Yesterday was Australia Day here. We celebrated two birthdays with a lunch in the backyard in the sweltering heat. My dairy-free, gluten-free and egg-free cake worked well – rising, which was one of the most important aspects of it – and tasting great. A swim in the afternoon completed the day, then home for leftovers for dinner.
I have been working on the proposed Hardanger class projects for Beating Around the Bush 2012, and wanted to make a bookmark that could be worked in simple stitches for beginners, and more difficult stitches for intermediate Hardangerers, all able to be learnt and mostly completed within a 6 hour/1 day lesson. I had designed the intermediate level one some time back, but was a bit stuck on the beginners version of it. I took my daughters to the beach on Tuesday, and we went by public transport. I knew this would mean I’d have a lot of stitching time, so I quickly designed a simplified version early in the morning before we left. I took it with me and was able to get a lot done. It has since been completed. While it looks a lot less interesting than the intermediate one, it will be a good introduction to Hardanger techniques for beginners, and should be achievable in the one day.
I’ve been wondering if anyone would be interested in some tips about machine sewing on stretch fabrics? I had a question or two about this because of my recent “little red dress” project, and the mention of sewing leotards. Would anyone else like to ask any questions?
All my book sales are going well, with a reprint of The Right-Handed Embroiderer’s Companion recently arriving. I also will need to reprint The Left-Handed Embroiderer’s Companion very soon, which is so pleasing. And this is a book that some people didn’t think needed to be published…! If you received a copy of any of my books during the recent Christmas season, I’d love to hear what you think of it/them. Better still, why not write a review for your blog, or on your favourite online bookseller’s website, such as Amazon?
Today we’re doing more last minute things before school goes back next week. I was hoping to get lots of work done today, but then realised we have an appointment to go to, so there goes that idea! I hope that you have a great day.
White Threads is the blog of Yvette Stanton, the author, designer, publisher behind Vetty Creations' quality needlework books and embroidery products.
Hi Yvette,
I just love public transport for catching up on embroidery or sewing! A definite benefit of not having to drive myself or family around is making sure we always live nice and close to a train station (preferably!)
Will you be selling your introduction to hardanger (bookmark) separately off your site?
Hi Jennifer, I love public transport for sewing too. I think Tuesday was the first time I’ve done embroidery on a ferry though! Or at the beach!
The bookmarks will be class projects in April 2012, and I am contractually obliged not to put out the pattern any time before then… So no time soon, sorry.
Hi Yvette,
I would LOVE some tips on sewing stretch fabrics on a regular sewing machine. Mine’s a Bernina, an oldie from the 70s so it weighs a ton but has zigzag and various other stitches. I’ve gone so far as to buy some jersey and some fabulous Japanese stretch cotton fabric but have been too scared to have a go. Your red dress is a knockout. Regards, Suzy
Hi Suzy, thanks for letting me know. My Bernina is from the 80s, and while its not a whizz bang computerised one (and I’m quite happy that its not!) it does all I want it to. I’ll see what I can come up with in the line of stretch sewing tips!
It’s so pleasing to know that your books are going so well, especially if people tried to tell you there’d be no market – Well done!
Thanks Rachel – I’m certainly pleased!