tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23579778410964068862024-02-07T14:37:03.888-08:00jennyflowerjennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.comBlogger395125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-44346072955874834202016-10-12T08:42:00.000-07:002016-10-12T08:42:26.125-07:00Harvest festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlZCRAcNSHKsKt1eiotbBxUC57AWDqFtBiP7gZtqaaUBo7mcb5wcFH_bc9Fs0e0Cw7EXJdxwv-b2YwMlQayemzH9RyAP0-CNcm2Gk2eKOh6bg0_7Q_jBGq8cPjYqrpaXeMgmibEeb5UE/s1600/IMG_7532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlZCRAcNSHKsKt1eiotbBxUC57AWDqFtBiP7gZtqaaUBo7mcb5wcFH_bc9Fs0e0Cw7EXJdxwv-b2YwMlQayemzH9RyAP0-CNcm2Gk2eKOh6bg0_7Q_jBGq8cPjYqrpaXeMgmibEeb5UE/s320/IMG_7532.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyENX6QWfqr12GbCePGKTsDMopvXx1EGaRvXXI8IR0mjzAH7dskB8zjlN8sTYrAmx26hZGRZ5kD9hcReJ43cc1_SEIZwMpANU-Ku4MzkcEQV0tLmMnXKl7WvgEhGGKY8UY3XSgDKC360/s1600/IMG_7573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyENX6QWfqr12GbCePGKTsDMopvXx1EGaRvXXI8IR0mjzAH7dskB8zjlN8sTYrAmx26hZGRZ5kD9hcReJ43cc1_SEIZwMpANU-Ku4MzkcEQV0tLmMnXKl7WvgEhGGKY8UY3XSgDKC360/s320/IMG_7573.JPG" width="320" /></a>This is my panel for my City and Guilds. I printed with vegetables and acrylic paint on fabric, added machine and hand stitch and then applied them to a pre-made canvas. I added padding behind some and some loose elements like roots and leaves.</div>
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I have until the end of this month to finish two more resolved pieces and my foundation folder of collected information. I can do this- the house will go un-cleaned but I can get this done. I have spent too much time and money on this to not make the final push to get it done. </div>
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If there is a lack of sparkle and excitement in this determination it is not because I have lost my love of stitching- not one bit. I am struggling a bit if I am honest, and shouldn't we be honest when it all gets a bit much? I turned forty this year and in terms of an introspective assessment on the progress of how my life is progressing and how much I have achieved it was like all the worst New Years rolled into one. It doesn't really matter that I have been so very very lucky- loving family, healthy children, enough money, somehow the guilt that I am not full of the joy of living despite these fortunate circumstances is just another gloom to add to the pile. </div>
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Adding to my general feeling of grey is the frequency with which people are asking 'what are you going to do with that then?' when I mention my working towards my certificate. The answer is nothing. At the start of this whole journey it might have been; who knows? I was excited then that I was moving forward putting my self 'out there' for new experiences, to learn new skills. I honestly thought the world was my machine embroidered oyster. Now, well actually the way I have studied has been really isolating. I have shared my work here but actually no one will see it in real life- no one will touch it or, I hesitate to type this, admire it. To create is surely about expressing oneself. I am expressing into a void.- wow how melodramatic does that sound? It's how I feel, about more than just the sewing.</div>
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<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-74530183122330203142015-09-24T14:57:00.001-07:002015-09-24T14:57:48.448-07:00A little seedy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOej6hDPSqEqQcPuDXZdp1u2ZW58vbrv4wEjObbYYGzBDLlG3TqBmk2bclBTbjZSBCxcK4FCs7mPzBcDGi0BxQ06hi3ClevueOA8NWBnK82SJoqAhv6AD1bNvbI-04h8focOcNGDFBV4/s1600/IMG_7274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOej6hDPSqEqQcPuDXZdp1u2ZW58vbrv4wEjObbYYGzBDLlG3TqBmk2bclBTbjZSBCxcK4FCs7mPzBcDGi0BxQ06hi3ClevueOA8NWBnK82SJoqAhv6AD1bNvbI-04h8focOcNGDFBV4/s320/IMG_7274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFulmY6ddGvMBDFWd4YCSKPcdsgjgpni5ueOm1gXavWPzJQiOzDDAPc7fO_BEkEcWattXrAURqPxAEpUIYxycyQdtyb7159DeLouJMZf-KZ1CGxXrlRBD6DsoMtIywc4DAV3x5CYrDQQ/s1600/IMG_7296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFulmY6ddGvMBDFWd4YCSKPcdsgjgpni5ueOm1gXavWPzJQiOzDDAPc7fO_BEkEcWattXrAURqPxAEpUIYxycyQdtyb7159DeLouJMZf-KZ1CGxXrlRBD6DsoMtIywc4DAV3x5CYrDQQ/s320/IMG_7296.JPG" width="320" /></a>This is a small selection of my experimental work on a Pomegranate. I have come thtough a long process of cutting, sketching researching and sampling with these jewel like fruits.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRSGG0zI0xfo5vo9eTcTeEquTRlLSP0joLrAjWqmFALyO28SaykHTh89sQFH5esaiatU_CC7t66WSn9R3gA-DcsVF44D3L8EpF8Zsf7U1EkiB_V3Iw3hE3VFMCWJDj_N9oPlmaP5w9xw/s1600/IMG_7297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRSGG0zI0xfo5vo9eTcTeEquTRlLSP0joLrAjWqmFALyO28SaykHTh89sQFH5esaiatU_CC7t66WSn9R3gA-DcsVF44D3L8EpF8Zsf7U1EkiB_V3Iw3hE3VFMCWJDj_N9oPlmaP5w9xw/s320/IMG_7297.JPG" width="320" /></a>I loved the colours, from golden to crimson and from the matt exterior to the luscious seeds within.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0zZjXXn9z7C_haofvoAkX1tgLv_qBBjqTxXEyxd0lyLeMhgBYlHxKBo06ShZPsQxqExhUgw6HwAi1z9Fz16t_rQzCStYRy5dHz8DZEEligAYmrxDlcS6Nsg8Bf17pxrLLzde5oekpPi8/s1600/IMG_7308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0zZjXXn9z7C_haofvoAkX1tgLv_qBBjqTxXEyxd0lyLeMhgBYlHxKBo06ShZPsQxqExhUgw6HwAi1z9Fz16t_rQzCStYRy5dHz8DZEEligAYmrxDlcS6Nsg8Bf17pxrLLzde5oekpPi8/s320/IMG_7308.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxI2ByY6uQMMPIKBTEF_yWrhyC3dAR23-zgRe8jU3gKt8LiM3sbBvbTIHeIqJcJRDRDwjpbo_JZhnUFKbWtfZ8a53pbNRdi1lOIGAdint00Q6JsQ5K_2_KGc78_EzBQek56SuA5sYWV0/s1600/IMG_7313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxI2ByY6uQMMPIKBTEF_yWrhyC3dAR23-zgRe8jU3gKt8LiM3sbBvbTIHeIqJcJRDRDwjpbo_JZhnUFKbWtfZ8a53pbNRdi1lOIGAdint00Q6JsQ5K_2_KGc78_EzBQek56SuA5sYWV0/s320/IMG_7313.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I wanted to contrast the crusty brown at the bottom of the fruit....with the glistening interior.<br />
I finished up with a very simple bag, the interior is quilted satin with seed pearl pips, one side of the exterior is reverse applique with hand stiching and the other velvet with machine and hand stitch. The cord for the bag is machined sari silk couched on with the occasional bead. The closure for the bag is a pieced of the fruits dried skin drilled through and attached with beads.<br />
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I still have one more experimental piece to complete before I get going on to my final resolved work. I am currently looking at Anglo Saxon disc brooches. I am having a ball. I have been going through the process of looking for a new job and have now found one. Job hunting is hard on the soul so stitching has been more important than ever to provide an escape. I am also looking forward to a visit to the Knitting and Stitching show in a couple of weeks. Are you going up? How much money do you reckon will get spent!?jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-39505343459021872042015-03-26T05:45:00.000-07:002015-03-26T05:45:22.054-07:00Whipping along<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYrs0Fv9ZQ6LmRN5tY-3Ymdk0ib8gXkQYh2-gpWVJ5ZhwqFIo3qWtpiheWxWg3IiJR7wljA3txskEdzxwAbk6eS4WJrd2ScT1i_SSWWrDJ1vHIFlEO5ieyH4VhKq4Uos-qm7ptr-IIU8/s1600/IMG_7249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYrs0Fv9ZQ6LmRN5tY-3Ymdk0ib8gXkQYh2-gpWVJ5ZhwqFIo3qWtpiheWxWg3IiJR7wljA3txskEdzxwAbk6eS4WJrd2ScT1i_SSWWrDJ1vHIFlEO5ieyH4VhKq4Uos-qm7ptr-IIU8/s1600/IMG_7249.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a>Whipped and woven wheels? Signed off. That completes my stitch samples for my course and it has been a real challenge and joy working on them. To keep pushing myself asking; have I used real think yarn, have I used something bonkers, have I played with scale? Can I add a bead or sequin? And probably most importantly, how might I use this stitch in another project? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOMhYNuOq-MhJFziORVA8L1iiz73zqtAWPduUWI2DLzeNbG7iS9t9CnRr-aLrYH6rDiiOw-QiIyAhs_80Wt-iveC0P2ooZymR47i8C4-ViUIiu1_5BzZGdG2GFDGk5b0MsT3Ic9bWtBA/s1600/IMG_7244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOMhYNuOq-MhJFziORVA8L1iiz73zqtAWPduUWI2DLzeNbG7iS9t9CnRr-aLrYH6rDiiOw-QiIyAhs_80Wt-iveC0P2ooZymR47i8C4-ViUIiu1_5BzZGdG2GFDGk5b0MsT3Ic9bWtBA/s1600/IMG_7244.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>For these wheels I can see a flower garden, A sky of fireworks, a shell or fossil, a piece of gothic tracery, a weird cell, a decoration on a garment. I liked mixing these up with some Dorset button designs as the are the same principal. Another useful stitch to add to my tool box.</div>
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I am feeling a bit less angst ridden today- it is the magic of stitch I'm sure. </div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-44994130915630378452015-03-25T07:51:00.001-07:002015-03-25T07:51:32.170-07:00Crafternoon<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53W2pTg1c0MdpJrijEN9Wf9D7L_E-V_w5tf8yluH970q0AQOJf_HXOs3Lfxg22en1zWop3HOnTi2qgI3jb0jDWNuaE5sg2lhghAb98S0alN5DjNODzNq0rclZJIVhdDeKCQx0YALKFEk/s1600/IMG_7253-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53W2pTg1c0MdpJrijEN9Wf9D7L_E-V_w5tf8yluH970q0AQOJf_HXOs3Lfxg22en1zWop3HOnTi2qgI3jb0jDWNuaE5sg2lhghAb98S0alN5DjNODzNq0rclZJIVhdDeKCQx0YALKFEk/s1600/IMG_7253-001.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a>I have just submitted my final stitch sample for approval. It was whipped and woven wheels so fingers crossed it gets the o.k and I can show it to you soon. Meanwhile our 'gang' had a get together for Comic Relief. We bought the special magazine- put together by lots of fabulous generous clever people, and got together to chat, eat and make. I wanted to make a pretty picture using old linen but in the end used a fairly new napkin and added lots of bits and bobs. The tiny dolls are some Polly Pockets which Mum found whilst clearing out for a move. It was nice to include something I played with as a child. This is a bit soppy for me, a bit pretty but I couldn't bring myself to dd any expletives so pretty is shall stay! I may add some more print fabric to the outside of the hoop we shall see. The afternoon raised £65 with us all putting some money in a jar, what a lovely way to raise money! </div>
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I am hoping to push on further with my City and Guilds over Easter, I seem to be building up a head of steam again. I am giving some thought to my next move- I am struggling with the question of whether further education should be undertaken with a career move in mind. My gut says no, that learning for personal development is fine and dandy and valid. However there are the rumblings of a mid life crisis deep down. So far I have only really worked for one company and I have fallen out of love with my employer big style. Really and truly I'd like a fairly radical job change but my problem is that I am not qualified for anything other than what I currently do. I'm not hoping to be a rocket scientist or a brain surgeon but even little part time jobs I'd thought I might apply for seem out of reach. My feelings of self worth are plummeting with this realisation. I don't wish to get all naval gazey, it's just a little grumpy sooty thought bobbing about in my head and sometimes getting these thoughts out helps. I will hit 40 next summer- can you tell?! x</div>
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Hope you are all well, happy and settled with who and where you are. xx</div>
jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-39694088625167494662015-02-16T12:14:00.001-08:002015-02-16T12:14:58.491-08:00Give it to me straight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIlXzwBn0kQUiNOrdeKuZ8pOosMBjKueCwde_DD9ThaEuptDGpakZ-809f4RQPbOxFNZQ4bhB2cLqdhDwFUhlCYuRkN-esg1Dgjpt6KGZeUAZ3W7SQinulQCewWKj_V2rLva7iH71BZo/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIlXzwBn0kQUiNOrdeKuZ8pOosMBjKueCwde_DD9ThaEuptDGpakZ-809f4RQPbOxFNZQ4bhB2cLqdhDwFUhlCYuRkN-esg1Dgjpt6KGZeUAZ3W7SQinulQCewWKj_V2rLva7iH71BZo/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb01_xaPMcxsIYdotRb1sOkatB8jS3s5lajZ-ceUpDO4ZZ6lJKej9NNAd00WDXudI0EVpR44QDTJ1kfxiqll1f9AGfIcnSsMtlGKLJa_Dj_bBykF5aNCR2f1jpjsn3ZSqevohpdcW8boY/s1600/IMG_7231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb01_xaPMcxsIYdotRb1sOkatB8jS3s5lajZ-ceUpDO4ZZ6lJKej9NNAd00WDXudI0EVpR44QDTJ1kfxiqll1f9AGfIcnSsMtlGKLJa_Dj_bBykF5aNCR2f1jpjsn3ZSqevohpdcW8boY/s1600/IMG_7231.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>Here we go, my straight stitch sample now signed off and only one more to go! This one was quite a challenge for me. Just a straight stitch, I did manage to come up with some textures with which I was happy and I like the radiating directional stitches. I made most of my samples on the same hoop so am thinking about buying a number of these hoops, mounting up the samples and trying to get them on display somewhere. I have done all this work and there are ideas I know I will loose if they simply get packed away. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYXlT6uB_VhzlpReGYifxgoYjogV3ThRh34qW8lVXhUMoPmuNlDwTZFpTURqIDzOWcwmbhFrt1fU57O7_4_5JL5UHGpK-PEAiuefSbcng8BhkW_uidB-toUvLpbCMOE1BoS-tsQ5Y2xY/s1600/IMG_7232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYXlT6uB_VhzlpReGYifxgoYjogV3ThRh34qW8lVXhUMoPmuNlDwTZFpTURqIDzOWcwmbhFrt1fU57O7_4_5JL5UHGpK-PEAiuefSbcng8BhkW_uidB-toUvLpbCMOE1BoS-tsQ5Y2xY/s1600/IMG_7232.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
It is weird to be thinking about my final projects for the City and Guilds. I have bought an A3 sketchbook to start thinking about my first resolved piece. I usually work in smaller books which somehow results in smaller work so this is a bit of a challenge to myself.<br />
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Apart from the coursework I am helping out with a <a href="http://www.dorsetcountymuseum.org/?location_id=8&item=579">Victorian Fayre</a> at the museum where I volunteer. I will be on a table showing Dorset buttons and inviting people to pay to make a 'singleton' button. These handmade thread buttons were an important cottage industry in this area and were unfortunately seen off during the Victorian period by the button making machines which were unveiled at the great exhibition. I am so enjoying learning a little, drip by drip, whilst at the museum. My school history rather bleakly covered only wars, very important but it didn't peak my interest to continue my studies. I am wondering if my resolved course pieces might incorporate studies of items in the museum,we offer tours based on 'take one piece' where students choose an item on display which they find interesting and then research around it to make it come alive for them. I think I'd like to work on a textile response to some of our exhibits...which range from dinosaur skeletons to ecclesiastical metal work. It could go anywhere couldn't it?<br />
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I hope you are well and happy and ploughing through bleak winter? Look after yourself won't you? xjennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-70008094185805762402015-01-25T06:56:00.001-08:002015-01-25T06:56:40.909-08:00Stem stitch research<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4DuxjtzZg_Kf8LNswcWNBBQ3PWoO0SDu6ce2Vu5OwU7c8MJEiKOFJc58_evsnz9QQaloaExt4cWI1AMOel2g6CJjCN_gPMzwQYYHfLXidU_UXkMay_oKr-nkdgvxsuc7ds6zXpx227w/s1600/IMG_7189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4DuxjtzZg_Kf8LNswcWNBBQ3PWoO0SDu6ce2Vu5OwU7c8MJEiKOFJc58_evsnz9QQaloaExt4cWI1AMOel2g6CJjCN_gPMzwQYYHfLXidU_UXkMay_oKr-nkdgvxsuc7ds6zXpx227w/s1600/IMG_7189.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>So, what's been happening in your world? Are you enjoying the New Year, fresh start, world of possibilities? I can't say last year was my bestest ever. Nothing really disastrous you understand, in fact some shining bright nice things amongst the rest if you look hard enough. Looking back on the year though, as a whole, it wasn't all that. I am not all about self fulfilment, I don't feel that each year I must strive to grow as a person, develop as a human being. I sort of think that these things happen almost by accident whilst one is pottering along with just half an eye out for a new experience or an opportunity to say yes to something. I think last year I pushed too hard for happiness. I have no idea if this even makes sense but it seems that the harder I try to be 'progressing' the more the stress of the progression saps any joy from it. </div>
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This year,2015, is about sitting still and letting the happy things come to me. I am going to be stitching away at my City and Guilds work. I am going to continue to volunteer at the local museum, I am going to be winding up the business venture I've been involved in with a friend, I'm going to be doing my physio to make my ankle stronger. I will be drinking Earl Grey, going to the flicks sometimes, watching some gentle T.V, reading the odd book and getting back in touch with the simple pleasures. I believe these things, more than Work or Travel or Excitement, make me content. I hope this year is a year of contentment for you too. </div>
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The samples above are of Stem stitch and Portuguese knotted stem stitch. I have two more stitch samples to complete- straight stitch and woven and whipped wheels. They should be up here by the end of the month, I will be working on them whilst listening to the radio. Happy Days. xx</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-53784553148720121602014-06-20T05:21:00.000-07:002014-06-20T05:21:37.007-07:00Lofty ambitions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisCyTmtbWrffGb1rY4DaKnGlvbgjW1wvptfuDIXuzH0kBUiBFMO-Ljpg_UxfWgIe3r6QAYR9Bz0D74jEBufYzeQvwLLnj0f2q13PVV6N94qQPTp9r8hRbCzB8bZq03W-LVbO7dENFlOM/s1600/IMG_7061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisCyTmtbWrffGb1rY4DaKnGlvbgjW1wvptfuDIXuzH0kBUiBFMO-Ljpg_UxfWgIe3r6QAYR9Bz0D74jEBufYzeQvwLLnj0f2q13PVV6N94qQPTp9r8hRbCzB8bZq03W-LVbO7dENFlOM/s1600/IMG_7061.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>I have a loft room. I used to get really jealous of people who have a dedicated place to work, now that's me! I have to be honest- I haven't spent masses of time up top because I like company but I'm sure I will creep up more and more often when I get used to not being part of the melee! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWojUbCUbkDEdyhp0TlxsjifXRF9cuP5t29Kd-qKLV_6Sv54zy4lvguPSW4kzRD6WoKbgZjbzQm6YNLPaXxAOIM3zS0FIV2woxJRfp5sDkgMzpNPCSlxiYLI8XqhXfE2Ti0r0tLgI1G-o/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWojUbCUbkDEdyhp0TlxsjifXRF9cuP5t29Kd-qKLV_6Sv54zy4lvguPSW4kzRD6WoKbgZjbzQm6YNLPaXxAOIM3zS0FIV2woxJRfp5sDkgMzpNPCSlxiYLI8XqhXfE2Ti0r0tLgI1G-o/s1600/IMG_7062.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a>I have really crammed my materials in- there is always more than you think isn't there? So much wool, thread, fabric, beads, paints and BOOKS. Oh my gosh the quantity of it all is obscene......and wonderful! It's a tip already. Perfect, I can't get my juices flowing in a sterile environment can you? <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7J7rrl7iASmzIACmzBYpRXi_bCl0qb_3TdMSs0ME2rjAi0tkXAFrbHtxk_rcz27YjJLDrlsKj6nN2IxS0Hslgw-ThuET40v1FsKapIsMifQGUoi9yL3qx_nmi-291823JbnS4lF3HZM/s1600/IMG_7070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7J7rrl7iASmzIACmzBYpRXi_bCl0qb_3TdMSs0ME2rjAi0tkXAFrbHtxk_rcz27YjJLDrlsKj6nN2IxS0Hslgw-ThuET40v1FsKapIsMifQGUoi9yL3qx_nmi-291823JbnS4lF3HZM/s1600/IMG_7070.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyddaOizyycf-qWLGf0GpnHNd3aRk_Z2gSQ1t4z0wJg5gY-vjjT0vwpDrN4-KiXUc2ki-txPAq-RSgH4QlXJ2j0tI-FSYhXqZgg3hbtmDiNUoc09d2NshxUhSZ04kbCtKpPjd2rK7IuA4/s1600/IMG_7066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyddaOizyycf-qWLGf0GpnHNd3aRk_Z2gSQ1t4z0wJg5gY-vjjT0vwpDrN4-KiXUc2ki-txPAq-RSgH4QlXJ2j0tI-FSYhXqZgg3hbtmDiNUoc09d2NshxUhSZ04kbCtKpPjd2rK7IuA4/s1600/IMG_7066.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>I have also had a nudging mail from my City and Guilds tutor, no I haven't been making much progress lately, what with the moves and the building work and and and..enough excuses. I have sought advice and cracked on with my 'seeding' sample. I haven't sent images for approval yet but hopefully I won't have to do too much more to add this to my file. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cFMkx1os9BRuPTLOhgjdwDdzmGL2Kv8SsYRTnBcA2rzh7GowMPu_AFjIrhA8O7yQhW86M8pcPYYlHQLxtm-8JWRe3aI_oKv06JY7Kk0sLzarOworJiMkmwrBfHTwZTjvurqAO_Bx0hM/s1600/IMG_7067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cFMkx1os9BRuPTLOhgjdwDdzmGL2Kv8SsYRTnBcA2rzh7GowMPu_AFjIrhA8O7yQhW86M8pcPYYlHQLxtm-8JWRe3aI_oKv06JY7Kk0sLzarOworJiMkmwrBfHTwZTjvurqAO_Bx0hM/s1600/IMG_7067.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_gtIteE8zk8YETDxCpTIZmUflYYRjEnp7vgFvN2Y_E83NIwDmJpJS3bz_f_HOuKG3NUX_2A42Bv75E2D59Ufp07Wu_1ms1aWKQ7vDLStQ-74eKgRvWHxHmNGojNDbbSL-H9D1kVaGgI/s1600/IMG_7068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_gtIteE8zk8YETDxCpTIZmUflYYRjEnp7vgFvN2Y_E83NIwDmJpJS3bz_f_HOuKG3NUX_2A42Bv75E2D59Ufp07Wu_1ms1aWKQ7vDLStQ-74eKgRvWHxHmNGojNDbbSL-H9D1kVaGgI/s1600/IMG_7068.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>In truth I should be able to finish the course this year if I pull my finger out. Of course there are always distractions;</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoucBlGuusscbUWvjRg2tw2Dm2mtZ5wUqQX0o3Lz4rI95aAAegftEb9Zdz5MB_XTDw4yEJFYfIl1lW3X7OR2ED5KmaShivyus4G3nk2tfbQ7h4OebVY3bxyLhBlhe0UHTS3NTN_iWrvw/s1600/IMG_7072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoucBlGuusscbUWvjRg2tw2Dm2mtZ5wUqQX0o3Lz4rI95aAAegftEb9Zdz5MB_XTDw4yEJFYfIl1lW3X7OR2ED5KmaShivyus4G3nk2tfbQ7h4OebVY3bxyLhBlhe0UHTS3NTN_iWrvw/s1600/IMG_7072.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
Anna will be 8 next week and as such she has invited 8 friends round for her party. We will be screening the first Harry Potter film interspersed with little activities. One of the tasks is to rescue an owl from Fluffy so I have made ten owl familiars for them to save. The pattern is free and available<a href="http://bunnymummy-jacquie.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/easy-crochet-owl-tutorial.html"> here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgN89HEhSNaK7sp1F0UPvshlT9__rW2YMu6pd0azfxMBHBSDH4CGzgPqFEBKOVXiRatV4C0IbTzyJ6E1vmFyncPPJQikiLXtVZqr0ETazoWKVNGRwE2vr66kj7aQ-b3h8X6ZNzOedicI/s1600/IMG_7073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgN89HEhSNaK7sp1F0UPvshlT9__rW2YMu6pd0azfxMBHBSDH4CGzgPqFEBKOVXiRatV4C0IbTzyJ6E1vmFyncPPJQikiLXtVZqr0ETazoWKVNGRwE2vr66kj7aQ-b3h8X6ZNzOedicI/s1600/IMG_7073.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>Plenty more distractions are calling but I shall try to be strong and stick to the City and Guilds like Bondaweb until it is signed, sealed and delivered. </div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-42863935184079649432014-03-15T13:28:00.000-07:002014-03-15T13:28:00.520-07:00Spring time stirings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdCvOfCt3haMeU9IkhRWQH3HCEvjdy-NkXmX4O7cR6IrFSCw1p_l9JnyoiCIj86_3s-0H3PKPFupHChDJXz8cuP3_wSFO2Vx9ol9OeviYBx8jjFo_4AIHssWEyLPbD29yxpYPhLgmZ2A/s1600/IMG_7000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdCvOfCt3haMeU9IkhRWQH3HCEvjdy-NkXmX4O7cR6IrFSCw1p_l9JnyoiCIj86_3s-0H3PKPFupHChDJXz8cuP3_wSFO2Vx9ol9OeviYBx8jjFo_4AIHssWEyLPbD29yxpYPhLgmZ2A/s1600/IMG_7000.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>I am loving putting tiny characters in small containers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-iAvXskk_1bbHznjSCNR1Ep9GEdHTn1hmh9MzRaT-5IIe_BeRyLPs9NOhEYqY1j9tcNEurPa8YPZ2MX7CJqlRK1blzhRNxuFvvYe_4qjkmMAdqGi8-5CHL7yyZWGKpZpaBZIR3K5jQ8/s1600/IMG_7001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-iAvXskk_1bbHznjSCNR1Ep9GEdHTn1hmh9MzRaT-5IIe_BeRyLPs9NOhEYqY1j9tcNEurPa8YPZ2MX7CJqlRK1blzhRNxuFvvYe_4qjkmMAdqGi8-5CHL7yyZWGKpZpaBZIR3K5jQ8/s1600/IMG_7001.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a>Is this weird?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d0PwYLZsssEuuIKupB29b1TOJcGxqAeFCgPlxFTJ0AOIvbE9XXC4f5LIP35BjGeNaBcG68Zyh9lZdhO0bSxUh3DyQ31oUaRA0GHimDjuopOpHhn6HE1Ng80R0iS9xOew2Oe5FWAow9c/s1600/IMG_7002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d0PwYLZsssEuuIKupB29b1TOJcGxqAeFCgPlxFTJ0AOIvbE9XXC4f5LIP35BjGeNaBcG68Zyh9lZdhO0bSxUh3DyQ31oUaRA0GHimDjuopOpHhn6HE1Ng80R0iS9xOew2Oe5FWAow9c/s1600/IMG_7002.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>This little poppet is a worry doll, made for the Chain Gang valentine swap. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOAi4kL4mgHEpMz6qzwk_6T6SSIsj3F2wZeEflXrCBGEcEYsXWa-_V4-Cc-ooYYTYoN_UA2cuQu85BjC_FCuzp-UNbO9XOA5-1fYEDoxYdwLGH1qd3dt2r_xY4Zp6F8ER9qWncJ9S17s/s1600/IMG_7003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOAi4kL4mgHEpMz6qzwk_6T6SSIsj3F2wZeEflXrCBGEcEYsXWa-_V4-Cc-ooYYTYoN_UA2cuQu85BjC_FCuzp-UNbO9XOA5-1fYEDoxYdwLGH1qd3dt2r_xY4Zp6F8ER9qWncJ9S17s/s1600/IMG_7003.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a>She will bring happiness and love- guaranteed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ5qiwU8muFwN77vhYxH59olgtgspj0mrVj0jkiiyyv4V7g1KBa_nhk8mG4ucNCPY4_QPM7Eyts_CuxaZNeGmqUXJx2lvKoBvSY0BKT9QlGltdHaT8wPtjwk5flBXdc6wsIKfwBJbZmo/s1600/IMG_7004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZ5qiwU8muFwN77vhYxH59olgtgspj0mrVj0jkiiyyv4V7g1KBa_nhk8mG4ucNCPY4_QPM7Eyts_CuxaZNeGmqUXJx2lvKoBvSY0BKT9QlGltdHaT8wPtjwk5flBXdc6wsIKfwBJbZmo/s1600/IMG_7004.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a>I will be making more of these, I won't be able to resist. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fxOmxvpRPnWpdETM6MsIT665_gabofTAojjWzXJncE3cbJCcvR5pfhO-3ZGgULI6KeKhGmnccqvczUc3POBIfBHrQ-JSh_Y9rZJm8TumB-TMBMnCEvccbUF-NhZKBSttLDgB8lNupA8/s1600/IMG_7008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fxOmxvpRPnWpdETM6MsIT665_gabofTAojjWzXJncE3cbJCcvR5pfhO-3ZGgULI6KeKhGmnccqvczUc3POBIfBHrQ-JSh_Y9rZJm8TumB-TMBMnCEvccbUF-NhZKBSttLDgB8lNupA8/s1600/IMG_7008.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>This was what I pulled form the valentines goodie bag- I'm so chuffed- this heart has a lovely texture and solidity, <a href="http://hometoroostblog.wordpress.com/">Sarah</a> made it- she is one clever gal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3f8V-ytlJCD079MSSKBrGGZKw_G72qMcc0WcqpnrH8GljZQnLpTbOz_gomxpMkbCa5VHiup0QnXDarJVutr8KhKpXYPQp6dwZH9rUEdpRUcUIq40HV9PtvfpXAfkGw1Kkk8LMhb0U4Y/s1600/IMG_7009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3f8V-ytlJCD079MSSKBrGGZKw_G72qMcc0WcqpnrH8GljZQnLpTbOz_gomxpMkbCa5VHiup0QnXDarJVutr8KhKpXYPQp6dwZH9rUEdpRUcUIq40HV9PtvfpXAfkGw1Kkk8LMhb0U4Y/s1600/IMG_7009.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>Emily and I have also been busy working on <a href="http://magicalstitcherytour.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/spring-has-sprung.html">Magical Stitchery Tour</a> projects, the business is doing so well- it's so exciting. Pop over to the blog if you'd like to see what we've been up to. xx</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-24767465196821529142014-02-05T11:57:00.000-08:002014-02-05T11:57:04.417-08:00Gardener's World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLdyvcN0lLq3dJeXj0ikSGVIOwt6KNDw1fEwVkN_Yl_s00Ick0xxYbeZVClGHFQEglsERUMIkyhAbLBzmiONhkhTEVYwmcFI8Mz8qq4MqPV1mMrXj3zMw1iSvjnZtfvWRDdaGK4-qNgc/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLdyvcN0lLq3dJeXj0ikSGVIOwt6KNDw1fEwVkN_Yl_s00Ick0xxYbeZVClGHFQEglsERUMIkyhAbLBzmiONhkhTEVYwmcFI8Mz8qq4MqPV1mMrXj3zMw1iSvjnZtfvWRDdaGK4-qNgc/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Last time I stopped by I was telling you about the rug which Simon had been bequeathed which had inspired a blanket. I am adding flowers to the blanket and am about a third of the way through, it is looking really cool if I do say so myself. I have also been to help my Dad do some clearing at my Grandparents old house. He is executing their estate with my Aunt and there is a lot of sorting out to do. The house is a three story Georgian house which had been divided up into flats to allow my Grandparents to take in lodgers. There aren't lots of original features and the house has been declining over the last few years as my Grandpa lost interest and lost a lot of his sight. It was pretty sad going round there and seeing it all unloved and empty. But of course within that the little memories peep through and I found myself visualising things I remembered from childhood.<br />
When we used to go to play there was always plenty going on. Dad is one of five and there were five local cousins who were often around. We used to love colouring and playing with the 'junk jewellery'. There was a big bag of cars, dolly's, a tea set and a push along terrier. My most favourite of all though had to be the garden. This was a 'Brittens' toy and was made up of felt boards, cardboard printed with paths and lots of plastic flower beds into which a variety of plastic foliage could be 'planted'.<br />
This was all sat in a carrier bag on the sofa when we went to do some sorting so I bought it home to see if it was as cool as I remembered..........it was. Will made this garden and went on to dismantle it and make two more.<br />
What do you remember playing with at your grandparents? I had a cool time at my other Granfer's house too but here I mucked in, gardening with him, looking at a book, watching snooker or cricket or making daisy chains with him on the lawn. Did your Grandparents play with you or give you stuff to play with? I'm interested to know.jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-18300711685174385062014-01-15T12:59:00.000-08:002014-01-15T12:59:09.420-08:00Primrose Throw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpN9jYE9WJq3C23tvqxg-I6VRztVSQll4OyFw0GqAlJxiqlMkav1VSiNaBRJje1TNzT4LzCma1_dF92_hXo2iuVrH9CYCpPxhqp0WRwd69EUcY_EP5rmX1STamjuwSoKCBHRT9nT6JfWU/s1600/crochet+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpN9jYE9WJq3C23tvqxg-I6VRztVSQll4OyFw0GqAlJxiqlMkav1VSiNaBRJje1TNzT4LzCma1_dF92_hXo2iuVrH9CYCpPxhqp0WRwd69EUcY_EP5rmX1STamjuwSoKCBHRT9nT6JfWU/s1600/crochet+garden.jpg" /></a>Oh <a href="http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781782210474/knit-and-crochet-garden">Arne and Carlos</a>, how I love you, how I long to live in your cute world, sit in your garden, drink tea whilst we crochet together. We could be sat for some time though- because I am making your 'Primrose Throw'.</div>
As you may have gathered from the lack of regular blogging 'shit' has happened over the last few months. Nothing desperate just quite a lot of life, happening all at once. Between us Simon and I lost three Grandparents in the last ten months, they were all three of them at the end of their journey, so although it was sad it wasn't tragic, if you know what I mean.<br />
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We were touched to have been left a rather lovely large rug as a specific bequest from Simon's Danish grandmother 'Bestermor'. It was made by her husband, his Welsh grandfather 'Taid', he made the rug from a kit after he retired from his work as a G.P. Unfortunately his retirement was short so this is one of the last memories Simon has of his Taid.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3aA5BtEj92aRBZR56Ttm9QDbMScs8GywW7oABW165N3Ly0HjuU-rTTZDJAKrHNfR6sjreOZ670kOvokMFSJ_Jg4D7j5mtbgqh6ol5dp5AmEo_mIJfMZcEFDyIHClcTTIMS8joJwW1dw/s1600/IMG_6981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3aA5BtEj92aRBZR56Ttm9QDbMScs8GywW7oABW165N3Ly0HjuU-rTTZDJAKrHNfR6sjreOZ670kOvokMFSJ_Jg4D7j5mtbgqh6ol5dp5AmEo_mIJfMZcEFDyIHClcTTIMS8joJwW1dw/s1600/IMG_6981.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-M4hBM_Y_m-zWI8lZC0bgSbDnJ60UvIKMcRjWia-zwJ1epqB6dF_3QjnxqNJOqM5qzgtBmgnOnUqC-D2SyLAXp-aBMW_WHqS1V0wOBnYgAbQIF6ILVqhhNMKd9v-tBCJ-Z4NP8ujsRY/s1600/IMG_6978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-M4hBM_Y_m-zWI8lZC0bgSbDnJ60UvIKMcRjWia-zwJ1epqB6dF_3QjnxqNJOqM5qzgtBmgnOnUqC-D2SyLAXp-aBMW_WHqS1V0wOBnYgAbQIF6ILVqhhNMKd9v-tBCJ-Z4NP8ujsRY/s1600/IMG_6978.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a>I have been wanting to make a blanket or quilt for our bedroom. Simon and I just couldn't agree on a scheme or design but having the rug in our new bedroom inspired a scheme and when Simon flicked through my new Arne and Carlos book and pointed out a throw it seemed to be the perfect answer.</div>
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Now, a couple of hundred flowers later, I am wondering just what I was thinking! It has only taken a week to get this far so watch this space to see if my stamina holds out. As always though the instructions are very well written and it is like having friends chatting to you whilst you work with books by these guys. </div>
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It's all good practise though, 'Magical Stitchery Tour' has it's first workshop open for bookings and it is ........Crochet for Beginners.....perhaps the students would like to help me crochet this little lot together! xxxxx</div>
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<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-5791653364151694672013-12-01T06:10:00.001-08:002013-12-01T06:10:05.361-08:00On the first day of advent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmNJWpoYL04LtPCINJPDQl6LxqgR3xzGsL58C1orVLGzJJ5O_s23azzjtQKTFqbVWt29btV0QdfiL1hPoBlnjyClYB9xE6jLgjqn6SHNtobk-vp1P1jR8GLcXEBhSoaJLG69OaDYtj0M/s1600/IMG_6973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmNJWpoYL04LtPCINJPDQl6LxqgR3xzGsL58C1orVLGzJJ5O_s23azzjtQKTFqbVWt29btV0QdfiL1hPoBlnjyClYB9xE6jLgjqn6SHNtobk-vp1P1jR8GLcXEBhSoaJLG69OaDYtj0M/s320/IMG_6973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
my true love sent to me...a penguin in an Acer tree. Hello! Are you getting the festive glittering feeling down in you toes? I have my own advent calender this year and as a way of getting you feeling all childlike and excitable I can thoroughly recommend it. Mine has beauty treats in which is ironic as the boiler has decided to make hot water in only two minute bursts so ablutions at the moment are both stressful and a little too 'invigorating'.<br />
So the big news around here is that the<a href="https://www.magicalstitcherytour.blogspot.co.uk/"> 'Magical Stitchery Tour' </a>has delivered it's first home party. We taught five people to crochet granny squares and helped a sixth make a cute crochet Robin. Nice work! It was really good fun and we are in the process of looking at venues and designing some six week 'learn to' courses for the new year. I have also completed a secret project, begun a crochet shawl/scarf combo for a gift and have avoided doing my City and Guilds. I am being a bit rubbish about doing my course work actually. The shiny sparkly newness of it has all worn off now and I don't really know how to get my ass in gear again. Maybe having a work room will help and apart from the lack of stairs up to it the actual attic room is coming on really well. I think builder fatigue is also a problem, they are so nice but a month of not having the house to ourselves is wearing pretty thin. I think if the builders had been any less than lovely I might have knocked them out with a roof joist actually, and I'm usually such a hospitable soul.<br />
The felt decorations pictured above were designed and made by myself to tout at a craft fair, they didn't sell but will be the samples of 'festive felt' for courses next winter. It's all good! xxxxxjennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-4801790895513012062013-10-26T00:54:00.000-07:002013-10-26T00:54:04.887-07:00Hello blogging my old friend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE5lKz4FXGE/UbLri0ml6KI/AAAAAAAAEAM/Ck9paz5Gh6U/s1600/IMG_6835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE5lKz4FXGE/UbLri0ml6KI/AAAAAAAAEAM/Ck9paz5Gh6U/s320/IMG_6835.JPG" width="320" /></a>It has been a while. How are you? Are things good with you? We are all in one piece here, it has been one heck of a summer- Simon underwent spinal surgery, which went well thanks and then we moved house......again. Do you want to hear all about it? Shall we talk about the past, or the future. After such a long break I'm not sure how much back-story is necessary. Anyway my instinct is to be looking forward. After failing to finish my City and Guilds in the three years I have just paid a further enrolment. I Need to get this nailed, but I don't have anywhere to work or organise my supplies at the moment. The loft conversion should start next week so there is a light at the end of the tunnel- all be it a very distant one. I am reminded of the amazing work created in Peru and rural China though- I don't suppose the ladies who created this stitching have a dedicated work room so perhaps it will be possible to progress?</div>
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The Chain Gang is continuing to thrive which is lovely- we have a plan to knit a cardigan in a day to raise money for Movember.....watch this space.</div>
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In other news a friend 'from the gang' and I are investigating business ideas. She has had quite a summer too and I think we are both ready for a change. Tiny baby steps though, we both have families and jobs and lives to keep jogging along so this is a weeny carrot seed we are planting rather than a huge fat acorn! </div>
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On the making front I seem to have been knitting.....a lot..... this is simply due to it's portable nature and the fact that even if I can't find the right sized needles it is not the end of the world to buy another cheap pair. Like I said though, time to get my shoulder back to the C&G grind stone, I have come so far on the journey and need to take those last few weary steps. </div>
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<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-8353134575950409622013-04-03T09:08:00.000-07:002013-04-03T09:08:45.812-07:00Four needles, an adventure. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzC74BckOg8bjmIrfvnrXScXOj6GRP-ft5B312un3jB_q6_LhZamU-4YMmBrusW8jqhyphenhyphenIijbdrZ2ppPvkmXauR8Oja1B7KFRWSxfX_o9xmfW9hMs8FjsN3zimdl29Z3caq9KLixiVYuw/s1600/arne+easte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzC74BckOg8bjmIrfvnrXScXOj6GRP-ft5B312un3jB_q6_LhZamU-4YMmBrusW8jqhyphenhyphenIijbdrZ2ppPvkmXauR8Oja1B7KFRWSxfX_o9xmfW9hMs8FjsN3zimdl29Z3caq9KLixiVYuw/s1600/arne+easte.jpg" /></a>I was tempted. Not even forty hours in a desert and I succumbed. I'm sure you get those e-mails too; Deramores sale, Hancocks sale, Search Press sale. I was sucked in and spent a happy time filling my basket with books. I will show you the others at some point but today let's talk about Arne and Carlos. I love these guys, they are super cute. Mum had great fun kitting Christmas baubles from their first book but I was scared. I was scared of all that five needle action- the potential for disaster. I said 'I can't do that' I was wrong. This Easter book was in the 'Hurt Books' section of the Search Press website, and it did have a slightly bashed corner but it was cheap because of it's damage and it seriously didn't detract from the contents of the book one bit.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFPbfydul9ELPr23lAb6KWDZp2HVQxupqQGnj-OCmna7rLxbfAJFu3RR_HJlAoSdccDiepoQdmc13a37qDDq0QJksiHwSdDwvIjwavX3coEP1zeEMhn_lFLzZ9Qe_wkycsxx07nsWE8E/s1600/IMG_6831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFPbfydul9ELPr23lAb6KWDZp2HVQxupqQGnj-OCmna7rLxbfAJFu3RR_HJlAoSdccDiepoQdmc13a37qDDq0QJksiHwSdDwvIjwavX3coEP1zeEMhn_lFLzZ9Qe_wkycsxx07nsWE8E/s320/IMG_6831.JPG" width="213" /></a>Attempt one at knitting an egg can be seen above and to the left- yes it's a ball. I was so damned pleased with myself for not poking my eye out with one of the five (!) needles I was using I rather lost sight of the actual Pattern. Anyhow, that little ball under my belt, as it were, I tried a proper fair isle egg. Now my tension when stranding is as we have previously seen a bit uptight so all was well until I broke off the second colour of wool to finish the top section of my 'egg' and it all suddenly got a lot....floppier. Basically I ended up with a pear rather than an egg and had a bit of a crisis of confidence. Later though I saw that my pear was actually Matroyshka shaped! I added a felt head scarf and face and Bobs your Uncle and Anika's your Pear! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlyX0zYQr60cKHKeeb3DtS1na-z8IVnOfgyf2RbX__0h04t5PXxpfcKValer-muXLcaV_nUECw5sXI90UMex0qbj2g27xaEREujo4m5Guk33wPT4b9gG2Invp1yzzDI677eHzItdj4g8/s1600/IMG_6832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlyX0zYQr60cKHKeeb3DtS1na-z8IVnOfgyf2RbX__0h04t5PXxpfcKValer-muXLcaV_nUECw5sXI90UMex0qbj2g27xaEREujo4m5Guk33wPT4b9gG2Invp1yzzDI677eHzItdj4g8/s320/IMG_6832.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQSEWTnEd-ls7vaKxkaGNDEZC2ABEaqI-PPBbwKRimmtOYc-BnaEMFdEF-WhmmnncEuk4nEnp0V76mDxkcfizwLqASB8GXdzXyH_ipYG0dFYmYSPH-Sl4LkZ1XVYejzUsYEalhu0DeH4/s1600/IMG_6833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXQSEWTnEd-ls7vaKxkaGNDEZC2ABEaqI-PPBbwKRimmtOYc-BnaEMFdEF-WhmmnncEuk4nEnp0V76mDxkcfizwLqASB8GXdzXyH_ipYG0dFYmYSPH-Sl4LkZ1XVYejzUsYEalhu0DeH4/s320/IMG_6833.JPG" width="320" /></a>Of course now that double endeds had been conquered I needed to really push the boundaries and try........socks! These beauties came out on the large size after convincing myself that my ankles were as fat as a 'large man's. They are great over another pair and under my walking boots though- I know- I have worn them thus! Everyone I know will be getting socks for Christmas =fact. Knitting socks is magic, it is quick , cheap, jolly, satisfying, a bit clever and showy offy. What is not to like? Finally I needed to show you the cute rabbit I made for the Chain Gang Easter swap. The pattern is Free and came from<a href="http://www.petitepurls.com/Summer11/summer2011_p_fruit.html"> here</a>. I changed the face a bit and added a scarf to reflect the chill weather. I was very very lucky to receive a swap gift made by Sarah and I will show that soon, probably along with about a dozen more socks! </div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-7434710960481684532013-03-11T09:24:00.002-07:002013-03-11T09:24:25.878-07:00Wanna take a 'peekatmyknees'?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp1WXt_22hY-D08vuc6ymumpbgkON071C-oQpERvkGl4KuiVDn_005BKzfg3v3D8dBE2HliW2eQOINGs0G-b9Q0ii6VtwrjivRMU17Uu21SwsJIO-pVIVbnH5I11hH7qLkyQ6wtpjP6k/s1600/IMG_6817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp1WXt_22hY-D08vuc6ymumpbgkON071C-oQpERvkGl4KuiVDn_005BKzfg3v3D8dBE2HliW2eQOINGs0G-b9Q0ii6VtwrjivRMU17Uu21SwsJIO-pVIVbnH5I11hH7qLkyQ6wtpjP6k/s320/IMG_6817.JPG" width="212" /></a>Ha- good job I am still knitting up scarves what with the foul bitter depressing weather we've got! I actually crocheted the boa from a ball of gypsy which cost me less than £4 on offer. The rather lush number on the right took three balls of something who's band I threw away, I want to say carnival? That cost about £12 to make in total and I started and finished it during half term- hooray! I have visited three very different wool shops over the last few weeks. I find it fascinating how much layouts, range and degree of friendliness differ. I would actively want to visit one shop again and that is <a href="http://www.woolbath.co.uk/">Wool</a> in Bath. I visited with my Mum and Auntie on Saturday as our mothers day treat and I could have spent a great deal more money and more time in 'Wool'- though definitely Google map it if you are planning a trip to Bath- you would be unlikely to stumble upon it otherwise. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPWc7N11D7UASUqtw91ZOwp5oTnh0Nu3v1CKJ5PGlb40OeG0CmEUNRLOS3oQ7B9KF4jW_w24xTuubLGkHUCUYuu1lRg5TC3IhZcUkPMELj7ZN4fUFg1SJeTNu_ILZvQdpzMy6QiV7TzM/s1600/IMG_6807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWPWc7N11D7UASUqtw91ZOwp5oTnh0Nu3v1CKJ5PGlb40OeG0CmEUNRLOS3oQ7B9KF4jW_w24xTuubLGkHUCUYuu1lRg5TC3IhZcUkPMELj7ZN4fUFg1SJeTNu_ILZvQdpzMy6QiV7TzM/s320/IMG_6807.JPG" width="320" /></a>Here also in Pekinesse stitch, this is a looped stitch worked over a back stitch base. I wanted to use neutral threads to allow the texture of the stitch to be the star of the sample and I'm pleased with how it has come out. </div>
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We have also found another house which we hope to buy, after the first just sort of didn't seem to happen. There will be lots to do to make it ours but I am really looking forward to rediscovering old friends in the packing cases (not literally you understand rather I mean books and the right size crochet hooks and some more quilting safety pins etc. etc.). Stay snug. XX</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-65352253219711989752013-03-01T01:34:00.000-08:002013-03-01T01:34:27.530-08:0030 hours of fun- for £9.99<br />
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I’m afraid I’ve taken a rather long time in getting around
to writing a review of <a href="http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781844488773/30-minute-knits">‘</a><b><a href="http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781844488773/30-minute-knits">30 minute knits</a>’ </b>by <b>Carol Medrum</b>. No
excuses, just a life packed to the gunnels at the mo. Also this book has been
very much in use. I challenge you to find a book on your shelf from which you
have made four projects with more which tickle your fancy! I started by making
some cute coasters for Toby’s excellent coffee house- someone liked them so
much they nicked one in the first week! Next I made a tippet, or a tiny neck
scarf and then a collar. Finally I adapted the bird pattern to attempts a
flamingo but I won’t share it here as the kids tell me it looks like a flying pig!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcy8ls1InLGfS4nZUaFeDBUMSzdPsy2RVF8Fp1DtEGpVu0f12ptcea2hdBGWjY6gvx7wqUc7uCqESXDW8ZBgdtujgIMrZt6xfXARSOCvtIQ_96FC90RoNBvGdPo29DLhTUW0g9z5Ci44Q/s1600/IMG_6586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcy8ls1InLGfS4nZUaFeDBUMSzdPsy2RVF8Fp1DtEGpVu0f12ptcea2hdBGWjY6gvx7wqUc7uCqESXDW8ZBgdtujgIMrZt6xfXARSOCvtIQ_96FC90RoNBvGdPo29DLhTUW0g9z5Ci44Q/s320/IMG_6586.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You may have seen patterns featured from this book in
magazines and on web sites, you may be thinking; what’s the point of buying it,
I’ve probably seen all the best bits. Not a bit of it, this book has sixty
patterns- yep 60- for just shy of a tenner! There is plenty more to see here. I
didn’t time myself making these projects so I can’t tell you if they were
genuinely 30 minute projects but they certainly were Quick. I would also say
because of their size and the variety of techniques this would be a brilliant book
for the beginner knitter, there are some great instructions at the back for all
necessary techniques so I reckon you could teach yourself to knit and make a
great selection of projects over a holiday. Because the projects are all small
the yarn cost involved is tiny. I always rummage through wool bargain bins and
then wonder what on earth to do with the fabulous single ball - not any more.
The projects are knitted with a variety of yarn weights too, so it’s not all
super quick=super chunky. Next for me is the Easter chick, tiny ted and some
baby booties, that’s the next hour and a half filled anyway! </div>
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I have been reviewing Search Press titles for a while now so perhaps it's time I mentioned again what the deal is. Basically Search Press send me some books for free now and again and I say what I think of them. There is no editing before these reviews are published here, I am under no compunction to say nice things, I am not paid by Search Press in any other way than getting some rather lovely free books. I also choose what I'd like to review the books are already self selected to suit me, if you get what I mean. Sometimes I hand books on through the blog if I don't think I'll use them again- and sometimes- like this time I keep them all to my greedy self because the are so lush! Hope that clarifies things. </div>
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Hugs xxxx</div>
jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-31010154652800851302013-02-25T08:06:00.001-08:002013-02-25T08:06:14.315-08:00dem bones is in de bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRMnNUl_jExZSNjWx-kKJEdAkk1sHZxiGcD59oJl-5udNteh3NL_tAykITy-GuWIQRaQ9xXvVk7BskpoR9fORV7yQaVo7m7iekVyj0e2YoOHtXR2ntXIQVxrgVHjz1v_XyNLoteblDns/s1600/IMG_6803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRMnNUl_jExZSNjWx-kKJEdAkk1sHZxiGcD59oJl-5udNteh3NL_tAykITy-GuWIQRaQ9xXvVk7BskpoR9fORV7yQaVo7m7iekVyj0e2YoOHtXR2ntXIQVxrgVHjz1v_XyNLoteblDns/s320/IMG_6803.JPG" width="320" /></a>Herringbone stitch that is. This was cool, again lots of new ideas, I like the overlaying and working through buttons. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9p_KQehXqe7ZKlFF_FGcMaQ8eO4Cgy5ytAh0EmURHFf8Pr5xklVfcJ3vgaTOlANEcvzwxwzPEkI6bW6MqbJTB3Xct_uN1qMKjJ4qTOoK85YPfTZFuKko5nlpf4WH66-agpvjxhDNSjE/s1600/IMG_6806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9p_KQehXqe7ZKlFF_FGcMaQ8eO4Cgy5ytAh0EmURHFf8Pr5xklVfcJ3vgaTOlANEcvzwxwzPEkI6bW6MqbJTB3Xct_uN1qMKjJ4qTOoK85YPfTZFuKko5nlpf4WH66-agpvjxhDNSjE/s320/IMG_6806.JPG" width="213" /></a>In other crafting news we had a Valentine swap at the Chain Gang. It was really nice as everyone took part to make a little gift. In my quest to share my favourite bloggy hang outs I made some poochie bags from <a href="http://thehappyzombie.com/blog/">Happy Zombie</a>, this site has lots of free tutorials and everything I have made from it has come together nicely. The bag below is now for Anna's dance kit and my friend Sarah has the one above for her crochet. If you need to make something for a swap, or want to use a few pretty fat quarters then Happy Zombie is certainly worth a visit.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69OsNOrR-uFF2zCF3k9Iz2mhBOkPUDz6Plwk2grWYHieeW_gYmi20qO6hEdakdUjZ4CErKCarM6ELKO2ueT24SN2C1MQxtKlE2_2jiXPZnvonNuofWx8ykFMkTqGEDTNtWS778inLC6M/s1600/IMG_6805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69OsNOrR-uFF2zCF3k9Iz2mhBOkPUDz6Plwk2grWYHieeW_gYmi20qO6hEdakdUjZ4CErKCarM6ELKO2ueT24SN2C1MQxtKlE2_2jiXPZnvonNuofWx8ykFMkTqGEDTNtWS778inLC6M/s320/IMG_6805.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVWpCpyEQkS_YNHgZGMZC-IE_TkIDLefP-pqSztRjlYC8JjbIo2XfmyHustCkhL1bbYjSlGcW84-T4TG8igcYDgBNI2op1j2VCU1ycV02UPNGlvNVtU8xM51Fz7gh3J49ACAh199ADR0/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVWpCpyEQkS_YNHgZGMZC-IE_TkIDLefP-pqSztRjlYC8JjbIo2XfmyHustCkhL1bbYjSlGcW84-T4TG8igcYDgBNI2op1j2VCU1ycV02UPNGlvNVtU8xM51Fz7gh3J49ACAh199ADR0/s320/IMG_6801.JPG" width="320" /></a>It hasn't just been herringbone stitch that I have finished off. I have also made a more restrained free cross stitch sample. I think this looks kind of 60's ish?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCi_EDhPZ_HyBbvhfn_ldm9Sz2l-YDeAqYWXjnXz8QAeroJF-awN-yYrz5WB7vlOI70cSBJNJLBzWi47VvQfrnkI6qIH4JnVRaxPdvMy1QkKceV1DPNH55K6SrUdKExJePJeuDgH6_XU/s1600/IMG_6796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCi_EDhPZ_HyBbvhfn_ldm9Sz2l-YDeAqYWXjnXz8QAeroJF-awN-yYrz5WB7vlOI70cSBJNJLBzWi47VvQfrnkI6qIH4JnVRaxPdvMy1QkKceV1DPNH55K6SrUdKExJePJeuDgH6_XU/s320/IMG_6796.JPG" width="213" /></a>This is my French Knot sample, I used a variety of monochrome fibres to build the sample and I am really pleased with it. I have more work to do with bullion knots and have just submitted pekinese stitch. It really is all go here! </div>
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I had got my knickers in a right old twist about my City and Guilds deadline and how in the name of all that is holy I would possibly get it done. I really hope we'll have a house move over the summer, perhaps even a major re-furb to undertake. Talking to my tutor it would seem that I may have to re-register with City and Guilds to set the clock back to zero again. I really don't want to still be working on this qualification in three years time, but it is good to know that I will still have time for some light hearted stuff and I won't have to compromise on exploring my ideas to the full. </div>
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How are you guys then? Are you keeping well? </div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-57340211887676497352013-02-03T11:22:00.000-08:002013-02-03T11:22:01.680-08:00Unless you get a little.....crazy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuafyY1MCVUglFvK2VZpIkdgbgHi-PVF-xnZ8boCIe-Dj-9JDKlOqMGmyTFI3PZifDKRZ2AISm2eMs04bzNQSf7LarJSgff5ftghkQnAGVglOCpS3j8fzxuZRZT8EVnJGBcEhmF8i3lWE/s1600/IMG_6789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuafyY1MCVUglFvK2VZpIkdgbgHi-PVF-xnZ8boCIe-Dj-9JDKlOqMGmyTFI3PZifDKRZ2AISm2eMs04bzNQSf7LarJSgff5ftghkQnAGVglOCpS3j8fzxuZRZT8EVnJGBcEhmF8i3lWE/s320/IMG_6789.JPG" width="320" /></a>I went crazy with 'free cross stitch', totally bonkers in fact. Not like me at all, no neat lines, no structure just Julia Caprara's mantra of not using the same colour thread twice in a row. I worked from a jumbley pallet of fibres, including plastic and ribbon. Unfortunately, for my course, it was a bit too much- I'm hoping that the additional more buttoned up sample I have now completed will soon see 'not quite so' free 'thanks' cross stitch signed off. </div>
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I have been reading a bit in bed. This quote from the slightly twisted but cool 'The Weed that Strings the Hangman's Bag' by Alan Bradley struck a chord;</div>
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"inspiration from outside one's self is like heat in an oven. It makes passable Bath buns. But inspiration from <i>within</i> is like a volcano; it changes the face of the world"</div>
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I have tried before to express myself on the subject of 'copying'. I think this quote sums it up so neatly. Taking and reproducing someone else's idea makes a 'passable bun' but only by working from within can something truly 'new' emerge. I tried to work a bit 'in the style of' with the above sample. The rich overlay of stitch that one sees from some big embroidery names but really my voice from within is quieter. So this doesn't really work for me. It's not who I am.</div>
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I will be sharing a few of my new found favourite blogs here over the next few posts and now seems a good point to share<a href="http://plays-with-needles.blogspot.co.uk/"> 'Plays with Needles'</a>. If ever I need reassurance that a slow, considered, restrained, circumspect approach to stitching is just fine then a visit here is guaranteed to give it. Enjoy. </div>
jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-38366357659535250852013-01-21T03:57:00.001-08:002013-01-21T03:57:31.980-08:00In the bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6GEvejf9c-cFNG5xfCGcBh-QeKuYR4KVQbtCYZIljq_GEzX4bPp2UnGYkUd7RFQtTWGwDCav1DCCM1e1f1-2QlZeqxGAG9ON8KBoh2RpSUTfCaD1-EFBcq27XdeivAAU85sYzYBAwzw/s1600/IMG_6790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6GEvejf9c-cFNG5xfCGcBh-QeKuYR4KVQbtCYZIljq_GEzX4bPp2UnGYkUd7RFQtTWGwDCav1DCCM1e1f1-2QlZeqxGAG9ON8KBoh2RpSUTfCaD1-EFBcq27XdeivAAU85sYzYBAwzw/s320/IMG_6790.JPG" width="320" /></a>I bought some tiny squares of marbled fabric at the knitting and stitching show eighteen months ago and decided the other day that it was time to stitch them together. I didn't want to loose any fabric so made the seams a feature and hand stitched as the squares are so small. One I had a strip I decided to applique it onto some nice wool fabric which had arrived in a donated fabric stash. Also in the bag was a blue cord skirt- great for a lining and I worked on the hem which I had cut off to neaten it up for straps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvDbj6qVeVB7iWPZsMNOM1yyDbKGyXlroW-jCCXsScaI129N8vN6xci1QK7QV5N9gsGSGbf32TkfaOaW8wc6myhPNTaXjRC4lrR4ovjbDgR0VTxrigBHLqqo1zfObf6vGISEdYfan-VE/s1600/IMG_6792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvDbj6qVeVB7iWPZsMNOM1yyDbKGyXlroW-jCCXsScaI129N8vN6xci1QK7QV5N9gsGSGbf32TkfaOaW8wc6myhPNTaXjRC4lrR4ovjbDgR0VTxrigBHLqqo1zfObf6vGISEdYfan-VE/s320/IMG_6792.JPG" width="320" /></a>I wanted to add a flap to the bag for some weather proofing and security. I used reverse applique to make the flap, again using material I'd been given and also a large crochet flower I made ages ago. This has certainly been a stash buster, and apart from those squares, which I think were £2.50 ish I haven't spent a bean making it</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tjI1TdvxFLLczuWim2gPEaCrOnHA1kvxqucLpRHk4dQsgdGpg59K_i3XGG0ZbO0wJzX2ZmDz881GdDr9KaH-i9PlwrpQbR-wi7zGliPDncgBsZryc83aVaZpE_rTebdgMlo-gBb4AQg/s1600/IMG_6791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tjI1TdvxFLLczuWim2gPEaCrOnHA1kvxqucLpRHk4dQsgdGpg59K_i3XGG0ZbO0wJzX2ZmDz881GdDr9KaH-i9PlwrpQbR-wi7zGliPDncgBsZryc83aVaZpE_rTebdgMlo-gBb4AQg/s320/IMG_6791.JPG" width="213" /></a>Working on the course has been a great discipline, but it is nice to fiddle about for no good reason and see what I can come up with. Back to the real work now, I have a pomegranate awaiting sketching and the next stitch sample is French knots and Bullion knots- beurgh! xxx</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-89243324492567816802013-01-16T13:34:00.000-08:002013-01-16T13:34:04.502-08:00Super fly <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85DolciXZ29rsfVQ6JJvb8gpWkLxY4qTNHDG_4_NzjisJg7QXCHpKanwYPrvyLFNZIjlj1zCpWQ8kJbVxl_rr-vsHCR7MiPMxqU8UCl_kPk80tf2M9nX6jJ19PgOcMXAia0JMDzJmEDE/s1600/IMG_6784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85DolciXZ29rsfVQ6JJvb8gpWkLxY4qTNHDG_4_NzjisJg7QXCHpKanwYPrvyLFNZIjlj1zCpWQ8kJbVxl_rr-vsHCR7MiPMxqU8UCl_kPk80tf2M9nX6jJ19PgOcMXAia0JMDzJmEDE/s320/IMG_6784.JPG" width="320" /></a>Fly stitch=tick! </div>
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This was a fun one- I liked the grids and patterns which could be built by twisting and over-laying this stitch. I liked working the stitch through button holes- I'll certainly be doing that again!</div>
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How are you all? Are things good with you? Lets focus on the good stuff shall we? We had a stash swap at the makey group today, it was lovely, I came away with some lush Rowan yarn and a cute little heart shaped wooden box ready to tart up for our Valentines swap. I found a chair for £10 which will go nicely with our 1930's Ercol set. My pal is going to be working in my home town once a week which might mean more chance to catch up for lunch and chats. Mum and Dad are going to sit for us on Friday night- snow allowing- so we can hang out with some new friends. On balance things are o.k. I have a finished bag to photograph and show you, I have more City and Guilds work to share. I have plenty. </div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-40106918869704903272013-01-11T04:50:00.000-08:002013-01-11T04:50:06.606-08:00Mitten-tastic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhOkYnFwwpncJiz4O_6RPBd5voLaSLwpzny2vFafHSPTLxGwk5X7mfM-e_1PtBaWxPMBtD2A0nFfuA6Mp30-CpuHRUiqazp2K-RTDg24R7Pd7Vt0hxc31Rz5EnmD32zIQ4olVNrheQ5g/s1600/IMG_6767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRhOkYnFwwpncJiz4O_6RPBd5voLaSLwpzny2vFafHSPTLxGwk5X7mfM-e_1PtBaWxPMBtD2A0nFfuA6Mp30-CpuHRUiqazp2K-RTDg24R7Pd7Vt0hxc31Rz5EnmD32zIQ4olVNrheQ5g/s320/IMG_6767.JPG" width="320" /></a>We had an outing to Bridport before Christmas. The kids were with us so not a great deal of mooching time but the <a href="http://bridportyarn.co.uk/">Wool Shop</a> had a cafe at the back so I got a few minutes for drooling. I pointed out this book and 'Lima' yarn to Simon. Much too expensive to treat myself but the perfect gift for me to work on over the festive period. I have since had a look about and it seems there is a cheaper yarn with a similar tension which I would like to have a fiddle with- perhaps for Easter or Valentines? (hint hint Mr Lewis) </div>
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Things have got a bit complicated on the house front, I won't bore you with the details. I am trying to keep my spirits up though and am finding lots of creative and organising type energy. I have written a plan all over my Molly Makes calender to make sure I can complete the City and Guilds in time for the October deadline. I think I am heading for another year of upheaval, underneath though I am confident I will be moving forward towards my goals. Stitch by stitch, inch by inch, pound by pound. Considering what we managed last year I know we can do it! xxx</div>
jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-68569806789355171702012-12-23T03:28:00.001-08:002012-12-23T03:28:37.204-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrc33-e0y03GdPlzGc08jFvbNkGWnYG-QF5zf-b9DkOjdjPd8_I1Of0TnYlJJmkL6ED9P_O8gaI7pR5u84pRU6nbDwWutNvfzUanYF_CwB1n_TDNyBEmK3Wlc-eXjdn-_NF_5MKKHU9SQ/s1600/IMG_6652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrc33-e0y03GdPlzGc08jFvbNkGWnYG-QF5zf-b9DkOjdjPd8_I1Of0TnYlJJmkL6ED9P_O8gaI7pR5u84pRU6nbDwWutNvfzUanYF_CwB1n_TDNyBEmK3Wlc-eXjdn-_NF_5MKKHU9SQ/s320/IMG_6652.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This little chap was sewn my Anna at school.I had no idea that a nice lady came every Friday afternoon to help them do some stitching. How nice that Anna didn't even think this worth commenting on, they do so many varied and interesting things at school! I am seriously considering scanning Robert the Robin in and printing him up with a kitsch border for next years crimbo cards. I hope you are all feeling warm and mellow and not harried and stressed. I am still the later but hope that as all the pressures are self imposed I may slowly be able to let them drift away as the seasons cheers thaws my chilly perfectionist soul....either that or I need to get me some Baileys?<br />
Have a good one my friends, whatever you do and here's to relaxing and having a silent night or two.<br />
Hugs and Kisses. xxxxjennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-25055794386241989372012-12-09T09:14:00.000-08:002012-12-09T09:14:07.274-08:00Another feather in my cap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ4wWWFfF_TAvVfnKB2EXq9eFRFWVpE1R7d3zjVO-1t7b89JbQiPjrIM8F2B4QtuoPY7s7laeqLf8ohITlZFTOm6z2JThJpQT-y2r1vLm47rfzXC5LlttOh8Mia2gLOwaXDoRcASx9RM/s1600/IMG_6646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ4wWWFfF_TAvVfnKB2EXq9eFRFWVpE1R7d3zjVO-1t7b89JbQiPjrIM8F2B4QtuoPY7s7laeqLf8ohITlZFTOm6z2JThJpQT-y2r1vLm47rfzXC5LlttOh8Mia2gLOwaXDoRcASx9RM/s320/IMG_6646.JPG" width="213" /></a>The progress on my course work is slower than ever as festive fever notches up. As always I have things to make before I can finish my wrapping and to be frank the fun has rather gone out of make and do with the anxiety. I'm not moaning though, honest, I don't think I'm alone in feeling totally swamped as the doors on the calender open, seemingly with fewer and fewer hours between each one. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPni76E6I47IVW_Vz_oagn699hqCQykI15ccAGcTjciyTi-uJb-mDxRl_UTsUsHXt8uLdDRHz8ODqmLW5TOZIi48sgnfjhmmMlM6YUUTa2UusDKQ5TlsMPQxrg4Dr6_EJRT8P0TCK3QS4/s1600/IMG_6647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPni76E6I47IVW_Vz_oagn699hqCQykI15ccAGcTjciyTi-uJb-mDxRl_UTsUsHXt8uLdDRHz8ODqmLW5TOZIi48sgnfjhmmMlM6YUUTa2UusDKQ5TlsMPQxrg4Dr6_EJRT8P0TCK3QS4/s320/IMG_6647.JPG" width="320" /></a>I have managed to get this sample finished and signed off, which is really good news. This is feather stitch. I put off these samples as I wasn't really sure how 'good' I'd be at them- I don't care how 'good' I am a them now; I'm just really enjoying doing them. Fly stitch is next. Let's hope I can loose myself in it and get me a little escapism. </div>
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I hope y'all are managing to keep calm as the Christmas pressure mounts. Repeat after me;</div>
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This is meant to be fun</div>
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This is meant to be fun</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-1795303421120152922012-12-05T07:36:00.001-08:002012-12-05T07:36:55.686-08:00In good shape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib90r4k4jxRveQODFDHH157AD_nr7M-9PpW1O2-3dkfuciujh_WT_dFzw2ciwoYdzghOQZK4CwxUOehr8WFm85H1B3vH9fsjwQIpqdlBzwBDG8od_LoyLcAL4six6zV4qqzKq59D5rdws/s1600/IMG_6623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib90r4k4jxRveQODFDHH157AD_nr7M-9PpW1O2-3dkfuciujh_WT_dFzw2ciwoYdzghOQZK4CwxUOehr8WFm85H1B3vH9fsjwQIpqdlBzwBDG8od_LoyLcAL4six6zV4qqzKq59D5rdws/s320/IMG_6623.JPG" width="320" /></a>My final design module for my City and Guilds was 'shape'. I loved it. I like the cutting and sticking, the weaving, the printing. I like the boldness of it all. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIyjzoXt_wwMv85Q_CEl1iIsXqUSjv2hZ9e9Dc2sb9m9UodQYYj8e4A0DNRS-PAYxJjcimbm45lG8oixyjlVY0cBrfUONWQKVJ6rXARwu3b17PbFs-ghYie6pdRLHukt96pORpvG3ZW4/s1600/IMG_6625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIyjzoXt_wwMv85Q_CEl1iIsXqUSjv2hZ9e9Dc2sb9m9UodQYYj8e4A0DNRS-PAYxJjcimbm45lG8oixyjlVY0cBrfUONWQKVJ6rXARwu3b17PbFs-ghYie6pdRLHukt96pORpvG3ZW4/s320/IMG_6625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3J7WUN97N3EjdPeNbEe8_6fH2DQdA5nUpalwiELpz5pVtkoqK_Tic8Sp2z18itFp17-e7BPU3ofSEea1PlxqtK5HQLHeYQ4bFsfcAKKgPEvUjImxjTzsGOOibrB-H9q4s2llpP-d0mI/s1600/IMG_6629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3J7WUN97N3EjdPeNbEe8_6fH2DQdA5nUpalwiELpz5pVtkoqK_Tic8Sp2z18itFp17-e7BPU3ofSEea1PlxqtK5HQLHeYQ4bFsfcAKKgPEvUjImxjTzsGOOibrB-H9q4s2llpP-d0mI/s320/IMG_6629.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYB_5LIBNnWrAe2yBrUY-mME_V-R6fkGctn1-OAg8mfQ_R_fssV17SbGHuEqgqsAEljVhNT4KqwqEcn41QXVzF3YUL1kf4wSFcyQl9G4BPncfssyRm4LigyIF3o5Zxn-LQmTmOyb_auc/s1600/IMG_6634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYB_5LIBNnWrAe2yBrUY-mME_V-R6fkGctn1-OAg8mfQ_R_fssV17SbGHuEqgqsAEljVhNT4KqwqEcn41QXVzF3YUL1kf4wSFcyQl9G4BPncfssyRm4LigyIF3o5Zxn-LQmTmOyb_auc/s320/IMG_6634.JPG" width="320" /></a>I liked making the collages, it was all good. I must make sure that I look back through these modules in the future. There are so many ideas in these books.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VlfMXb0susYLamE-CaMYLQlvrPmdnAWzQrKLu3bkPvz9B63OHm55KLpERf2lrdapZZNbP4bfs2HTgFAtWfh8v4Te8nxx_UFPTsNtqBhUjTxYvQdiYuGKBNDQj5CvnWdQirJ_-Y13UWo/s1600/IMG_6648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_VlfMXb0susYLamE-CaMYLQlvrPmdnAWzQrKLu3bkPvz9B63OHm55KLpERf2lrdapZZNbP4bfs2HTgFAtWfh8v4Te8nxx_UFPTsNtqBhUjTxYvQdiYuGKBNDQj5CvnWdQirJ_-Y13UWo/s320/IMG_6648.JPG" width="212" /></a>So that's enough of all the high-brow arty stuff. That all has it's place but for crying out loud people it's DECEMBER. Surely the kitchest month of the year? I bought this knitting book for 75p from the charity shop today. I was drawn to the poodle bottle cover- surely one of these beauties would turn a plain ol' bottle of Advocat into a retro Christmas gift fit for a queen?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDPyYdwkQp44Ri4bXD5YmvGuNbnx4_nCHikAx_m22M6oRWx94H7vc6_7UDYT6BWEgaxbBI_5m1sa5Q1MhTP13tmy0A6RAhORd3oHGKvhDVtzH16F9Pl_Y9o0iBaBMZd0yhzaj2plSvwA/s1600/IMG_6649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDPyYdwkQp44Ri4bXD5YmvGuNbnx4_nCHikAx_m22M6oRWx94H7vc6_7UDYT6BWEgaxbBI_5m1sa5Q1MhTP13tmy0A6RAhORd3oHGKvhDVtzH16F9Pl_Y9o0iBaBMZd0yhzaj2plSvwA/s320/IMG_6649.JPG" width="320" /></a>Then how about a cute little cottage egg cosy? I am thinking that this should be stuffed with a base added to make a little hanging Xmas dec- the clown should just be knitted to scare naughty children.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATSu1zuSoGYWcJ6P8csy3MOng5K2E-E79L6DGCj3-hSPid1RQet1Bd4S8RS7qX4iorXIK6_di9hz5u7i803w2EDoXxBafHB-0VJ2YgQFhAQT8e-vaCARMRPbyjL_NSg5j3DGtPGjozhY/s1600/IMG_6650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATSu1zuSoGYWcJ6P8csy3MOng5K2E-E79L6DGCj3-hSPid1RQet1Bd4S8RS7qX4iorXIK6_di9hz5u7i803w2EDoXxBafHB-0VJ2YgQFhAQT8e-vaCARMRPbyjL_NSg5j3DGtPGjozhY/s320/IMG_6650.JPG" width="213" /></a>Finally I am yearning for a bed jacket. Our rented temporary house is mighty warm but I still get frosty little shoulders reading before lights out so surely a Miss Marple style bed shawl would be the perfect answer- and a chemical free form of contraception! </div>
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I do hope to have some definitive house news for you soon- we are soooo close! xxxxxx</div>
<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-41998862170781541812012-11-25T13:56:00.000-08:002012-11-25T13:56:06.439-08:00Tes-no! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKzE4lQwzUwG85sZlRcAjBzM9hkfjeyKlVTdlvEeP-OEIUjDAmi5JQshfydI8L1faGYJZiHHMTIjcSuFb9klWulV_PeqqnfElWfU2YqTs1dD9spVWw8gRtIFySgO3-uL7POUG7Z6v7gk/s1600/tesco-value-christmas-card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKzE4lQwzUwG85sZlRcAjBzM9hkfjeyKlVTdlvEeP-OEIUjDAmi5JQshfydI8L1faGYJZiHHMTIjcSuFb9klWulV_PeqqnfElWfU2YqTs1dD9spVWw8gRtIFySgO3-uL7POUG7Z6v7gk/s320/tesco-value-christmas-card.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
We are boycotting Tesco. I know that this company is a 'popular' target for anti-capitalist campaigners. We just think the way they dealt with not providing us with an phone service...for weeks....and then not giving a stuff about our complaints....was a bit crap and frankly it wasn't the first time we had felt let down by them. Anyway, I won't rattle on, it's a bit dull and makes us cross. SO I'll vent my spleen about something else shall I?<br />
I have been made cross AGAIN this year by Christmas adverts. Last year I was depressed by all the ads which made me feel like I was the only one NOT in a size 10 party frock sipping champers with my beautiful friends and my cashmere sweater wearing hubby. I felt lonely and left out- even though I suspected it was all a trick and that everyone else was nursing a Baileys in their joggers too.<br />
This year every advert I have seen seems to show a harassed Mummy doing it ALL. Hoovering, shopping, making up extra beds, slaving away but ultimately satisfied to see their happy family tuck into their roast and then wash up all afternoon whilst the family all eat chocolates and forget she exists. This isn't a bloody advert, this is real life- no? Surely ads should be aspirational (forget what I said about last year!) or is this what I should be aspiring too?<br />
Anyway tonight I saw an advert which was different. This advert showed a family Christmas where Daddy was involved, Daddy was in the kitchen, Daddy was shouting at the kids- at last I called to Simon- at last! I quote myself 'whoever this company is we need to buy stuff from them!.......Unless it's ......Oh Shit....it's Tesco'jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2357977841096406886.post-75279165901868731352012-10-30T01:11:00.000-07:002012-10-30T01:11:35.257-07:00Couch(ed) work so-fa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHndMLtJjm3XVr6lYefvAD_6enracuVK7GtWuOBlFqAbzAK3d0FcSNdCXWIbvPVWr4IIHpRFAsxNaFefYbFVPp33Z8KU2ePg9_-abAHVGjBFh9Q_161q8zO25wYiSuoQ4KKgHu1QWr-g/s1600/IMG_6615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHndMLtJjm3XVr6lYefvAD_6enracuVK7GtWuOBlFqAbzAK3d0FcSNdCXWIbvPVWr4IIHpRFAsxNaFefYbFVPp33Z8KU2ePg9_-abAHVGjBFh9Q_161q8zO25wYiSuoQ4KKgHu1QWr-g/s320/IMG_6615.JPG" width="320" /></a>and in the midst of all the excitement; another stitch signed off! As I said I really do like couching so found it a bit tricky to come up with new ideas but I do like how my chip forks came out</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZUSQGluFv9s_fPyb4fORGxffgLixD43IyP8Gj6g1btwuGNe6N0o1EY9ZrojzmJnhWXhI3IkQONuW_1xHOsWcgCaKBx0W-KNW4nZjhNIN8TEeLQ0j5rqoyQsZQhDfw_WZGgccy5_IYPs/s1600/IMG_6617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZUSQGluFv9s_fPyb4fORGxffgLixD43IyP8Gj6g1btwuGNe6N0o1EY9ZrojzmJnhWXhI3IkQONuW_1xHOsWcgCaKBx0W-KNW4nZjhNIN8TEeLQ0j5rqoyQsZQhDfw_WZGgccy5_IYPs/s320/IMG_6617.JPG" width="320" /></a>These flowers could do with More I think, I can always revisit them later if the mood takes me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37Uqsxn19iaurfNnH1x52-KMyFut6o8PkAmb4S6NHyN_8HjbDH3RInNNzk0w9nfhQq76Cff1_EgnzkoON8m_ej6jh3xkPqRdiPzG2rm_jtCckfbl6Fp7VLHL6W1b-9vvZgJVzwEEx-hY/s1600/IMG_6589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37Uqsxn19iaurfNnH1x52-KMyFut6o8PkAmb4S6NHyN_8HjbDH3RInNNzk0w9nfhQq76Cff1_EgnzkoON8m_ej6jh3xkPqRdiPzG2rm_jtCckfbl6Fp7VLHL6W1b-9vvZgJVzwEEx-hY/s320/IMG_6589.JPG" width="320" /></a>Finally my more general playing about, with paper, leather, a wrapped twig, anything lurking at the bottom of my box of 'brown' really. </div>
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Feather stitch next, which we did at primary school as Dorset Feather Stitch, so no excuses for not getting that one right!</div>
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I wanted to ask you guys about your stash. A lot of mine got packed up and brought down here months ago to go into storage. Over the last couple of weeks Mum and I have been going through it, sorting out bits to go to a car boot sale. I have found the quantity of wool, paper, fabric and equipment which I have accumulated quite intimidating. Don't get me wrong it's not like boxes floor to ceiling or anything, but I really don't need to buy any supplies for decades probably. It's not an addiction exactly I just like fibre in the same way other women like shoes- although I like shoes in that way too! It's just got so that it's hard to see what I actually have and until I can get into a space where I can get organised I will probably end up buying things because I can't find the things I have already which would do the job just as well. Perhaps that's it- an extension of the whole moving frustration, I need to find a home for my stash? </div>
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So please, tell me do, how is your stash looking? A well organised library of materials, or a heaving monster of tangled threads and crumpled fabric? xxxx</div>
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<br />jennyflowerbluehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724655266500430873noreply@blogger.com2