyA

2008-05-01T06:23:00.004Z

This is my exchange to KathyA - I stitched an adapted Lizzie*Kate, using WDW threads on 32 count Belfast linen (Flax)

I really loved the colours and will be doing this again!

Fair and Square from Kathy A

2008-04-30T12:24:00.003Z

This is the delightful square and wonderful goodies I received from KathyA in the Fair and Square exchange - she very thoughtfully included threads and fabrics in my favourite colours, as well as a lovely Quaker chart, needles and holder.

Thank you Kathy - I loved it all!

A tiny treat

2008-04-20T14:35:00.003Z

I stitched this recently for my friend Pam, and learnt that it had arrived safely.

Thread gatherer silk - Autumn Leaves, over one on a scrap of fabric I had.

Fair and Square part II

2008-04-09T20:24:00.005Z

This was my exchange from SueW. Her design was adapted from a Drawn Thread design in beautiful subtle colours. Thank you Sue, I shall treasure it.

Fair and Square - Earth Day

2008-04-09T16:10:00.004Z

My Fair and Square exchange to SueW.

ebay stash

2008-04-05T10:35:00.003Z

My ebay win this week, 4 very pretty fat quarters - greens - sorry the photo isn't too clear. So now No excuses for not finishing anything.

Quaker Progress

2008-03-28T14:07:00.003Z

A update on my progress on this delightful sampler. Hoping to add some more this weekend, or maybe have a new start! Mmmm...

Pillow Finish

2008-03-26T21:52:00.005Z

A couple of photos of the pillow I stitched this weekend. Sorry about the light quality. This is what you get when you take pictures at night!

It was Sweet Exemplary by Ewe & Eye and Friends. Stitched on a remnant of hand dyed linen using American Thread company 1502. It was a fun quick stitch and finish, just to prove to myself that I can actually complete something . I have to thank my good friend Pam for this chart, thanks Pam, and also for the eggs you see in the background.

I was also busy finishing my Earth Day Holiday round for the Fair and Square exchange - but I can't show pictures just yet.

Happy Easter

2008-03-24T19:53:00.004Z

This is the Easter arrangement I did at my flower class last Wednesday. The moss basket was made in class at Christmas, and has kept really well - a squirt with the water spray greened it up.

I then used those lovely orange-peach roses, and added a certain something with the wonderful ginuea fowl feathers. Surprisingly the small chocolate eggs have stayed put, (I did count them!) and the paper eggs were purchased from work.

My Mum loved to arrange flowers, so this is for her.

Happy Easter to one and all.

Rebecca Margaret Alice

2008-02-24T17:56:00.002Z

21 years ago today we welcomed Rebecca into the world.

She has brought us untold joy, sleepless nights, stress, laughter, a unique view of the world, boyfriends, black t shirts, cats, a dislike of washing up, and a whole life time of love.

Thank you baby girl!

Progress ... Simple Little sampler

2008-02-22T22:11:00.004Z

My progress so far... this is a very relaxing stitch. I am also using Petites for the first time.

A PS to the roof repairs that took place on Wednesday - they blew off again Thursday night - what did I say......................I'll leave that to your imaginations.

Thanks for all your lovely comments - they truly enhance my stitching and blogging experience.

Fair and Square exchange

2008-02-18T21:36:00.003Z

My postman brought this wonderful exchange this morning. I had had a rather fraught morning at work, and this made my day. My exchange partner Tracyhttp://tajinaz.blogspot.com/ had included a pin cushion, hanging, space dyed threads and charms as well as stitching this beautiful peacock.

Thank you Tracy - it is delightful, your thouhgtfulness is much apriciated.

12 Houses - The Drawn Thread

2008-02-02T21:10:00.000Z

12 Houses Sampler

The Drawn Thread

Stitched on recommended fabric using DMC threads

I finished this today. I have stitched it for an old friend of mine who will be moving house later this month. It was an enjoyable stitch, apart from the chain stitch on the right hand side, which I found difficult to make even! Off to the framers now.

Thank you for looking.

Beginning and End...

2008-01-25T19:33:00.001Z

My new start this week Papillon Creations Simple Little Quaker, stitching on 36ct Chantilly creme with WDW Twilight.

This is my stitching for the first ornament of the Bride's Tree SAL. It was adapted from a freebie found at The Floss Box. It was stitched on Polstitches Mythical Mermaid using Gloriana silks -Cranberry and Vikki Clayton silks - Haywains.

We are also without several roof tiles and front guttering - thanks to the January gales last night - hay ho, is that another battle with the Insurance company I see looming ahead of me.

Unexpected treat

2008-01-21T12:39:00.000Z

An unexpected treat this afternoon - an afternoon at home - as the forecast snow has arrived. This was the scene at noon today from my living room window. I wonder what I can possibly find to do - ? (HA HA)

Back at last...

2008-01-20T14:55:00.000Z

It is nice to be back among the blogging community after an enforced holiday due to computer problems!

The Drawn Thread 12 Houses Sampler, I am using recommended threads and fabric.

Right: My Christmas stitching Heartstrings The Santa Factory, can't remember which fabric I used , but it was suggested DMC threads - I still have 4 small hearts to add at some point.

May I wish all visitors to this blog (new and old) a very Happy New Year, and wish you all lots of time and opportunity to stitch (and enhance your stash!)

Seasons Greetings - Ho! Ho! Ho!

2007-12-30T10:49:00.000Z

Belated Christmas wishes and best wishes for 2008 to all my friends out there on the web.

This year has been full of changes and has brought me to a rather comtempaltive mood as we face another year. Age is really just a year tally, but it brings with it strange thoughts and the need for projects that stretch and challenge. Quite what these will be is in the lap of the Gods, but I feel the need to be bolder, and more focused, to plan and think ahead, not one of my strong points...

as the New Year comes a creepin' my thoughts turn to my Mum, who would have celebrated her birthday on New Year's Eve, forever the optomist, like her I will look for the "silver lining" while cloud watching.

Quaker Tree

2007-12-06T07:04:00.001Z

I seem to be on a roll at the moment with my stitching - and am making the most of it.

This is a freebie from The Workbasket called Quaker Tree.

Stitched on 32 count Permin Linen (sorry don't know the colour) using Needle Necessities 139. Not quite sure how I am going to finish it - suggestions welcome!

The North wind doth blow....

2007-12-05T20:31:00.000Z

The Drawn Thread

Four Fat Friends

Stitched on 32 count Antique Green Linen

using WDW threads

The North Wind doth blow

and we shall have snow

and what will the Robin do then poor thing?

He'll sit in the barn

and keep himself warm

with his head tucked under his wing

poor thing.

Traditional Nursery Rhyme

The first of my Christmas stitching , and a wonderfully jolly quartet they are - don't you think?

Like Mother used to make...

2007-12-02T08:17:00.000Z

Talking with my DD the other day when preparing a meal, we were laughing about the fact that she can't make Egg and Tomato sandwiches that taste like mine - at least that is what she claims. But it got me thinking - because despite following her recipies to the letter, there are one or two dishes Mum used to cook, that I cannot replicate!

She used to make the most delicious Trifle, and I make it every "holiday", and yet there is always that question, its good, but not quite like Mum's. Likewise her Potato and Onion Pie.

Has anyone else come across this - or is it me!

3 Finishes this week

2007-12-02T07:40:00.000Z

Tote made from a fabric bit I had in my box

Drawn Thread Little Spot sampler - using stated DMC threads

LHN Cherries using Crescent Colours

Please forgive the first photograph, and don't try and strain your neck looking at it, but it is a small tote I have made for my God-daughter for christmas. I was quite impressed with the finish, that I have another in construction,.

Finally the Drawn Thread little Spot sampler is finished - this has been a WIP for a while, and needless to say didn't take long to complete, once I'd sat down to it. The LHN Cherries, was a lovely quick stitch, both this and the Little spot were birthday gifts from Nicola.

Having this weekend at home to start some Christmas stitching - so who knows what I might achieve.

Thanks to everyone who has left comments recently - I do appreciate you taking the time.

Tea and cake

2007-11-18T15:26:00.000Z

This is what I am working on at the moment.

Left was my birthday cake, delicious, I just wish you could have all shared a piece.

And I had to include a picture of the flowers sent to me by my son (he got his sister to order them from the florist!)

Thanks for all the comments, I do appreciate them very much.

50 not out!

2007-11-03T15:00:00.000Z

Just thought I ought to post and acknowledge the passing of the years.

Today I celebrate my 50th birthday - and so far it is going with a swing, flowers, gifts and visits from friends wishing me well. I even had the sweetest compliment from a 9 year old telling me I didn't look that old!

This evening we will cut cake and open a bottle of bubbly.

Does this mean I have to be sensible now?

Finished !

2007-09-21T16:30:00.000Z

Sally Spencer Sampler by Birds of a Feather, stitched on 32 count Belfast "Autumn Fields" using Sampler threads as stated, with one substitute WDW Liberty for Buckeye scarlet.

Here she is in all her glory, she was completed last Sunday, but have only just managed to download a picture - our computer has been unco-operative this week. A lovely stitch, now to frame her and find a space on my wall.

PS

2007-09-10T18:35:00.001Z

Also meant to mention that my photo "Surfs up" from a previous post, won a second place at our local agricultural show on Saturday. Not that I'm bragging you understand, but when your DH is a photographer, these things count!

Progress on Sally

2007-09-10T18:14:00.000Z

At last a progress picture of Sally. As you can see I am very nearly there, and expect a finish sometime this week.

Stash

2007-09-09T13:18:00.000Z

This is what the postman brought me this week. I intend to start a project from "With needle and Thread" when I have finished Sally.

Dorset Interlude

2007-08-22T19:41:00.001Z

Boats at West Bay

Surf up!

One of the many thatched cottages in Burton Bradstock

We had a wonderful holiday - warm and sunny weather, great company, and time to take it all in. Bliss.

Holly and Ivy

2007-07-17T20:11:00.001Z

Progrss again today - this is a delight stitch, the silks making it a more tactile experience than usual. This means I will HAVE to add to my limited collection don't you think?

Picture this...

2007-07-14T20:35:00.001Z

This week I have been busy...

Making a start on CCN Holly and Ivy Sampler, stitched on 32 count Belfast Linen, in Antique Ivory, using Vikki Clayton Silks - which are a delight to stitch with.

further progress on Sally...

And finished this biscornu and scissor fob from a design by Alchemy Stitchcraft.

All in all a good stitching week.

The penny drops

2007-07-13T14:54:00.000Z

I have been wandering around blogland for several months now, and have come across several references to Vicki Clayton silks - I now know what every one is raving about. I was sent a small CCN chart "Holly and Ivy" and the silk colours to stitch it with, I started it at 6.00am this morning (I'd had a bad night, and thought I ought to get up and do something, the ironing really wasn't an option so...) they are lovely to stitch with, sadly I had to leave them and go to work. Progress pictures will follow on Sunday, as that is the next available time I have free.

The kids think I've been a bit slow on the uptake lately - they weren't wrong!

I can't believe it...

2007-07-04T10:10:00.000Z

my baby is 13 today.........
and taller than me!

Happy Birthday Matty.

Year half done!

2007-07-01T19:04:00.000Z

It may be half way through the year, but I did complete this calendar earlier in the year, just forgot to post a picture! I can't remember what fabric I used, but the thread was a new DMC varigated no. 4030.

In the work basket

2007-06-26T19:14:00.000Z

This is a WIP called "Sally Spencer Sampler", a Birds of a Feather design, I have restarted. The colours are very much my colours, especially the scarlet.

I am posting progress here, as it has been languishing in my "basket" for a few months, and needs some encouragement to aid its completion.

I may have been "sleeping" lately, but as you can see I haven't been idle!

This is my progress on "Little Spot Sampler" a Drawn Thread design. I am working on the Queen stitch and Hungarian motif. I did have a major counting crisis, that I hope I have solved. This is a delightful project, and a quick stitch for me.

Unexpected culinary stash

2007-06-19T17:51:00.000Z

What a surprise - this morning the parcel carrier arrived with a parcel. (well he would wouldn't he!) I wasn't expecting anything, had only just put an order in to Sewandso, so it couldn't be that - something for the WI then? well no to that too...it was a Le Creuset casserole dish, I have won in a competition! It made my day.

Rain Rain go away

2007-06-17T14:59:00.000Z

I feel like Dr. Foster, just stepping out of the house requires: Macintosh, umbrella and wellington boots...

I realise that we need rain, for our gardens, rivers, etc. but I do think that maybe we have had enough. 4 days is really quite sufficient, thank you - time to turn the clouds off, and let us see well at least a foot or two of blue sky - please!

Having said that, there have been some wonderful "greys".

Bookshelf completed

2007-04-15T17:07:00.000Z

This is Bookshelf by LHN.

I put the last few stitches in it this afternoon.

The photo doesn't quite do the finished item justice, the colours are much brighter.

It has been a treat to stitch, and using small lengths of the metallic thread certainly helped with smooth stitching.

A new toy

2007-04-11T10:17:00.000Z

Style 1646

I am now the proud owner of a Toyota SL3314 overlocker. A welcome addition to my sewing family. As with all new "toys" I thought I ought to test its' capabilities...so this is what I made this weekend. The PJ bottoms are certainly on the generous side, (and no I don't need them to be THAT roomy) but they will be just the thing for warm nights! The material I have had since the dawn of time, I think it once belonged to a great Aunt!

A safe arrival!

2007-04-11T10:09:00.000Z

Heritage Stitchcraft - Silhouettes - Hikers

As you can see my hikers have finally arrived at their destination! I completed the cross stitching last night and the back stitch this morning. A bit of a wash and brush up before the photo call - hey presto.

Back to my roots

2007-04-02T09:40:00.000Z

McCalls 2818

I remember the first timeI ever made anything was way way back when I was 5 or 6, I cut out and stitched a dress for my doll. I do believe that the whole thing fell apart.

Over the years, and especially during my teenage phase I made just about everything I wore - I left home and studied Dressmaking at City and Guilds level, continuing all the while to make the majority of my wardrobe.

When I had my daughter and our family circumstances altered dramatically I found myself with less and less time to "sew". Sadly over the last 12 years, I have only made a handful of garments for myself, my DD and DS.

The sewing machine was out to repair yet another bust pocket, and the muse struck, so with a piece of silk I have had in my stash for at least 20 years (I know I bought it when studying for my C & G) I have rediscovered my dressmaking mojo!

I did find that the pattern required some alteration - gone are the days when there was little alteration required - and it has taken me very nearly a week to get to this stage, when previously I would have had it licked in a day, but the satisfaction that I now feel is reward in itself. Here's to future projects.

Boxing clever

2007-04-02T09:35:00.000Z

I made this little boxette yesterday. It is a degign by Susan Greening Davis, and I received it as part of my stash programme from Tradtional stitches. Now all I have to do is figure out what ort stands for!

Are we there yet...?

2007-03-28T20:12:00.000Z

My hikers may be puzzling their destination - but as you can see I am nearly there!

Another couple of miles should see me at the end of this journey.

Christmas Ornament SAL

2007-03-26T07:47:00.000Z

This is my ornament for March. A Mill Hill kit called Angel. Was very quick to stitch, but I did need a good light for bead colour selection!

DS suggested that it looks like an angelic Kenny from South Park.

That boy has no soul. (But he could be right)

Bad week...

2007-03-07T11:08:00.000Z

I have had a truely awful week -from which I am just recovering. Firstly I am being laid off work, this came completely out of the blue. So now I am job hunting, which I could do without, as I was settled and very happy where I was.
Secondly, the repairs done to the roof just after Christmas failed the Pennine wind test, and we were left with another hole!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thankfully the builders have been, and have made repairs again. I hope this time that the tiles stay put, because I can see me loosing the plot completely, should high winds return and we loose any more.

In the circumstances, I felt justified in being extremly weak willed and eating chocolate -I'd given up for lent!

What HAVE I been doing...

2007-02-27T16:41:00.000Z

Hadn't realised that it had been weeks since my last post, its this knitting bug, its well and truely caught me now. However I can claim a finish...my cardigan is complete, stitched up ( the worst part for me) and it is really warm and comfortable to wear. Pictures will follow when I can find someone to take one.

On the stitching front, haven't made much progress on anything - cos I've been knitting - but did manage a few hours on Hikers.

Christmas Ornament SAL

2007-01-29T10:35:00.000Z

My first ornament this year.

Peace on Earth JBW Designs JCS Christmas issue 2006

Progress report

2007-01-28T12:31:00.000Z

My progress this last 10 days has been hampered by my mislaying my specs... they were finally run to ground in my raincoat pocket - which was the first place I looked (not).

We have weathered a snow fall this week, not enough for a snowball fight - but sufficient for a picturesque covering.

Hikers is starting to come together, working on this once a week is working for me, maybe I should revue my rotation from 10 hours to weekdays. The change may be beneficial.

Bookshelf progress was slow as I ran out of DMC thread - this is now resolved and I look forward to making progress again this week. I did run the iron over my work prior to taking a photo, I think the result gives a better impression of this work in hand.

UFO night

2007-01-14T14:02:00.000Z

And this was progress after 90 minutes. This will be the 5th in this series that I have stitched, having completed, Canal Crossing, The Lock, Steam Team and Early Shift.

This was Hikers at the start of UFO night on Tuesday .

The missing link...

2007-01-10T16:29:00.000Z

Making good progress now on Bookshelf, however am frustrated because I cannot download any photos, my device cable has vanished. I have searched my desk, I have search the computer desk, I have look behind, underneath, beside and on top of all surfaces in the living room, nothing. I am now worried that I have thrown it out. BOTHER.

I don't believe it ...with apologies to Victor Meldrew

2007-01-08T06:57:00.000Z

I am busy stitching away, as you do, when I discover that I have made a counting error at the beginning of my "bookshelf "row, one of the letters has a stitch missing and it has put me out by one stitch in the row ... so........all yesterdays stitching has been unpicked and I am no furhter forward. This is what you get when YOU DON'T COUNT PROPERLY.

Bookshelf progress

2007-01-02T20:36:00.000Z

This is the progress so far on LHN Bookshelf. A very clever birthday choice from Nicola, combining my two loves of reading and stitching... I am having trouble with stitching the gold thread on the book spines, maybe I should try a shorter thread length, any tips would be welcome.

Reading Ya Yas in Bloom by Rebecca Wells
Watching Torchwood - again!!!!!!!!!!

2007 and all that!

2007-01-01T18:05:00.000Z

I have made a stitching resolution - yes just the one, to try and stitch at least once a day. I am wondering if this goal may be a little ambitious, but I'll try.

I am busy making a "to do " list from the stach of WIPs I have in my house...and also a list of promise for me projects.

Happy New Year

Sniffles...

2006-11-27T08:53:00.000Z

are par for the course at this time of the year. Being an asthmatic - this does sometimes brings with it the added bonus of a chesty cough (as now)and a lethargy that is hard to shrug off. Progress on my stitching has been minimal - sleep has intervened and I have taken full advantage!

Bring back the liberty bodice

2006-11-22T14:02:00.000Z

...it may not have been the most attractive of garments, but it kept you warm - maybe I should try for a revival!

Another finish

2006-11-10T19:34:00.000Z

I managed to complete this pillow and finish it ready to post out to my firend just in time for her birthday. It ia a Trilogy degin, and I used the stipulated threads and fabric. This is the second time I have stitched this and find it makes into a great little gift. I feel that now all the madness has finished I must get back to some sort of rotation. What to choose - that will be fun.

2006-11-08T10:41:00.000Z

This is the finished pillow I made for the Aion Harvest exchange, my recipient was Andrea. I was really pleased with the way this went, and will be more confident in future, when it comes to my finishing.

Progress on a pillow for a stitcher friends birthday next week - need to get the time manager out here as I seem to be way behind with everything, and I have more time at home! Is this because I know I will have time tomorrow, or I am just making excuses for being a lazy piece?

Monday...Monday

2006-09-11T14:01:00.000Z

Having spent Saturday on a field at our local show, and Sunday catching up on laundry and the like - plus jobs nornmally done on said show day...I am now seriously behind with my stitching and will have to knuckle down to it. It also happens to be Book Group this evening - my choice this month (84 Charing Cross Road) so I can't not go! Looks like I'll be burning the midnight oil for the rest of the week.

Best laid plans...

2006-09-03T12:16:00.000Z

Today had been earmarked as a stitching day, its already lunchtime and I haven't lifted a needle yet! So much for my good intentions. Maybe this afternoon will see some progress on my current WIP.

Looking in the TV listings to see if there was a decent film on today, would you believe 84 Charing Cross Road is on this pm - I have just (like yesterday) finished this book! It is a contender for my BCC on the 10th! Maybe it was "meant".

September Goals

2006-09-01T17:44:00.000Z

I hope to complete

* Hikers Heritage stitchcraft
* Harvest Exchange Aion BB
* Friendship Trilogy
* a UFO one of several languishing in my "work basket"

Return of the wanderer!

2006-08-12T16:37:00.000Z

Having spent the last week soaking up the sun on a Dorset beech, we are back home, with all he jobs to catch up an that a holiday invariably brings - ie the washing and ironing...and yes the weather is awful, low clouds, and soo cold!

Started a Hertitage kit when away, Hikers from the shilouettes series, it is to be a christmas present for my sister and her husband, and as I am not a quick stitcher, starting now seemed like a good idea!

A new beginning...

2006-08-04T09:55:00.000Z

there is a chinese proverb that states "each journey starts with a small step" and so here I am stepping off in to the world of blog.