tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40345378401139333452024-03-06T12:28:03.607+13:00Seven-StitchesCelebrating the moments of joy in a journey of making and creatingAmy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.comBlogger515125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-1967236361965169752017-02-25T17:42:00.002+13:002017-02-25T17:42:54.695+13:00The Saunio Cardigan - Sew My Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Saunio Cardigan was a success. This pattern was the second in the Sew-My-Style challenge. It was also my first attempt at using NAMED PATTERNS. <br />
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My favorite part of this pattern would have to be an accidental detail - as I put together the shoulders, I only had gold grosgrain ribbon in my sewing bag. Now there are little golden seams hidden on the inside.<br />
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The pattern is generally loose fitting, but the arms are quite snug. I added and extra 2 inches to the width of the sleeves, but wish I had added a little more.<br />
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I may have overthought some of the steps, but my key lesson is READ the instructions. This is something that I relish doing, but it appears I start reading and then just skim over the details looking at the pictures. I read in depth all the details about adding a seam allowance to each piece. However, that little step 2, that has no pictures, but says "interface the facings" - you want to pay attention to that one.<br />
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The jacket fits, is versatile and certainly fills a gap in my wardrobe. While it's not what I would usually wear, there might be another on in the works some time soon.<br />
Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-71761885588682824832017-01-26T21:27:00.002+13:002017-01-26T21:28:41.086+13:00Toaster Sweater Meets Bomber Jacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is my take on the <a href="http://sewhouse7.com/products/the-toaster-sweaters" target="_blank">Toaster Sweater</a> by SewHouse7. There has been a lot of pattern hacking going on lately. It is high time that I made some adjustments and made something for myself. My sweater is now a bomber jacket that I can wear to work. <br />
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The pattern is part of the <a href="http://bluebirdfabrics.co.uk/pages/uk-sewing-blogs-project-sewmystyle-what-is-it" target="_blank">sewmystyle 2017</a> challenge. The fabric I've used is a bonded merino knit that I picked up at a recent fabric-a-brac market for the princely sum of $1. I'm left wishing that there was just a little bit more of it because next time I make this, it's going to have pockets, for sure.<br />
<br />Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-83213254436771447632016-06-10T11:33:00.001+12:002016-06-10T11:33:47.086+12:00Sewing With My SisterThere is something special about sewing in good company. Every Monday, I do just that. In the last 6 months I have had the privilege of also sewing with my sister.<div>
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Finding herself between graduation and leaving for the overseas, my sister had 6 months to work, save and, most importantly, learn to sew. She joined me every Monday night, with friends as we sewed the nights away.</div>
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We started small, with a drawstring bag before moving onto something to wear. </div>
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There was certainly a new Zealand flavour to the sewing - a <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/collections/dresses/products/sway-dress" target="_blank">sway dres</a>s from PaperCut Patterns and <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/collections/tops/products/undercover-hood" target="_blank">undercover hood</a>. There were also some chambray shorts (that co-ordinate so well with the hood) and a Christmas hamper's worth of jewelry cases.</div>
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The hoodie was an exercise in frugality as we shuffled pattern pieces and shortened cuffs to get the pattern out of a 1.2 m remnant of double sided merino knit. We have Emma, of <a href="http://www.missmaudesewing.co.nz/" target="_blank">Miss Maude</a> to thank for the addition of this divine contrast piping using the reverse side of the fabric. </div>
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It has been wonderful being able to sew with my sister. I consider myself honored to be able to introduce her to my sewing friends and the highly addictive possibilities of sewing for yourself.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-802325640174878482016-06-01T22:27:00.001+12:002016-06-02T07:51:07.876+12:00Oversew - Recycled and Reimagined Liberty Shirts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Viva La Liberty, my <a href="http://www.oversewfashion.com/" target="_blank">oversew</a> entry, is made from a collection of shirts. The outfit is a memory palace of fabrics and stories of treasured items. <br />
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My family is big on narrative and epic stories. Objects are given a history, to be recalled should anyone ask. Locations on a road trip trigger stories of "The time when.." Everything becoming a part of an intricate memory palace. So it is natural that the pieces in Viva La Liberty have their own stories too.<br />
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This is the story of the pieces in Viva La Liberty.<br />
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<b>A collection of Liberty shirts</b> - 9 in total. While most of the shirts were found in thrift shops, two were made by family members. These shirts are a tangible evidence of women expressing themselves over the years through their craft and selection of fabrics.<br />
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Each shirt is carefully disassembled allowing the fabric to be reused and re-celebrated. The seams, collars and cuffs are removed before being washed and pressed flat. The tradition of disassembling to wash, or reuse, is common with revered garments, such as kimono.<br />
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The oldest shirt belonged to my Great Aunt. The handsewn name tag is testament that it was one of her favourites as it was packed with her when she moved to a nursing home. During the disassembly of this shirt, the fabric proved too frail for this project. Only the label has been used in the oversewn garments. The remainder of the fabric has been put aside for use in a creation more suited to it’s delicate state.<br />
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<b>A Liberty skirt</b> - This was originally a kit-set for the enthusiastic, but less confident home-sewer. It came with shirred edging, buttonholes and buttons allowing the discerning woman to make their very own skirt, with minimal effort.<br />
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This skirt was given to me by my godmother after years of use. My love of sewing has always been encouraged by family, though acts of generosity, such as this. Given a tradition of frugality and love of fabric, this skirt could only be treasured and passed on. Part of this garment’s story is told through patches concealing buttons that were sewn and resewn, as well as darker areas that were hidden in the deep hems of the original skirt.<br />
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<b>A Liberty toddler’s dress</b> - This small dress was passed to me by an Aunt because she thought I would treasure the fabric and “could do something with it”. It had obviously been sewn at home, with loving hands, and was meant for a child who would only fit it for a brief moment. Dresses like this illustrates how women have shown love by wrapping their children in the most precious fabrics.<br />
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<b>A white linen shirt made by myself in 1993</b>, in my earlier years of home-sewing. This shirt featured everything conformist about the 90’s from paua shell buttons, to copious amounts of billowing white linen. This shirt had been worn by myself, passed to my mother for wearing and then catalogued with those items “too good to throw out” at the back of every wardrobe. Fortunately, the hand sewn name tag, saw the shirt to returned to me and reinvented in this outfit. I took great delight in being able to rework my own sewing, as each piece of the shirt was unpicked, pockets removed and buttons put aside. The newly created garments are both different from and reflective of, the original piece.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-61767546866584245742016-05-29T08:02:00.000+12:002016-05-29T08:04:49.651+12:00Oversew 2016: Viva La Liberty<br />
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Viva La Liberty was entered into the 2016 <a href="http://www.oversewfashion.com/" target="_blank">Oversew Fashion Awards</a>. Following and amazing night at the awards show for this extravaganza of remade, re-imagined and upcycled fashion, I can share the details of this outfit born out of years of collecting fabrics and hours of sewing. The finished work features a white linen camisole and a fully reversible circle skirt.<br />
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I’ve included the following excerpt from my accompanying entry, to tell the some of the story.<br />
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<b>The Outfit</b><br />
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The camisole is based on a vintage 1950’s lingerie pattern, with darted shaping and bias cut body. I’ve updated the style has been updated to incorporate recycled details from a Liberty shirt.<br />
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The first side of the skirt features Liberty floral shirts pieced in a radiating spiral, starting with lightest at the top and gradually darkening towards the hem. The use of ombre in placement of fabrics, gives a contemporary edge to the more traditional Liberty prints. <br />
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The second side, again celebrates the wonder of Liberty prints with an allover pattern and white linen accent to the hem. This linen strip being the only new fabric visible in the garment.<br />
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Viva La Liberty was made possible by a family tradition of saving, storing and exchanging garments. The original garment include pieces found, donated and handsewn. Pieces were gradually added for their texture, pattern and potential. <br />
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The finished pieces tell pay homage to Liberty patterns. The Liberty pattern has continued through times where pattern and decoration were dismissed by modernism as irrelevant. The fabrics are made from natural materials including natural linen, cotton and cotton lawn. This outfit tells a story of women choosing quality materials and detailed patterns to express their creativity.<br />
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<b>And ….This outfit was judged Runner-Up in the Fire Worx section of the 2016 Oversew Fashion Awards. </b><br />
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Details of the many, many garments that went into making Viva La Liberty to follow.<br />
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<br />Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-73393335723254484782016-04-15T13:02:00.003+12:002016-04-15T13:02:45.178+12:00Leggings - the making of a tried and true patternLeggings are the true work horse of the wardrobes around here. This year I reluctantly traced out the largest size in my tried and true pattern. I find it hard to believe that I really have made this pattern in all sizes from 3 to 8. While I've never written about these before you can see them in the background of many of our adventures over the years.<br />
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My favorite has to be yellow leggings. They make every outfit awesome and have been made again and again in different sizes. I sometimes wish I could just pull on a pair myself to brighten up dull moments.<br />
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I have used <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/Patterns/12876" target="_blank">NewLook 6639</a>. As this have been a 6 year journey of legging making, this pattern is sadly out of print. The cover art has dated a little too. You need to look past it to see the magic. This pattern turns the smallest length of stretch fabric into beloved leggings. The pattern uses 2 pieces (front and back) and sews up very quickly. If you are looking for something similar, I'd recommend trying <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/Patterns/77913" target="_blank">Simplicity 8105</a> or <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/patterns/56887" target="_blank">Kwiksew 3958</a>.<br />
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In the mean time, I'm on the hunt for a new leggings pattern for my oldest daughter. Sizes 8+ can be just a little harder to find. There is the twist that you are no longer dressing toddlers or little kids. Perhaps she might even be nudging the XS end of the women's patterns that I sew for myself. Somehow I'm just not ready for that. I'm delighting that E still spies sparkly fabric in the sewing room and lets me make her clothes.<br />
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<span id="goog_2140224415"></span><span id="goog_2140224416"></span><br />Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-69871422254531755342016-03-11T14:42:00.000+13:002016-03-11T14:42:40.378+13:00Sewing in Twos <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Around here, we sew in twos. Sewing in twos means a balancing act of one for you and one for you too. Each garment diplomatically balanced with one for the other. This week is was sweat shirts. One, grey marle with sparkles, the other marshmallow pink with super long cuffs. <br />
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I have long since realised that <a href="http://seven-stitches.blogspot.co.nz/2010/08/dressing-3-year-olds-and-herding-cats.html" target="_blank">my daughters are determined to be themselves</a>. Sometimes, however, they are also determined to be the same as each other.<br />
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The Pattern - Littlekiwiscloset - Street Smart Sweatshirt<br />
The Fabric - Cotton sweat shirting from Levana with rayon knit accents from spotlight<br />
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-49368732870628365882016-03-06T21:25:00.000+13:002016-03-06T21:25:00.624+13:00Adventures in Vintage Simplicity - The Draped Camisole<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WG2Zljj1LCVqXzQ5Xsv1PeUdzv91XHRigNZ0lJWGi-mciGf8AXY1O1Bo002lpMPhRmMz990iTiVhCHZjz2pHLBRb6_jVpxiP86AKGhpJt2cuvGEoI1GYRlP18_XRK2t_JjsjBTKTF-Jm/s1600/camisole1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WG2Zljj1LCVqXzQ5Xsv1PeUdzv91XHRigNZ0lJWGi-mciGf8AXY1O1Bo002lpMPhRmMz990iTiVhCHZjz2pHLBRb6_jVpxiP86AKGhpJt2cuvGEoI1GYRlP18_XRK2t_JjsjBTKTF-Jm/s320/camisole1.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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In the quest for a camisole that fits and flatters I decided to make my own. A 1958 Vintage Simplicity pattern was just the leaping off point I needed.</div>
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The body of the pattern was cut from cotton lawn. To ensure a custom fit, the cups were draped and the straps replaced with something a little more modest.</div>
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Taking some vintage Japanese cotton lawn (Kanebo International), the first final piece came together. There are lengths of satin and viscoes waiting for the second and third final pieces.</div>
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There were a few more tweaks as I nipped and tucked my way to the end. Slices taken off here and there. I could have gone on forever. Eventually I had to admit, it was done, and time to finish.</div>
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For now I'll let my mannequin model it. It fits beautifully, you'll just have to take my word for it.</div>
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-62641882880695020252014-12-07T21:34:00.000+13:002014-12-07T21:34:23.590+13:00Lashings of Ginger Beer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3xC0tHv_OfpNwz9VQLCwB4IBT3PQGZHgY7-Tqnxg8zLdfH-AMthqhHYci0dhca6tDvJkRR_nfhc1NMORyzd_j4q6588g9OUqGWzn_Ec2c5_-7Km-drlItsgKF4wn5rqEvkIM-SLCWqu4/s1600/ginger+growing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip3xC0tHv_OfpNwz9VQLCwB4IBT3PQGZHgY7-Tqnxg8zLdfH-AMthqhHYci0dhca6tDvJkRR_nfhc1NMORyzd_j4q6588g9OUqGWzn_Ec2c5_-7Km-drlItsgKF4wn5rqEvkIM-SLCWqu4/s1600/ginger+growing.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
In anticipation of summer, we are bottling ginger beer. <br />
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The bug has been growing on the window sill for a week now. Each morning we feed the yeasty mud with some more sugar and ginger. <br />
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Despite the sound of it, it is downright fascinating watching it bubble away.<br />
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The first batch is bottled. Tasting should be in a week, when summer finally arrives. However, it feels like I can guarantee rain by simply hanging out the
washing. Hopefully, I haven't cast a jinx on summer in the same way.<br />
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The bug is still growing. One ready to give away and the other ready for round two.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-51552476782082447112014-12-02T20:48:00.001+13:002014-12-02T20:48:36.914+13:00Christmas - It's the Little Moments Together<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82m0kRhcCAaBKNk1v3IQQ5ODt0Ql4Tln61klYtnP76ccRURMc1F0ZQM_fL3KmEREYFE8fIE53aWVdjQ4PsiR0a_XCKfLsLGfi6yC3K5WqfM25gXC0ojQPav9q0MKk7LKaHP-qyKs_42uO/s1600/advent+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82m0kRhcCAaBKNk1v3IQQ5ODt0Ql4Tln61klYtnP76ccRURMc1F0ZQM_fL3KmEREYFE8fIE53aWVdjQ4PsiR0a_XCKfLsLGfi6yC3K5WqfM25gXC0ojQPav9q0MKk7LKaHP-qyKs_42uO/s1600/advent+2.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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It is all about the little moments. The calendar has turned, the decorations are coming out and we are counting down to Christmas. We have a nightly tradition of advent calendar and Christmas stories before bed. The candle is new for us. We pop up between stories to check how far it has burnt, with a little line for each day. We take it in turns to blow it out.<br />
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Oh, we have so many Christmas stories, that I really must share them at some point. Stories that warm the heart, talk of a certain Saint Nicholas (anyone remember him in all the rush?) and some that have me so misty eyed I find them hard to finish. We sit on the couch, huddled, necks craning to see pictures and we read.<br />
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It is nice to be spending the time together. As we hear of family members battling with illnesses and odds, the lists of perfectly co-ordinated decorations fall away, and we remember it really is a privilege to spend these moments together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIv-cUNhQzgBR5STqytt0C7wncioppVJbtRxtlyrhrH38kiGIAClR4clfz5mpUg26dOPWEvsCYAZCj59HR9LhYYkzSbhdK9kkuTVvbkKdhEIQuypncMBcETQSKKLNHi9v0qO6uFOemyD-/s1600/advent.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIv-cUNhQzgBR5STqytt0C7wncioppVJbtRxtlyrhrH38kiGIAClR4clfz5mpUg26dOPWEvsCYAZCj59HR9LhYYkzSbhdK9kkuTVvbkKdhEIQuypncMBcETQSKKLNHi9v0qO6uFOemyD-/s1600/advent.jpg" height="224" width="640" /></a>Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-64738169207813431122014-11-17T21:35:00.001+13:002014-11-17T21:35:45.933+13:00Christmas Hama Beads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88V7bTSlbncyRErQkH8XQevG7T-PUCuni_4vly7eMVbiRePek4A8wfn_amdoOLb6nNU8ijmBC5IBbyPJ2tYAH-LpA8S9KvadaMArp9zbl7JLJb8DcqtgKJsd4bgL3BuejigBpI8RRtmQQ/s1600/beads+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88V7bTSlbncyRErQkH8XQevG7T-PUCuni_4vly7eMVbiRePek4A8wfn_amdoOLb6nNU8ijmBC5IBbyPJ2tYAH-LpA8S9KvadaMArp9zbl7JLJb8DcqtgKJsd4bgL3BuejigBpI8RRtmQQ/s1600/beads+2.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Little snowflakes are finding their way into our house. The pretty little snowflake decorations turned out to be just the thing to entertain a seven year old when confined to the house. They are made with Hama beads (similar to Perler), laid out on a grid and then gently ironed. </div>
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Together, we searched for patterns and began to sort out our bucket of beads. </div>
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Slowly we worked out how to make the decorations a little more robust. Spindly, thin details don't hold up very well so look for snowflakes with wider points, or fill in the background with another colour, like the red one above.</div>
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You can find links to other Hama bead decorations below:</div>
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<a href="http://www.beadmerrily.co.uk/christmas-hama-bead-patterns/traditional-hama-bead-snowflake-patterns/" target="_blank">Bead Merrily</a> - lots of diagrams for snowflakes</div>
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<a href="http://www.coffeeandvanilla.com/christmas-decorations-made-of-beads/" target="_blank">Coffee and Vanilla</a> - Gorgeous flakes in vibrant colours</div>
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<a href="http://crafts.tutsplus.com/articles/last-minute-christmas-craft-bead-and-paper-snowflakes--craft-16044" target="_blank">Tutsplus</a> - Stunning black and white snowflakes</div>
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-19813079220975567982014-11-13T21:05:00.001+13:002014-11-17T21:19:13.092+13:00To the Lighthouse - Palliser Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXVB5_emSJMwJZBgIQPSI-3WcjQSrXsTa04vmxTmqjlC4K9ynFT-b89bAJ1voY8ag8RCqEeAdeC-67wFbdKDxidekyvxxRnpjcLPvjZflzeQJPBCoHKHlnlUJQOldOfsecWIFRuDbECktu/s1600/Adventure+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXVB5_emSJMwJZBgIQPSI-3WcjQSrXsTa04vmxTmqjlC4K9ynFT-b89bAJ1voY8ag8RCqEeAdeC-67wFbdKDxidekyvxxRnpjcLPvjZflzeQJPBCoHKHlnlUJQOldOfsecWIFRuDbECktu/s400/Adventure+1.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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3 Little girls, one light house, 258 steps and the adventure begins.</div>
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The Cape Palliser Lighthouse is a place that has always been special to me. It is at the cusp of oceans and situated so far south that you don't realise that you have slowly turned around to find yourself facing north again. </div>
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Between this grand dame, and the beloved book "<a href="http://www.rondaarmitage.co.uk/all-about-lighthouse-keeper" target="_blank">The Lighthouse Keeper's Lunch</a>" I was convinced all light houses were red and white stripey just like my one. </div>
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As a child we would visit the lighthouse keepers, Norm and June. I recall small biscuits and afternoon tea at the end of the road. There is even a half memory of being allowed inside, the spiraling stairs and tiny windows. It seams so magical, I sometimes wonder if it ever happened.</div>
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As I grew older, it became automated and the lighthouse keepers left. My brother even lived in the tiny little lighthouse keepers house for one very cold winter.</div>
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While the door to the light house is now firmly closed, the steps are there for all to climb.</div>
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-34711721189386917302014-11-05T21:08:00.000+13:002014-11-05T21:08:32.923+13:00Foxy Softie and Her Foxy Companion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qK8kxuBpC0y9Zm9d4rAYKAQWsErECrPa5RaETdCIpyo_2ASwWdteb5QTpBOyM6uKaL_4zGR_xhe_f4ySTDPk0IsmojAIuDAP4WT7GTZVdBWa2qqVqzjk68ZVvQtA0Kre4grCg4mocX-7/s1600/foxy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qK8kxuBpC0y9Zm9d4rAYKAQWsErECrPa5RaETdCIpyo_2ASwWdteb5QTpBOyM6uKaL_4zGR_xhe_f4ySTDPk0IsmojAIuDAP4WT7GTZVdBWa2qqVqzjk68ZVvQtA0Kre4grCg4mocX-7/s1600/foxy+2.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdgyie7zMIFjxgkiafQ8x8G5DofGZRNAWbUHLuIDuleG-oyq4etMsJYMzxe-X0rrDqEn2nJkKgA20yLGdmsG0-fgMo6LjBK_KRqrKOj7H7-JBY5DeRsdCORQ8HHmqoRPa_noS-io6VuYE/s1600/foxy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdgyie7zMIFjxgkiafQ8x8G5DofGZRNAWbUHLuIDuleG-oyq4etMsJYMzxe-X0rrDqEn2nJkKgA20yLGdmsG0-fgMo6LjBK_KRqrKOj7H7-JBY5DeRsdCORQ8HHmqoRPa_noS-io6VuYE/s1600/foxy.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></div>
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This little pair of foxes was group effort. Mother stitching the big fox and daughter stitching the little one.<br />
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It was the kind of project that had me pulling fabrics, aching over choices and generally remembering why making softies can be simultaneously a frustration and pleasure.<br />
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In one of those moments of frustration, I suggested that E make the presents for her friend. She took up the challenge. I have to admit I was impressed. So was her friend.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYN5LCqkHFmCQ7A3yjFTXptYgTE-RU-KgkORUzcUa4ezw1YQqUOXZwfzTue7RtJWr5T27F_33NojuCjG3Nf_dxNzoh9_Mo0OGWDRLlsmjy8c-Fy4AmT58eT-BleC_-3kCvLk0xdo2nZNe/s1600/foxy+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYN5LCqkHFmCQ7A3yjFTXptYgTE-RU-KgkORUzcUa4ezw1YQqUOXZwfzTue7RtJWr5T27F_33NojuCjG3Nf_dxNzoh9_Mo0OGWDRLlsmjy8c-Fy4AmT58eT-BleC_-3kCvLk0xdo2nZNe/s1600/foxy+3.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />The large fox is adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/We-Make-Dolls-Dollmakers-Patterns/dp/1454702494" target="_blank">We Make Dolls</a> and you can find a pattern for the smaller one at <a href="http://littlewhiteschoolhouse.blogspot.ca/2013/05/free-fox-softie-pattern.html?m=1" target="_blank">Little White School House</a>.<br />
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<br />Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-25151299651702794962014-11-01T20:31:00.001+13:002014-11-01T20:31:25.231+13:00Coming up for Air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdgwKBz0y-quGFWEJDCwI6ysFXzBxSQFPia3poLRcBWs9CvcnlnAORs_REzrBjXrjOHLHKmxPUlQiZygK3dTkBrAaShrepiyMqtGPzIzfUIapz4v5Gu4iXkhTsHGQ2ggYtLe57_0JG1U9/s1600/Mermaid+and+friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdgwKBz0y-quGFWEJDCwI6ysFXzBxSQFPia3poLRcBWs9CvcnlnAORs_REzrBjXrjOHLHKmxPUlQiZygK3dTkBrAaShrepiyMqtGPzIzfUIapz4v5Gu4iXkhTsHGQ2ggYtLe57_0JG1U9/s1600/Mermaid+and+friend.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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There has been stitching, crafting and oh so many adventures. I couldn't possibly leave them in the depths of a forgotten camera memory card.<br />
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This little mermaid is the result of a girl who believes her mother can make miracles. The night before the party, she asked for a mermaid, for her friend. Of course miracles are abound here, especially when one sets one's mind to it. A little stitching, stuffing and velvet hair meant for a brief moment the goldfish had a friend. It looks like he's just waiting for her to jump in.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>pattern from - Wee Wonderfuls </i><i>by Hilary Lang</i></span>.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-1530702616152521262014-05-18T21:47:00.002+12:002014-05-18T21:47:26.974+12:00Winter Coats- Elves are Cooler Than Pixies<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PKX_Ge1koltrdMeN5B-WQHI2jtZuzuEu90s9dssuIvUgUsY1flQNkEFXaAPzk8WEaTFCIIxNauvhrH2uxx-QivBbqCwKL5ueQYh4kr0Ourggz0_bFzuxzTJutgsX8K8LX7v1-i5tdwjD/s1600/pixies+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PKX_Ge1koltrdMeN5B-WQHI2jtZuzuEu90s9dssuIvUgUsY1flQNkEFXaAPzk8WEaTFCIIxNauvhrH2uxx-QivBbqCwKL5ueQYh4kr0Ourggz0_bFzuxzTJutgsX8K8LX7v1-i5tdwjD/s1600/pixies+1.jpg" height="195" width="320" /></a> </div>
Winter means winter coats. I have been stitching away, with these coats just waiting for it to get cold enough to wear. Of course, this doesn't mean that everything else the children wear is seasonally appropriate. Check out those bare knees!! <br />
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The girls promptly told me that they are elf coats, not pixie coats. Apparently, elves are cooler. I think we can blame the Polar Express movie for that. The girls are pretty excited about their coats either way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cUaaEp_0kxyciZfWvM_kJP2at4tUvNDHotiG9RxBftxY3HPcBqDAeVJcm0leMHCfbkQeiY75k_mTWo9BMqOHkAjEI3diwOWWDMtHO_yVe0rReCX6AUAZYNV-yAOqMVcy93oNn9iFZdxr/s1600/pixies+on+the+go.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0cUaaEp_0kxyciZfWvM_kJP2at4tUvNDHotiG9RxBftxY3HPcBqDAeVJcm0leMHCfbkQeiY75k_mTWo9BMqOHkAjEI3diwOWWDMtHO_yVe0rReCX6AUAZYNV-yAOqMVcy93oNn9iFZdxr/s1600/pixies+on+the+go.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
About the Pattern:<br />
The pattern is <a href="http://www.citronille.fr/produit.php?id_produit=3072#pid_3072" target="_blank">Thadee by Citronille</a>. It has been shortened to allow for tree climbing and bike riding adventures. I didn't realise you could get the patterns in english and fumbled my way through the french (looking at the pictures really). I chose to line it with flannel to the hoods and body and vintage acetate to the sleeves. I've also added some pockets into the side seams. The buttons are vintage self covered dome buttons which found in an opshop. I still haven't been able to find anyone who is currently making them as they are great for little fingers.<br />
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The fabric was bought at an <a href="http://seven-stitches.blogspot.co.nz/2014/01/painting-by-numbers.html" target="_blank">auction </a>in January. The coral appears to have been a wool blanket once upon a time. It was just an off cut when it came to me. The blue is a thick woven coat wool. You may see a little more of it over time as I ended up with a half bolt of it.<br />
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The pattern is simple to make and I would recommend it. While it would be a whole lot faster to make without pockets or lining, the little details make it all the nicer for my little <strike>pixies</strike> elves.<br />
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Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-61605863445367335832014-03-31T21:20:00.002+13:002014-05-18T21:13:57.041+12:00More of a good thing - thrifting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7dYBgqhAINkZz6wF5MEM2XYqAbr_YZo-awYRRIwijD7wbxyhWpwevDCNSBP2pVF0tZvfrEKX2dqec-Mg_7hsdDNNRdNUdFFlXguHdW545kei_ZnMEGG8QTe0YtkbKYcKuk9mvy1btfgl/s1600/more+thrifting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7dYBgqhAINkZz6wF5MEM2XYqAbr_YZo-awYRRIwijD7wbxyhWpwevDCNSBP2pVF0tZvfrEKX2dqec-Mg_7hsdDNNRdNUdFFlXguHdW545kei_ZnMEGG8QTe0YtkbKYcKuk9mvy1btfgl/s1600/more+thrifting.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
Thrifting has been following a theme lately. There are some things that I already have and treasure, and then - I find more. The second <a href="http://seven-stitches.blogspot.co.nz/2013/06/little-bird.html" target="_blank">Mr Weeble</a> is case and point.<br />
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Sometimes there is a fine line between treasuring and hoarding. For now, I'd like to think I'm still on the treasured side.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-81600710631394843482014-03-16T19:56:00.001+13:002014-03-16T20:17:10.712+13:00Sorting a Rainbow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4c99xbPs5hBCY9ZRpNnNwNyi5YehcFZ3EItag7fbyviYKNbzWxClbR5Dd8qP4s6m5IqL-myyRv4mcGRi1B376I3b5_1_aTCbXyZLdcN3rZCFwGNqYv6JYrFLNLX-3vNvqNhVON4xpFnvC/s1600/cotton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4c99xbPs5hBCY9ZRpNnNwNyi5YehcFZ3EItag7fbyviYKNbzWxClbR5Dd8qP4s6m5IqL-myyRv4mcGRi1B376I3b5_1_aTCbXyZLdcN3rZCFwGNqYv6JYrFLNLX-3vNvqNhVON4xpFnvC/s1600/cotton.jpg" height="240" width="320" /> </a></div>
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I am gradually reclaiming my sewing space. It had been taken over by marauding artists and overpriced pop up shops. Six year olds can be very tenacious shop keepers. Consider the shot of my cotton to be a sample of the general mayhem that had taken over.</div>
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I'm getting down to making winter coats and started with trying to find the right blue thread. There had to be one in there somewhere. And so, the sorting began.</div>
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To be unusually pedantic, I like any top stitching thread to match as
closely as possible. I also have had too many Saturday afternoon ruined by
running out of thread that I always buy two of the colour I'm using,
just to be sure. And that is how I justify having an awful lot of thread. </div>
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This is how the cotton was shaping up after 15 minutes. Double ups are on the outside -yes that really is 4+1 of the same shade of dark purple. </div>
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All the coloured loveliness, back into the drawer...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzL8F12OIVt8WdBdiTEtukrglH5DKCxL9qClFvFoH6wr_YVcBZ0s3gPS4daiO0n7yB90rNdHSEu13cAhPPDOUJ4KvCGzIEwL5jYIgvWaO8-hkpQdc1jWfue5-xv2OJHhXe5m1KUdX_XLdX/s1600/cotton+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzL8F12OIVt8WdBdiTEtukrglH5DKCxL9qClFvFoH6wr_YVcBZ0s3gPS4daiO0n7yB90rNdHSEu13cAhPPDOUJ4KvCGzIEwL5jYIgvWaO8-hkpQdc1jWfue5-xv2OJHhXe5m1KUdX_XLdX/s1600/cotton+4.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0VpFTGLwNfqeeUcjC2t0wEJe5Ss2kAfSCy4t_s23S4Ia7_yKqYDAz8-N0pdVRAVWVqMLZtFlCrSFhQRUJUmsJemR2WEt5tc2FhSEES3_GKP3qe2O_DGYKvh4n8eSBeH3LbeGyvwvmMxH/s1600/cotton+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0VpFTGLwNfqeeUcjC2t0wEJe5Ss2kAfSCy4t_s23S4Ia7_yKqYDAz8-N0pdVRAVWVqMLZtFlCrSFhQRUJUmsJemR2WEt5tc2FhSEES3_GKP3qe2O_DGYKvh4n8eSBeH3LbeGyvwvmMxH/s1600/cotton+3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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And of course the blue thread ready for my next project. Sometimes, it really doesn't take much to keep me happy.</div>
Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-11571860388102522092014-03-05T19:59:00.004+13:002014-03-06T09:37:36.343+13:00Little Sochi Quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCNifd-wI58ezqaGmDlqIZDQvUM3b1CZEomgfnOJwjPzHbIyIgd05XlHQ0oULYZHgFTt9TYBfHO87nBo0_Mfh5syWoX22FiOgDno8ZhSkTZ6XCulQhPVxutxjq9q3zaNO5L41KJ_atQzW/s1600/Sochi+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCNifd-wI58ezqaGmDlqIZDQvUM3b1CZEomgfnOJwjPzHbIyIgd05XlHQ0oULYZHgFTt9TYBfHO87nBo0_Mfh5syWoX22FiOgDno8ZhSkTZ6XCulQhPVxutxjq9q3zaNO5L41KJ_atQzW/s1600/Sochi+1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This little quilt started well before the winter olympics. As we watched, the more we saw of the costumes and wonderful patterns below. The more we saw, the more this little quilt had to be finished. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.graphicart-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/sochi_patchwork-692x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.graphicart-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/sochi_patchwork-692x300.jpg" height="138" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sochi Olympic pattern from - http://www.graphicart-news.com</td></tr>
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It was made with the help of my Monday night quilting friends. Each
person made the triangles for a different colour, before it was finally
sewn together. It should be winging it's way to a new home and cot very soon.</div>
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<br />Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-44677408706356398922014-03-03T20:03:00.001+13:002014-03-03T20:03:30.870+13:00Teacups on my Windowsill<div style="text-align: center;">
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There is a growing collection of mismatched cups on my windowsill. I love the colours, just a little murky and so cheerful. They are waiting for me to get started on giving them new life. <br />
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You see, each one is a little broken. Some chips are obvious, some cracks only show up when the cup is full of hot water. I could call it perfectionism, but really it's a matter of safety. Once when catching my mother throwing out a china cup, she explained that chipped wine glasses are fine, decadent even, but anything broken, holding a hot drink, is just dangerous.<br />
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Rather than waiting to fill these teacups with wine, ever the engineer, I'm on the look out for a ceramic drill bit. I believe these will make a great collection of bulb planters. I can gaze again at the cheerful colours while sitting around a pot of tea with good company.<br />
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My apologies for the lack of recent posts. My work hours have unexpectedly increased and as a family we are still finding our feet in the shifting sands of new routines. The crafting adventures continue. They are as essential as breathing, yet the writing is taking a back seat.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-89828789396069566352014-01-26T21:28:00.002+13:002014-01-26T21:28:33.267+13:00Summer Distractions and Vegetable Gardens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every spring I start looking at my vegetable garden. The needles get put down in favour for spades, hoses and time outdoors. Sometimes it hold my attention, other times things get a little despondent by the end of January - lack of water (or watering), white fly and plants bolting to seed. This is not one of those years. <br />
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So far we have had :<br /><ul>
<li>Peas and potatoes ready for Christmas, if only we had been at home to enjoy them. </li>
<li> Avoided the tomato glut by just planting cherry tomatoes for myself, admitting that I am the only one who eat them</li>
<li>My first success with climbing beans - it's true you really do get more than with dwarf beans</li>
<li>A successful strawberry bed - the answer to millipedes is to plant flowers instead. Probably doesn't taste any good, but they looked fantastic. </li>
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I'm planning to make the most of the remaining summer and even thinking about the winter ahead. The leeks are in and I'm contemplating brussel sprouts. The slow winter growing and cold weather however, does make sewing, thrifting and crafting a little more appealing. </div>
Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-87395932615917653022014-01-21T06:00:00.000+13:002014-01-21T06:00:07.694+13:00Painting by Numbers<br />
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This painting just had to come home with me. The muted colors have me wanting to paint the walls to match. I love the distant peaks and water front houses. It feels so very sound of music. I almost want to rip down the curtains and make playsuits for the children - so much easier when you have 2 rather than a Von Trapp-ish 7. I am a sucker for musicals and dance movies. I would love to believe in a world where every low point, challenge and high moment is met with a song. Kind of like this:<br />
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The painting is from my first foray into live auctions. This painting came with another of an english village and a "back to the op shop" framed cat poster. Oh, and there was just a little fabric. Enough to clothe a whole Von Trapp family escaping through the mountains.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-16772660820482794162014-01-20T11:23:00.001+13:002014-01-20T11:23:40.156+13:00Wonders in the Sheila ShedJanuary is great time to embark on epic projects. My friend Christine is one for epic projects and last year was no different. Christine has just finished showcasing her 2013 project - 365 3x3 inch squares of embellished goodness. Then at the end of the year she packaged them up and gave them away to a friend - one to open for every day of the year. Here is just a taster..<br />
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You can see more of her wonderful work at <a href="http://whatgoesoninthesheilashed.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">What Goes on in the Sheila Shed</a>.Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-9935143309086094452014-01-11T07:52:00.002+13:002014-01-11T07:52:30.130+13:00The Great Mystery Hunt<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Obk6URZ_Int7sLzdUFoa7ehY92VNurNvMC-fwDOMq6_S6Tbyz3W85tQc8zDWpvVSr6pan35WnfIH36beqfRzGdbU7rBTnzqXe0n8XN2LZQMPgrqvilcxYSc1vRlSgd62LuHRT302cUoP/s1600/bees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> Our garden was taken over by the Great Mystery Hunt yesterday. 5 little works of art were hidden around the place. Each one had a clue or activity to keep little minds thinking. Adults were on hand to help with the reading and some of the clues did not have right or wrong answers.<br />
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The <a href="http://seven-stitches.blogspot.co.nz/2010/02/graffiti-knitting-it-has-me-wondering.html" target="_blank">graffiti knitting reappeared</a>, promoting the kids to choose their favorite colour bee. </div>
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Little birds at the bird feeder, wondering what they might be made of.<br />
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My favorite - finding strange flowers and drawing them. <br />
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It was a lovely afternoon prompted by the kids wanting to have an art exhibition outside. Each child bought along some pictures to hang in the garden. We spent the rest of the time <a href="http://www.harpercollins.com/browseinside/index.aspx?isbn13=9780061915260" target="_blank">reading</a>* painting, both pictures and toe nails, exploring and making ice blocks.<br />
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*Thanks to Miss Fancy Nancy for exhibition ideas,Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-82143909510181334332014-01-09T21:59:00.001+13:002014-01-09T21:59:16.948+13:00Unstoppable Forces and Flower Stamping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes creativity is a force to be reckoned with. H helped her self to a buch of flowers from the garden and told me we were about to hammer some flowers like they did on Sticky TV. I can only be thankful that the hammers are kept well out of reach or she wouldn't have waited for help.<br />
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To make you own flower stamps, you will need:<br />
Coloured, flatish flowers (pansies worked well)<br />
Baking paper<br />
White fabric<br />
Chopping board<br />
Hammer <br />
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Place flowers face down onto fabric. </div>
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Cover with a layer of baking paper.</div>
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Watch out for your hands an begin hammering. </div>
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And before you know it.</div>
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Ta- da ! All done.</div>
Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4034537840113933345.post-72466697167931915822014-01-06T20:51:00.001+13:002014-01-06T20:51:17.238+13:00On the Twelfth Day of Christmas .. GaletteTo celebrate the end of the end of the festive season, we made galette des rois. While the galette baked, we broke down the Christmas tree and boxed up decorations. We celebrated a few days early this year to avoid a clash with first day back to work blues. Great food and company made a fantastic end to our Christmas celebrations.<br />
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Unlike last <a href="http://seven-stitches.blogspot.co.nz/2013/01/the-twelth-day-of-christmas.html" target="_blank">year</a>, we had a tiny ceramic charm to bake into the pie. If you look carefully, you can see her standing on a dollar coin for scale. <br />
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Ready to bake.</div>
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Fresh from the oven.</div>
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Fast disappearing.</div>
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The recipe was from Nigella Lawson's "How to be a Domestic Goddess" with the filling quantities halved. We even managed to track down some orange blossom flower water. It added the most divine hint of citrus to the filling. Definitely worth the hunt.</div>
Amy Seven-Stitcheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06941539579864712680noreply@blogger.com1