terry's new thread

Button Button

2012-03-14T20:59:00.003+11:00

who's got the button?

A radio interviewer was asking people what childhood games they remembered. Maybe there is still a little bit of the child in all of us.

Still knitting Still sorting. Enjoy your day Terry

Like Riding a Bicycle

2012-03-09T12:30:00.000+11:00

I just realised it's been a week since I posted. Well it has been busy running around for the move. Always something else, I don't remember other moves involving so much, but maybe it was handled by lawyers because we were 5hrs drive away, and in country towns. It's different in the big smoke.

What does riding a bike have to do with anything? It's never forgetting how part.

Already spun singles waiting to be plyed. more of the brown I found before.

I haven't forgotten. Like riding a bicycle the dark brown bobbin of wool in the bottom left is in the wash as I type along with the smaller amount of mottled grey on the flyer. I plyed the two small balls from the find last time.

It's called a weavers shawl. The pattern was from the great knitting site Ravelry.

Open House again tomorrow afternoon.

Enjoy the weekend and find time to do something you like. Terry

Wool Washing

2012-03-02T07:57:00.002+11:00

Improvised skeiner

wool ready for scouring

close up

red dirt not good soil for cropping and sheep need about an acre each

all washed and ready to roll into balls. It is about 5.5 oz in all.

I'm going to knit a shawl .

I have been embracing the sorting and

NO I did not give all the treasures in those crates to the op-shop. Most of it went into space bags. You sure can store a lot more in a space bag than in a crate.

FOUND some more dark brown wool. Spun washed ready to add to the shawl project.

The first open house for the sale of our house is tomorrow. I'm off to scrub and dust.

Have a good weekend. Treat yourself. Terry

Fiber Archaeology

2012-02-24T18:05:00.001+11:00

I'm

ING

sorting cupboards and found some long lost treasure

Two skeins of hand spun still in the grease with a couple small balls of singles waiting to be plied. The spool is also full and ready to skein.

Evening has found me just sitting !!
maybe some mindless knitting will calm the chaos.
I'm thinking a shawl ?

I'm sure there's some more hand spun somewhere.

All of you enjoy your weekend. We are having lunch on Sunday with 5 of the Birthday people so far in 2012. The missing one is attending a friends wedding. Terry

The Word

2012-02-21T09:19:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I embraced the sorting boxes in the shed that became wet during a violent thunderstorm. Not my plan but I did find my wedding photos still dry and a book box full (of books) to be donated to the library.

Today I am embracing the sewing room. The view from the doorway messy but manageable I hear you say.

...........note the 2 chest of drawers have clothing not fabric easy BUT WAIT

Behind those doors is the treasure about to be sorted, remembered and hopefully CULLED.

".....another man's treasures "

I shall report on my progress sometime soon until then Terry

Weekly up Date

2012-02-17T21:35:00.004+11:00

It has only taken 5 years of living in this house to get the garage so tidy. It's the first big clean and sort to sell our home . Up side less stuff to move.

Lots of WORDS have been showing up in blogs. Blue Mountain Daisy with a tutorial link. Bumble Beans too .
I have been pondering the changes in my life and the causes. My word was a stoic view and I couldn't rally to do anything. But a bit of distance from the news about my knees offered the opportunity to rework the original word. A few moments during the week and this is the result so far.

The letters of my word are all jumbled up from some off beat continuous stitching. Go on GUESS. Let me know what you come up with. hint __ not all letters are upper case.

To Be Continued....

Terry

Little sewing Big news

2012-02-11T12:36:00.001+11:00

A block for Triangles Galore ready to go. Check out more at 15min play.

BIG NEWS

DH and I bought a new home this week. It is single story. No more stairs for me and my knees which have worn out as well as my right hip which is already made from titanium and porcelain.

The house is only 1km from where we now live so we don't have to change any day to day stuff. Wippie!!

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend Terry

Foraging

2012-02-08T09:39:00.000+11:00

Sifting through the scraps to find just the right combination for more made fabric.

The box fell over and I found a few scraps I didn't remember having. Bottom right cow hide. Not for this project but ......

A plum colored selection for a cohesive piece of made fabric. So far all my playing as been random.

Foraging is always fun. You never know what treasures you might find. The result so far from the scrap box.

Next step cut up the fabric I just stitched together Ah Ah . Sounds strange but I know it is the process for me.

Have a good day Terry

It's Raining

2012-01-27T09:23:00.000+11:00

Still Raining
Raining Again
Wet shoes wet clothes and wet garage floor. What to do?

Well quilt of course what else

I've been practicing on one of the tops I stitched up last year. Something to do in between sweeping out the garage. No No nothing too terrible just a Sydney summer of rain instead of sun, sand and surf. The garden is loving it. DH's grass is so green. He loves it.

We've also had a visit: sleepover from the grand children and 3 Birthday's in the DD#1 house this week. Lots of love and giggles.

Have a good weekend whatever your weather. Terry

What's Black and White and...

2012-01-19T08:13:00.001+11:00

Multicolored?

My quilt for 15 min play. If you've been stopping by this year you'll know I've been sewing little bits of scraps together then cutting them up again and sewing again and cutting again da da da .

Here is the result

I have learned so much from this project:
All colors work together
How to make flying geese the no waste way
Looking at blocks in a different setting on point
Balancing a strong graphic print against a strong color cheddar (reminds me of Monteray Jack Cheese)
To use the net for help sizes for setting triangles.

But wait there's more LOTS OF NEW FRIENDS!!!!

15 min play is the brain child of Victoria of Bumble Beans. Thank you !!

Lots more variations to see at 15 min play and voting. Go visiting and vote for your favorite leave a comment you know how we all just love to have people stop by to say Hi.

I'm off to continue quilting before the heat. Terry

A Quilt a Day

2012-01-14T08:32:00.001+11:00

Gets a great big smile from grand daughter Awen.

Snuggled under a quillow made for her Great Grandmother in 1991. The pattern is broken dishes. Awen found the label (embroidered with names and dates). Why we should label our quilts. Not for us but to keep the history.

The day progressed with a sewing lesson on the machine. We made a pre-printed softie no-pics.

Lunch and a trip to the driving range with Grampa. no-pics, WELL you can't spend all the time behind the camera.

Evening activity. Fishing with grampa in the Nepean river.

2 Mullet and 3 Bream were the catch. all under size but lots of fun.

The same big smile at the end of the day.

Grandparents delight. We all got to share things we enjoy with another generation. Woo Hoo. Terry

A Windy Day in ?

2012-01-12T16:15:00.000+11:00

The Sand

Not just any sand but sculpture.

Is that a paddle wheeler?

Grampa maybe it's a steam engine.

Everyone got a chance to try sand sculpting. Messy

Detailing the turtle.

A stop for ice cream and then heading home.

A great day out with DD Heather and grand children Awen and Cadel.

Hope your all having fun in the sun Terry

Potato Chip Quilt

2012-01-09T11:55:00.000+11:00

Potato Chip quilt uses a jelly roll or for those of us attempting stash reduction 40 strips.

I cut these strips from the stash and sorted them into light medium and dark. I was trying to cut from stash to reduce the number of scraps and discovered I don't have purples. What color don,t you have?

An even mix of light.med and dark.

Used this arrangement to make sure all the colors of one value weren't too close to each other. Time will tell

Dagwood sandwich anyone? All the strips piled high suggest a variety of scrumptious food. Tomorrow is Hawksbury Hands quilting so I should have some more pictures of my Chip Quilt (can't make just one) and maybe some others for additional eye candy. Party anyone?

It is HOT here and I can hear the children over the back fence splashing in the pool. Definitely piecing weather with the AC on. Have a good week Terry

End and Begining

2012-01-04T07:34:00.001+11:00

New Years Eve in Sydney

The Harbour Bridge ready for 2012.

The original settelement area of Australia "The Rocks"

The big end of town has lots of Bling at The Queen Victoria Bld.

How much Bling is too much Bling?

You meet the nicest quilts waiting for the fireworks.

Across the Harbour*****

May you all have a wonderful 1202!! oops 2012!!

Terry

Stash Shopping

2011-12-29T10:04:00.002+11:00

All the local quilt stores are closed for the Christmas New Year season here in Sydney. It's summer and taking just a small portion of annual leave coupled with paid holidays gives most families and small businesses a nice break.

What does all this have to do with quilting you ask? It's a quiet time; perfect for prepping a project for the New Year. Ah the dilemma where can I get a jelly roll for the Potato Chip Quilt?

Shop Your Stash

The final result of searching my stash. A couple extra strips than in a standard jelly roll because my stash didn't have enough full WOF pieces. Also I needed to balance the light, medium and dark tones as suggested by Kay in her tutorial for a variation of the basic quilt.

Thank you all dear friends for sharing 2011*!*! Wishing you all a Happy New Year. Terry

Christmas Magic

2011-12-21T22:09:00.000+11:00

A three day visit from the grandchildren brought wonderful memories.

Cadel playing leggo under the Christmas tree.

Cadel and Grampa went to the car wash and Cadel returned with this beautiful "Merry Christmas Grama" bunch of roses. He choose the pinky ones and watched them open slowly for the next couple of days. The last afternoon of his stay he commented. I guess they will be gone when I come on Christmas.

I told him " yes but I will dry the petals" I was rewarded with a smile to treasure.

May you all have moments to treasure. Terry

Home at Christmas

2011-12-15T21:18:00.000+11:00

Welcome to my house. I'd like to start the tour in the lounge room .

A bit of a red and white theme

Gifts to share with the family. Turn around 180 degrees

Take three steps up the stairs for a closer look

The Nativity Set of Mary Joseph and the Christ child was shipped in the trunk we sent in 1971 when we migrated. The animals are from a toy store called Playways. Shepards and kings made from dolly pegs by my Dearest Wayne.

Traditions give us memories of good times past and let us share new times with family and friends.

Sharing with all of you brings joy to my life . You are all friends who are so willing to share. Stop and enjoy this weekend.

Hugs Terry

Christmas Markets

2011-12-08T20:36:00.001+11:00

A trip to the Eveleigh Markets held in the former NSW Railway workshops.

A grey rainy day and we even had hail while on the train into Redfern.

Bright Banners greeted us as we entered the Artisans Christmas Market.

I like the grid pattern of this banner by the children who are members of the local Police Citizens Youth Club.

They were out selling decorated cupcakes.

The visitors browsing laughing and shopping at the Artisans Market.

I had a good adventure Enjoy the upcoming weekend Terry

First Ever Blog Swap

2011-12-03T06:53:00.001+11:00

Last post at 5p.m. yesterday the Postie on his motorbike left this....a parcel.

It was from Stacey in Darwin my partner in the very first blog swap I've participated in. Share my excitement as I open my parcel.

Wonderful Tree Quilt made with selvage background and 15 min play tree. But WAIT there's more....

Twelve Days of Christmas panel. I think this might be the start of a Yule Fest quilt. Well that gives me until June to get something done. No pressure now.

Thanks to Stacey for being so generous and to Victoria at Bumble Beans for suggesting and organising such a fun quilting.

I had so much fun making my quilt to swap and getting a Parcel in the Post.

Everyone enjoy your weekend the first in this festive season. A Hug to everyone Terry

My First Blog Swap Second Instalment

2011-12-03T06:51:00.001+11:00

Dear friends this is the part of the previous post I forgot.

Dah! well if it was a swap (see previous post) then I did something as well.

Ta Da!

I really liked all the critters looking out for ? SANTA ? well maybe.

Just like any child at Christmas I forgot to take very many pictures. Ah! no damage.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend Terry

On the Fence

2011-11-30T20:13:00.001+11:00

A finished top from the stash photographed in the dappled light of the afternoon.

I enjoyed this quick quilt. It will find a home in the new year. I'm sure it will keep someone warm and happy.

Have a good day tomorrow and tomorrow Terry

Saffron Craig in Magic Land

2011-11-24T19:49:00.001+11:00

Saffron Craig has waved her magic wand over Magic Lands. Saying the magic word " Red and Pink" and quick as a wink a rosy blush appears.

The landscape invites you to play... cut and rearrange

The dandelions promise wishes will come true.

Visit for more magic and a give away .

A Fuzzy Blankie for Basics

2011-11-21T07:37:00.001+11:00

A fuzzy Blankie or what to do on a 36-C day in Sydney.

Stitch a blankie for Basics

Yup yesterday was a hot day with wind to match. The sort you hope there are no fires and stay inside.

I retired to the sewing room with fan ,ice water and a pile of squares.

I was gifted enough flannel sometime earlier this year for a blankie (read small loved quilt).

The quantity was clearly intended for a rag quilt. It's a technique I hadn't tried before and decided the Basics Quilt drive would make a great home for one. It's 10-C and temperatures are dropping for winter there.

Started stitching at 11am and finished at 5pm with stops for lunch and the exciting parts of the Presidents Cup. (golf a DH thing).

I clipped the edges during two episodes of Big Bang followed by The Closer. Yeah all older episodes on fox but it gives you an idea of how long it took.

Stitching and clipping time I figure 5-6hrs. I think that's well spent time learning a new technique and having a gift of warmth and love for someone.

The Basics Blankie is in the washing machine fluffing up. Finished result photo before being posted to the Big Apple.

There's time left to support the quilt drive. My first quilt only took 10 days to arrive in N.Y. form Sydney. Check out the details here.

Off to hang up the washing (giggle). Have a great week Terry

Secret Sewing

2011-11-16T20:18:00.001+11:00

I am quietly stitching But can only show peeks as it's the secret sewing done at this time of year. You guessed it presents and surprises to soon be posted as tokens of friendship.

The small gifts you make sometimes last a long time. Here's one I can share.

I made a small calico bag with a shoelace cord for DH about 35 years ago. It was modeled after the marble bags I made my brothers when I was young (at least a half century ago).

The red shape on the yellow square is a visual pun. It is worn as evidenced by worn holes on the tag and bag. I just love that my Dear One still uses it for his golf tees. A very small bit of Christmas stitching still in use is a thank you all the time.

No wonder I like this time of year and gifts from the heart.

Sending you all warm wishes as I return to secret stitching. Terry

Idea

2011-11-08T21:07:00.002+11:00

I have an idea for the quilt using the medallion print from Mulhouse.

I'm going to use the klosjes I stitched last year for the first and second round . I need to make 5 more klosjes ...off to stitch.

Have a good week. Terry

A Day at the Museum

2011-11-05T08:58:00.002+11:00

No stitching this week due to surgery and a lot of laying about. BUT I have a plan and your invited to travel to Mulhouse in Alsace with me and see the beginnings of my idea.

Arriving after an early start by train.

Stroll across the canal to the Museum of Printed Textiles

A day learning to use wooden blocks from the museum's collection.

Making choices and getting ready to print

A wonderful lunch prepared by Celine. The young artist who helped me with the adventure. We even used dinnerware designed for the museum.

Lots more printing Celine adding a couple more in empty spaces. I was worn out by now.

Two meters of quilters muslin printed with blocks from the textile museum. After lunch I realised I would cut up this fabric so trying to get edges to meet wasn't necessary. I just enjoyed the printing.

My plan I am going to use this small piece of printing for the center of a medallion quilt. Progress reports to come.

My day of printing at the museum was wonderful. As quilters we all have our own stories about our quilts and this is a story that will return many time over.

Have a good weekend where ever you are. Terry

All That's Left

2011-10-27T22:51:00.002+11:00

A day of cutting left me with this small pile of crumbs.

I measured and cut to make up 4 kits.

I'm getting some easy sewing ready for the next couple of weeks.

These little parcels will be surprises so updates will have to be without photos.

Have you started your Christmas list.I remember lots of homemade gifts over the years.

Enjoy your memories Terry

A Passing Comment

2011-10-20T09:03:00.002+11:00

A casual comment among like minded women went something like this

" it would be nice to have a quilt made for when you need one"

A rummage in the STASH SHOP found:

stripe from a pair of pedal pushers made in the 80's by one DD for the other DD

lower left a skirt that never got a zipper sometime in the last decade

upper left op shop yardage

upper right leftover yardage from a finished quilt

Drum roll !!!

quilt top measuring 56"sq.

more stash shopping and a pieced back

the only purchase was the spots for edges and binding.

I even have a pieced batting ready to go AND I learned a new technique while making this bright fun top.

not sure what the technique is called but you only sew part of the seam to start and finish stitching it when the finale part of the block is inserted.

While taking photos I caught some circles lurking among the the flowers

Wall Flowers

bedhead

wall covering you could hardly call this silk embroidery wall p----.

in Marie Antoinette's room.

not quite homey enough for me to be comfortable.

It's been a busy week and I am now going to spend the morning stitching. Hope you all have a good day Terry

Eye Candy #2 or Begining

2011-10-15T07:41:00.000+11:00

Early morning in Munster

The start of a day

The start of a quilting journey

Gathering and preparing resources

making fabric

inspiration for dividing space

possibilities

an idea I am going to work on

future reports

Enjoy your weekend and laugh a lot. Terry

My Quilt for Basics

2011-10-08T20:35:00.006+11:00

Needed

some basic sewing to ease the jitters before I departed on my trip.

Victoria at Bumble Beans had just the pattern and a wonderful home for the finished quilt.

I had stitched,sandwiched,and completed half the diagonal quilting a month ago.

Steady stitching on Thursday and the top was ready to bind.

A view of the pieced back.

Coffee and binding at the ready

Friday attach binding. I stitched it on the back of the quilt and turned it to the right side attaching with a decorative stitch. No hand stitching here

I'm way slow.

A cosy quilt for comfort. I know it's cosy because I fell asleep under it while removing the basting pins

SH don't tell.

Basics is a community group helping people in their own neighborhood. My quilt for Basics has given me time to reflect

remember my father

a gift of self to someone else

Have you got time then help out and share . I'm glad I did.

I'm having a good weekend with the Grandchildren. All of you enjoy your family Terry

Eye Candy

2011-10-04T08:14:00.006+11:00

My muse is dragging me toward an alarming place today. She; or perhaps it's a touch of insomnia has me thinking of dissected linear spaces.

That's the trouble with expanding your horizons you are encouraged to experiment get out of your comfort zone. Maybe if I post some pictures it will be out of my system. You Think? LOL

Eye candy from the double decker bus in Paris

Warehouse in Paris divided by trees and shutters. It was huge and all urban art.

Circular division of space Louis XIV's garden. Go figure.

Gingerbread houses. Old style of construction throughout Alsace. More divided space.

Quilts employing a division of linear space. Ouch! I'm being shoved in a new and maybe scary direction.

O.K. muse I'll see what happens today. Maybe something I want to explore or just get out of my system. either way guess what I'm doing today.

Flowers for the First of the Month

2011-10-01T12:00:00.000+10:00

Beautiful blooms and gardens from my trip.

Monet

Versailles

train stations of Alsace

Ste Marie aux Mines

Mulhouse

I had a wonderful trip. There were beautiful flowers and gardens everywhere.

Inspiration from landscape, museum visits,and the The European Patchwork Meeting which I will share with you all over the next few weeks.

A special THANK YOU to Valentina and her family for their wonderful hospitality. My trip was so much richer for the generosity.

I am glad to be home and slowly settling back into life. I wish you all a good weekend and I promise to visit you all soon. Terry

Circle Quilt

2011-09-06T15:49:00.002+10:00

The quilt block is from an 1850's quilt.
DH made the template for me . The first proto type looked like a sombrero.

Stash shopping

DH helped again and worked out the registration. Success

Auditioning

and more auditioning.

Brights I've been saving for who knows and stripes. I'm liking this and the fact that the finished blocks are 14". Easy stitching on the move.

My cases are all packed and tonight is departure. After 22 hours of travel I will be at the wonderful Valentinas.

A couple days to get over jet lag and off to France and the European Patchwork Meeting.

I will post if possible and take lots and lots of pics. to share.

All of you take care of yourselves and I'll be back at the end of the month.

Have a wonderful start to spring /or autumn which ever Hugs to all Terry

Me and Jenny Kee

2011-08-26T08:57:00.002+10:00

Blame it on the fabric.

Cause that's where it started

When Jenny Kee designed this for Sheraton in 1987. Mine is off cuts I think from Wrangratta Mills. We were living in south west Riverina. Dry wheat sheep country in the small town of Deniliquin. Maybe the big smoke if you lived further west.

Iconic Jenny Kee in the days of all things Australiana. enlarge for a closer look.

3 1/2 inch square selected for Basics Block.

Square within a Star block

And

See Saw for the quilt drive at Basics initiated by Bumble Beans Inc.

Some great incentives for joining in and helping out.

I made one for me while I was at it. It is almost a two for one sort of stitching.

Enjoy the up coming weekend it looks like Spring might be arriving. Terry

Answer to THE Question

2011-08-20T15:00:00.000+10:00

When did you start quilting?

I started quilting in my late teens. I'm not sure exactly when but I do remember looking at a vintage quilting book with templates for a Double Wedding Ring Quilt.

I drew up a square, divided it into shapes and made templates out of cereal boxes. Ah little did I know there was more to patchwork than just sewing bits together

I stitched blocks alternated with white squares and stitched it all together. I know I stitched the pieced squares by hand but don't remember if the white squares where by hand or machine. It was stitched to a back (bagged) turned right side out and tied with crochet cotton.

This is the only picture of the QUILT that traveled to Australia. Well it was the only quilt I'd made. .

The beautiful baby is my first born Heather. She is under a year old so that dates the quilt's completion before 1973.

Does any one else have a story or know what happened to their first bit of Patchwork?

I'm stitching small pressies to take away so no show and tell.

Have a good weekend my friends and treat yourself in some way Terry

A Farmhouse in France

2011-08-12T16:19:00.000+10:00

Two spring flowers a cactus and a rose

A tantalising apple crumble (a G F success) on the country kitchen table.

A unique red speckled candle stick

The candle stick is a gift from DH who discovered e-bay shopping.

I collect enamel candle sticks and this one arrived from A Farmhouse in France.

How timely as I prepare for my trip to the European Patchwork Meeting. My dearest suggested the trip early in the year. I am actually going.

Visiting new blogger friends, strolling around Paris and Amsterdam AND a Quilt Show that encompasses the best of Europe held in 3 French Villages.

Oh I need to pinch myself to make sure it's real. Enjoy the weekend whatever you do. Terry

Potlatch

2011-08-06T07:07:00.000+10:00

is defined as ceremonial gift giving practiced by the Native Peoples of North America.

I remember making small tokens of friendship as a Girl Scout to take to Jamborees

These small 3" sq tags are just that

token gifts POTLATCH for the Country Women's Association NWS State Conference.

1000 needed

Yikes that's a lot

my total is 60 so far and climbing.

No I am not making ALL 1000

Just a few and it did remind me of pleasant childhood times.

Stitching has a way of doing that.

It's just gone 7 am Saturday here in Sydney. Wherever you are enjoy the weekend, family, friends and GO the Wallabies!!!!!!

Terry

What's black and white and .......

2011-07-28T12:51:00.006+10:00

and colored all over? My new messing about (read playing)

Made fabric from scraps is used as yardage to create zingy blocks. I know I'm in love with the process and the end result is graphically very strong.

Pinwheel is a very dense placement of color

Square within a Star is a more open block alternating the strong color with the background.

Courthouse Steps is a very solid architectural image.

I'm sure there is a quit happening. I have always been more interested in the process and the incidental results.

Check out 15 minutes play on my side bar. It's is made to order.

Have a lot of fun whatever your up to Happy Day Terry

No More Butterflies

2011-07-20T12:42:00.000+10:00

The butterflies are now at home with DGD. That is the butterfly fabric which I purchased 5 years ago is now a quilt. Awen as 3 year old was enamoured with butterflies. I as the smitten Grama was taken captive by my GD and her fascination.

The Rabble of Butterflies will reside on a top bunk. I made it longer to tuck into the bottom. My toes (on stool) are level with the steps to upstairs. Yes we have a small living room.

I quilted it with a large all over stipple. Made possible by the purchase of a new quilting table. Don't know how I managed without it.

Awen was delighted to sleep under her new quilt for the first time at Grama's . Lots of time was spent looking for fabrics from projects she recognised. Memories

Have a good week Dear Friends and enjoy the smiles around you. Terry

A Parcel in the Post

2011-07-13T20:16:00.000+10:00

A wonderful surprise arrived while I was at quilting yesterday. DH brought it in and set it just inside the door so I was sure to see it straight away. A large envelope from Rachel at Blue Mountain Daisy

Rachel had mentioned she had something on her design wall while we were showing off our crazy jackets at the Quilt Show.

I am transported to my first year of university

Rachel used the Beetles fabric as a backing for a quilt she made for her DBF. At the Springwood Quilt Show it was the beetles backing on display that I delighted in.

Rachel has become a blog friend who's blog is joyous and an inspiration. Thank you Rachel for my own Beetles Quilt with the lovely quote "All you need is Love" quilted right into the quilt.

Stop over and visit Rachel at Blue Mountain Daisy. Say Hi from me.

Terry

Tis the Season

2011-07-09T14:29:00.000+10:00

Ti's the Season.... of cold and snuffles and very little sewing.

Instead some photos from tropical Vanuatu

Refreshing cascade flowing from the center of the island.

The Queen banyan tree. 1000 years old.

Standing inside the Queen Banyan.

i'm hoping all the symptoms of winter are soon gone and life returns to normal. Until then .....

Terry

Delightful Tropics

2011-07-03T15:09:00.000+10:00

Thank you too much. sounds like thank you tomas in Bislama

The colors of the tropics used for traditional dresses mother hubbards

Brand new hand crank sewing machine. Look closely at the name (singere). I saw these in several shops in Port Vila.

Great colors and traditional prints in the markets.

Food leaves for cooking in and serving on gorgeous flowers for the eye.

All waiting on the docks to go out to an island resort. We had a relaxing break and enjoyed the people of Vanuatu

Made fabric for the month of June. 15 Minutes Play is challenging me. Ever expanding horizons. These pieces of made fabric equal about a meter of fabric all laid out. Time to use some of this fabric in a quilt block or two.

Enjoy your weekend . Terry

Let the Show Begin and Short Blog Holiday

2011-06-23T19:45:00.009+10:00

A view of the N.S.W. Quilters Guild Show. There were a couple more rows underneath me but I didn't want to risk a dive over the balcony. It was an excellent show The year of Dear Jane quilts and an on going love of Japanese prints.
I met up with Rachel and we had a lovely get to know each other in person. So much fun when you meet a blogger buddy.

This incredible quilt is a tribute to Margaret Preston. Margret was an early 20Th C Australian

printer.

The quilt is amazing. I took the photo before the prizes were awarded but it took out 4 I think including Best of Show and Hangers Award

The Gang Gang won 1St place Art Quilts.

I took the photos early and even then had to struggle with enthusiastic admires.

Subsequently I missed the names of the Quilters. Apologies

Shopping ?

The show was excellent so glad I went. I will be having a week holiday in Vanuatu while D.H. and I enjoy our Ruby Wedding Anniversary.

All of you do something for your self and something for a loved one over the next few days.

Hug to all Terry

Play Day

2011-06-21T17:38:00.008+10:00

Today I played. While your pondering the significance of this.Look
Beautiful flowers from my Family
Thank You

The dynamite on the back of my jacket for the Quilt Show at Darling Harbour tomorrow. Dear Rachael started me thinking and the Eureka moment was the initials for my blog T N T.

Stitch...Play...Had lots of fun. Maybe someone will ask me about it tomorrow at the show.

Weather is blustery and almost freezing Burrrr. Have a good hump day. Terry

Over the Rainbow

2011-06-19T21:11:00.011+10:00

Wondering what I'd find at the end of the rainbowI packed my swag.

The gorgeous rainbow was early Friday morning. Nature started the day out right and I accomplished something good.

I completed my quilt for Japan.

Rachel of Blue Mountain Daisy the photo of the back is for you.

Temple stitching in Mongolia.

Patchwork cover on the benches used by the monks for prayer.

The weekend has been a good one. Lots of cooking and sharing love and laughter with my family.

Sunday Lunch celebrated Wayne's and my 40Th Wedding Anniversary. Real date is next Sunday. In September we will have been in Australia for 40 years. A good 40 years.

Enjoy your week and the Quilt Show if your in Sydney. Terry

Mongolian Animals

2011-06-13T19:57:00.011+10:00

D.H. known as Wayne in the Gobi desert with dioasour bones.

Mongolian horses returned to the wild and doing well.

Bactran camels. Wayne took a ride on one.

Mother yack and baby. Yack yogurt was like other natural yogurt.

More photos from exotic Mongolia next time Terry

Staying Awake

2011-06-09T20:18:00.022+10:00

Morning started at 4A.M. to meet D.H. at the airport after his adventure in Mongolia.

He had a great time and we are trying to stay awake so ...........playing in photo shop.

The computer doesn't run over your fingers when tired. Manipulated version of made fabric on the table from the previous post

My silly Ger.

The actual piece of made fabric . I've joined 15 minutes play over at Bumble Beans Inc . I'm a hoarder of fabric and although there have been lots of strip blocks for charity this past couple of years I still have lots of bits. The most vintage scrap is the top rt. corner from D.D.#1 Confirmation dress (25 years ago).

Do you have any of these fabrics? What did you use them for? It's lots of fun with no rules.

I know it's not the weekend yet but have a good one . Be kind to yourself.

Terry

Stitching Holiday at Home

2011-06-05T21:13:00.007+10:00

Oh My is that my sewing space?Yes and it is being returned to the status of a dinning room. D.H. has sent a message to say lots of wild life on a good holiday in Mongolia. A couple days of R&R in Korea and then home.

The chaos appeared as I stitched and cut and stitched and pinned and didn't clean up At All. LOL
My easy stitch Yoyo. Big Size
I wanted some large yoyo's to add texture and color to a fun quilt.

I traced around a lunch plate for the circle.
Turned over a small hem and gathered the yoyo BUT don't fasten off.
I then found a glass slightly smaller than the finished BIG yoyo.

I used the glass as a template to draw a circle in the center and machine stitched it to the background .

Once machine stitched down gather up and fasten off.
Lots easier and faster than applique.

This is the size of the finished yoyo.

Lots of projects need finishing. I promise show and tell soon. I have had a great time doing MY thing . Now it's time to have D.H. back here with me.

Have a good week and try to fit in some stitching my Friends. Terry

Shopping and Suprises

2011-05-29T16:03:00.005+10:00

I really did go just to buy some thread.

Who could resist the polka dots

racing helmets for boys

fish for a quilt named Gone Fishing I think

little houses and stripes just cause.

Surprise I have been given 5 completed quilt tops for charity.

A gift to give to others so nice !

A question
When did quilt tops become a flimsy? What does it mean I've seen the term several times recently. Musing on change.

Enjoy as much weekend as you have left. Terry

FAYRE

2011-05-25T21:54:00.013+10:00

Banners
Knights in the List

Waiting for lunch

Housing

Tablet weaving check out her apron straps

warp weighted loom approx 2meters high

Tools of the trade

Quilted coats

A delightful Sunday afternoon. I tryed tablet weaving ONCE.

Have a good week Terry

Banner and Civil War Quilt

2011-05-20T20:23:00.019+10:00

A couple blocks for the Civil War Quilt. I'm only a (few) well ---lots behind.

I'm hoping to get caught up while DH is away. His bag is packed and the alarm is set for 4:00 a.m

The search for good photo shoot places continues. I was fortunate the wall behind the laundry door was the right length for the adjustable curtain rod. woo hoo!I had to just about sit on the laundry sink to get far enough to take a photo of the banner.

It will be hung in our quilting room for the C W A study luncheon on Iceland.

All of the fabrics were gifted to community quilts. After the luncheon I will shorten it by cutting off some of the night sky . I will also need to add to the width to have a lap quilt for the nursing home.

Have a great weekend.

Wishing you time to do something that brings you pleasure. Terry

Stars in the Night

2011-05-14T07:40:00.010+10:00

The precision of paper piecing is a delight. Unlike American patchwork it's roots are English. The process of covering paper templates and then stitching small units together is relaxing.

Not a process of stitching easily accomplished while walking or riding in a Covered Wagon.

Interesting to speculate about how the old quilts we admire were stitched and who the women were. Stars for the center of Folk Art Quilt

The background is not their permanent home but I liked the idea of stars in the night sky.

Lots and lots of sky in the beginning of a banner.
More views soon.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Happy Stitching Terry

Repeating Traditions

2011-05-04T19:24:00.010+10:00

Bundles of threads. D.H. is preparing for a trip to Mongolia. I prepared some embroidery cotton and needles as small gifts.Assembling these small parcels reminded me of the Rajah Quilt.

Women sharing resources with each other.

Panel quilt from the exhibition last weekend.

Addition: Checkout the maker of the Beatles' Quilt at Blue Mountain Daisy
A part of my early life......sigh

Karen Cunningham sitting on stage demonstrating and chatting.

For Danielle, Ria and Valentina.

Anni Downs chatting while working on a hexagon flower .

Happy Week my Friends Terry

Look what's Sprung Up

2011-05-02T14:29:00.006+10:00

Three quilts from the Springwood Quilt show at the weekend.

A bright batik version of a Chris Judd quilt. Amazing detail in the 1/4 circle blocks.

The center of a quilt by Chris Judd herself .

As much of "Lots of Dots" by Chris as I could get into the photo.

There is more but blogger won't let me upload more pictures at the moment so enjoy this for now and I'll post the second chapter soon.

Happy Stitching Terry

Little Stitching Lots of Love

2011-04-24T11:14:00.006+10:00

Time for the Grandchildren.

The visit is over and here are some memories.EARLY!!! Morning learning to knit

Well? what are Grama's for?
Children's authors have a lot to answer for.

The yo-yo cupcake pin cushion was stitched by 8yr old Awen after spying some fabric that was the same as Lola's dress. She loved the fact that it was a bit of sculpture. Oh and that she could now make yo-yo's.

Cut and pasting of the newest primary age heroine.

There is lots of reading and game playing on the net for this one.

Grandson is into Leggo and going "places I've never been before"

Walking down the wharf at the Sydney Fish Markets.

This trip involved return trip on normal train and light rail. Great adventure and nice fish for lunch.

The stay has concluded for now. We had a lovely time with Awen and Cadel. They are growing up so fast.

Have a nice Easter Weekend and Anzac Day for thoes in Australia and New Zealand Terry

Charity Quilts Finished and other Stitching

2011-04-12T21:20:00.006+10:00

The quilt blocks for Emerald QAYG are together and posted .Another Community Quilt finished. I am really pleased with the twin needle stitching and the stippling.

The grand children are here for 2 wks. I made the two crayon rolls as welcome gifts. Already a great success.

A visit to Catti National Park today. A close encounter with local fauna.

How many can you see?

Hope you are all enjoying spring or autumn depending on your hemesphere. Back to Grama...ing

Terry

Stitching and Swans

2011-03-31T16:25:00.014+11:00

Trying something new and having it work is so exhilarating !!

Twin needle stitching is great. I am working on my second quilt for Windsor Community Quilts. It was started by someone else and the center is a feature fabric 60cm x 50cm which needed to be quilted with something other than my standard BIG stippling. I saw a piece quilted using a twin needle and gave it a try. Eureka!! watching

grooming

listening

family

observed on the journey

to and from quilting.

Enjoy your stitching Terry

Mouse Making and Quilt Finishing

2011-03-25T10:28:00.017+11:00

The Friday up date it's been a good week!!!All the blocks from Hawksbury Hands Quilters are now a whole quilt destined for Emerald next week.

I love the fact I have finally worked out how and where to photograph a quilt. Now I need to work on when the light is best.

The back not quite checkerboard. Ugh!! best laid plans of mice and men.

MICE

G.S.'s mouse complete with jet packs and G.D.'s mouse in luscious raspberry.

We spent Saturday playing with soap and wool.

Here are the results.

Nice felted dredlocks too.

The pictures tell it all.

WOW!!!

I had a good week hope all of you did too. Enjoy the weekend Terry

More Stitching =Less Blogging

2011-03-18T20:15:00.012+11:00

Hello All I know it's been a while but...The butterfly quilt is pinned and waits machine quilting.
Blocks for a QAYG quilt for Emerald. All stitched by my quilt group. The backs are equal numbers of light and dark so I will get a checkerboard . Sashing and binding ready to go.

4 of 9 blocks prepared for the 18th C Folk Art Quilt.

This version is by Karen Cunningham

The beginning of 16 American Beauty blocks (see my profile). I managed to squeeze these in while D.H. was fishing.

That's the stitching up date. The weekend includes an overnight visit from Grand Children. Pancakes for Sunday breakfast and whatever else happens.

Have a Goodweekend and enjoy some stitching if you can Terry

Civil War Quilt blocks 6&7

2011-03-02T17:09:00.016+11:00

I have spent an enjoyable afternoon with Rebecka. We completed block 6 & 7 of the Civil War Quilt.

The last time I mentioned using a Singer Featherweight for this project she didn't have a name. As I've worked with the FW there is the aroma from the wooden case. It reminds me of being taught to sew by my father. He liked the name Rebecka but could not abide the nick name Becky. So I was named Therese but my lovely machine is Rebecka . Richmond
Log Cabin

I remember log cabins from my childhood. Also building them from Lincoln Logs. Now where do you suppose the popular toy got it's name?

Large stippleing and binding complete this quilt for Windsor Community Quilters. A nice bit of comfort for a local nursing home.
I have also spent some time with the butterflies and made several blank labels. I MUST label quilts this year. As I do so I will post a bit about each one. A good way to show older work.

A trip to the Blue Mts and a visit with Kaite. Lots of Show & Tell. Have a good week dear Friends

Terry

A Rabble of Butterflies and Texas Tears

2011-02-19T09:03:00.009+11:00

Butterflies bumping into each other on the quilt.

The collective noun is rabble. 39 blocks.... half the quilt completed. They are definitely a rabble of butterflies.

The four patch blocks are different so even more a riot of color. So bright it makes me smile. Maybe even do a happy dance.

A singular visitor in the garden. Beautiful St. Andrews Cross spider. A member of the weaver family.

Texas Tears is the third block I've completed for my my Civil War Quilt catch up.

I'm making progress.

Happy Weekend to you all Terry

North Star

2011-02-14T16:26:00.011+11:00

I'm still behind on the Civil War Quilt project.

I don't care I'm loving it. My second block is North Star.

Barbra Brackman is sharing her knowledge of fabrics from the era. I did not know big as well as little stripes were popular. The use of a large strip makes this block appear more complex.

This is week 7 and the block is a Log Cabin for Abe Lincoln's Birthday on February 12. We always cut out paper silhouettes of him with beard and top hat at school. I remember this because my B'day was after Abe's and before Valentines Day. Lots happening which made it festive.

Off to quilting group. Enjoy your stitching Terry

Dessert Sewing and Playing Tag

2011-02-09T20:01:00.016+11:00

Apple tart for my dear Wayne's Birthday.

It was a success as a Birthday dessert.I used GF pastry from the Pastry Pantry range. Spread with cherry preserves and sliced apples. A quick basting with melted butter and a dusting of sugar , bake and enjoy.

I would like to introduce you to (oops no name yet)
Anyway she came home to Sydney with me in June. Lots of story about her and I'll fill you in over the next year as she helps me make the Civil War Quilts by Barbara Brackman

Today we played tag and made the first block.

Catch Me If You Can.

I enjoyed today !! Sure hope you did my friends. Terry

A Windfall for QAYG Blocks

2011-02-04T08:37:00.007+11:00

IT just keeps coming. Yep weather.... stuff falling out of the sky type causing floods for January. February commenced with a categorie 5 cyclone. All in Queensland.

The rest of the country is experiencing heavy rain which has the potential to cause more flooding . Although prepared there will be loss and an ongoing need. The year we help at home.A couple of quilting windfalls toward helping thoes Australian families.

The strips of squares came my way so I am assembling them in strip fashion (a la qayg). The wadding for 15 of the 20 blocks is left over polar fleece. 10 of the 20 blocks to the stage above. It has been very hot in NSW this week and the second storie sewing room is intolerable so I've moved to the kitchen. More setting up and moving but still.....

The other gift this week is a donation from Forutnes and Fairies of 4 4meter lenghts of fabric for backings and 2 pre-cut waddings. The supplies are arriving and they will be made into comfort quilts.

Have a goodweekend Terry

Australia Day Activities

2011-01-26T15:20:00.015+11:00

January 26 the day we celebrate our identity as Australians no matter where we are or where we were born.

A day of high temperatures 42C here, barbecues with family and friends as summer ends. School starts next Monday. A day at the beach if you live on the coast.

The day for me is about my first 'little Aussie" Heather born in Sydney she is a "true blue" Australian as is my 2nd daughter and grandchildren.

I made a Birthday Present for Heather. A set of special tea towels. I just couldn't resist the fabric and she has collected the dolls since childhood.Thinking of all Australians I worked on quilts for others today by preparing more qayg blocks.

This batch of blocks went to Jan.

4 boyish blocks off to Kaite.

Enjoy being Australian where ever you are today Terry

Butterflies Moths and Comfort Quilts

2011-01-22T18:21:00.012+11:00

The beautiful butterfly fabric and the rainbow of colors are from my stash.

A fellow quilter used the butterfly fabric for the mystery quilt I made for GS's baby quilt. I immediately went out and purchased some yardage . Oh....about 5 years ago LOL.

Time to start.A day at quilting and lots of cutting 31/2 meters of butterflies.

Now the next step Brights also from the stash. I ask you do I have too too much fabric?

Unexpected visitors on our front step this morning.

C.S.I.R.O. seems to think they live in southern Queensland.
The floods have displaced the animal population as well as humans.

Jan of Oz Comfort Quilts (see button) has found transport for completed quilts to the Towoomba area for distribution by people helping with the clean up.

Here are some more blocks ready for stitching. I will send this lot in a parcel post envelope as soon as finished. It's a reasonable way to post within Australia . Other ways to help include cutting 21 2&1/2" strips for the binding. All the small jobs add up to finished quilts. My hedge gave comfort to the moths today some quilts will comfort other Queenslanders soon.

Dear friends enjoy your week ahead. Terry

Small Tree Cloth

2011-01-18T11:03:00.004+11:00

The little tree cloth is finished. I worked on this during the space between the holidays.

It was an experiment in cloth weaving and story cloth.

The story is a trip to the Nutcracker ballet with my 2 DD's and GD.

Not my usual stitching

sometimes

the unexpected is energising

Have a good week stitching Terry

Quilting for Others

2011-01-14T10:17:00.005+11:00

Quilting for others has been a significant aspect of the female involvement in the community for decades at least.

DH's grandmother talked about and showed me the quilts the Mission Society was making for the Indian School in Arizona in 1973.

A week of charity stitching has given me the opportunity to join the that illustrious group. A quilt pinned and ready for machine quilting. Windsor Community Quilts was gifted the center. My contribution is from the light border out. Members of the group helped with the pinning. A contemporary version of a "quilting bee".
Two more blocks for flood relief.
Check out the button on my side bar to be part of this international "quilting bee"

To all of you enjoy your weekend and the stitching you manage to do. Terry

Start and Finishing

2011-01-09T17:57:00.011+11:00

Here is the beginning of 8 QAYG blocks for the Queensland flood victims.

All the battings are scraps from other projects.

Check out Katie and Jan's blogs for tutorials. It's worth reading them both for information and tricks.Eight finished blocks.

These are all non floral with some novelties thrown into the mix.

The backs are also masculine.

I enjoy doing these blocks. Works through some of the stash without having to co-ordinate and ends up providing so much.

Enjoy the week and all the stitching it brings your way Terry

Cloth Making

2011-01-02T11:49:00.008+11:00

The space between holidays is for exploration

Weaving as suggested.Auditioning ideas
Solutions

Stitching and more stitching required.

New header is part of the stitching in progress.

An enjoyable tangent

May the New Year bring you joy Terry

Small Tree Cloth

2010-12-28T19:32:00.005+11:00

Something DifferentI enjoyed this change in quilting.

It was in response to Jude's whispering. All from the stash .
Enjoy the remainder of the Holiday Season.

Terry

Traditinal Preperations

2010-12-19T08:40:00.009+11:00

The gift of helping GD Awen make presents is wonderful.The wreath is now hanging on their front door.

Welcoming Everyone!
I was able to add it to the banister for a day.
Thank you Awen

More potholders

More gifts

A pile of leftover strips.......some Christmas weaving?

Read

To Mum Merry Christmas Love Awen

Merry Christmas to All

Terry and Awen

Wishes from the Heart

2010-12-15T14:46:00.004+11:00

All these stitches carry wishes for You my dear friends. Gingerbread men and fanciful hearts.

Memories old and new

Enjoy the season dearest friends Terry

First Tuesday Post Belated

2010-12-09T21:12:00.013+11:00

Earlier this year 2 blogger friends Nat and Ria started a challenge using the fence rail pattern. The other twist was to use their Singer Featherweight sewing machines VINTAGE.

I had lots of scraps and a brand new featherweight. Well being true friends all rules were amended to include me.

I am so glad because of the friendship I gained and the quilt I now have.

The fence rail blocks are made from scraps. My stash culling used any fabric that I could a 1 1/2 x 6" pieces. I now have a new table cloth large enough for the family table.

The border fabrics were purchased in the states a subtle version of red, white and blue.
A serious quilting weekend with friends and the fence rail quilt was almost finished. A binding from the stash and voila!!

A quilted table cloth with enough scraps from enough projects and items of clothing to keep everyone interested.

A special thank you to Natima and Ria for encouraging me and posting with me on First Tuesdays.

Enjoy the weekend . Celebrate prepare or just relax. Terry

Traditions

2010-12-05T21:46:00.012+11:00

Advent Calenders start the Christmas season in our family.

Cadel helped me put the candy canes in each pocket and then started marking the days by enjoying the treat.

Old fabrics

elicit memories

I found this carryall when looking for the Christmas stockings.

The fabrics are corduroy I used in my maternity clothes and first daughter's early overalls.
The bag was a great size. As evidenced by the wonderfully worn condition.

Memories reflected and altered through use.

My New Carryall.
I made this new bag similar in size to the original. The base is called pet mesh. It's for screen doors. I fell in love with the fabric at a sale.

This one's for me. If time permits maybe a couple more for presents.

The season has officially started.
Baking is much the same for a Summer Christmas.
The difference is fresh fruit with the juice running down your chin.

I like the holidays and the family traditions which have developed over the years D.H. and I have lived in Australia. 40th Christmas coming up.

Dear Friends whatever your weather enjoy the season.

Terry

Saturday Stars

2010-11-27T16:27:00.006+11:00

A busy life is a Happy one.

But..... Not much time for stitching.

A few pieced stars.The other activities have included

Orientation for School for DGS

Making whipped blueberry jelly (jello) and hot pink cup cakes.

I think GS is a budding cook or he likes to eat.

We took all our treats and ate lunch in the back of the station wagon under a tree. Tail Gating!!

Hope you all have a good weekend and squeese in some time for yourself.

Terry

Fortnights Update

2010-11-19T21:41:00.017+11:00

Lunch with Nat and Myra.

The third floor of the Queen Victoria Bld. Christmas Tree.

Bling for all.Quilt Camp was 3 days of lots of sewing. I finished a Christmas present and machine quilted my Fence Rail Quilt.

Suzanne and Wendy shared my table.

Working hard

Finishing off. Yippie!!!

Lots of company to stitch with. What more could you want?

A great time.

Place mats are gifts for the Windsor CWA Christmas lunch.

Awen DGD needed special colours for Christmas present potholders.

Cutting strips across a pair of men's sox solved the problem.

I have had a busy and productive couple of weeks.

Quilting family and friends.

Great

Have a wonderful weekend . Enjoy yourself.

I'll be thinking of you all Terry

Packed and Ready to Go

2010-11-11T21:11:00.005+11:00

All packed for a weekend of quilting.

A bit more basic accommodation and predicted temperatures in the high 20's.

Fan and sleeping bag seemed sensible.

I'll visit again early next week with pictures and some show and tell. Until then have a great weekend stitching. Terry

Flowers for All

2010-11-06T07:56:00.008+11:00

Roses for all my dear friends.

It's raining and not much happening so I'm sending you all a bunch of roses to enjoy.

Have a great weekend what ever you have planned. My GD Awen and I are going to start making Christmas Presents. Handing down the traditions of my childhood to the next generation.

My best wishes to you all Dear Friends Terry

Bloggers Quilt Festival

2010-10-30T16:14:00.012+11:00

Bloggers Quilt Festival number 4 organised by Amy of Amy's Creative Side has brought me in contact with quilters everywhere. Thank you Amy for hosting such a wonderful event.

I am posting for the first time thanks to one of my favorite fans. Otherwise known as grandson.

Great excitement was expressed while scrolling through photos. My 4 year old grand son was perched on the arm of the lounge (sofa) looking on. He squealed,planted a big sloppy kiss on the computer screen and announced proudly." That's my Blankie."The evening group of women I quilted with in Bathurst at the time wanted to make a mystery quilt. I searched the net and found this pattern. Many of the quilters were just beginning and rotary cutting was a must. I made a half size version knowing there was a 2nd grandchild on the way.

No soft pale colors for my daughter so I was free to use fabrics from my stash. The only supplementing I did was a couple pieces of bright green. I machine quilted it on the diagonal, nothing fancy. The quilt was intended to go from cot (crib) to bed and the washing machine.

I was going to have to purchase binding fabric ....there was nothing long enough left . The day I had the quilt with me and intended to lash out for binding one of the gals from Bathurst Flying Geese quilters piled the table high having culled her stash. Swooping by I snatched the piece of fabric that matched one I had used. The unwanted yardage partnered with my remaining scraps was enough to complete the quilt.

Yahoo!

The blankie is well loved.

Under the sheet when the big bed is made.

Drug to the lounge room for comfort and warmth.

Packed in the car for the hour drive home after the olds watch All Blacks (New Zealand) vs Wallabies (Australia) play Test Rugby.

I know why I quilt. My quilts are the hugs I give to everyone who sleeps under them.

I have no doubt my grandson is well hugged.

I shall be visiting the festival over the week. Plan on stopping by to say Hi.

Roses for Afternoon Tea

2010-10-26T21:24:00.013+11:00

Roses Roses and more.

The quirky tea cosie was instigated by Nat.

She knitted a couple for friends using recycled wool. My version uses leftovers from DD's knitting. The roses and leaves are knitted from spinning and dying experiments. The samples from early spinning are borderlester. A strong wool easily spun. It has a luster that dyes well.

Recent spinning was merino tops finer spun and softer result.Tweed leaves were an experiment in solar dying. I spun the wool after dying the tops so variations of color blended . I like the incidental accidents.

The pink roses were dye with conchonel .

Very deep purple was logwood.

Knitting this quirky tea cosie was just pure fun.

I didn't need it. We're coffee drinkers.

It gave me a bit of a challenge and I enjoyed the sculptural qualities of the project.

Thanks Nat for posting yours.

Dear Friends enjoy your week and all your endevors. Terry

Flowers and Shopping

2010-10-20T10:55:00.013+11:00

These are my Wednesday flowers.

The hexagon flowers and butterfly are my creations . The beautiful roses are Mother Nature and DH's doing.

The butterfly is 2/3rd's of a fussy cut flower that looks so real I couldn't resist landing it in the roses. An unexpected vacancy at quilt camp provided 3 peaceful days on the Hawksbury River.

A few 4" nine patch blocks made from the remains of a charm pack.

I'm not sure what I will do with them but something usually comes along.

Speaking of things coming along a visiting shop had a port (school bag) full of fat 8ths. I couldn't resist for some more flowers.

More shopping. OP Shop visits came up with a linen shirt to remake, a hand embroidered dollie to repurpoes and a roll of 2" cotton tape with the 1/4" already pressed.

All these treasures for only $6.

Dear Friends I must tell you all that we are very fortunate to have our craft. The past few weeks have been difficult health wise for me. Lots of sitting in doctors offices at least I can cover hexies even when concerned. At night I've come to visit all of you in blogland. Quilt Camp turned up. to distract me while waiting for test results. And of course you were all out there doing stuff and providing me with something nice to see and talk about. I thank you all.

Even though I feel a bit like The Patchwork Girl of OZ the results are good. I pick up my hearing aides next Monday with the promise that over time I will have more energy. A tripling of thyroid meds and therapeutic use of panadol have already increased my energy and decreased my joint and back pains. They tell me it will take 6 weeks to reach maximum CAN'T WAIT. Best of all the heart doctor says not palpitation just extra beats which are normal well for me anyway.

Take lots of fish oil and try gluten free diet. I am and it seems I'm sleeping better ect.

SO bring on Christmas I'm actually beginning to think about what I might make for friends and with the promise of all this new energy I just might get some things made.

Once again thanks for being out there.

Huggs Terry

Mid-week Lunch Treat

2010-10-06T22:12:00.008+11:00

Wednesday is flower day so here are my flowers for the week.

I've been experimenting with fussy cutting. The flower on the top right is my favorite of this group.Exotic places? Well no just a short drive to another suburb. Cabramatta is a 30 minute drive for lunch. DH and I decided it was time for some Vietnamese quesine. The nice thing about Sydney is the diversity of ethnic food. Wayne and I visited Vietnam in 2002 and now we are able to enjoy the real thing in suburban Sydney.

The shopping mall with lanterns and lions. Just another day in Cabaramatta.

Lunch was delicious.

Green paw paw salad in the background and fresh spring rolls in front.

Choose a sauce and join me .

Som Tom or paw paw salad is my favorite. Crisp and fresh with lots of mint and chille.

Thankyou for joining me on an unexpected adventure . Happy stitching

Terry

Weekend's Gardening

2010-10-02T19:15:00.014+10:00

It's Labor Day or Long Weekend in N.S.W. The weather's warm enough to garden. My plan for the weekend is to do just that.

Oh! and watch the A.F.L. Grand Finale.Thank you DH

My purchases from the garden shop yesterday. A few herbs for salads and petunias for some hanging pots.

My favourite type of gardening. Nat's adventures inspired me to take a stab at this lovely knitted garden. All the flowers and leaves are dying experiments from my hand spun wool. I did some of the dying in the 80's and some this century. ha ha The stripy leaves do not have black spot they are just experiments in sun dying tops before spinning and plying.

GS asked me who I was knitting a beanie for? I explained it was called a tea cosie to keep tea warm in a tea pot. Later the same day when DGD asked what I was knitting he responded "It's for she's cup a tea" guess that says it all.

Enjoy whatever your doing this weekend and have a good week

Terry

Messing About or That's Not My Vest

2010-09-24T19:49:00.010+10:00

That's not my vest

It is too small

It used to be my vest a couple decades ago. I spun the wool and knitted the vest when U shaped necklines were popular.

The yarn is a plied 2 strands of
hand spun. One a fine black merino and the other a first cross grey over dyed with green.

The vest appeared a week ago Sunday during a clean out of the shed. Amazing what you find!

Close inspection reveals ribbing, seed stitch, basket stitch and garter stitch.

Now this is IMPORTANT stuff . Don't forget it. O.K.?That's NOT my vest.

Where's MY vest???

It's been to the washing machine on hot . I decided that I wasn't going to unpick it for the yarn or it would have already happened so..... Into the machine for felting.
It sure did felt . i.e. shrink in all directions.
The side seam is now 9" instead of 15 "
The patterns I worked so diligently to knit are unrecognisable (mushed together) .

Well what did I expect ? That's what happens when you wash wool at 90 deg. c. for 1/12hrs.
But Wait
That's not my vest!
My vest is green tweed not a pinkie brown.

Since I was felting I threw in the red wool skirt from the op shop.
The little dolls jumper shows the original tweed.

Underneath is the FELTED skirt and a sample of the original color.
At least the over dyed red is reasonably even.

My thoughts on what to do next include more messing about to make a bag.

I'll keep you posted on the search for My Vest.

I have had a good week letting technology alter my hand work. So.K. I went to the park.

Hope you all have a good weekend and enjoy the unexpected.

Terry

Twinkle Twinkle

2010-09-19T17:41:00.013+10:00

Twinkle twinkle my little stars are a the stitching I've managed in the past couple weeks.

Wednesday this week was a trip to see dinosaur bones. I did manage to cover enough diamonds during the train trip for 2 stars in between questions and oh Grama look.

Happy to have done some stitching also known in our house as threading Don't ask my ? Took me awhile to work it out LOL.

As promised a few shots of the groups quilts for CWA Awareness Day

This is the day before the open house. The group of stitchers are Community Quilts.

The hanging was being done around us.

A small sample of the quilts on display and a small sample of the groups' work.

As always the quilts are intended to catch peoples interest.

I made it only for a flying visit the next day so was glad I'd taken the photos a day early.

Hope you enjoyed seeing other peoples quilts. I always do.

I enjoy keeping in touch so hello to all and happy stitching.

Terry

One Finish

2010-09-05T10:21:00.006+10:00

My finish for the week drum roll No not the quilt. The hanging sleeve LOL. Gotchya

The quilt was completed about 5 years ago. It is the second hexagon quilt I started and the first one completed. The first one started is growing for One Flower Wednesday.Wednesday the 8Th of Sept is information day for CWA (Country Women's Association)

My quilting group are all members and have use of wonderful facilities.

We are having an open morning with a display of the things we do.

I'm hanging this quilt and one I made for 25Th Wedding Anniversary.

Two small hand felted bags I made a few years ago. Sometimes I do other things and these will also be on display.

Yes I plan on taking photos. DGS will be good for a short time and a cookie. Also the promise of checking out the BIG planes at the air force base should help improve the excursion from his view point.

Have a Great Father's Day to all who are celebrating Today !!

Dear Friends a good weekend to all. Terry

Vale Coon

2010-09-01T08:18:00.003+10:00

My quilting companion of 20 years.

August 31,2010

I do not have the words to pay tribute to my friend.

Those of you who have quilting kitty,s will understand.

Terry

Koalas And Klosjes

2010-08-29T19:25:00.015+10:00

More adventures.

If a picture is worth a thousand words what follows is a long story without any words.

I hope you enjoy it as much as Cadel and I did.

All photos by DH.

The normal view of a koala. They live on eucalyptus leaves which have a sedative effect on them.

On to matters quilting.

Only one klosjes but I did prep some more. I am discovering that my elevated status of Queen Grama means I need to pre-cut to be able to sew during the little moments available.

This has worked with the hexagons so here's hoping.

I hope you enjoyed the story. I'm looking forward to a busy week as Grama with 2 sewing dates included. My wish for you all is have a good week and enjoy what happens

Terry

Wednesday Flowers Wattle and Wallabies

2010-08-25T20:36:00.009+10:00

Wednesday flowers are smaller well .75 " fussy cut. I'm having fun with the size and they seem to work very well to create new patterns.

The small yellow blooms are wattle. Each bloom is about the size of a pearl headed pin. DGS picked these and brought them home form the park today.

A trip to a local native animal reserve where feeding the wallabies is a highlight.

DH or Gramap trying to encourage GS Cadel to pet the wallaby.

Cadel is getting closer but still keeping his hands to himself. The wallabies enjoy the ice cream cone more than the grain it holds.

Cadel is getting braver but this wallaby isn't letting anyone take away her treat. Can you see the joey in her pouch?

Here's a better view of a small joey. Not much fur yet. When the mother leans down to graze the baby (joey) will lean out of the pouch and graze also.
A great visit was had by all.

I hope you are all enjoying your stitching or whatever else comes your way this week. Terry

Big and Little Flowers

2010-08-19T20:18:00.007+10:00

Three flowers this week. The grey one with the fussy cut center is part of my original garden.

Blooming nicely.The two smaller 3/4" flowers are so new seedlings.

I couldn't imagine doing anything smaller than 1" .....But these are so pretty. Maybe I'll even try some smaller ones. LOL.

Fellow gardeners enjoy your blooms and your friends wherever they are. Terry

A Great Bag

2010-08-15T16:02:00.009+10:00

Challenges are sometimes fun and sometimes aghhhhhh!

In a former life- earlier this decade- before the house move in 2005 I was given a goodie(?) bag of stuff as part of a challenge activity.

The bag contained an eclectic assortment of fiber related stuff. For a long time I was stumped then saw these Grandmother's Fan blocks. They were foundation pieced raw edge stitched down and the curve decorated.

A great solution for lots of bits and I started on a bag. The bag resurfaced about the time of other unfinished projects in June. But No Pattern (sigh) nothing for it but to find another pattern .

The result 5 years after starting is this fun quirky bag.

Note the dragon fly made from beads and fluro green mesh.

The back of the bag ...please note the phone pocket! A detail that drew me to choose this pattern.

Everyone has to call me at least twice so I have time to hear my mobile and then locate it.

My beautiful new bag and I took the train to Sydney to lunch with DH. The phone pocket worked. I heard and managed to answer on the first try.

I love it when a plan works.

Sorry I seem to be missing in action. Being a Grama to Cadel has resulted in trading some of MY time for US time. Last week on a trip to the local park I was titled Queen of the castle (translate playing equipment) and Cadel is now my self appointed Knight! Taaa Daaa! Queen Grama

From Queen Grama to all my wonderful dear friends Please keep blogging and visiting I need the reality check. Happy Stitching Terry