the elusive monster softie

Apologies to all of you who are waiting with bated breath for the unveiling of the elusive monster softie ... I jest, of course!  But I am currently awaiting a delivery of some gorgeous red fleece, so the softie is on the back burner for a while.

On a happier note, I have been trying and failing to embark on a crochet adventure.  I have attempted without much success to complete a granny square under the guidance of a lovely old lady at my upholstery class. I may have tried her patience as she kept doing it for me!

I have since found a brilliant tutorial from little tin bird for granny squares and have managed over the last few evenings to create a reasonable, if I do say so myself, granny square.  I intend to continue until my wool runs out and hopefully I'll have a pretty blanket at the end.  Here's hoping, anyway.

little update

The tooth fairy softie is ready to leap off the drawing board into reality. Having discussed ideas at length with my number one, he has decided on a little monster crafted from fleece and felt.  We will name the little guy and introduce him here soon.

busy busy

Two of my little ones are finishing up for the summer at school and playschool and we are busy, busy learning songs for end of term concerts and choosing teachers thank you gifts.  Does anyone else struggle knowing what to give - any good ideas?

My number one, turned 6 a few months ago and since his birthday has lost his first two teeth.  He has asked me to make him a softie in which he can stash his teeth for the tooth fairy,  so that's my next project.  More sewing for me.

pincushion swap

I've just taken part in the pincushion swap hosted by House of Pinheiro and Sew Far Sew Good which I heard about in the lovely Mollie Makes magazine.  

This was my first swap and it was great fun. I was in my element and I would love to do more swaps.

I designed and made a little pincushion and needlecase for my swap partner, embroidering a panel of white calico and and adding some patterned panels around the edges.  The needlecase was rustled up using some cotton scraps and felt.  I also sent some little buttons from my stash.  Maybe they will be put to good use.

I wish I had taken a better photograph, I'm still honing my dodgy photography skills.  Hopefully this gives an idea of what it looked like!

taking the plunge

I've finally done it - taken the plunge!  I have been thinking about creating a blog for a while now and I have finally decided to go for it.  I love to read inspirational blogs and wanted to document my own creative endeavours, maybe someday, someone might find inspiration here.