Gracie's Garden Bazaar

Belated Happy New Year

2012-01-11T15:50:00.000-08:00

I'm back in blogland and all giddy with excitement about what this year will bring.Before I flit forward though,I noticed quite a few of the talented stitchy ladies I admire,shared their year in stitches so I was inspired to give it a go too.So above is a selection of my makes of 2011 and actually it was quite a good exercise to look back and reflect on my stitching journey.I always worry that I haven't got a recognisable style so it was interesting to see several makes shoulder to shoulder and I guess the conclusion I drew was that I am definitely a 'pastel' not 'bold' lass.However I do like to inject one or two strong shades amongst the pale(such as the little redhead's tresses)

I also have definite soft spot for reproduction feedsack cottons which always seem to have such beautiful colour combinations.I had my eye on some Sara Morgan fabric for a while now and was delighted that M is for Make reduced it in they're New Year Sale so hastily purchased my favourites(at the bottom of the pile in photo)and also when I was in a fabric frenzy I purchased some Klona cotton from Backstitch. So looking forward to using my new stash or gazing at it some more(please tell me that I am not the only one who does that)

On the subject of receiving beautiful deliveries, I wanted to show you some wonderful artwork that entered the cottage before Christmas. Firstly I won Little Black Heart's giveaway on my birthday which was such an extra delight especially as I got to choose any aceo from Sal's shop!As you can see I chose a Zombie Geisha which is even more perfect in real life than on screen with her swingy hair and trailing cherry blossom.Sal's illustrations are so witty and original that you can't help but want everything in her shop..be warned!If that wasn't enough,part of my prize was four Christmas cards(which I greedily kept instead of using)To see more,there is also a Little Black Heart facebook page and blog.Thank you Sal for my lovely goodies.

If all that visual gorgeousness wasn't enough, I thought I would show you some Coramantic pieces I purchased before Christmas.I've spoken before about how much I love Yvonne's work and love the colour palette she uses and the expression she can create with line.Both pieces are beautiful as always and can't wait to frame them up.Yvonne also has a facebook page and blog.

They're wonderful aren't they.I have been drawing and stitching but thought I would save my new makes for another post so I hope you all had a lovely new year and looking forward to what it brings,

Take Care

Will I ever learn? (A very honest post)

2011-11-08T02:55:00.000-08:00

Are you an ever prepared Penelope or(like me)a frantic Felicity?I make,make,make but come October/November time I panic.Orders flood in,the shop starts emptying and Christmas Fayres approach.'I should of made more of those and less of others' and 'Next year will be different;I'll start in June and stay focused' echoes through the cottage.The really silly thing is that I love the preparation stage and thrive on the research and sketchbook work but have a tendency to lose my way if I come across time restraints or other obstacles.I was the same through school,college and university..we would laugh about how I thrived on the adrenalin rush and to be honest I always done well as a result but I have looked a little deeper lately and made some decisions regarding this.

I don't allow myself enough time to really explore my ideas and designs so that is the very thing I want to rectify.I have a stack of sketchbooks on a shelf over my desk all mumbling in a disgruntled manner when I ignore them or add a new book on the pile.When I experiment lately I feel guilty that I'm not actually making anything that I can sell and to be honest that makes me feel even more guilty.

It's funny how you start ventures with clear ideas and goals but they often take many twists and turns and you need to step back and look at where you really want to go.I want to work on clearer more coherent collections and maybe not so many one off pieces.Everything of course will still be in limited amounts and as they are embroidered by hand they are each different anyway but I hope focusing on one or two themes will work well.

So that is what I have done and have decided that the I really want to explore embroidery much more and combine it with my artwork as much as possible.I had plans for producing embroidery patterns next year anyway so this fits in well with my vision.

I want to explore the 'So Sweet' range much more and have been working on some embroidered pendants like the one below which are based on colour themes and using mostly darning stitches.I'm really enjoying making these and have been wearing one myself nearly every day since I made it.I'm trying to get them into the Folksy shop as soon as I can and will be taken them to Delapre Abbey Christmas Fayre

So I'm going to have a break from blogging until after Christmas but I will still be reading your lovely blogs and keeping the Folksy shop stocked.So I really hope you can be patient with me and maybe you could pop back after Christmas so I can show you the new and shiny Gracie's Garden Bazaar(hope you have a lovely christmas too!)

Makes in process : Day three

2011-10-13T01:29:00.000-07:00

A sketch of a 'Jorinda' doll I am hoping to make.Jorinda(the love of Joringel)was turned into a bird by a wicked witch and after many years of singing her sorrowful song in a rusty cage she was saved by her love and transformed back.Grimm ended his tale in the traditional happy way however I wondered if after all those years Jorinda might have still had some birdy ways and what if she hadn't completely transformed back...would they live happily ever after?

Thanks for popping by,

Makes in progress:Day two

2011-10-12T01:26:00.000-07:00

Patchwork pincushions waiting to be put together and adorned with little bees...

Playing with clay

2011-10-11T01:41:00.000-07:00

As promised here is a glimpse of the first of my makes in progress. She needs an awful lot of beauty sleep so I have to whisper but a bit of sanding and some colour on those cheeks and she will be ready to parade her peculiarly pretty face.

See you tomorrow,

thanks for popping by

Finally I can focus...what joy!

2011-10-10T03:21:00.000-07:00

The title of this post has two meanings.As of late I have been struggling to focus on which creative path I want to skip along and also quite simply my poor tired eyes have been suffering too.

Years of very late night reading and detailed stitching have taken their toll on my eyes.For the last couple of months every time I sat down in front of the computer screen to tip tap out some little words to your good selves;I ended up with streaming blurry eyes and headaches.So off to the spectacle shop I finally stumbled where I was presented with some lovely shiny new spectacles.

Everything looks so bright and fresh!I feel a little bit silly that I hadn't realised sooner that I needed them especially since my mother and grandmother are spectacled but I've always had a tendency to overlook the most obvious explanation(quite literally in this case!)So now I have a new addition to my wardrobe..lots of fun to be had.

If you are regular caller you might have noticed that I've been redecorating my blog and I'm still ~~mucking around~~ I mean redesigning it so bear with me please.Headache free computer using is a bit of a novelty at the moment so I got a bit carried away!

Regarding not being able to focus creatively,I have been working through quite a lot of custom orders lately but with new work I have been slightly flitting from one idea to another.So I thought I would just show the newest pieces that I have listed on Folksy over the past couple of weeks and then each day this week I'll post a picture and a brief description of my unfinished makes.(I thought that would be a good way to get back to blogging regularly)So here goes..

Tweed lollipop phone cover

Tweed butterfly purse

ACEO

Cord Flower purse

Tweed flower purse - SOLD

So lovely to have a catch up and I'll be back tomorrow.Have a lovely day,

Take care

Poring over Pages :Part Two

2011-09-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

I have had another lengthy absence from my dear little blog so you are perfectly entitled to frown at me and tap my sorry wrist.I have been busy making but I'll show you those next time.So this is my second book appreciation post and my chosen book is Early Twentieth Century Embroidery Techniques by Gail Marsh which I first borrowed from the library and after taking it out three times decided I should definitely get my own copy.

As the title suggests the volume is about embroidery techniques used in the period 1900 to 1939 but I think this volume has a lot more to offer than many other technique or historical reference books.Using sumptuous images and detailed diagrams the book is visually stunning as well as instructive and inspiring.

The author uses examples from the RBKS Collection at Gawthorpe Hall where she is curator and reading the book feels we are being taken on a privileged tour of the collection.She also tries out the techniques she comes across and provides diagrams so we can experiment also.The books focuses on the women(famous and unknown)who contributed to spreading the education of embroidery within all classes and it's place in the arts and crafts movement.

It's full of interesting tales and details which highlight embroidery's role in the social history of women as well as it's place in the art world.I have to say my favourite picture in the whole book was of the back of a sampler which was an absolute mass of knots..very reassuring to see.All in all I highly recommend this book and I've ordered one of Gail's Marsh's other books 19th Century Embroidery Techniques so I'm sure I'll be singing that books's praises too!

Happy reading until next time and thanks for all your lovely comments on my last post..you're very sweet:)

Playing with Plush

2011-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all well and happy.If you've visited here before you will probably gather that I am great bee admirer and this often creeps into my work in many different guises.So this time I thought I'd try and make a plush Queen Bee.I have always loved dolls and plush but have only made ones as gifts and so more tailored to the recipient's taste(not always my own)

So it was lovely to have an experiment and play.She still remains legless I'm afraid so need to get on with those.As you can tell I wasn't attempting a realistic interpretation but more a 'lace tinted'view of my favourite insects.

I used lots of different embroidery stitches that I had only used once or twice before and added 'honey' in whipped backstitch.I've always loved using metallic threads but would become so frustrated with it's fragility so finally realising that I could could keep the metallic thread on the surface of the fabric(so the thread won't break)using whipped backstitch has been a godsend.Have you got a favourite stitch or technique?I love hearing new ones.

Well overall I'm happy with my 'nearly' finished Queenie but need to work on the basic shape a bit more so hope to have some ready for Folksy soon.In the meantime I added these needle cases to my Folksy nook.Perfect for christmas gifts for you super organised souls.

Well I better take flight and get back to making.Hello to my new followers and thanks to everyone for leaving your lovely comments(especially when blogger is misbehaving)..I'm working hard at getting back to posting more frequently again so please bear with me(pretty please)

Take care

the butterflies are returning...

2011-07-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

This butterfly adorned cuff is a finished custom order for a treasured regular purchaser of my makes.I particularly enjoyed making this cuff because the lovely lady sent me a picture of the dress she would be wearing it with and gave me colour guidelines but left the rest to my judgement.I have to admit that I had started veering away from making my butterflies a while back because I've not been able to do as many fairs and they always sell better when people can see them up close and see how much work has gone into them.I suppose that's the challenge with selling on an online marketplace.Folksy is saturated with textile brooches now so sometimes I feel your work gets lost.

Anyway,I've decided the butterflies are returning but probably not as jewellery.I'm working on some new needle cases,phone covers and glasses cases which butterflies will be landing on!Can't wait to show you. Meanwhile these new pretties are gracing the virtual shelves of my Folksy shop.

Hope you are all well and would love to hear your experiences about selling online compared to face to face.

Take care

Foraging For Treasures....Bee inspired

2011-07-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

As promised in my last post I went on an enjoyable forage around the Folksy corridors and found a gorgeous array of bee inspired goodies.Hope you enjoy!Click on item name to go to item and shop name to be taken to the seller's wonderful shop.

Bumble Bee Secrets - necklace

Babies Summer Linen suit

Suzie & Me

Pocket Painting - Bumble Bee

one sugar hill

Small Bee Hotel

Wudwerx

All lovely aren't they...obviously lots of other bee lovers out there then.

Thought I better mention that a lot of generous readers of my blog have told me that they cannot leave comments any more because naughty Blogger won't let them! Boo! This fault has slowly become more and more frequent and I have spent a lot of time trying to fix it but I think I'll have to give up for now and wait and see if blogger can sort it out or Wordpress or Typepad are looking very attractive.So I'm really sorry in advance if you want to leave a comment and cannot(apparently it is to do with browsers and cookies..not chocolate ones sadly!It's such a shame because I really enjoy hearing your lovely whispers..maybe I'll still be able to hear some of you,

Take Care

It's been a while.....

2011-07-07T09:45:00.000-07:00

June was a strange month..a broken computer,an uncooperative camera and finally a lovely family wedding (my sister's) So hopefully that list explains my blog absence and lack of visits to my favourite virtual haunts. My sister's wedding was joyful and beautiful, I have a new laptop but the camera is still a bit temperamental (though she was in a good mood this morning so I took some snaps of the bees in my lavender)

I've always found bees fascinating.They really are very special creatures...having a starring role in pollination,making honey(which I'm very partial to in my morning porridge),making beeswax.I've never been stung so have no real fear of them and love the tales of Victorian households informing the bees when there was a death in the family.I could go on...

And I've noticed this admiration for our buzzy friends creeping into my work more and more.Like the bee embroidery I used on this vintage linen napkin which I have no use for but it looks nice so that's reason enough I guess.

The theme continues with these two latest 'Dainty Sketch' brooches now in my Folksy shop.Actually I might and try and post a 'Foraging for Treasures' post with a bee theme to get me back into the blogging swing!So I'll try find some covetable lovelies for any fellow bee lovers out there.

So I'll BEE back very soon(forgive me..I couldn't resist)

Take Care

A Package of Delight - Coramantic

2011-06-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

I've had my eye on this wonderful Coramantic piece for a little while now and I finally spoilt myself and purchased it the other week.It's called 'My thoughts weigh me down' a title which rings loud church bells with me as I have a tendency to over think things and worry for worry's sake.As you can see the little lady has such a perfect expression and Yvonne Stewart(the talented lady behind Coramantic)uses such free lines and beautiful transparent colours.Can you tell I'm a big fan?And to add to the excitement,Yvonne sent some gorgeous extras too.

A beautiful card, some badges and an ACEO titled 'Conversation and Friendship'.Yvonne even illustrated the envelope but unfortunately I forgot to get a snap of that.I really recommend visiting Yvonne's Etsy shop because apart from how wonderful her work is,everything in her shop is original so every piece is really something to treasure.

There is also a Coramantic blog and Yvonne has another shop called Sketchstitch which sells her other style of artwork which is equally delightful!I don't know how she finds the time,lol.

Happy Shopping,

take care

Poring over Pages: Part One

2011-05-30T05:39:00.000-07:00

I think I have mentioned before my fondness for books so I have decided to do a regular book appreciation post.Some of the volumes might be ones I have treasured for many moons and some may be new discoveries.No theme,I just love them.So I thought I'd begin with 'The Grammar of Ornament'by Owen Jones.You can now purchase paperback copies(I've linked to one if you click the title)but my volume is very hefty and the biggest book I own.I've had my copy for about ten years and purchased it secondhand so it has been well loved and used.

It was first published in 1856 and is in very simple terms a design sourcebook but Jones wrote it with an aim to teach the Victorian designers a different way of designing and created 37 principles to work by.Drawing on his travels he displays examples of ornamental design ranging from Ancient Egypt and Greece to Renaissance Italy.

I would have to say that this book is what I would class as a 'cozy afternoon' read because the hours just pass as you pore over the endless pages of beautiful designs.And I have to admit that Jones would probably frown upon my tendency to skip much of the text to get to the images but it's very difficult not to.I've shown you just a few of my favourite pages but I could have gone on forever.

I always find myself drawn to the Indian and Persian designs as the colours are so luscious and the patterns seem almost contemporary at times.Apparently this book had a great influence on William Morris whose work is so inspirational itself which explains the freshness of the designs.

If you haven't ever seen this book before I would highly recommend seeking it out as it really is so visually inspiring.Your local library is bound to have a copy or keep you eye out for a secondhand copy.I have to admit I love the fact that my battered copy is so big and heavy that I feel like I'm opening an ancient volume and I'm a big sucker for a ribbon bookmark.Surely that's not just me..?

Until next time,take care

Folksy Nook Update

2011-05-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

I know I promised a book related post but I just added some new makes to my little Folksy nook so thought I'd just show you them first.I really love making cuffs and have a table full of semi dressed ones dying to be adorned and pretty someone's wrist but I did manage to finish two yesterday.

This one is another 'Edith' cuff which is made with my treasured stash of vintage lace trims which were gifted to me many moons ago by a talented friend of my grandmothers.The lace trim is Austrian and a lovely deep cream shade and it laces up with my new favourite;seam ribbon binding which has been antiqued.

Also I added another cuff to my version of the 'Quiet Princesses' casket (for original tale click here)This new cuff represents a restful and contemplative mood.I used soft clotted cream leather and velvet ribbon in a lovely deep slate blue shade.

And yet again more of that distressed seam ribbon binding.I've always tried to come up with different ways of fastening my cuffs because I worry the ribbon closure isn't the most practical but I have always sold more of the tied cuffs than button closed ones so maybe I've overly concerned.Love to hear your opinions?

I've also been spending a lot of time in the garden sketching and have used my little sketches on fabric on bags but thought I'd try making them into brooches.I gave them little pretty frames in repro feedsack cottons and had fun embellishing them.

Hope you like them.The bee one can be found here and the daisy one here.I'm not too bad with computers but I cannot fathom how to make my images clickable links.Promise I will be back with a book post next time.

Take care

Apologies,websites and embroidery.

2011-05-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

Firstly,I must apologise for not posting here for a little while.I wish I could regale you with a tale of adventure and amazement but simply I have been too busy.Busy fixing broken appliances,doing errands,finishing commissions,entertaining a little restless angel and working on a new website(that last bit is a little bit exciting)

I hope the website will be ready very soon and it has been quite pain free so far. I'm using Create which seems to be quite good value and a bit more editable than others I have tried.Here are some screenshots of my progress so far but it does need a lot more work.To start with it really is more like a gallery of my makes and a way of tying the blog,facebook,etc together but I hope to have a shop on the website eventually(the shop tab will direct you to the Folksy shop at first)Due to most of my makes being one of a kind it can be difficult to choose where to sell what.That's the reason I haven't stocked the Etsy shop currently. I'd love to hear what you look for in a website or if you have any pet hates about sites?

Technology aside,I just finished another Summer Wanderings embroidery and this time she is a flower loving flame haired lass.She is now available to purchase in my Folksy nook.

I decided to not appliqué the dress this time and test my filling in skills.I used back,split,seed and lazy daisy stitches to pretty her dress.The end result reminds me of pointillism(which I remember being obsessed with when I was fifteen - not your average teenage obsession really)

I also just wanted to say a big hello and thank you to my new followers and to my 'old' ones for popping in and listening to my musings.My next post will be very soon hopefully and the first of my book reviews.I adored reading all your reading recommendations on my last giveaway and always pore over other people's reviews so thought I'd start a regular book post myself.There won't be a theme;just inspiring books that I have discovered recently and also well loved reads.Until then,

Take care

Sewing and wind watching..what bliss

2011-05-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Hope you've had a pleasant long weekend.We've had Ms Soleil here to stay but she thoughtfully brought along her breezy cousin so the atmosphere has been wonderfully refreshing.I get a curiously giddy feeling when I have a long line a freshly washed linens and lace dancing in the breeze...don't you?

Apart from watching my washing I have been trying to finish off started makes however this above image shows three unfinished ones:(The little girl is taken from my 'Summer Wanderings' embroideries however this one is smaller and instead of using fabric for her dress I filled it with long and short stitch.I plan to place her on the front of a framed clutch purse but am still trying to work out the best way to do this.Any suggestions always welcome.

Also in the first image you can see a little patchwork umbrella brooch that is nearly finished.I have been meaning to make these for an age because they're a bit like my Little Voyages brooches and I really enjoy working in detail on a small scale.

I did actually finish something..yeahh!This patchwork wristlet is now resident in my Folksy nook and is a personal favourite.I have mentioned before about how I am partial to all shades of purple and my second favourite is grey.So when I saw this grey baby needlecord I couldn't wait to use it(when I stopped stroking it!)

The purse also features my old pal gingham and a selection of reproduction 30's fabrics.I've also added one of my hand painted floral buttons and embroidered 'Sing' on one square.My singing voice could crack plastic but I love to try!

Well I better get back to making and singing(ear plugs ready?)

Just a quick note to say thank you to Mel of Sugarplum Kawaii who featured me on her super blog today.I highly recommend Mel's blog because her musings always make me smile and she makes the most delicious jewellery too,

Take Care

Confessions of a Gingham Girl

2011-04-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

The original title to today's utterances was 'Keeping makes and mistakes' but then I noticed my loyal lifelong friend gingham had gracefully crept into nearly every picture.

I don't know if it started with my little cornflower blue gingham plimsolls I wore as a child or my mother's ruby red gingham apron..but I really do love gingham.She's classic but not too serious (and personally I suspect she has a delicious sense of humour!)

And so back to these gingham makes.Well as you have probably have guessed they are makes with mistakes.The little purse was my first attempt at using a purse frame and the stitching at the side doesn't quite reach the frame perfectly so I put it down to experience and decided to keep it.I would love to hear your opinions about the purse because I wasn't sure if the flower was edging towards going overboard(I spend many a moment on the creative gangplank wondering if I'll fall in)

I mentioned this clutch catastrophe I while back as I ironed a crease in the interfacing but have enjoyed using it myself and am yet to meet someone who can spot the crease(but I know it's there)I really like using this bag particularly because I like the floral lining.

I have actually been making wares for the Folksy shop too. I'm just finishing this patchwork 'sing' purse(spot my old friend)and I've added another leather and lace cuff to the shop too.

I just looked around my cottage and realised aside from my fabric stash I have gingham ballet pumps,bedlinen,underwear,pyjamas, cushions and a gingham blind.Perfectly normal!

I'd love to hear your pattern or fabric obsessions..

Take care

Giveaway winner

2011-04-16T04:39:00.000-07:00

For this giveaway I decided to be a bit more businesslike and hi-tech and use a random number generator from random.org so I did but could not fathom how to put the actual widget on here(one modern step at a time I think)Anyway the winning number was 2 which is..

Lilipopo !!

So the Book Maiden will be winging itself off to you on Monday. Hope you like her.

Thank you to everyone that entered and all your fantastic book recommendations;I have a big long list of new books to read.

And I just added this new leather plum cuff to the shop last night.Plum is my favourite colour so have been dying to make something with this leather.

Take care

A Lovely Giveaway

2011-04-06T14:30:00.000-07:00

I can't remember the last time I had a giveaway so one is well overdue.I thought this pretty 'Book Maiden' would be a suitable prize and hope you like her enough to have a go at entering.

Here are her vitals:
Hand-drawn and painted illustration of a lovely ‘book loving' lady on tea dyed vintage cotton.Pigment ink and fabric paints have been used and fixed so no fading will occur.The illustration has been embellished with embroidery,vintage fabric,lace and glass pearls.
Mounted in a wooden embroidery hoop which has been lime waxed to give it a pinky white finish. Backed with beige wool mix felt and ready to 'pretty' any wall or cosy shelf.

The winning name will be picked at random on Saturday 16th April so you have over a week to enter. and all importantly to have a chance of winning just become a follower of this here blog or a 'liker' on my Facebook page and leave a comment recommending your favourite book.Also,if you tell others about this giveaway let me know and you will be entered twice.
So good luck,

Finished 'Summer Wanderings' storybook embroideries

2011-04-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

A little while back I showed you a half finished embroidery and now I can finally show you the finished article and her little friend.These pieces are inspired by my childhood memories of summer and the seemingly eternal wanderings our days(and imagination's)would take.I wanted to keep the pieces delicate and light and used small lines from Robert Louis Stevenson's 'A Child's Garden of Verses' which I adored as a young girl(and still do actually)I'm sure you are familiar with this classic, most people are given a copy at some point during their younger years.

I'm quite in awe of embroiderers so was slightly apprehensive about putting these lasses in my little Folksy shop as I've only used embroidery before as an embellishment on jewellery,bags, drawings,etc, not as a whole piece itself(crikey)But this is all part of my effort to try and combine my love of drawing and threads and I really enjoyed the whole process so hopefully you can follow my stitchy journey too:)

Well I best get on and do some work,hope you have a lovely day,

Take care

Foraging for treasures...simply gorgeous

2011-03-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hello and happy Sunday.I thought I'd just share with you some of my favourite beauties on Folksy at the moment.I'm sure you'll love them too and be sure to click on the maker's name underneath the images to be whisked off to their enticing shops.

Wooden butterfly and gemstone necklace

Come Day Go Day

Pink vintage floral rose lace detail tea dress

Jennifer Lilly

Blue and White Pincushion Ring

Wychbury

Soft Leather Satchel Style Shoulder Bag

hold onto your handbag

Hand printed berry bird brolly fabric

Sarah Waterhouse

Small Embroidered Handbound Notebook

Kate Bowles

Have a great evening and until next time,

Take Care

Half dressed makes..

2011-03-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

I feel a little nervous so bear with me please.I thought I'd show you some of the work that is sitting on my desk waiting patiently to be blessed with some attention.

This little grinning gal is waiting for some rosy cheeks and well deserved pretty hair bows and detail to her dress.She is the leader of a tribe of self assured but dreamy lasses and is inspired by my memories of endless summer wanderings with my best friend.I started these imagining them as plush dolls but now I quite like how they look in the hoop and wonder if I should present them as pictures(especially as I was intending on adding text also)..any ideas welcome:)

And this is the bare bones of another 'Queen Bee'clutch bag.A different shape this time.

Well I can't take the credit for the embroidery thread but thought the colours were just so pretty;I couldn't resist taking a photo.I actually think I'm a little obsessed by embroidery thread..don't tell anyone.

This patchwork purse is still in a very raw state and waiting for it's leather back.I have a lot of very pretty scraps that I am trying to use so spending far to much time arranging and rearranging (artfully of course)

And lastly a little cloud that is part of a children's range I have been playing with for an age.And quite fittingly I have left my little blog note in the late evening so as the picture says 'Sweet Dreams'

Love

BUT before I retire the extremely talented SketchStitch is having a giveaway on her blog that I highly recommend taking a peek at and entering of course(just click name)xx

New additions and a lesson learnt

2011-03-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

Well at long last I can show you one use of these little silhouettes I had drawn on shrink plastic a while back.This Pink Silhouette Clutch Bag is now available to purchase in my little corner of Folksy.

I housed the little flower clad girl in a leather and lace frame(which I particularly love making because they remind of a little holy medal case given to me as a child)

The leather framed silhouette sits on a clutch bag I made using linen,brocade and cotton. The lining is floral and has a contrasting interior check patterned pocket.And to greet the carrier when they open the bag I embroidered my dragonfly keyhole logo just above the magnetic snap.

And if you noticed the title of this post you will be waiting to hear what lesson I learnt.Well it would be not to work too late into the twilight hours.You see I made another bag similar to this one but with a lovely Japanese gingham cotton but lo and behold when I went to photograph it today I noticed a crease on the front and the crease is from the interfacing so it will not budge.I'm a very careful maker and it's really not like me to overlook something like that but I did work late into the night to finish it and I will not be making that mistake again.

So to replace the missing bag I added this Leather Daisy brooch to Folksy today also.This brooch features leather,dupion,organza,vintage fabric and embroidery.Hope you like it.

Take care until next time,

First Parade of Patchwork Purses

2011-02-28T12:41:00.000-08:00

It's lovely to be back from my little break and as hoped; I feel all refreshed and eager.So to start my week I finally started adding some new bags to my little corner of Folksy

I've always harboured a fondness for patchwork and find the notion of carefully piecing together small precious fragments intoxicating.This 'Queen Bee' clutch bag is inspired by the fairytale of the same name and I tried incorporating different textures and images to reflect the many layers which occupy most fairytales.

The bag has hand drawn illustrations,new and vintage fabric pieces and trims,glass pearls,embroidery,a floral hand painted button and detachable wristlet strap.

This clutch has a more nostalgic feel as I used squares of reproduction 30's feedsack cloth alongside a linen mix fabric.When I was making the bag the shape reminded of a letter so I hand embroidered my Gracie Make keyhole logo in the style of a vintage postal stamp.

And finally this patchwork 'happy' purse just in time for Spring.It again features reproduction 30's feedsack cloth,embroidery,a mother of pearl button and hanging leather and lace leaf zip pull.

Will now have to get back to finishing more bags and purses.I'm working on framed bags and leather purses too so if zipped clutches aren't your 'bag'(sorry - couldn't resist the pun!)there will be lots of other choices very soon.

Take Care

A little break and a lovely people

2011-02-20T05:49:00.000-08:00

I'm off on a wee holiday today to visit family so wanted to pop in to say hello and show my virtual face.I'm really looking forward to the break and the hope I'll come home all spritely and refreshed.

But before I head off on my travels and I wanted to say thank you to Supercutetilly , NOfkantsCurios and Sugarplum Kawaii for passing on the Stylish Blogger Award to me.I highly recommend all three lovely ladies' great blogs and wonderful shops!

The rules of the nomination are

1. Thank the person and include the link for the nomination.

2. Share seven things about yourself.

3.Nominate 15 blogs for the award.

Here are my seven 'interesting' facts about myself.

One - I'm scared of mashed potato,I even feel strange typing this(quickly fetch the smelling salts!)

Two - I never ever wear matching socks or stockings.My feet only match when wearing tights.

Three - I'm the queen of phases and these phases are often lengthy.As a teenager I wore a ring on each of my fingers but for the past seven years my hands have remained naked and ring less.Also I drank only milk for five years solid many moons ago.

Four - I own eighty five dresses of which I probably only wear twenty.I obviously have hoarding issues but they are just too pretty to part with!

Five - Drawing and painting have always been my first loves but recently hand sewing has been creeping in to compete for first place.So combining all three seems to be the most obvious way to go.

Six - I would love to be as graceful as Vivian Leigh was,sing like Kate Bush,be as talented as my grandmother,as brave as Joan of Arc and have teeth like Patricia Arquette's.

Seven - My greatest ambition is to have my own book published and see it on a shelf in my grandparents library.You never know..

And now for the blogs I would like to nominate.I will try to not duplicate any blogs but I think it's inevitable.I love these blogs for so many different reasons; some inspire me; some teach me,others make me chuckle and some feel so familiar and warm that it's like popping in for a cup of tea and chat.

Amelie's House

The Glass Mountain

Sketchstitch

Fairysteps

Folk and Fairy

Wychbury

Tilly Rose

Sixty one A

The Secret Hermit

Just Lilla

Mitzi Makes

Hope you enjoy all these other blogs if you have not seen them already.I'll be back in a week so take care until then,

Busy as a bee but yet no honey

2011-02-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

These dear ladies are the guardians of my work corner.They are supposed to symbolize the changing seasons but to be honest they kind of make me giggle.As you can see they are wading through an ocean of pretty offcuts and this is pretty much how I feel myself as of late.

Do you ever feel weighed down by how much you want to make but simply do not have the hours available to get it done in? I have always been a parallel creator with several makes on the go at once and this approach has always served me well...until now.

I won't bore you with the details but my making time has been halved recently due to other commitments and I have at least twenty unfinished makes sitting patiently on my desk.Each one flirting with me as I pass and sending guilty vibes through the cottage.To make matters worse when I do get a spare moment I start random makes like the knitted offcuts shown above so I can masochistically add another project to the unfinished pile.Anyway,self pitying moan over!

And all these unfinished makes?It is mostly bags and purses that I have been working on and trying to combine all sorts of techniques such as patchwork,leather work,making fabric flowers and more illustration on fabric.

These little illustrations are elements of a collection of patchwork fairytale purses. I've really enjoyed making these but I have added small details with gold embroidery thread which I have a passionately temperamental relationship with.I love the way it looks but hate using it..any helpful tips about using metallic thread would be very welcome!

Well I better get back to finishing something..anything,lol.I'll of course show you the FINISHED products of my labour very soon I hope,I promise.

Take Care

Foraging for treasures:My new wishlist

2011-01-20T13:42:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure there is a clear theme to this forage but I guess illustration and stitchery(my two favourites)runs through my latest wish list from Folksy.So here goes

Human Eye Hand embroidered wall art

Sam Gibson

Handmade textile heart brooch

hensteeth

Teacup woman winter print

Ella Masters

You shall have a fishy - Fabric Art

'Red Hare' vintage linen cushion

Murgatroyd & Bean

They're all gorgeous aren't they.As always just click on the item description or shop name to be whisked off to the artist's shops.Have fun!

Wall walking and little peeks

2011-01-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

Hello there,my visits here seem so infrequent lately and I bow my bad blogging head in shame...please forgive me.This wondrous instrument with which I speak to you through has been extremely poorly as of late (she got one of those nasty computer viruses which thinks it's a wet gremlin and kept multiplying!)fingers crossed;she went through an intensive detox and is feeling all youthful and spritely now!

Thought I'd show you my 'wall walking' boots(pictured above)I've had these Italian leather boots for around ten years now and I really adore them.Just one catch..they're a size too small.I considered all my options but have resigned myself to wearing them lying down...and taking little meanders through the forest of my imaginings.Can you remember when you used to lie on your bed and hold your feet up and pretend you were walking up the walls and on the ceiling?Bet you still do it don't you..if not;give it a go(wearing your wall walking shoes or boots of course!)

Here are some peeks of what I've been working on..I'm up to my eyes with bags of all shapes and sizes.

And here are some of the hand painted silhouettes on shrink plastic that will adorn the bags.I've been have great fun and can't wait to show you the finished collection!

On a final note; I thought I'd just point you in the direction of two gorgeous blogs I have discovered recently. LiliPopo and supercutetilly are both very talented needle loving ladies and sell they're beautiful work on Folksy also.Take a peek.

Take Care

New Year Sale

2011-01-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!hope you are feeling fresh and positive about what the next twelve months will bring(I've got a really good feeling about this year)I thought I would start the year with a New Year Sale in the Folksy bazaar.So if fancy taking a peek just click the link to be hastily whisked off.

Will be back soon for a proper chat soon.

Take Care

My favourite Christmas gift...

2010-12-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are still enjoying the festive holidays.We've had lots of long walks through the surrounding snowy fields and much too much eating and drinking!

I say 'we' because I've happily spent my time with my very dearest friend.And it is his Christmas gift that I wanted to show you because I absolutely adore it.I've spent many moments oohing and aahing at the gorgeous artwork of Cori Dantini and so was delighted to receive this print on Christmas morning.

Cori describes her work as 'thoughtful artwork for sentimental folk' which is such a perfect description.This particular artwork is very fitting as the lovely little lady has remarkably similar hair to myself and my dear friend is a carpenter and is also a bearded fellow(not green though!)I'll show you a picture it when it's framed and has settled into a cosy corner of my cottage.

Thought I'd leave you with a snap of some pretty winter berries I saw on one of our long walks and wish you a very Happy New Year in advance as I will have to get back down to business very soon.

I'm quite excited actually because I've been working on some clutch bags for the Spring season in the Bazaar which is definitely something new and will show you the new range as soon as they are in the Bazaar.

Take Care

How it all began... Part One

2010-12-14T15:38:00.000-08:00

Now that a year has fluttered past since I began this little on line journal I feel I need to shed some light on my ancestry and the history of the 'curse.'If you have just popped in for the first time or don't know anything about the curse; here's a recap

My name is Gracie and I live under the most curious curse - I cannot stop making things! (I hear the sniggers) so what, I hear you shout. But REMEMBER this is a curse - I have no choice in the matter. Everyone I meet, everything I see, everything I hear inspires me...I have to make something - express what I feel.
I fall asleep scribbling and drawing. Sheets or blankets have often substituted canvas or paper. I do not sleep long; as soon as the first bird sings my body stirs. My mind is spinning, my fingers twitch...it starts all over again, the day's making begins.
I am not a princess, a beautiful downtrodden maiden or the daughter of the moon. I inherited this affliction from my great grandmother Evangeline.

Evangeline was found by a young farmer Antoine wandering the countryside in a remote part of France. She was five or six years old(we are guessing)and had no recollection of why or how she came to be there.Evangeline told Antoine her name and curiously could speak French,Italian and English.How strange she must have seemed, this slight raven haired girl wearing a faded cornflower blue cloak and carrying a tiny little case.As in all tales of old,it just happened that Antoine and his wife Marie where unable to have their own child and so brought up Evangeline as their own heaven sent miracle.

And in the little case?the above baptismal gown,three mother of pearl buttons,an empty leather bound journal and a pair of worn lace gloves.

Don't feel down hearted though...Evangeline loved her found parents deeply and they truly cherished their little 'wandering angel'(as Antoine would call her)She enjoyed a carefree childhood exploring the wilds and helping her mother Marie in the evenings.

She grew into a strong spirited young woman who was extremely striking with her pure soot black hair which tumbled down her back like a wild waterfall and eyes the colour of pale amethysts.However Evangeline was really known for her industriousness and workmanship.So it will come as no surprise that Evangeline had a gaggle of admirers who surveyed this hard working strange beauty as a very suitable potential wife.

However Evangeline was not interested in their shallow admiring glances,she only had eyes for Hunt Gray.Now with any dramatic winding tale,this was bound to be a bad idea.And as Hunt enters this story I think I'll end this part of the tale and let you get yourself a well earned hot beverage.

Hope you enjoyed this first part of the tale and come back to hear about Evangeline and Hunt.

Take Care

Latest additions..

2010-11-29T15:10:00.000-08:00

This is a quick pop in to show you what I've added to my little nook of Folksy today.I have to be so quick I can't even stay for a cup of tea, boohoo.I've added a Leather and Lace Cloud necklace.

A Leather and Lace Art pendant.

And some more needle cases which I seem to have become obsessed with making.

I feel the telling of a good yarn is well overdue so next time I'll have the tea brewing and the fire lit so you can get cosy.

Until then,wrap up warm and take care

Wondering about Windmills

2010-11-21T13:12:00.000-08:00

I have to confess to being a curvy girl;and not just around the hips.I mean I'm always drawn to anything rounded or oval and my doodles are always a mass of spirals,flowers,moons,suns,etc.With this in mind it will come as no surprise that I have always harboured a secret wish to live in a windmill.

No dusty dark corners and all those stairs!Yes;I really love stairs,the more flights the better.I might not feel the same in thirty years but for now I can wish.

I imagine each floor of my dream dwelling would be very different to the one below and as you climbed the windmill it would be a case of less is more so the very top floor would be almost empty.The perfect private place to dream and watch the stars.

But for now I'm happy enough in my great grandmother's special cottage even if it only has one flight of stairs.

I'd love to hear what you dream dwelling is?

Take care

Foraging for Treasures...Feeling Festive Already

2010-11-11T13:56:00.000-08:00

I know it's only November but I can't help thinking about Christmas and especially decorating the cottage.I'm not a big fan of using the traditional red and green so was overjoyed to find so many lovely festive decorations on Folksy in a wonderful array of colours! Here are my favourites

Hidden Tree,Hidden Forest

Sew Vintage Obsessed

Mini Christmas Stocking

Pair of Christmas Tree Decorations

Pants and Paper

Fairy Lights - Glass

Red Brick Glass

They're all so gorgeous aren't they!

Take Care

New Range of Pretty Sewing Notions!

2010-11-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

I really must apologise(again) for not popping over as of late, but I have to admit I enjoy abandoning my computer every so often. It is all to easy to flit from page to page of wonderful treasures and inspiration.Two hours later and the guilty panic sets in as the pile of unfinished makes in my open sewing chest catches my eye(Oh no!hope I haven't discouraged you to stay,lol)

Anyway, I thought I'd show you what I have been making with my new stash of hand painted buttons(see previous post)I've been toying with the idea of making Sewing Notions for a while now after one of you lovely people suggested it a while back.The buttons seemed the perfect focal point for them all and so the range has been created.

The pincushions are made from vintage linen napkins and are scented and the needle books are made of vintage and new materials.I think they're very pretty but practical of course.

The range is now available in my little corner of Folksy and I'll be adding more very soon.

Hope you like them,

Take Care

Blooming buttons!

2010-10-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

I was given these wooden buttons by a generous visitor who thought I would find some use for them.I was delighted and put them in a glass jar alongside all the other vessels full of tempting materials but two weeks on and finally their nakedness was too much to bare.

So I spent most of Sunday painting them,sticking to pastel shades and floral patterns.Before varnishing them I aged them slightly as I'm ever so fond of the 'lived in'look.

They're very lightweight so I can think of endless uses for them. I'll show you what I do with them(soon I hope)

Take care

Unlocking little stitchy memories..

2010-10-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

Over the past six months or so I have noticed that I can't resist the urge to add sly little embroidery stitches into most of my makes.I haven't really ventured beyond stem and back stitch but finding this old sampler I made when I was fifteen has tempted me into exploring the never-ending types of stitches.

I call it a sampler(very loosely)as writing the stitch's names in pen probably isn't an age old tradition!I remember my grandmother patiently showing me all the different stitches and the bemused look upon her face as I came up with my own alternative outlandish names for the funny little stitches.

So now being all grown up and semi serious, I'm attempting to relearn these techniques and use them in my own way.

With this in mind I thought I'd show you this little padlock which I sketched and then embellished with some embroidery.I have to say I didn't use any complicated stitches but concentrated on satin and stem(one step at a time)and the practice is all good!Next time I'll venture into using more of my grandmother's stitches.

I actually intended to cut this lock out and stuff it with lavender so it was a plush like the keys I've previously made but I quite like it in the hoop.Decisions,decisions..any thoughts?

Back to work,

Take care,

Gracie xx

Foraging For Treasures...Home comforts

2010-10-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm definitely a home bird and as the nights draw in and my toes begin to shiver,I find myself wanting to adorn my little cottage with gorgeous finds.So here is my current wish list of beautiful wares for sale on Folksy and Etsy.

Enchanted Forest Wall Clock

Snowfawn

Chirpy Little Birds Mug

Spring Cottage Bunting

blondedesign

Lacy Bird Bowl

Prince Design UK

I'm sure you like them all as much as I do!Just click on the product or seller's name to be whisked off to their lovely shops.

Take Care

Little update on my little Folksy corner..

2010-10-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

Just popping in to mention that I've been listing some new brooches on Folksy over the past couple of days. The one above is part of my new 'Little Voyages' range which is a fleet of pretty ships.

The other brooches are some butterflies inspired by some gorgeous maidens who popped around for tea recently.Another tale in itself!

Hope you like them and I'll stay longer next time for a proper catch up.

Take care

Playing with Packaging..

2010-09-29T15:11:00.000-07:00

There is nothing I enjoy more than packaging up my makes and bidding them farewell on their journey to their new owners!I love all the wrapping and pretty touches,I have to stop myself from going overboard.However,enjoyable as this is..time is tick ticking very loudly and it's bedtime again!

So I've forced myself to simplify matters and after much playing(oopps..I'm mean working)I have my new packaging all ready.So all Gracie Makes will now be wrapped in tissue; placed in a pillow box made of forest friendly recycled card and tied with a length of fabric scrap which is topped with a hand cut felt flower and leaf.

So although I've removed the 'faffing' element,I've still allowed myself the choice of fabric scrap(crucial element!)I really need to get out more,lol.

Take Care

Accepting my limitations..for now!

2010-09-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

My Grandmother tried,my mother tried..God,they really tried!They really tried to teach me to knit but it doesn't come naturally to me.This completely baffled them when they realised I had inherited the curse.My great grandmother Evangeline who was originally cursed was exceptionally gifted and did not come across any craft she could not master.Obviously I inherited the manic making but not the endless capabilities...but I do still try.

I found this pretty tangle of yarn at the back of my dresser and set about untangling it and having another go at knitting.Purl stitch is the one that seems to challenge my co-ordination and one needle always seems to end up hitting the floor.Any hints on this would be gratefully welcome!

So I made it easy for myself and stuck to knit stitch and made myself a very long skinny scarf.I kept it skinny because I like wearing scarves indoors sometimes in the winter and thought this would be more versatile.It was good practise and I quite like the finished scarf so all is good.

I really admire those who can knit and crochet and to be honest I love the clickedey click sound the needles make!So I'm going to and challenge my nemesis purl and try knitting a hat maybe next.Any tips very welcome?!

Take Care

New in the bazaar today...

2010-09-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd just show you these new Quiet Princess necklaces that are now in my Folksy Bazaar available to purchase.They're very long and quite different to my usual necklaces which are usually more of the bib style.

I really like these as I think they're very easy to wear and of course they feature the leather,lace and ribbons I'm so fond of.Hope you like them too.

I'll pop back in a day or two for a proper catch up but I thought I'd also let you know I'm doing Free UK postage in the Folksy Bazaar up until Christmas.

Take Care.

Another Rainy Day... Is Autumn here already?

2010-09-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

Autumn is not my favourite season..to be honest;it's my least favourite.I've always seen Autumn as a strange sly creature who seems to arrive earlier and earlier each year dazzling everyone with her rustly colourful gown whilst bringing her rainy companion.Don't get me wrong;I love warming Butternut Squash soup and Bonfire Night but I end up pining for the long bright summer nights...and those summer fragrances..

Hey Ho!Lot's to be done indoors and who doesn't enjoy a sprightly fresh stroll on a chilly day(as long as your wrapped up of course)

Well seasonal character assassination over and back to business.I have always had a thing about keys and locks(even my logo is a keyhole)I guess it's the intrigue and duality of them.They can take your freedom or more importantly give it back to you.If you find a lonely key you can't help but wonder where it's life lock partner resides.Is it on a door to another world,or on an ancient chest containing someone's worldly possessions...that's not just me, surely?

So with this in mind I've been making my own sets of lavender keys to adorn any special nook or cranny.This fragrant set is hand-drawn on tea dyed cotton and each key is backed with vintage fabrics and have been filled with lashings of French Lavender (all the way from Provence) and polyfill. Other features are a lace covered wooden hoop with resident butterfly. A stuffed pale aqua felt heart, lace leaves and a little lace and felt padlock.This is available to purchase in my Folksy shop.

Well I better toddle off and get back to making..I'm working on some lovely lavender locks to join the keys in the bazaar.

By the way I got that card castle up to five storeys..I have all Autumn and Winter to get to a more impressive level!

Take Care

New in shop today..

2010-08-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

These Hand-painted Lavender Lady decorations are now in my Folksy and Etsy bazaars today.Each one is drawn by hand on vintage cotton that I have tea dyed then painted and embellished.They're filled with sweet French Lavender and would look especially beautiful hanging on a vintage wardrobe door or on a dressing table.

I'm making some more lavender goodies at the moment so will show you them as soon as they're finished.

Have a wonderful Bank Holiday Monday!

Take Care

Raining Plums...

2010-08-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

A have a young Victoria Plum tree in my garden that wore a breathtaking gown of blossom earlier this year,and has now blessed me with it's fruits.However due to the never ending rain of late, I returned home from a little jaunt to be greeted with a carpet of plums at the foot of my Victoria which had mostly split.So I hastily

picked the precious remaining plums and decided to put them to use.

As I've mentioned before I am a well meaning but often calamitous cook so I decided to play it safe a make a crumble.

I have to admit the crumble was a bit on the chunky side due to my impatience but it tasted lovely.Just what you need on a rainy day!

Did you know that

The plum tree has an exceptionally beautiful blossom and so it has come to symbolize spring championing over winter, and virtue and courage triumphing over tribulations. In Japan, the tree is connected with youth and its innocence.“The Ilustrated Book of Signs and Symbols,”Dorling Kindersley Limited,London, 2004.

What more can you want?a pretty display in the spring and wonderful fruits in late summer.Well,one thing I would like would be less rain!
Take care

Foraging for Treasures: Peaches and Green

2010-08-20T00:49:00.000-07:00

I haven't been out foraging in the Folksy Forest for a while so a trip was well overdue.This time I found myself drawn to gorgeous items in shades of green and peach...a combination I find very soothing and harmonious.

Star Print,Cassia Beck

Lizzie Earrings, Handmade Charlie

OOAK Betty, Silky Prudence

Green Flower Necklace

Lisa Steed Davey

Read to Me Print, Lola's Room

Resa Smith Maxi Dress - Ice

Vintage Mayfair peach teacup candle

Beautiful Things

Lovely aren't they all.Just click on the item or shop name to be whisked off to their lovely shop.

Until next time,

Take Care

So inspiring...

2010-08-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

I had to share this with you..so beautiful and inspiring.I've watched it ten times already!I can't believe it is stop motion.

Lost Things
Directed by Angela Kohler and Ithyle Griffiths.

Take Care

Fragrant and Fruity Experiments..

2010-08-10T15:05:00.000-07:00

I've not been dropping in here very often lately because I've been indulgently taking time to experiment and try out ideas I've had for a while now.I'm still'officially' enjoying my creative adventures but thought I'd give you a little peek of what I've been up to lately.

This is my first Lovely Lavender Lady and she is a book loving maiden like myself.She is hand drawn on a piece of my freshest batch of tea dyed cotton and I have added touches of colour to her using fabric paint.She has a pink linen back and has been filled with polyfil and lashings of dried lavender.All hand sewn of course!and finished off with a dusky pink velvet ribbon hanger and bow.I can't wait to do some more and was thinking of adding some embroidery too.

Another new obsession is fabric fruit and I'm so taking with making them that I'm working on a whole new jewellery collection incorporating them.I guess it's the symbolism attached to fruit which has captured my imagination.I hope it won't be too long until I can show you the'fruits'of my labour(I'm sorry..that was unforgivable!)that will be for sale in my shops.

In the meantime,I have added a new 'Pretty Posy' brooch to Folksy shop the other day.A posy for a sweetheart that never withers.

Well Cheerio and take care.Thanks for popping by.

New Quiet Princess Cuffs

2010-08-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hello lovelies,this is probably going to be the shortest post I've ever written.Just thought I would show you my latest 'Quiet Princess' pieces.Click here to see whole back story.Well the first one is a Floral Lace and Metallic Leather cuff. All hand stitched of course and a pretty addition to any maiden's bare wrist.

The second is another metallic leather cuff but features a vintage silver and white floral appliqué and has a ribbon and ceramic button closure.Both cuffs are now available to purchase in my little corner of Folksy.

Well I must dash now..want to do some night gardening.

Take Care

Leather Sketch Portrait of Sweet Liliana

2010-07-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

I've always loved miniatures and love to imagine how treasured these small perfect portraits were to their keepers.These captured reflections could be carried in one's inside pocket close to the heart,or kept under one's pillow to provide comfort in a lonely bed, maybe even hidden hastily in a drawer to disguise a forbidden love.And of course many were made as pieces of jewellery; increasing their portability and preciousness.The beautiful miniature below is from the wonderful collection of Don Shelton

Well I've been wanting to create my own version of a wearable miniature for a while now and so when I met Sweet Liliana I couldn't resist having a go.

Sweet Liliana is a talented Flower Flute player.The Flower Flute is played at sunrise and it is used to awaken and rejuvenate the sleeping flowers in a sad forlorn garden.Liliana dances swiftly amongst the flowers playing her sweet tune,a willowy shadow spreading warmth.

I felt a pale portrait sketch with little colour echoed the ethereal presence Sweet Liliana has and I used pale cream leather,tea dyed lace,cream velvet ribbon and a small button.The piece is very lightweight to wear and was completely hand stitched as usual.I'm very pleased with the final result and hope to try other portraits in this fashion.

On another very much belated note; a while back I was featured on two lovely blogs which I would highly recommend visiting.The first being NoodleBubble a lovely talented lady whose blog is fun,informative and features reviews of books(just up my alley!)The second was Amanda Lincoln a graphic designer and surface pattern designer who has a very pretty blog showcasing her own and other's work which is a feast for the eyes.Thank you to them both.
Take Care

Foraging For Treasures...loving Liberty

2010-07-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

I love beautiful fabrics and anything created with a classic Liberty Tana Lawn always seems to catch my eye.The prints are timelessly beautiful but it's versatility means it always seems fresh and exciting.The wonderful creations I found on Folksy and Etsy below testify to this...and yes, I want them all as usual!

Handmade Bead Bracelet in 'Betsy'

Mavis and Frank

Ena, a handmade Liberty puppet doll

Rose Lullaby Dolls

Liberty Bracelet, nr 62

Froeken Larsen Design

Liberty Notebook Journal

Lewis Designs

The Very Mini Quilt with No Name

LAMdesigns

Liberty Print Shoulder Tie Dress

Birgitta Designs

Feather Dove:Feather Pendant

Teasemade

Just click on the item or shop name to be whisked off to the creator's shops(where I'm sure you'll be tempted by they're other gorgeous wares too)

Take care

Upcycling for thyself...is good for you.

2010-07-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Every so often I have to take a moment and force myself to create something purely for little old me.It's all too easy to become lost in the process of creating for others and become detached from your loves and needs.I cannot spare lengthy periods of selfish making so I usually embellish or re purpose something I already own.

I own quite a large collection of old knitting bags(however I am not a very accomplished knitter!I'm still working on that)BUT I love the sheer size of them(I carry a great deal with me whenever I go for a saunter)and as they are often handmade; they are made with such wonderful fabrics from the previous owner's collection.This particular bag I chose to embellish is made with an upholstery fabric so I like to think somewhere out there is a chair that would match my new handbag beautifully!

It is not secret how much I like lace doilies so no surprise that I hand stitched one to the front of the bag.To beautify it further I tied on a bow with wide beige grosgrain ribbon.Very simple to do but I really like the finished bag.As this took no time at all I got carried away and started experimenting with some treasures a bit dearer to my heart.

Someone very dear to me gave me a handful of small slices of a young pear tree as he thought I would like them(there was a little more to the conversation but I'm already blushing so I'll stop there)I've had them for a while now and this is my first attempt at using one.Again; it's very simple and uses my old favourite lace but it reminds me of 'him' and myself(dare I say us)I think I'll turn it into a pendant but a knock on the garden gate ended my selfish play so it will have to wait until next time.

Take care and remember be good to yourself too

Recreating The Quiet Princess's Casket..

2010-06-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

(Whispers)..Have you heard the tale of the Quiet Princess?she lived many moons ago but her legend has captured my heart.As you can guess;she spoke very few words and when she did speak her quiet utterances were barely audible.Only the Princess's elderly nursemaid could understand the Princess and as the years past on and the nursemaid's health began to deteriorate and a new way of understanding the Princess was sought.

The Princess came up with her own solution and in the nursemaid's final days; she relayed the plan to the King and Queen. The Princess had pieces of jewellery made to represent her feelings and quiet words.She would draw the shapes and designs along with a description of the meanings and they would be created for her to wear.

Now I know you are a canny lot and I hear you ask 'why did she not just write down her messages in the first place?'well..you must remember this is the tale of a Princess and the more enigmatic and beautifully adorned she can be; all the better! The kingdom grew to read the messages given in the jewellery and loved their special Quiet Princess adoringly.

She kept her pieces in a special casket and I've been working on creating my own casket full of pieces that I imagine are like the Quiet Princess's.These two leather adorned cuffs are my first offerings and are in my little Folksy bazaar.I used quiet subtle colours;beige,cream and dark silver and tried to make the cuffs pretty but luxurious looking.The top cuff symbolizes a happy and optimistic mood and the second one represents a thoughtful and generous outlook.These are the first of the collection and I will update you as soon as more are finished.

Take care

Foraging For Treasures..Unlocking Fairytales

2010-06-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

I hadn't being on a good forage around Folksy for an age so a little jaunt was well overdue.I didn't go looking for anything in particular but I find once something gorgeous catches your eye you are naturally whisked away on an a little voyage to similarly inspiring treasures.

My found covetable beauties definitely have a fairytale theme.I've always had an love of keys;what do they open?..what's in the chest?or what world lies behind that door?or who?

Just click on the shop or item name to be whisked off to the wonderful creator's own corner of Folksy.

Bottle Cap Corsage

it's the little things

Thumbelina Foldout

Alix Swan

Briar Rose Sleeping Beauty Ring

Mary Elliott Jewellery

Secret Garden Necklace

Lonely Hearts

Hold me in your arms

Zebedee

Well take care and hope you have enjoyed seeing my finds.

Washing and making in the sun...

2010-06-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

I don't know about where you reside but here the weather has been particularly moody and indecisive as of late. Today mistress weather must have woke up in a very good mood indeed as she graced us with a glorious breezy sunny day. As well as getting a sizeable pile of linens washed and dried(I must be getting old if that pleases me so much!)I took some of my unfinished makes outside...with the intention of finishing them.

I've been working on some new ideas such as the felt flower bouquets and a new collection of Lady Lace cuffs which I'm particularly fond of.I managed to finish the cuffs so will be placing them in my Folksy Bazaar soon but I got distracted and the felt flowers are still to be done...nevermind!

My garden is quite wild and I always daydream of floating delicately through grand formal gardens with dramatic high hedges and mazes.But I can always find something interesting in my higgledy piggledy paradise.Like this jasmine elegantly trying to find a new surface to drape over or this army of pretty chives all standing to attention!

Even my rusty old oil lamp had a certain prettiness to it today!Maybe the sun has to gone my head!It wouldn't be the first time I've worn rosy tinted spectacles!

Well take care and enjoy your weather whatever it may be today!

Sashes and Cakes...

2010-06-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

I've been very busy as of late so I apologise for leaving eight days flit away before visiting back here.As word has spread of my makes and the bazaar; I find more and more folk knocking on my garden gate.

I had heard of the bakeress Paloma Sunday of course seeing as her speciality is her mint and brown sugar cupcakes with edible love letter butterflies.

Romance,words,cakes and butterflies! Pure heaven for me! Well,Paloma is tipped to be the winner of ‘most inspired use of literature with baking' at this year's Inspired Maiden Parade and so she came to me looking for something special to wear.

So I made a sash which can be worn in several different fashions depending on the mood.The pale aqua colour is the same shade of Paloma's mint icing and I tea dyed some lace to add a brown sugary feel.Of course a butterfly would have to be present but gave it some floral company!

The sash is available in my Folksy Bazaar and I'm looking forward to making some more sashes for other participants in the upcoming Inspired Maiden Parade.

Well back to making and maybe some baking(?)I've never been a gifted poet!or bakeress for that matter!

Bye Bye for now and take care

Pleased to be in print!

2010-06-01T05:40:00.000-07:00

As you all know I am a dedicated book lover but there are a few magazines that I like to peruse and ponder over and the UK sewing magazine Sew Hip is one of those.So you can imagine my excitement when the editor of Sew Hip contacted me to ask if I would contribute a pattern and tutorial for a sewn necklace to the magazine.So I got to the task and the finished result is in the current issue(18)

I'm very pleased with the finished article and they even used my funny illustrations!I am especially pleased to be in this particular issue alongside such lovely projects(such as that rather fetching dress on the front cover)I do recommend having a look at Sew Hip if you haven't come across it before as it always has interesting sewing projects and articles.

When I got over the excitement of finally getting hold of a copy (my friendly post giver made a special trip to my cottage)I took some time to add some hair decorations to my little Folksy haven.

Hope you like them.

Take care..