Thursday, November 15, 2012

making, reading


Slow, but still progress nonetheless, is being made on Violet's Tiny Tea Leaves. I will try to get those ends woven in today and hopefully a start soon on those sleeves. The first round with double pointed needles is always the trickiest.


After a few practice pieces, I settled on a little bunting design for my christmas ornaments for the swap. There is always that lurking doubt if someone else will like your handiwork. Although I admit that I've often avoided such swaps because there is that pressure, you know, to make something that hopefully someone else will like. I don't always work well under pressure. But I do like the fact that it has pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to learn something new. My Alicia Paulson book has been dusted off again and referred to.  It's been quite some time since I've done any needlework and I have to say I'm quite enjoying it.


Meanwhile a new book arrived last week, Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing. I'm quite excited at the prospects of this book (and the potential for my wardrobe!). Full of clear, vintage techniques but presented in a way that makes it enjoyable to read, not like some of those traditional sewing books that read like dreary textbooks. Suddenly adjusting patterns appears a whole lot more achievable.

Then there is a whole envelope and chapter full of patterns, most of which I'm just itching to make (but first I must get through that "projects which need finishing pile"). Full of timeless vintage style dresses, skirts and blouses (and a Peter Pan collar one at that). I like to imagine a wardrobe full of such items to choose from.


And lastly, another little pillowcase dress or top (again from this tutorial), part of a christmas present for my little niece. Once again made from a vintage pillowcase, vintage sheeting made into bias binding and finished off with some Liberty pockets.



Thank you for yesterdays get well wishes. I'm happy to say that things are almost back to normal around here. Back to school and far fewer sniffles at home.




Linking up here with My Creative Space.



16 comments:

  1. Oh wow - your ornament is just gorgeous (I am so thinking of restarting my pathetic attempt!) and that book looks great too. Love pillowcase dresses :) Hope it's a sniffle-free weekend. Kx

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  2. You have so many lovely items being created in your home!

    I really love the pillowcase dress, thank you for the link, I would like to attempt one myself.

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  3. Cute idea for your ornaments Tania.
    I've been wanting to get that book for myself also..I've been reading her blog for sometime now and often use it as a reference for techniques etc.
    X

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  4. Anything with Bunting is always good in my books! I love the wee pockets on the pillowcase dress too. Elaina xo

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  5. Your bunting will be beautiful. I know what you mean about the pressure and hoping the receiver will like my handiwork. I've been procrastinating on what I am going to make for the swap. I have finally decided tho and must now get crafting.
    Gee I love those pillowcase dresses. If only pillowcases were large enough for adults.
    Glad everyone is starting to feel normal again.
    :)

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  6. beauitful images Tania! The ornament already seems very sweet and I'm sure your recipeient will appreciate the hard work gone into it! it's hard to work under pressure, but given it's a swap I'm sure that crafters alike can appreciate a gift that is handmade...many a times I have given a gift i've made and that person has neither appreciated the time or the fact that i made it! i;m selective now in who i give my handmade gifts too! have fun sewing up a wardrobe! that book looks and sounds divine x

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  7. Your Little Tea Leaves is looking great. I use 30cm circulars from Addi for little sleeves, it makes the whole process far quicker and more enjoyable :D

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  8. That's the sweetest little bunting, you're doing so well with your embroidery. I love all your other creations too.

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  9. Love the colour of violet's jacket.

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  10. Violet's tiny tea leaves is gorgeous! I always put off that last little bit like sleeves...but when you get started it seems to finish itself in no time. That book looks like a ripper...will have to check it out. As for your wee ornament...it will be adored. WIshing you the loveliest of Fridays.
    Steph :) x

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  11. You make such amazing things with your hands! That tiny bunting is wonderful! How could someone NOT love it?!

    I must check out this Gertie book!

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  12. The embroidered bunting is so darling and sweet! You are very crafty!

    PS: I would like to invite you to enter the inHomewares giveaway at my blog. Enter for your chance to win $50 voucher! http://www.underlockandkeyblog.com/2012/11/inhomewares-giveaway.html

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  13. wow so much gorgeous creativity! Love the colours of the wee cardi.

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  14. Loving your ornament swap, it's looking great. Also the pillowcase dress/top for your niece is fabulous. You have been busy lately:)

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