#craftblogclub, Inspiration, Sewing

#craftblogclub New Year Crafty Resolution

CBC set its first challenge of the year back in January. With the New Year came the idea of a new craft. We were all set the challenge of trying our hand at a new craft. Now, at first I was reluctant as I had promised myself I would focus purely on sewing this year. As often is the case I’m too busy trying so many different things I am not growing my skills in one particular area. However, I did have a thought that I would try my hand at cross stitch. Strictly speaking this wouldn’t be my first time. I have completed 2 or 3 very basic and small cross stitch projects before. But for this challenge I wanted to set the bar high and decided I would complete a special cross stitch to mark my parents Ruby wedding anniversary.

I found this challenge a challenge before I had even started stitching! The trouble was there were just so many lovely samplers and packs online I couldn’t decide. In the end I opted for a simple yet effective design from eBay. The pack arrived promptly and had everything I needed. I was really surprised that it took me just 4 evenings to complete. It grew quickly which helped with my confidence. I am thrilled with the outcome and hope my parents will be too! 

ruby

Standard
Inspiration, Knitting & Crochet, Sewing

Harrogate Knitting & Stitching Show 2015

On Saturday I attended the Knitting & Stitching Show in Harrogate. To say I was excited is a HUGE understatement. The night before was like Christmas Eve – I just wanted it to be morning and show time! I had wonderful company with me, Hilary, my mother in law. This was actually a Christmas treat from last year from me to her. I thought we would go all out, so I got us VIP passes which was fab as it allowed us to jump the queue, have a goodie bag and get a reduced price on the workshops.

My favourite stand by Amanda Blackwell at Joe's Toes

My favourite stand by Amanda Blackwell at Joe’s Toes

Festive Robin

I just love this Robin!

The show had the most wonderful stands and suppliers of every craft you could possibly imagine. There was also an ‘artists in action’ area which allowed us to see the artists at work, plus fabulous exhibitions of stunning projects.

It sure was busy but everyone was so lovely – especially the stall holders. We had a lovely chat with Jane Greenoff, founder of the Cross Stitch Guild, and she was kind enough to sign Hilary’s book.

I've made lots of fabric brooches - this has given me the idea of building them up to make a wreath.

I’ve made lots of fabric brooches – this has given me the idea of building them up to make a wreath.

How cute is this quilt? Love the bunnies tail!

How cute is this quilt? Love the bunnies tail!

I couldn’t get over just how vast the show was – we were truly inspired and ideas were flowing over lunch as we discussed our crafting goals for 2016.

We ended the day with a Dressmaking workshop with Sandra Togher of Bowey Gallery. We both want to get into dress making next year and so we thought this was the perfect kick-start, and it certainly was. We were given a free pattern and both now feel more confident to give it a go in the New Year.

We had the most wonderful day, needless to next years show dates (1-4 Dec) are already in the diary! This really is a show not to be missed.

Workshop time!

Workshop time!

IMG_1773

Our free pattern :)

Standard