Mand-a-Lin

Swoon #2

2012-01-28T08:34:00.002+11:00

Swoon #2, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

lovin', lovin', lovin' it!

Mark it in your Diary

2012-01-27T20:43:00.007+11:00

come for a visit, you'll be pleased you did!

I'll be back very soon with #2 Swoon block,
x Mandy

Swooning along.....

2012-01-21T22:51:00.002+11:00

that's better!, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

I just couldn't resist. I'm such a sucker for a quilt-along. It's just so much fun to see how other people are making the same quilt as you!
I'm going a little different, Lynne of Lily's Quilts showed me the way. My block is 32", yep you read right, 32 glorious inches square! I'm going to make 4, all in Echo, so not all in these (very unlike me) colours. I'm really digging it, and want to have it professionally quilted.

Anyhow, off to dreamland now.
Thanks for dropping by,
x Mandy

so what's New?

2012-01-16T20:20:00.006+11:00

Well...........I'm making a row robin quilt! Huh, I hear some of you say.

Okay, so I'm part of a group of 7 or 8. And to start off, each member of the group makes a row of blocks, to finish up 48" wide. We each use the colours, and maybe a theme, which is an indication, to the rest of the group, of the direction we'd like our quilt to go in. We post it off to a specific row robin pal in the group, we each only ever send to the same person. And of course, we receive a row from a row robin pal. We then add a row of blocks to the row we received, and pass it onto the same pal we posted to before. She has, of course, added a row to the row she received, and has posted it to her usual row robin pal. And on and on it goes, until we all receive a complete quilt top in the mail, which has on it, the row we made for ourselves. I so loved this idea!

We decided to only use fabric from our stash, although we can send some background fabric for continuity if we'd like. Not too much though, as keeping the postage down is desirable for all. Even though we decided to make our rows 48" wide, we are leaving the height of each row to each sewist.

Here are the fabrics I pulled for my row, I decided to go with courthouse steps. My row is 10" high (finished), I put extra on the ends to stretch it to the 48". Actually I'd better check it's not too long, yikes! Oh, if it is I'll just, well I don't know, but I'll fix it.

I wasn't totally convinced by the end right one, but pushed on regardless.
It worked out just fine! Yay!
My friend Suzy, a fellow quilter, gave me that fab book for Christmas. I find I refer to it a lot!

Not a great photo, but we are having sooooo much rain, ugh, which makes for poor light in my old house. Plus it was taken by a young person, I think I was talking at the time as well. Something along the lines of, 'is my head in the picture' or 'you sure you can see my feet'? A bit hard to smile and talk, I don't know how those product pushing people in the tv ads do it!

Also, anybody swooning? I've started to make some 32" swoon blocks today, with my Echo fat 1/4's. A fat 1/4 of each fabric isn't enough to follow the pattern exactly while making 32" blocks, so I'm mixing it up a little. I'm having fun with it, will share by the end of the weekend. Or sooner on Flickr!

Thanks for popping by,
cheerio for now,
x Mandy

health & happiness to you in 2012

2012-01-01T00:56:00.001+11:00

health & happiness to you in 2012, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

Crazy West Indies Love!

2011-12-27T20:25:00.002+11:00

Soooooooooo, I went and bought those 2 Jennifer Paganelli West Indies fat quarter bundles. They had been sitting in my etsy faves for a while, and then they became reduced, and my resolve.......completely evaporated.

I have not regretted it for an instant....I just adore those vibrant blues and purples together, with that meager dash of red and green. Those bundles made it to the cutting mat in super duper record time!

I wanted to keep it simple, I wanted to show off those fabulous birds and I wanted to play with the contrast of the blue and purple. Mostly though, I admit, I wanted to make a quick quilt!

How can you ever go wrong with half square triangles?

I had some inspirational help added to my quilt plan scribblings.

Layout idea #1.

Layout idea #2.

But you know what, yes I loved them but......errrrrrr too contrived, too obvious, sooooooooo....... I played around and I played around and I finally settled for, and really love, for who knows what reason, this!!

It's wild, it's crazy, and I really, really love how my eye travels all the way around the quilt. It shouldn't work really!

For those eagle eyes out there, yes I am going to use the Joel Dewberry green woodgrain. It will be a border, as wide as I can make with the quantity I have. I plan to make it stretch further by putting west indies and woodgrain hst's in each corner. My main hst's are large, like 9.5" large!

Thanks for popping by,
cheerio for now
x Mandy

want a Christmas giggle?

2011-12-25T14:57:00.004+11:00

here's a little Mandalin Christmas fun!

might take a min to download

x Mandy

getting back to blogging!

2011-11-17T09:58:00.013+11:00

Pics of latest sewing to hopefully start the flow.......

Nook Stock

3x6 Bee

Hexagon quilt progressing

Market stock

opps, forgot to say cheerio

cheerio for now!
x Mandy

New Market in the Mountains

2011-09-15T09:41:00.014+10:00

This Market looks just the place to hang out at on the 1st Saturday of every month! I know I'm going to be there. Check out the FB page here, there is also a list of stallholders and pics of their work. The fun (officially) starts at 10am and goes on until 3pm, what a sensible time to start a market, breakfast first and then a visit to the market, totally perfect! And enough time if your driving up from Sydney.

I'm very seriously thinking of applying for a stall for November, I haven't enough stock for Oct plus I'm doing the Falls ArtFest at the end of October. So, unless it all sells at the ArtFest (ha!) I'll should have enough stock........so, so tempting.

Let me know if you decide to go, yes you!

cheerio for now

x Mandy

Spring has sprung!

2011-09-02T17:44:00.001+10:00

Spring in my garden ~2011, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

Even little bits of colour can lift the spirits out of the winter doldrums! There's blossom and bee's, blue skies and bluebells about to erupt into bloom! Yay for spring, I love you!

Be back soon,
x Mandy

Recent Swap

2011-08-29T18:13:00.001+10:00

Scrappy Mug Rug Swap (mostly), a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

Scrappy Mug Rug Swap, the Haiku round!

I received my adorable mug rug today, boy did it put a smile on my face! 'Kinda Obsessed', lol, you could say that, you'd be right if you did. And my DH would wholeheartedly agree, hee hee. Jan pegged me fair and square, I love, love, love it!

It's so much having little quilts other people have made for me, around me. The crosses quilt came from Leah, the gal pals from Dolores and now the obsessed lass from Jan. I just love swaps!

I hope my little free wheeling hexagon mug rug doesn't take too long to arrive at my partners.

cheerio for now!
x Mandy

DQS11 ~finished

2011-08-23T22:21:00.001+10:00

DQS11 ~finished, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

and posted!

I'm so pleased with how this one finished up, the neighbourhood cat has given it his seal of approval too! phew!

I enjoyed every process making this mini, from the fabric to the paper piecing to the quilting. And I smiled when I handed it over to the post lady. Hopefully it'll make a quick journey, as I have to come clean and say I'm late!!! I've always flown close to the wind in sending my quilties, but this time, well, I missed the first few tides.

cheerio for now,
thanks for visiting.

I really enjoy reading your comments, but don't seem to have enough time these days to reply. Perhaps it's because I'm sewing more, how ironic!

xox Mandy

DQS11 ~top finished

2011-08-20T22:27:00.001+10:00

DQS11 ~top, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

yeeeeeeeharrrrrrrrrr

It's finished, well the top anyway! I've put my heart and soul into this little pretty. I love it immensely. Hard to give away? No! I loved making it for this particular person, and I will be thrilled when she finally receives it.

The top finished at 17.5", and it now looks like a mini medallion to me, rather than an intricate 12" block, yay! Some simple quilting tomorrow, probably a fair bit, but nothing grand. Except maybe in the border before the 1/2" squares. Dunno, not sure about the binding either. I have an urge to use a hunter green, I've not enough of the pink, which would have worked beautifully.

I'm having to post to my blog from Flickr as I can't access blogger!! *sigh*

Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

DQS11

2011-08-17T17:04:00.001+10:00

DQS11, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

racing to the finish line!

x Mandy

DQS11 ~ a start!

2011-07-25T10:07:00.012+10:00

Well, goodness me, knock me over with a feather, I've started! I'm usually a slow coach with mini's, completing just before the deadline. But I'm fired up about this one, I'm loving the process of finishing a border and then turning my creativity on to the next one.

So, here's the medallion middle and first border....measuring 5"

And the second hst one....just a tad over 8" now

I'd planned to put a flying geese border next, but am now thinking of a plain strip one. A large majority of medallion quilts that I found on google, have these strip borders between the pieced ones. More thought needed, ho hum....I do have a Dolly mini quilt to finish for a good friend in Virginia!!

Cheerio for now then,
xx Mandy

DQS11 ~ we're off and running......

2011-07-21T10:12:00.010+10:00

How do you like these designs? Pretty complex? Tiny?

Yeah, all of the above, but their not mine! My 7 year old chap drew these as I was playing around with graph paper for my 'true mini' quilt. He even drew them tiny as I told him we were making mini mini's. I LOVE YOU mister. What a clever creative chap you are, and I will make one of these and sent to my partner, along with the one I really want to make.

When you all find out my partner you, will see how absolutely perfect this is.......

These are the fabrics I'm going to use, I haven't quite finalised the design. It is going to be a mini medallion quilt and I want to put as many borders as I possibly can, but still keep it small. I have to work it out accurately to keep within the swap guidelines. I relish this challenge!

Okay, I'm off back to the sewing machine.
Be back soon!
x Mandy

adjustment.........and distraction

2011-07-19T13:42:00.020+10:00

I'll not talk too much, I won't dwell, the picture above says enough. It's been a tough adjustment to make. Owner of two dogs, owner of one and then none, all within 12 weeks. I miss many, many things.

This chap came visiting the morning after Ruby passed away. He was a very welcome distraction. He pops in two or three times a day now for a cuddle, a play and to sit on our outside table in the sun. He brings us laughter and smiles and contentment.

I'll be back soon with some sewing, I did managed to do a little over the School Hols.

Cheerio,

x Mandy

blue........

2011-07-11T19:30:00.001+10:00

blue........, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

email & Sydney Craft & Quilt SHow

2011-07-04T12:10:00.000+10:00

I'm having email troubles with my rivendell addy. So sorry if I haven't replied to an email you've sent, I'm not ignoring you!!! Hope to get it fixed soon, but I am nowhere close to being tech proficient. *sigh*

here comes the fun bit!

I took a trip to Sydney for the annual Sydney Craft & Quilt Show on the 22nd June. What a day! It was a fabulous, busy, wild and too short! Leaving home at 6am, I met up with my lovely bloggy friend Rachael on the train. And we got to Sydney at 8:15am, just enough time to grab a coffee and chai from Gloria Jeans on our walk to Darling Harbour. Here is Rachael & me, I'm the shorter poddgy one!

At our 1st stop at Saffron Craig's Show & Tell talk, we met up with Lynne for the 1st time. I've *known* Lynne through the Flickr group Old Red Barn Co. for some time and it was fantastic to meet up with and spend the day with her.

Isn't Lynne's dress fantastic! Of course she's a very clever lady and made it herself! I love Patty Young's Flora & Fauna range, and it looked stunning as a dress. Rachael and I have tentative plans to make an A line skirt out of a Prints Charming scrap pack we both bought. They were all different and we had fun choosing. There are denim's, cords, twill and cotton fabrics, a fun project in waiting! There was/is a sew along on somewhere, I just have to get myself organised, ha!!!

The purple fling is still very much on!

As is the black, white, grey and red one!

The black and white are for my Scrap Vomit quilt. The Home Dec weight Heath was an exciting find, it will go fabulously with the Alexander Henry Black & White Home Dec Owls I have.

The highlight event of the day for me was the Screen Printing Workshop we did with Louise Snook. What an incredibly lovely lady she is. Man, I have wanted to have a go at this for the longest time. I felt totally in my element and loved. every. second!! I came home with a kit of course. Screen, linen, lino, cutter and 3 inks. No squeegee though! But, I popped into my local framing and art supplies shop, Jakeman's, and wonder of wonder there was the exact one I wanted. Below is the kit minus the squeegee, AND, the tea towel I made at the show! A Kokeshi Doll of course, drawn and cut out by little ole me. Oh what fun I am going to have soon, I just can't wait....

After reliving all that excitement I have to go have a cuppa!

Cheerio for now, I'll be back towards the end of the week with a little sewing post.

x Mandy

A plethora of 2 1/2" squares

2011-06-10T21:14:00.019+10:00

It's all I've been doing this week! It all started with this block. Made at a sewing morning with the lovely Rachaeldaisy. It's the start of my Scrap Vomit Quilt, which will be going on my bed!! yeehar!

It's now progressed to this!

Rachael and I also did a scrap swap (I owe you Rachael) and the majority of the two completely scrappy blocks are fabrics Rachael gave me. I put a Reindeer and a Flamingo in the centre of those blocks to remind me this lovely lass gave them to me.

I've also started my 3x6 Bee blocks for the second quarter. I thought I'd better get going as I'm probably going to be a caretaker of a hive in the 3rd quarter. I'm pretty excited about that!

Well, there you go, that's my sewing week!

Cheerio for now.

x Mandy

my secret obsession

2011-06-05T09:27:00.013+10:00

Kerry has a linky going on over on her blog which is quite fun. I thought I'd join in as I DO have a mini secret obsession! I saw one of these quite a while back on I'm a ginger monkey's blog, long, long time ago. I thought it was pretty darn cute, Oh how I searched, but to no avail. THEN.....a couple of months ago I saw a mini one, there was only two to choose from, but I got both!!! Now every time I go near this shop I have to go in and check there aren't any in there I haven't got already. Ummmm, my collection has risen to 7.

My secret obsession is Mini Lalaloopsy dolls......

Crumbs Sugar Cookie

Spot Splatter Splash

Peanut Big Top

Dot Starlight

Jewel Sparkles

Bea Spells-a-Lot

Mittens Fluff 'n' Stuff

I'm building up to purchasing an original sized one, still haven't decided which yet though, but as soon as I do, I'll let you know Mum!!! hee hee

Thanks for visiting

x Mandy

Goodie Bag Swap ~done & dusted!

2011-06-04T18:15:00.019+10:00

So, I found I had a problem. My flying geese were not going to fit on the bag that I wanted to make! Did I have a sneaking suspicion before, ummm it had crossed my mind that perhaps I should buy the pattern before I delved into making the geese! But, ah well, I'm very pleased how it all ended up.

A pouch,

to go with...

the bag!

The bag pattern in the 'Jane Market Bag', it's a fabulously easy shopping tote to make, and perfect for grocery shopping. I'll be making quite a few kazillion for pressies I'm sure. The pattern can be found here, it's a downloadable pdf.

Cheerio!

x Mandy

my creative space

2011-05-26T13:01:00.008+10:00

this is what I'm working on today....

for the Goodie Bag Swap on Flickr.

It might evolve into a zipped pouch to go with the bag instead of being part of the bag. I'm concerned it might be a little busy for my partner. We'll see....

Thanks for visiting!

x Mandy

Down Under Doll Quilt Swap ~Done!

2011-05-23T19:30:00.004+10:00

First off I have to show you the beauty that I received.

Are you ready....

sure....

okay then

ta dahhhhhhhhh

My new beau and I went on a little tour of the garden.

We got a little carried away, but it was such fun!

This beauty came from Leah aka Smoochee over on flickr.

Thank you Leah, me loves it!

Now for the one I made for my partner.

I had a whole lota fun making this, quite a sideways shift from my normal Doll Quilt. I felt so relaxed during the making process. Sometimes things didn't work so I just deleted them, sometimes there were happy accidents, like making mitred corners of the pink and blue strips. I hope my partner likes what she receives. It was posted today, so hopefully I will know before the end of the week.

Thanks for stopping by.

Cheerio for now!

x Mandy

Down Under Doll Quilt Swap ~update!

2011-05-11T17:57:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited about the girls I've made!

So without further ado,

may I present to you all....

Ash & Dot

or as my friend Rachael just suggested Agnetha and Frieda from Abba!! lol, that's so funny, cause it could also be Toni Collette and Rachel Griffiths (love that movie). OR, even funnier, it could be my Sister and I, we have always danced to Abba's Dancing Queen together, and sung loudly I might add! Love ya Nic!

Cheerio!

x Mandy

I have been sewing, some!

2011-05-09T17:13:00.000+10:00

Fresh Modern Bee block for Lynne of Lily's Quilts.

Plus a little pressie for her from the left over scraps.

Some Scrap Vomit blocks for Katy of I'm a ginger monkey, she gave me some Far Far Away II in exchange, too easy! Shhhh, there's a little pressie in the works for her. I love making stuff for pals. I must get back to another, not so little, pressie I'm making too.

Playing around with an idea for my Scrap Vomit quilt, please excuse the disgusting ironing board cover. I'm quite taken with the idea of a black outer diamond, black & white middle diamond and single colour centre cross. Yup, there are two black squares there that should be red, I was just quickly snapping to catch my idea before it flew away. The outers and other block will be utterly and totally scrappy.

Totally lovin this block! I've been wanting to try it for a while. It's the block I'm going to be making for my hive buddies in the 2nd quarter of the 3 x 6 bee on Flickr. They are also the colours I've asked for. The idea was to receive little Spring parcels over the Winter!

I first saw this block in a pic from the Tokyo 2011 Quilt Show on Flickr. I loved it then and thought I'd like to try and replicate it, my way of course! Then, can you believe, Amy from Badskirt had had the same thought. She'd decided to ask her Bee members to make it for her, and posted pics of how to construct it. If that wasn't exciting enough for me, a quilt along group has also started up. My first test block is a little wonky, but I had to have a go. I'm thinking of trying to make the block bigger too, cause I'm a slow sewer that likes fast results!!

This is how I decided to use my Sherbet Pips charm pack. This way I only lose a 1/2" strip off one side of the charm. Another block I've been eyeing off for a while, the Whirligig! I have to say, I really like the results so far. I'll put a aqua border on and pink binding.

And yet another idea I've been wanting to try. I might ask my bee pals to make me some words in July, cute huh!

Lastly, this is my idea for my partner in the Down Under DollQuilt Swap. I've just gathered together a few recent faves from Flickr. I'll be using my Sandy Klop fabric.

Okay, that's yer lot!

Thanks for visiting.

x Mandy

The Best Medicine

2011-05-03T13:40:00.026+10:00

Not all purchases, there are a few swaps in there too, of course!! Anna Maria Horner's Innocent Crush came a couple of weeks ago, it didn't initially grab me when it first came out. But then I received a few bits in a scrap swap and I was totally smitten with these colourways. I'm going to mix it up with my collection of Good Folks, ha, yes, one day!! My pal Amy has done a couple of really wonderful quilts lately this one and this one. I'm thinking one of these would work really well. Which one? I'm not sure. The lovely Katy has also recently made this one too, which I'm completely drooling over.

Anywho, I just wanted to make a short post, get back into the swing of things, I wasn't ready to replace my previous post before now. Thank you to those who sent me emails about Skeeter, those virtual hugs really helped. I'm collecting his wooden box from the Vet's tomorrow, plenty of courage and deep breaths will be needed. They are a wonderful bunch of people at my Vet's. When I went in the day after Skeeter died, the nurse helping me with the next step, was crying just as much as me. And yesterday we received a lovely handwritten card from them. GDV robbed us of Skeeter, and although I got him to the Vet very quickly, it was too late for an 11 1/2 year old dog with a heart murmur. It was an horrific experience to have, but the future has brightened. The experience hasn't deterred me from getting another Vizsla, but I will get a puppy, and have his/her stomach sewn at desexing time. For a biggish gun dog, they are an amazingly affectionate breed, I love their colour, non-doggy smell, cuddles and fun personality.

Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

Very Sad Day....

2011-04-20T15:40:00.012+10:00

R.I.P. Skeeter

29.9.99 - 20.4.11

I am going to miss you so much,

so much more than I can express right now.

Remember this block?

2011-04-16T11:35:00.001+10:00

Well, I made some more!

These went out to the ladies in hive #22 in the 3x6 bee on Flickr.

I love this Bee and found it easy to. Be. On. Time!!! Something I struggle with in most swaps. Once I made the block decision and had fun pulling fabric from my stash to each persons request, making the blocks was easy peasy puddin' an' pie! I've already decided on the next quarters block and am waiting (!!) for each persons colour requests!!

I'll post about the ones I received as soon as I take a picture of them. My colour request was red, purple and aqua with grey as a background. I LOVE all the ones I received!!!

Cheerio for now, bee back soon!

x Mandy

Doll Quilt Swap No.10

2011-04-04T15:08:00.014+10:00

finished!

I could really get used to this finishing quilts malarky!!

Right at the last minute I decided to do more hand stitching in the palest grey border. I'm really pleased with the outcome, it was so much fun working out the pattern (simple though it is), stitching, then seeing that idea come to life! I'll be doing more of this for sure.

So there we are, another DQS finished, well except for the receiving bit of course!!

Time to get excited about the one I'll be receiving! Time to go back through the Flickr pool and work out which ones have already arrived at their new home and which remaining ones I hope would come to me, and boy are there many of those! I love this swap, 200 odd likeminded people, across the world, making a mini quilt for each other! Amazing!

Next, Lynne's block! Yay for more wavy piecing! Then to start the Down Under Doll Quilt Swap, looking forward to that one.

Cheerio for now,

x Mandy

Down Under Doll Quilt Swap

2011-04-01T21:49:00.003+11:00

DUDQS, a photo by mandalin18 on Flickr.

I know, I know! I did say no more! But (in a squeaky voice) it's a Doll Quilt Swap for Aussie's and Kiwi's and I really, really wanted too! I roped my pal Rachael into it too!

This is my Inspiration mosaic for my secret partner.

I also have a plan for my partners quilt, which I'm looking forward to making. I'm going to enlarge and add to Christina's (The Sometimes Crafter) Little Cottage Mug Rug.

Sorry, short and sweet tonight. I have some binding to cut, for a certain little quilt that HAS to be mailed on Monday. Oh, and if you happen to be in the Mountains on Sunday, specifically, near Leura. I plan to be having a stall at the Leura Primary School 1st Sunday Market, pop in and say hi. I'll be the one sewing down binding on a mini quilt!!!

Cheerio for now!

x Mandy

A Finish! YAY!!

2011-03-25T17:07:00.022+11:00

Hey Mum! I finally finished sewing down the binding on this one!!

It's my Old Red Barn Co. Flickr (round 5) Pinwheel quilt-along quilt. It measures 72" x 54" and is the largest quilt I have ever finished!!!

Un.be.lieveable!

This is the back, there's a piece of every print from the front and some old Philip Jacobs fabric I had plenty of yardage of.

I love this photo of it!

I've decided to tackle my Mod Sampler top next. All I have to do is piece the back, quilt and bind. lol. I think I'll quilt it straight across the width, about an 1" apart.

Well, that's yer lot! I need to take out of the oven the newest addition to our fave snacks, spring rolls! And before anyone kindly asks for the recipe, they came out of a box!!

Cheerio for now,

x Mandy

Doll Quilt Swap #10

2011-03-19T20:19:00.030+11:00

I have always loved this fabric from Anna Maria Horner, 'Cathedral' from her Good Folks line. I love the simple duality of the pattern, circles and diamond stars or four pointed flowers. So, when I managed to purchase a yard of this I decided to use it as my inspiration for my DQS10.

I started to pull fabrics pieces from my stash but found I needed to do a bit of shopping! Dear oh dear what a bore that was.....not!!! lol It was tricky finding pinks that I was comfortable using, but I somehow managed!

So, this is where I started, grey HAD to be the background, and I decided that using 3 different greys could look interesting in the border. But it needed a bit of colour too, but not so much that your eye would be drawn away from the main pattern. So a thin scrappy border was the way, but in what colour?

These Anna Maria Horner 'Innocent Crush' blues provided the perfect answer. They blend so beautifully with the greys without detracting from the pinks and purples.

Next comes a little stitching in the ditch quilting, in the borders, then some hand quilting on the solids. I haven't quite decided on the colour, but maybe pink, actually I might have some already from another swap quilt.

I'm really quite enamoured with this one, even though I didn't get my stitches as close to the edge on the ovals as I'd have liked. I thought about washing the quilt when it's finished, to soften the edges of the ovals, but my DQS Flickr pals mostly say no! I'll make a final decision about that when the binding is on. Which is going to be my original fabric inspiration, of course!!!

After I finish this quilt, I've got another Doll Swap Quilt to think about! This time for the 'Down Under Doll Quilt Swap'! It will be fun to swap with 'locals'!!! One being my blogging pal Rachael of the Blue Mountain Daisy blog. You should check it out her blog, this lovely lass is not afraid of colour, and has made some stunning quilts.

Cheerio for now, and thanks for stopping by!

x Mandy

A little help, can make a big difference....

2011-03-17T11:41:00.018+11:00

Go here to find out more.

Fabrics from Karen

2011-02-13T15:56:00.001+11:00

Fabrics from Karen
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

A gift from the very generous Flickr friend. Karen posted a pic of the Kokeshi Doll fabric, which of course I commented on!!! She cryptically fm'd me saying 'watch your mailbox'. Imagine my utter surprise when all of this arrived.

Have no fear, I have a special thank you planned, hee hee, but I'm not telling, yet!!

x Mandy

More Fresh Modern Bee blocks

2011-02-09T13:43:00.019+11:00

I really enjoyed working with the all the deep purple linen that Viv sent, so soft and floppy!! The print was also fun, with sparrows, hummingbirds and foliage, and the little bit of orange made for a striking combination. Other people in the bee were given the opposite quantities of the solid fabrics, and their printed calico had spiderwebs and grubs on it. It's sure to be an amazing quilt!!

Here are the blocks I made.

I fell off my non buying fabric wagon in January, but I've been a good fabric addict so far in February. Here's the new January additions to the stash. Oldies but goodies, and colours I have very few off in my stash. I can ALWAYS justify buying fabric!!

So........what is this pile then, well........you know how I said I wouldn't do any more quilt alongs until I'd finished some quilts! Well........I've fallen off that wagon too! But I do get to finally use my blue and green Amy Butler fabrics. I've had some of these since I started my stash!

This stack of lovelies is destined to be a Single Girl Quilt by Denyse Schmidt. I truly have always loved that quilt. So when I spied that a Support Group had emerged in Flickr and one of the three leading the way was Katy from I'm a ginger monkey blog fame, I just had too! And as the Flickr name suggests, it is a support group, a hand holding, you can do it group!

Not that it's a tricky quilt, so we've been told often, but there is a lot of preparation. Each finished block is huge at approx 22" squares, and made of 4 quarters, each quarter has around 8 different fabrics in an arc, so the whole block has a squarish circle in it. These circles then touch each other when the blocks are sewn together!!!! There are 31 pieces to the circle and the pattern calls for 36!?! No, I haven't read the pattern, it only arrived today. I think I'll read it, and note my questions and then ask my fellow Single Girl Quilters. I have to get some more plastic for the templates before I can start anyway. I didn't think I had enough, but now I'm sure. I hope I manage more than one block, I'll definitely keep you posted!!

Cheerio for now,

thanks for visiting!

x Mandy

I'm in the Fat Quarterly e-zine!

2011-01-28T11:30:00.000+11:00

I felt overwhelmingly compelled to 'give it a go' for this Fat Quarterly Design Challenge. The brief was to design a 'cross' block using solids. I had so many idea's swarming around in my head I had to check myself. Lynne over at 'Lily's Quilts' explained K. I. S. S. a short while ago, Keep It Simple Stupid!!! That's exactly what I did when I designed this block.

So.....how can you make a simple cross block look new?

How about this!

My main thought was how the block would look multiplied in a quilt, and how could I make more crosses when they were! There still had to be a recognisable cross in the block, that didn't get lost, so I used a different colour palette for it. And I wanted to have as many colours as I could without it looking too busy, and to illustrate how solids can be dramatic, but subtle also. I have Aqua's galore so this seemed the obvious choice. The four corner squares make a whole jewelled tone square when the blocks are complied and the repeated longer aqua strips make the additional cross arms.

Like this...

I also put together a tutorial for the e-zine, which was also amazingly used. Hope I wrote it okay, I'm a little worried it doesn't read correctly, or I missed out a step, or the measurements are wrong. I hope it was checked. If anyone has any questions about the tutorial, please just ask!!

Goodness, what an exciting day that was!

Cheerio for now,

x Mandy

Issue 4 available soon

2011-01-27T02:39:00.000+11:00

See that Cross block top left, that's mine!!! I'm oh so chuffed!

If you'd like a little peek before buying, check it out here.

I bought a subscription for Fat Quarterly, instantly at the beginning for Issue 1. I just knew with the likes of Katy, Tacha, Kate, John, Nova and Brioni running the show, it would be my kind of read, full of my kind of projects. It hasn't disappointed, every issue has been packed with fabulous, must do projects, big and small. I'll be renewing my subscription, it's cheaper and I'll never forget to go on-line and buy it!

So, you wanna know a bit more about the block, well I've got another post lined up for after the release date, which is the 27th January. Not a how to, but a how it came about!

Go take a look at the Fat Quarterly blog and flickr pages in the mean time.

Right, I really should go off to the land of nod.

Cheerio for now,

x Mandy

Fresh Modern Bee

2011-01-25T23:44:00.004+11:00

Fresh Modern Bee
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

This is a wonderful Bee, full of very creative people. I feel the need to produce something fabulous every month. I was a tad apprehensive to begin with, but that's gone now, I'm beginning to trust my instincts. Now I relish the challenge of creating something from my head, rather than scouring on-line quilting sites. Nothing wrong with that of course, I still go in that direction when looking for a particular block. For me, this bee demands I look outside the square. Lovin' that challenge!

Another post coming on the 'Cross' block!!!

Cheerio for now,

x Mandy

It's been a colourful year!

2010-12-24T20:42:00.001+11:00

It's been a colourful year!
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Wishing you all a Christmas that is full to the brim with love and laughter.

Stay safe,
x Mandy

I started early!

2010-12-22T16:40:00.003+11:00

Yeah, I know, it's only a little finish. But it is a start..... I'm really happy with the way I quilted it. If I ever get around to making a bed sized one, I will quilt it the same way. It's been gifted now, Jamie really enjoyed giving it to this Lady, he thinks she's fabulous and insisted on giving it to her himself.

I've received a few swaps, and will post about them in a few days, promise!
x Mandy

We have a Winner!

2010-12-06T21:11:00.017+11:00

My Mum is visiting us from England for Christmas, so I asked her to pick the winning number. It belonged to...........

LethargicLass

Yay!!!! Send me an email so I can make a start on your Huggle.

Thank you to everyone who entered, it was fun to read all the comments. My number of visitors here has, as of this moment, reached 1646 from 60 countries. I'll have to try and work out those new three countries!!

Can't have a post without a photo, or two. So here's the Christmas Tree Ornaments I sent in a swap,

and the three I received.

Cheerio fro now,
x Mandy

1500 visitors giveaway!

2010-11-28T14:54:00.001+11:00

Visitors from an amazing 57 countries as well! I'm just astounded by that, as I wouldn't call myself a very regular blogger, and I really only offer up to the world what I make for myself and others, bee's and swaps. So, it really does deserve a giveaway, and well, tis the season!

Here's what you can win:

A gift for you, your children, or another special friend this Christmas?

It's my own softie pattern which I named, Huggle. I designed them with the youngest of children in mind, nothing sharp and nothing small that with come off! They are made to be hugged hard and dragged around. You'll be able to chose for a girl or boy or opt for my choice if your unsure, and I will make it especially for you. I'll also include a 5" charm pack made from my stash, plus some other little gifts I'll choose to tie in with the Huggle I'm sending. This giveaway is open to anyone, anywhere.

Okay, to win, easy peasy! Leave me a comment about who you'd give the Huggle to...... yep that's it! If you'd like an extra entry, become a follower! The giveaway will close next Sunday midnight Australian eastern time.

Thank you for visiting!
Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

my list of WIP quilt shame....

2010-11-08T21:17:00.015+11:00

I do not have a quilt in my home that I have finished!! There, it's out!

True, my ORBC big pinwheels quilt just requires binding, and I will finish that before my Mum arrives, so it can go on her bed while she's here. But the rest on the list over on the right, are ALL uncompleted!!

So, this is what I've decided to do to remedy it. The 1st 6 months of next year I am going to concentrate on getting them finished. I WILL not be starting a new top until from Jan 1 throught to July 1 2011, oh, except for Dee's ORBC quilt-along, I can't miss a quilt-along by a flickr mate. Plus, it was originally going to start this year. BUT, that's the only one. I cannot truly call myself a quilter, until I have done more quilting!! I want to quilt them, I want quilts I have made scattered throughout my home...

Join me if you'd like, I know I'm not the only one with quilt tops hanging around, I'm just the one with the most!!!

Some photo's of the quilts in waiting....

Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

What! More fabric!!!

2010-11-06T22:43:00.003+11:00

Parcel #1:

My first Kona Cotton Solid fabric purchases, that arn't Grey! I narrowed my choices by matching some of the colours to Denyse Schmidt's elusive oop Flea Market Fancy. Wow, that's a mouthful!
I decided I wanted a quilt, even if it's a small one, using the scraps I have of this line. I haven't quite decided on the block, but I think it'll have to be somewhat wonky due to the odd sizes of fabric I have. I'm looking forward to the puzzle piecing.

Parcel #2:

Browsing on Etsy, as you do, I had a visual light bulb moment! How fantastic does Nicey Jane and Dolce look together! Mr Mandalin just happened to be walking by during this moment and the rest is history, as they say! I'm toying with the idea of a Bento Box quilt. I've always wanted to do one and if I throw a Kona Grey and Aqua in the mix.......

Parcel #3

I'm not a big Heather Ross fan, but I do very much love this Sleeping Beauty and Roses print on Linen, from Far, Far Away II. They are destined to be zipped purses and notebook covers for 'The Nook'. More on that next post.

Parcel #4:

Hasn't arrived yet, lol!! It's a couple of Tula Pink charm packs. A Neptune and Plume. Sooooo excited about the Neptune one!

Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

Retail Therapy

2010-10-15T13:51:00.003+11:00

much needed Retail Therapy
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

ahhhhhh......what it is to stand in a quilt/patchwork/fabric shop........

I like buying online, the whole not getting out of the chair and buying at any time of the day/night thing, really appeals to me! But, there are times, when you just have to go touch and absorb!!

These beauties all came from the 'The Vintage Patch' in Springwood. There's always something in there that grabs my attention. I was so thrilled to find Wee Woodland, the dots just screamed Christmas tree ornaments to me. Very hard to pass up on Heather Bailey bargains, one more to add to my French General collection, plus another which I hope might blend in well too.

I've just put in a small order at 'Hawthorne Threads' for some Far, Far, Away 2. Sleeping Beauty in natural and dusk, plus Roses in the same two colours. Can't wait for them to arrive. Plus I've been given the go ahead to buy a decent stash of Kona Cotton Solids, woo hoo!!

Cheerio for now,
x Mandy

Lovin' my Daisies

2010-10-08T22:37:00.001+11:00

Lovin' my Daisies
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

You can take the girl out of England, but you can't take out her Englishness!!

Scrappy Mug Rug Swap

2010-09-07T18:30:00.001+10:00

Mug Rug
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

My first Mug Rug! Trial or the one to send? Not sure yet.
Such a great way to use those oddments of wadding.

Swap catch-up #1

2010-08-31T16:35:00.018+10:00

Mini QT Swap on Flickr

This really gorgeous quilt came from Amy, of AFriend2 on Flickr.

These swaps are not secret, we are paired up by the swap mama, and it is up to us to contact each other and discuss our hopes for the quilt coming to us. The theme was beach/underwater, and I'm sure you can quess which way Amy and I decided to go! There are many aspects to Amy's quilt that I adore. I really think she has managed to give that underwater, gentle current sway feeling to her quilt.

The quilting on the clam is stunningly accurate.

The disappearing mermaids tail adds just the right amount of whimsy.

French knots and squealy fab quilting on the outside of the tentacles.

More french knots on a completely darling starfish!
Plus button seashells. *sigh*

The label! Too, too cute!

Amy also sent me an, oh to die for, pincushion! Which she printed herself! And we are doing another one-on-one swap. I get to have more of Amy's adorable prints, and I will send her a 'My Hugul', plus something else.....not to be revealed here....yet!

Darn, thought I'd taken photo's!

Be back in a couple of days with Swap catch-up #2 post, 'The Doll Quilt Swap', your in for another treat people. I have been so very fortunate lately, very, very fortunate!! Of course you can always nip over to Flickr and check out my photostream there!?!

Cheerio for now
x Mandy

Where'd August go?

2010-08-28T21:45:00.016+10:00

Latest Bee Crazy blocks

These Anna Maria Horner voile fabrics are sooo beautiful, slippy as hell, but lovely and soft. I thought these colours from Kathryn were divine.

I love using these Kona solids as well. And they went with the Amy Butler Wallflower print beautifully. Add some aqua Freshcut and DeliHi, and you really can't go wrong!

This is the block I'll be asking the Bee Crazy ladies to make for me in October. I have them all cut and bagged ready to go. A little ahead of schedule, which feels good, but slightly weird!

And these are the first blocks I've made for a new Bee I've joined, the Fresh Modern Bee. I just could not resist joining this one. I was on Flickr at the right time to see Lily's Quilts post about a vacant spot on the Bee. I jumped in before I'd thought really, absolutely no regrets, I mean, just look at those fun fabrics from Jolene.

I have received my DQS quilt's!!! And I will post pics early next week, I should be finishing off my DQS tonight, but I want to quilt it in daylight. The DQS quilt's I received will blow your socks off!!!! Plus my fabulous partner sent me a Kona Colour Chart, and a lovely little zipped purse, and some Kokeshi doll stickers. She did a real number on me, I feel very lucky. In fact I feel very lucky with all the quilts I have received. Oh.....I can show you the Mini QT from Amy!!!!

The one I made for Amy ~ The one she made for me.

Isn't it gorgeous, can't you just feel the sway of the under current. Amy also sent me an adorable pincushion, pic to come...

Here's another photo of the one I made for Amy, I desperately need to take some new photo's tomorrow, hopefully there will be an abatement of the Spring winds we've been having lately, we even had sleet on Friday!?!

cheerio for a few days,
x Mandy

Spiderweb Blocks ~ done!

2010-07-16T14:35:00.007+10:00

Gosh, how I loved making these! They are now sewn together and on their way to Sara for the Spiderweb Block Swap. Mostly from my scrap bags, but I did add in some from my charm stack. I really think you can't go wrong with spiderwebs. I'd like to make a quilt to showing all my fave fabric lines, ie have a spiderweb of Wonderland, Freshcut, Kaffe, etc etc. You'd need to keep track on paper of which triangles went where, totally doable. It could be a memento quilt of all the quilts you've made. Mmmm, I really like this idea, it would be a long term project in my case......lol

cheerio for now
x Mandy

Lots on the go!

2010-07-11T18:13:00.008+10:00

I seem to have a lot of fingers in a lot of pies at present. It's not really bothering me, but I wonder if it should? I kinda like having several (okay, 6) projects in progress. No, their not on the wip shelf, they are actually ALL being worked on at once! Well, no, not literally!

Pork Chop Swap Hexagons
Made from the 5" charms, received from the gals in the Flickr ORBC group.

Ah! My DQS9 inspiration mosaic for my partner.
I've an idea on paper, and fabrics pulled for the one I'm making for my partner.
But no sneak peeks, just yet.

Bee Crazy Block for Curtinqueen.
I'm working on an adaption of this, no sneak peeks for this just yet either.

This is my first Asterisk block. This one is only 3.5", I'm hoping we'll be doing a swap of these on the Itty Bitty Block Swap Flickr group. Can you imagine receiving 12 or 15 of these little beauties from all over the world? I get excited when I think about it.

But, for now I'm making bigger Asterisks for a Quilt along. I'm starting with 7" squares, all tone on tone, in mauve's~purples~amber's~oranges~greens~blues. The strips are 5 different shades of cool grey. I've only done 2 so far, so will post pictures when I've done at least 9.

Off to watch 'Little Dorrit' on the ABC now. Love a good period drama me, especially one I'm not familiar with.

Cheerio for now, be back soon!
x Mandy

Playing with Solids

2010-06-22T14:00:00.015+10:00

Robert Kaufman, Kona Cotton Solids, to be precise. I LOVE a good quality solid! The Kona solids are, in my experience, beautiful to work with. Never again, will I buy homespun for my quilts. There are a number of online spots to buy Kona, including a very new one called 'Simply Solids'. If you live in the UK, take advantage of the free delivery, you only have to spend over 15 pounds, and quite honestly, that's easy to do!! Go on, take a peak!

Also check out the 'Simply Solids' blog too, it's written by 'Made with Love by Mandy', so you know it's going to be good!!! lol, not me, wish it was!

And why? Am I telling you this.......well Lily's Quilts is having a giveaway, and I want to win it!!! The prize is a stunning package of 22 Kona Solid fat quarters! No, I don't mind if you enter too, of course not. I'm a firm believer in the 'more the merrier' attitude. The second best thing to winning the prize, would be to *know* someone who did. So, be sure to come back and let me know if you win, I'll be so thrilled for you!

Cheerio for now
x Mandy

Such a happy swap!

2010-06-18T20:07:00.028+10:00

As well as participating in the Doll Quilt Swaps on Flickr, I also enjoy belonging to the Mini QT Swap. The mini quilts swapped, are usually are between 6 and 12 inches.

The theme for May was black & while + one other colour, not square or rectangle. I had promised myself to do no more swaps until DQS9, but...........I Just. Could. Not. Resist that theme!

I was partnered with Kimberly of bahamadawn, a very talented and creative lady, living in, yup, you guessed, The Bahamas! What a thrill! We exchanged addresses and colour preferences for the quilt we would be receiving. I asked for an Ocean colour, and I decided on using Fuchsia, from Kimberly's correspondence. Shape! eek! But this is why I love swaps, they challenge me to create outside my own preferences. Pink! 10 million raspberries! Pink, just doesn't do it for me, Pink, oh me, oh my!

I got over it of course, and this is what I sent to Kimberly......

I'm really pleased how it turned out. Thank you Jane for the loan of your wedge template, ooops I think I still have it! This is what I happened in the middle, it started out as such a small thought. What would it look like if I back stitched along the printed lines on the flower. I liked it, and, just kept going. So now I am experimenting with beads in my quilts. But just a few, I don't want it to detract from the fabric.

I enjoyed all the hand quilting, and the ric rac was fun to use too!

So......I hear you say, what did I receive?

One little birdie,

two little birdies,

three little birdies,

in a darling birdcage!

Isn't it divine! Kimberly also made a copper wire hook, and attached it to the top of the cage, for me to hang it up. Such a fab little piece, I sooooo adore it. Thanks again Kimberly!

I'll have to show you more from this group. Because we also swap 3.5" little blocks, in groups from 9 - 16!!! I've participated in two of these. One with a "Spring Fling" theme and another with the b & w + 1 colour theme. We were all given a specific colour, mine was Amber. The last block arrived yesterday. I'll get the camera out soon and take the necessary photo's.

Okay, that's enough from me for the moment.
Cheerio for now!
x Mandy

Catch up!

2010-06-02T18:50:00.027+10:00

I've been away from my Blog so long, I can't remember if I have shared some of these photo's! I don't think I have, but my apologies if I repeated myself.

This is the DQS8 quilt that I sent to my partner, The Sometimes Crafter. I really enjoyed using the grey to highlight some of my fave big floral prints. And the variegated grey DMC thread was perfect for some simple running stitches. I wanted to try and emphasize the weave effect of the floral fabrics. I was pretty pleased with the outcome!

This one also has some running stitches! More along the Sashiko line though. The Sashiko panels are also my own work. The cushion size panel comes from Japan, it has pre-printed lines to follow. I found the hand sewing to be very relaxing. But decided to cut up the panel to make this Wall Hanging. The indigo fabrics are from my first Jelly Roll purchase. I just couldn't resist all those different Indigo 2 1/2' strips. I really enjoyed making this one, I gave it to a good friend for her Birthday.

This is a tiny Coin quilt! I sent this along as part of a fabric swap. Ack! I can't remember which one!

Ahhhh, this one is quite recent. I called it 'Amy Butler Sorbet', I am sure all these colours could be found at a Gelato bar. It went to Melanie, and was a DQS Angel quilt. Poor Melanie waited a long time to get her quilt. I hope this made up for it. Me and my monochromatic prints, I do so love them!

Look!!! I've finally pieced another big quilt, I've even quilted it, just trying to decide if I've quilted it enough though. Each pinwheel is about 18", yes huge! It is a ORBC quilt-along quilt. I'm really quite pleased I've started to use some of my yardage. I've definitely got over my 'cutting fabric' hesitation! 'The Old Red Barn Co.' Flickr group is like a second home to me, along with the 'Doll Quilt Swap' group and the 'Mini QT Swap' group.

I've found I have more conversations with people in these three groups. It feels so good to talk to like minded quilting/fabric peeps. I don't really get to chat to people, about my obsession, in my daily life.

I've got more to share, more Bee blocks, a Mini QT Swap quilt (sent and received). Plus some adorable 3 1/2 " blocks from 2 swaps. Oh and DQS9 sign ups are happening again. I love swaps!

Cheerio for now
x Mandy

ORBC Hexagon quilt along

2010-04-16T23:00:00.001+10:00

ORBC Hexagon quilt along
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

Cut these out tonight, and I'm smitten! It's for the Old Red Barn Co. Hexagon quilt along. Come check it out. Most people are using jelly rolls, with wonderful effect. But I decided to go a different route.

Thanks for stopping by
x Mandy

oh blimey, was it that long ago!!

2010-02-18T19:29:00.024+11:00

I wish I could say I've been on a long cruise! But I haven't, shame! I'm afraid I've been living on the Flickr site. Watching the progress of the DQS8 quilts, and trawling through my other favourite groups, even starting one of my own!! Have I been sewing? Not as much as I'd like to have been, but here's a January photo monolouge....

January Bee Crazy Block, 16 1/2"

These two blocks went to Dana at The Old Red Co. She is now in the process of making them into quilts, which will then be auctioned by "Team Tiara", the proceeds will go to Breast Cancer Research. They are 12 1/2" in the photo.

And this is the Swap Till You Drop (S.T.U.D.) quilt I made for my partner. I'm very proud of it, and very much loved making it, and very pleased to have given it to Julie.

My first wonky star! Each star triangle points to it's colour 9-patch, and that is my favourite grey Kona solid, must get more!! It really seems to sit beautifully with any other colour.

This is the beauty Julie sent me in return. She was very generous with her parcel, and also sent me some fabric! The multi-coloued stripe on black in the quilt, and the binding fabric. Which has small squares of colour on black. I had never seen this fabric before, and I probably wouldn't have bought it myself. BUT.....I can see an application in a quilt for it, which I'm very excited about. No more on that yet, it's not even at the planning stage.

This also happened at the end of January, my baby boy started big school. We had a few troubling moments because. 1, he refused to go to pre-school last year (with the little kids!!), so it was spent at home with me, and of course we had our own timetable, which differed from the school's. 2, we live very close to school (literally 5 mins walk) and we have been walking to and from school with his big brother for the last two years. He knows the way Very Well. So, umm yes, we had a few teething problems with staying at school! But I can now say, because he just told me, he really likes school now! I need to acknowledge the effort his Teacher has made. IT has made ALL the difference. She is brilliant! She'll be getting a little handmade gift from me at the end of the term, I'm not waiting for the end of the year!!!

okay, that's me done for the night, I'll be back with February's finishes when I finish my DQS quilt, it's not far off. Here's a sneaky peek.

Cheerio for now then
X Mandy

DQS8 mosaic

2010-01-03T18:38:00.005+11:00

DQS8 mosaic
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

It's on again!

Please click on the link, it will take you to my Flickr page.
Once there, open this photo, and you'll find links to each and every wonderful piece you see here. There is an absolute fortune of talent showcased on Flickr. I LOVE my groups!
1. textured pillows, 2. Sew la tea block4, 3. grandmothers garden quilt, 4. the tide is high, 5. Tacha's Block- Bee Inspired, 6. IMG_6091, 7. gnome..., 8. bento box, 9. candy cane quilt, 10. Quilted Patchwork Table Runner - Detail, 11. Hexillow, 12. state of the blocks, 13. Mermaid, 14. Sweet Dreams Quilt Bee Block for August, 15. 9 Patch Windows, 16. 1946

Kokeshi Doll Love

2009-12-28T13:48:00.017+11:00

Kokeshi dolls......what is it about them that makes me love them so? Is it because, as a child, I don't think I really played with dolls, my Mum tells me I preferred Matchbox cars! Although I do remember that I had a biggish set of tiny dolls, who all wore their national costume. So maybe it springs from there. I just know that looking at these two, makes me cock my head to one side and smile.

They are both from this place, although they weren't bought on line, but in different retail shops in the UK. The one on the left is called NINTAI (Patience) and the other is JUNSHIN (a Pure and Simple Heart).

Yesterday, I found this shop on Etsy. I've promised myself that when I have enough $'s in my PayPal account, from sales in my Mandalin shop, I'm going to get one......or two, eeek!
The three things I managed to put in the shop have sold, oh excitement, so I'll be restocking this week with some pencil cases and a couple of other items.

Hope your all having a fabulous holiday.
Cherrio for now
X Mandy

"My Hugul", for Lily

2009-12-21T18:08:00.008+11:00

I must get some more of this Kaffe Fassett fabric, I love how the "My Hugul" softie looks in it. I tried a new face on this one, wool! The stitching is wool thread also, I like the effect, it looks softer, cuddlier.

Anyhow, back to it!
X Mandy

mostly pictures!

2009-12-18T17:17:00.019+11:00

Teacher's present

Placemat Swap received from issacsmama. LOVE this sooooo much!

And the placemat I made for issacsmama.

This needle case was a gift from Hanies, it came with my Show & Tell block. I use it every time I sew. The triangles in the wonky star are ever so teeny tiny. Adorable!

This is the block I made for Skipper, from our Bee Crazy Flickr group.

This super divine 5" square sweetie came to me from Julie (fairbanksfancygoods), for the Teeny Tiny Mini Swap. Look closely, there are lots of sequins and seed beads as well as the outer beads. This sits on my bedside table, too precious to be mislaid in my sewing area.

And lastly this is the fabric postcard swap I made for .....opppps, can't say just yet, it's still on it's way.

I think the idea was to post it, just like a real postcard. But I chickened out, it does have rather a long way to go, and the back is also fabric and I was worried the postage label would come off.

Okay. I think we're all caught up?
I've still some sewing to finish, just don't seem to be able to fit it all in.
Mmmm, actually I think I've possibly forgotten something. Oh dear, next time.

Cheerio for now,
X Mandy

A New Bag

2009-12-01T22:17:00.014+11:00

Finished this one today, and I'm loving it.

As well as liking the look of a bag, it also has to sit well on my shoulder, and this one does a great job of that. It really annoys me when a bag keeps slipping off my shoulder, I just simply won't use it again. I'd make a little adjustment to the width of the strap, not much, just a smidgin'. All in all, a successful flying by the seat of my pants, let's see what happens when I......

The fabrics are Wonderland by MoMo, Arcadia charm squares by Sanae (they came from Katy, thanks again Katy). And some of the Kona cotton that arrived on Monday, mid grey (lining). I bought several Kona cottons, along with the mid grey came coal, snow, cactus and everglade. I won't be able to buy homespun cotton at spotlight again, Kona really is a superior quality and fabulous to work with. And buying from the US at the moment is really quite good!

The other finish I've had this week is my first cushion cover.

This was a heap of fun! It was one of ten samples I've put forward to a community run art & craft shop here in the Blue Mountains. It only stocks art & craft made in the Blue Mountains, and has been going since 1996. The monthly meeting was tonight, hopefully they will think my work will fit in and find me a space. If so I'll have to get busy, not that you'll hear me complaining. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

And so to bed
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Peeping Owls!

2009-11-26T21:40:00.008+11:00

I just couldn't wait any longer! These Owls were calling to me to do something with. As my winning comment was about when the owls come out, boys should be asleep. It seemed only natural to have them outside the window! The panel's not quite finished and I need to go to Ikea to get some sheets. I thought I'd make it into a bed set. Put the panel on a pillowcase, repeat the triangles and diamonds along the top of a flat sheet but keep the fitted sheet plain. Sounds like a groovy Christmas present for a little girl I know. But, have to get to Ikea first.

Anywoohoo, cheerio for now
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #15

2009-11-23T20:39:00.017+11:00

Sunday Stash #15
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

I feel like I'm on a Blue Binge! I just love the blue on blue, with a little dull sunshine to contrast. And the one in the front, um well yes, I splurged. It's Amy Butler, but not just any Amy Butler.

Amy Butler...Love...Laminate!!
oooo so soft, and for the first time ever, I wanted to grab my scissors and cut into it instantly. But I resisted, it really is a good idea to have a plan first.
Follow this link for the inspiration behind my choices.

Show & Tell blocks finished

2009-11-11T22:12:00.013+11:00

Donna wanted scrappy

Tacha wanted dots

Sara wanted black & white

and Sudi-Laura also wanted scrappy

Hopefully these will fit the bill.

This really is a super block. So simple to make, yet a myriad of effects can be achieved. I expect there are lots of blocks like that, I just really love pinwheels.

And what about these fabrics, aren't they just the cutest!I know at least one of you out there will agree.

They came from Cherri, of Cherry House Quilts, whose daughter is Lizzie of 'Lizzy's Red Letter Day' fabric. Such a generous giveaway, and I'm proud as punch that my comment was one of three that Cherri chose. She wanted to know what we would make from the fabric. I said I would make pillow cases for my boys, to remind them that when the owls are awake, they should be asleep. I've not made a pillowcase in my life! How hard can it be though. I, as did every commenter, promised to show our creation. And so I will. I'm slowly whittling down my WIP's.

Show & Tell Oct blocks - Done
Show & Tell Nov blocks - Done
6" mini quilt - Posted
Place mat Swap - Posted
STUD (swap til you drop) - Posted
Bee Crazy Oct block -
Bee Crazy Nov block -

So, only the Bee Crazy blocks to do and I will make some pillow slips. I've other things on the horizon, an order for x4 pencil cases, and some stock samples to make for applying to the 'Nook' in Leura. If it doesn't happen, I'll just add them in my 'madeit' shop listings. Yes! I finally did that too. I've only 3 things in there at present, but I do plan on adding some more to Mandalin soon.

Well, cheerio for now
X Mandy

the Falls ArtFest stock

2009-10-26T18:49:00.038+11:00

The bags

The larger lined pencil case/wallet

approx 9" x 6"

The medium lined purses

approx 7" x 7"

The little lined purses

approx 7" x 4"

And a little cheery bunting,
because sometimes you just can't stop!
approx 2 yards

I also made quite a few cards, but they'll have to wait for another day. I really enjoyed making these bits and pieces and am going to start to put some items in my made it store. But probably not before the end of the week. I have some serious swap catching up to do. I've contacted my swap buddy's, and everything is toot sweet.

Cheerio for now

X Mandy

Falls Artfest '09

2009-10-25T22:23:00.008+11:00

These were my handmade offerings at this years
'Falls Artfest'.

I'm very happy and proud to say, that much of what you see here, has been sold. I'll be back tomorrow, with some more pictures.

X Mandy

My home from home is....

2009-10-14T13:32:00.032+11:00

the Post Office at the moment!
Oh no, I'm not complaining, I'm lovin' it!

This little parcel below went to a lovely Lady in South Australia. For whatever reason......she never received a DQS7 swap little quilt.

'ere tis.

I so LOVED making this.

I'm pretty sure it's all Kaffe Fassett fabrics mixed with cream linen and cotton solids. I've wanted to try the half square triangle blocks for quite a while. I'll definitely make another, but much larger (bed sized), and have rows of zig-zags which will change direction once or twice, like in Megs Doll quilt. The Kaffe fabrics were purchased as a mixed lot of 5" squares in an auction, eons ago. Hence the reason for so much pink!

I wanted to do a pieced back, and found all these little pieces in my stash that went great with a square that I didn't want to mix with the others on the front. My only regret, is that I didn't make the time to do a more classy label, ho hum, next time.

I love squiggly quilting, I just think of it as drawing with a pencil, trying not to get boxed into a corner with nowhere to go, but off the fabric. It works for me, mind you I still haven't tried it on a big quilt, yet!

Anyhow, that's me for the moment.
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Oh, to come in a few weeks....

3 quilt swaps, they all need posting by the end of October! All heading off this isle, so I have to have them finished earlier. I'm aiming to post them all by the 21st, which should give them ample time to reach their destinations.
1. 6" (max) oh too cute, how could I resist that swap. Posted, yeah!
2. 13" x 17" (ish) placemat swap. How long can it take !?! Fabrics cut & layout finalized.
3. 15" x 15" (max) quilt. No worries, I'm an expert now. Fabrics picked.

I'm on target, but........

I also have the "Falls ArtFest" starting on Friday 23rd October, ooops!
So far I've made - 1 x handbag - 1 x zippered pencil case, no lining - 1 x zippered pencil case, with lining - 2 x zippered purses with lining - 8 x fabric Christmas gift drawstring bags.

So.....I guess I'd better finish this post!

Sunday Stash #13

2009-10-05T15:38:00.006+11:00

My one and only Jelly Roll. I just couldn't leave the shop without it. Can't afford it, but it was the only one there and who knows when I'd find another one. Japanese Indigo fabrics really are a passion of mine. If I'd purchased the minimum cut of all 30 of these fabrics it would have cost me close to $150! No, I'm not kidding. Also, I've actually never seen a total of 30 Indigo fabrics together. The other three are 30cm cuts that I bought at the Sydney Quilt & Craft show earlier in the year. They cost me between $6 & $7 each, which I thought wasn't bad. It'll probably take me a week or so to unroll it, and a significant amount of weeks to decide what to make with it. It has to be special, and it has to be for me!

Cheerio for now,
X Mandy

Friendship Bag Swap

2009-10-01T23:51:00.016+10:00

SPOILT!

Yes, indeed I was. Because I didn't receive a Friendship bag, I received two!!!
And a couple of fat quarters, and some yummy ribbons. Love the 'Calico Cat' fabric, very much.
And look at those bags, arn't they just. so. adorable. The left hand bag is made from 'Swell', I have a Pinwheel Wall Hanging in progress using a charm pack of this. The right hand bag is, arrgggghhhh, Roseanne please remind me. I made a table runner from it, it's Moda, it's......'Nell's Flower Garden' ha, memory does work under pressure after all. There's also some Arcadia by Sanae, another favourite of mine.

These were made for me by Roseanne of Sparrow Bee Designs, and I love them. Thank you so much for spoiling me Roseanne, I really appreciate the time you spent on my bags. Take a gander at what Roseanne received, some really gorgeous stitchery!

I hope my bag arrived in Sweden safely, I've not heard, and can't find my partner listed in the Friendship Bag Swap Flickr group members list either. In my haste to send my parcel off, I forgot to take a picture of the bag I made, doh! Or the little extra goodies I sent. Not to worry, I just hope it arrived.

Must go to bed now, relying on the speller tool too much!
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

The Wonkiness is free!

2009-09-29T13:14:00.019+10:00

My first 2 wonky blocks.

Gee I enjoyed making these. I'm not sure I'll be able to stop! So much freedom in picking fabric scraps, whacking them around a cute center image and then putting a solid border on. Love it! These are just a few of the scraps that mommymae sent me with my DQS7 quilt. I just used a calico remnant I got from Lincraft for the border. I'm going to make them into little zippered pouches for the 'Falls Artfest'. YES!!! I finally had a go at putting in a zip! Crazy to wait so long to try it.

Red Apple

Green Apple

Pencil Case

Christmas Gift Bag

These little bags (I'm making about 10) are made from already sewn blocks I purchased from One Shabby Chick on etsy. I was going to make a Christmas Quilt to sell at the 'Falls Artfest', but had a brainwave to make some Christmas gift bags, they ended up about 8" square. I think they turned out cute!

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

DQS7 received

2009-09-26T19:32:00.012+10:00

from the lovely mommymae......I just love how the colours in the quilt echo the colours I choose for my garden. I actually added this one to my fav's on Flickr, I commented on many, but really only fav'd a few. So........I was very, very, happy, when I opened the parcel. Jenny also included a bundle of stunning scraps, all my fav colours. I've promised some wonky cabin blocks will come out of them. Absolutley sure about that.

I've also received my Friendship Bag Swap bag (or should I say bags!!!). But haven't managed to take a good enough photo yet. Also in the mail came a fabric trade from the US. My very first piece of Munki Munki. It's oh so new to me. I think it's a clothing line, that has Heather Ross designs on it. Anyhow, I am now the proud owner of a pyjama leg! But...it is a bright red, teetering on orange background, with a lost, 3 eyed, Martian family on it. Some are on the mobile, some are looking at space maps and some are looking rather confused. Rohan, over my shoulder, saw a block made with the fabric and asked if I could get some. I commented on the photo about what Rohan had said, and she offered a swap! Love this crafty community.

Anyhow, the long and the short of it is.....I need to take some more photo's.
Be back in a day or so.
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #12

2009-09-21T19:37:00.029+10:00

Arcadia by Sanae for Moda

I was a very lucky gal last week. The postie brought me two parcels. Still waiting on a few to arrive, darn English postal workers have been on strike. I'm all for people getting a fair wage, but I also want me parcels!!

I was a runner-up in a giveaway on the fab blog 'I'm a ginger monkey' a little while ago. I hadn't even realised there was a runner-up prize, so it was a wonderful surprise. In my parcel was a packet of Skittles sweets (gone in a blink of an eye), a fab caravan with tiny garden postcard, lovely drawstring bag (below) and an Arcadia charm pack. Oh, was I happy, I think the feet did actually leave the ground in a jump of joy! I so LOVE that Arcadia fabric and had never seen the whole line. I lurve those circles and the wild leaf pattern (bottom left). I had previously purchased 4 fat 1/4's online from FreshFabricAustralia. I'd never seen them other than online, but knew I'd love them. Prior to my charm pack arriving, I though I might have to mix the Arcadia with my Wonderland, they have a very similar feel and weight. But I had held off as I just wasn't sure, now I don't need too. Thank You very much Katy.

Now for my second parcel...........see that lovely little Wonderland bag...isn't it just the cutest!
That has come from Jennie at Clover & Violet. I confess it is another giveaway win, although the two wins were a couple of months apart. Said British postal strike has meant most parcels are not arriving, anywhere near on time. I have to tell you again that this is the sweetest bag, not just because of the MoMo, although the more I look at Wonderland the more I love it (small stash happening). But it's the shape of the bag, the central pleat, the quilting and the binding along the top. So very cute, cute, cute. I really would like to try and make a slightly bigger shoulder size version. I just went to check Clover & Violet, and see that they have a new addition the their Etsy shop. A pdf downloadable pattern for this darling bag.

Well that's me done for the night. We had to be up at 5.30 am this morning and in the car by 6.00 am. Nearly 9 yr old made it to a Regional Primary School Sports Assoc. Carnival, which was at Sydney Olympic Park. He ran in the U9 100m, in a proper stadium, on a proper track, oh so exciting. He did very well, just missing out on the Final, coming 13th out of 31 boys from all over Sydney West. He ran a PB to get to Regional and then ran another PB to come 13th. We are so very proud him, he's our very own CHAMP!

Like the hoodie! Apparently, if you go to Regional, you just have to have one!

Cheerio for now,
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #11

2009-09-13T18:33:00.012+10:00

starting top left and then going clockwise

Lady Yang, Alexander Henry - Begonia leaves, Philip Jacobs - Peonies, Heather Bailey
Lotus leaves, Kaffe Fassett - City Girl, Kitty Yoshida - Lilac Rose, Philip Jacobs

I'd wanted these for the longest time, and when I could get them all from the one place, I just couldn't resist. I never meant for them to all to sit so well together, so it was a very pleasant surprise when they did! The photo is a little flash happy, because the green on the Peonies, the Lilac Rose green and the little bit of green in Lady Yang balance the red beautifully.
I've got quite a few fabrics for zig-zag quilt-along here now, but everything is on hold as I start to build stock for the Falls Artfest. I've got my 'Friendship Bag Swap' to post and my September 'Show & Tell' blocks to finish and them I'll be off. I did start a bag to enter into the Amy Butler 'Mid West Modern' contest, but haven't finished it in time. No worries, it can go in the Artfest.

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

DQS7 posted

2009-09-07T12:19:00.007+10:00

Here is my finished Doll Quilt for Swap #7.

A close up of the quilting, I finally decided on.
I tried free motion, liked what I did, but decided on something simpler.
I used a 1/4" masking tape, but could have probably got by without it.

oOo

My local 'Falls art fest' is approaching again soon, 23rd to 25th October 2009. There is a web site this year, so pop over here and take a look. I've decided to do some pencil cases and small bags. Even though all my large bags went last year, I don't realistically have the time. I also thought about button hair slides, just not too sure how to attach the self covered button to the hair grip. I should finish off a couple of small quilt tops I've had hanging around, now that I have my free-motion foot. Yes I will, it's so daft to not finish them.

Enough computer time for today
Cheerio for now,
X Mandy

Sunday Stash # 10

2009-09-07T12:10:00.005+10:00

Love the clean, clear, crisp colours of these fabrics.
purchased from Bella & Vintage Chic.
Good Luck Kerry on the bricks and mortar venture,
I wish you every success.

Giveaway Prize

2009-08-26T17:04:00.003+10:00

Sunrise
Originally uploaded by heidielliott

The winner is in Australia, woo hoo, but it's not me *sigh*. I do count that as a near miss though! I'm very happy for Emma of Sampaguita Quilts, who is the lucky winner.

Isn't this a wonderful little Quilt!
And yes!!! It's the prize in a giveaway.
I had to enter, and get the 3 extra entry's for putting it on my blog.
I can hear all the stories from my boys about space chases with rockets and spaceships. It's called 'Sunrise' and as an adult I can see that. But I know my boys will see a planet, stars and the universe.

If you'd like to enter too, pop along here and leave a comment.

Too easy I say

Good Luck!
X Mandy

DQS7 Top Finished

2009-08-22T12:36:00.010+10:00

Now ALL I have to do is quilt it! I've decided to hand quilt on the orange solid only, Therefore hoping the small triangles and center with plump up!! Although I also might follow a few of the fruit lines in the center as well. Not sure. And I've decided to follow the star shape, in ever increasing circles. Well that's the plan in my head, will have to see if it's achievable.

Also been doing a bit of this. The blocks are sewn into 7 rows, I now have to finalize their arrangement. I did have them numbered, but have noticed that a couple of the same block ,are too close to each other. Not a big deal, just that my eye goes to them instantly every time I look at it. I'm liking the colours together, I'm liking it a lot actually. But I'll probably offer it for sale at my children's School 'Falls Art Fest' in October.

Back into the garden for me now, it's too nice to be inside today.
X Mandy

Quick DQS7 update

2009-08-13T22:32:00.009+10:00

Currently measuring just shy of 12 1/2 ", I've another row around to do. Then I'll have to decide whether to do a few thin borders or not. I don't want it to get too big!!! It is after all meant to be a dolls quilt. Hmmm, will have to wait and see. If anyone out there has any ideas about the quilting for this little baby, I'd be mightily glad to hear them. My only thought so far, is to hand quilt, somehow. Hmmm, more thought needed. Oh, you know what, this is a heap of fun!!

ok, cheerio then
X Mandy

Today in my Garden

2009-08-12T19:16:00.017+10:00

Violet

Polyanthus

Camellia

Manchurian Pear

Hellebore

Spring is on her merry way

This little chap decided he wanted to come with me

both now popped into their envelopes,
and heading to Beth and Robyn

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

My Quilt for Amelie

2009-08-10T21:04:00.000+10:00

has arrived safely at it's new home.

Amelie's Mum (hanies) has posted a photo on Flickr

of Amelie with her Quilt

I tell you my heart nearly burst with joy
at the sight of her holding her quilt.

This is the back, before quilting. I enjoyed messing about with the different shapes.

Which is good, because John (of quiltdad) is hosting a Wonky Cabin quilt-along from September 1st. I will endeavour to finish enough of my WIP's so I can join in. I love the randomness of wonky blocks, and how they are all contained within a regular quilt shape. I'm also hoping to use some of my fabric that has already be cut into.

And I have to apologise to my giveaway winners, I seem to have mislaid a week somewhere. If anyone saw one running away, it was mine. All of a sudden it's August 10th!!! I had said I was going to post to my winners on the 5th. I'm truly sorry to be late, the good news though, is that Robyn your Bag is finished, and Beth your Owl is being stitched tonight, sewn and stuffed tomorrow. They will definitely be posted this Wednesday. I really don't know where that week went.

Lastly, I've purchased again on Etsy, I had permission people, and I would recommend Amber of One Shabby Chick to anyone. It was a lovely experience, one I wouldn't hesitate to do again, funds permitting of course. She has some fab fabric, sold as sets she puts together. The girl has a knack of putting fabric together. She's also a talented sewer, I have an idea she did some test sewing for 'Melly & Me'. Go and have a look, her prices are really good, I wouldn't have done it if it wasn't.

Anywho, I've a owl to sew.
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Kiddies Quilt & DQS7

2009-08-03T21:47:00.001+10:00

She's off! Winging her was to B____n, as we speak.

Making this quilt was a real roller coaster ride for me. There were many firsts while making it. My first wedge piecing, first applique, first _____ on a quilt, first pieced back, AND first free motion quilting. Well, actually, no, second free motion quilting. Because my first real free motion quilting, which was supposed to be just a practice piece, I turned into a mini doll quilt. And gave to a good friends little girl. I seemingly have to make something out of everything. Here's a picture of it.

Which reminds me of another first, oh alright, second on the Kiddies Quilt, multi pieced binding. Not really very difficult, but look at those corners, I think I need to work on mitred corners a bit more.
So...... the roller coaster. Remembering, this is the first Quilt I have made for a swap. My first Quilt Swap. Somewhere in the middle of making it, too late to start over, I got worried. I forgot who the quilt was for, a 3 year old, and started to worry that it didn't stack up. I saw numerous imperfections, and couldn't continue. Needless to say, I got over it and stopped worrying, and finished a quilt I am proud of, even it's wonkiness. Because I made it with my heart, it is the best I could do and totally with this small person in mind. And I think every true crafts person can recognise that in other peoples work. It was a lesson I had to learn, and it has stood me in good stead for DQS7. My confidence has soared, and I think my new DQS work reflects that. It's not that I don't care what my partners think, it's because if I can make it to my satisfaction, then I have done my best. My Dad always said to me during school, "do the best you can". It's all we can ask of each other and ourselves.

I have chosen a prominent colour (orange) from my partners web spaces and from then on totally self-indulged myself. Pink, orange and red with a small bit of green. If you'd asked me a month ago if I would put those colours in one piece of work. I'd have said no, instantly. But, here they are in all their glory. They do make me smile.

Anywho, back to my 50th post winners bag. Oh yes, I've not forgotten, I just had to start DQS, I was itching to see those fabrics together.

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #9

2009-08-03T13:27:00.001+10:00

Sunday Stash #9
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

This was my Sunday Stash from last week! I Flickr'd it but forgot to blog, blame it on DQS7. I'm so lovin', finally being involved with this group. I'll be doing a post about my progress soon, maybe later today! It's either feast or famine seemingly with my posts.

Kiddies Quilt for the boys

2009-07-25T19:24:00.019+10:00

The boys were very excited to open this parcel, as they knew it held something very special. A quilt made for them, and made (mostly) by another boy! Of course he had some help from Mum, but not that much! Read here, how proud one Momma is of her young man, and rightly so.

lots of tape to get through

but finally

ta-dah

that doesn't look like a quilt?

lots of other goodies inside!!

favourite kind of toys

ah, there it is, 'that's really cool Mum'

these were a hit too!!

Paper Bag Swap reveal

2009-07-23T09:59:00.020+10:00

Now Maree has received her swap parcel, I can post about what I made for her.
Here is 'Ollie', as Maree has named him, cute, and a bag to match.

The pattern for the Owl came from a magazine, and the bag was dreamt up by me. It's just a glorified small tote really, but with a long shoulder handle.

In my little giveaway, Beth correctly guessed an Owl and Robyn guessed a bag. I have to finish my 'Kiddies Quilt' swap first, then I will make these and post them out.

Not feeling great today, there's been a few different virus going around these parts, and I think I might be going down with one. Not a lot of energy and too many visits to the bathroom! Like you really need to know that!

Anywho, I'm off to make a picnic and take the boys to the lake. Grabbing a coffee on the way, then sit in a sunny spot and watch them frolic, and listen to their remote controlled boats! Yes Dad (Grandad A), I'll take the camera!!!

cheerio for now,
X Mandy

DQS7

2009-07-19T22:42:00.031+10:00

Favs for DQS7
Originally uploaded by mandalin18

My inspiration mosaic for DQS7

A lot of us in DQS7 are creating these mosaic's (using fd's Flickr Toys). It gives our secret partner some clues as to what colours and shapes we love in a quilt. I guess it's a mood board.
I've created links to all photo's listed. If you love one of these pictures (how can you not?) go visit these people on Flickr, let them know.

1. quilt (finished), 2. broken star, 3. Log Cabin Quilt Top, 4. IMG_1346, 5. Sew Connected 2- July take 1, 6. Kaffe Fassett circles, 7. Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show 016, 8. Kaffe Fassett Wheel of Fortune, 9. hexagons, 10. Dutch Pinwheels Quilt, 11. DQS 6??? shall we sew??, 12. Ripple, 13. Pet Hate, 14. Quilt 5, 15. green kaleidoscope quilt, 16. Kaffe Fassett Morning Garden Quilt

Sunday Stash #8

2009-07-19T22:13:00.019+10:00

Michelle D'Amore - Bleeker Street

Wondering if I can use them in the Doll Quilt Swap #7

Hope so

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Paper Bag Swap goodies

2009-07-18T19:03:00.000+10:00

A huge thank you to Maree for these Paper Bag Swap gifts.

I allowed Big boy to open them, he took forever to remove the sellotape!! It was something I always did as a child, it drove my Sister crazy. I can now relate to how that feels.

Gorgeous!

Upon opening he immediately did this!

I love them both so much. I started using the pin cushion straight away! But have yet to decide which door to use the door stop on. I might just have to use it as a paperweight in my sewing area, just so I can keep on looking at it.
A reminder to me, of this wonderful and generous crafting community.

Cheerio for now,
X Mandy

I'm in!!!!

2009-07-16T17:11:00.000+10:00

Sign ups for DQS7 is happening now!

I've been watching and waiting, ever so patiently, for Doll Quilt Swap #7 to start. The sign ups will close at the end of the week OR when a total of 200 participants has been reached. Half way might have already been reached! So, if your interested, go here, quick sticks. Check out the sign up info thread, as to how to proceed.
I'd better get my a into g and finish off this kiddies quilt swap. Which I now can, as I picked up my free-motion foot yesterday.

It's another sneaky peak as it's another secret swap, although to the recipients Mum, it will probably be glaringly obvious! I don't think she reads my blog. That's alright if she does though, sometimes it's good to know something is actually being done.

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

I'll be back tomorrow with photo's of what the lovely Maree, of 'On My Verandah', made for me in the 'Paper Bag Swap'. Gorgeous......Divine......Pretty......Love, Love, Love.

Paper Bag Swap is in the envelope!

2009-07-15T21:16:00.016+10:00

I'm so excited about sending this off. I wish I could see Maree's face when she opens it.
Here's a couple of sneaky peeks for you Maree. Yes! I made them as obscure as I could. Oh I do LOVE giving pressies, especially those I've made. I just wish I had more time for it.

Can you guess?

If your the first to guess correctly, I'll make one similar for you.
It can be to celebrate Mand-a-Lin passing the 50th post mark.

Leave a comment before Monday 20th July.
I'll post internationally.

Thanks for visiting
Cheerio for now
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #7 and a Bag sneaky peek

2009-07-06T11:01:00.015+10:00

A few more Sydney Quilt Show goodies. Finally I have a couple of Tula Pink 'Flutterby'. Such an original style of designing fabric. I thoroughly admire the lateral thinking. I can't remember what the other ones are, opps. I've delayed posting pics as I have mislaid my camera battery! I wanted to take a better picture, this one is quite shocking. I know what I have to do, I have to buy another battery, so that the other one will turn up!!

The Sneaky Peek

It's another Melly & Me 'Meadow' bag. This one is for Susi, a Flickr pal, she's sending me a painting in return. Only expenditure is fabric, time and postage. As with most Mums, I have more than enough of the first, snatches of the second and once a week for the third. I'm determined to post this week, along with my July Pinwheel blocks. When the bag and blocks are done I'll be finishing off the Kiddies Quilt. I borrowed a wedge template from Jane, and am quite pleased with what I managed to achieve. It's a secret partner swap so no pics, not even sneak peeks, not yet anyway. My 'Paper Bag' swap is still sitting pretty, patiently waiting. It's a good thing I know exactly what I'm doing with that. I'm very keen to start that project, so I should get off here and go sew!

Cheerio for now then
X Mandy

Ist Draft

2009-07-02T10:10:00.012+10:00

Look what we're doing?

Jane and I have decided to resurrect a group we belong to on Flickr. The original Admin has pulled out, and as I was the first person to join the group, the admin for it fell to me. Jane had already made all her pinwheels, so we decided to keep it going. The original Admin hadn't, as yet, shared the finished layout, so we've made our own. This is a true collaboration of creative minds, and we are quite silly with excitement.

Stay tuned!
X Mandy

Old Red Barn quilt-along update

2009-06-26T21:58:00.000+10:00

Don't they look pretty fluttering in the breeze.

A little closer

Being protected by, my ever faithful, Ruby.

I had started to cut the strips into the 12 1/2" squares, when I thought I should take a photo! I think I ended up with 14 sets of 6 sewn strips. And I am getting 3 x 12 1/2" squares from each sewn strip. Phew, so how many squares am I getting, no it's not a trick question, just talking out loud so to speak. Hummm, 42, yup 42 x 12 1/2" squares. BIG quilt, now how many across and how many down. Tape measure time, need to measure my bed. Opps, that'll be a tomorrow job, it's occupied, I large, and 1 small lump! Oh well, I'll content myself with just cutting the squares.

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

p.s. the other US parcel arrived, OMGosh, OMGosh, OMGosh! Alexander Henry, Phillip Jacobs, Heather Bailey & Kaffe Fassett. But I've tucked away so well, I can't find it! Falling about laughing here! I'm such a dingbat sometimes.

More Sydney Quilt Show goodies

2009-06-22T12:10:00.009+10:00

This is one of the items I went looking for. It's not the exact one I had in mind, I couldn't find that one. But still, I am absolutely sure it will be used, and it means the ironing board doesn't have to be up as much. Guessed what it is?

Here it is open. The folder has an ironing surface on one side with a cutting mat on the other. Great for paper piecing or any project that requires only a little bit of ironing. I only have a small area to work in, which is fast filling up. I needed to put the ironing board down, because I was tending to use it like a shelf! Too messy looking, even for me!

And there's Melly's book "Kaleidoscope". I walked into the Quilt Show on Thursday, blinkers on, route to stand F34 memorised, it was my 1st purchase. It's just lovely, I HAVE to finish some WIP's before I start the "Kokeshi Friends Stitchery". I am very determined to start though. But Susi's bag has to be finished and posted to Germany (very nearly there). And my Paper Bag Swap is sitting close by, just waiting for me to start. Then there is the Old Red Barn Quilt-along strips to finish (nearly there on that one too). Thank goodness the sun is shining so I can put the washing out on the line, rather than on the inside drying rack where the remainder of the strips are still hanging.

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

one down, one to go!

2009-06-19T17:47:00.023+10:00

This the first US order to arrive. The dots are MoMo, so excited about that. I love, love, love them. One of the swapper's in my 'Quilts for all' group requested dots, hmmm, I think I can spare an 8" square out of the 2 yards I bought, eeekk. They came from the Bee Square Fabrics closing sale, such an awfully sad decision to have had to have made. The cheeky bird fabric (which LM2 loves) is Jay McCarroll's 'Garden Party'. I adore those quirky birds, they put a smile on my face. And the dots go so wonderfully, as I had hoped. I'll have to think of something to make for LM2, any suggestions?

He's about to turn 5. Sigh, how time flies.

And then there are these two. Just too cute. I see a (very) simple cot quilt or 2 bassinet ones, in that fabric. Hopefully for my madeit shop, or this years Falls Art Fest in October. I haven't played around with it yet, it's so very darling though.

I mean, isn't that selvage so very special.

Back to Susi's bag I go

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

YAY!!!! my Swap finally arrived

2009-06-17T11:33:00.032+10:00

40 days it took
40 long days
but
it's now with my Swap Partner
phew

This is what my Swap partner, Abby, made for me. I was so caught up with my parcel going astray, staying overnight in Sydney, the Quilt Show, being behind in sewing, children, dreary rainy days, that I kept putting off taking and therefore posting pictures.

Isn't it fab

Abby did a great job, and I love the quote.
It's something I forget sometimes.

I've learnt a lot about swaps, and swap etiquette in the past few weeks. I've also been reminded, not personally, about writing and receiving emails. I must be one of the few people left, who chooses, not to have a mobile phone. So I don't always get text-speak, and the seemingly shortness of communication. I mean it took me weeks to work out what "lol" meant! I think it might come from loving books, sooooo much. I've been transported by books ever since a could read, I get caught up and thoroughly immerse myself in a story. So, I think I love words, and putting words together. I see it as an art, rather than just communication. Hmmm, I feel a novel coming on, so I'll stop right here! lol!

Cheerio for now
X Mandy

What's this!

2009-06-16T11:49:00.032+10:00

You'd be forgiven for thinking this was a sweetly wrapped present, or a swap parcel.

But you'd be wrong.

This is a purchase from bella & vintage chic.

Kerry must LOVE wrapping, every parcel I've had from her is like this.

And it is appreciated.

And what's inside?

some Phillip Jacobs 'garden party'

a little Alexander Henry 'starling'

and these
adorable hedgehogs

I'd seen them in a Sunday Stash on Flickr
and wanted them ever since

I ordered these before the quilt show. I have three more parcels to recieve, two from the USA, all ordered before the QS. I know, I was a bad, bad girl. I'm hoping the anticipation of the parcels will curb my desire to aquire more fabric. I hope you'll see some of my bags appearing here soon. I'm also going to attempt to put some in a madeit shop.

cheerio for now
X Mandy

Sunday Stash #6

2009-06-14T21:42:00.007+10:00

These fabrics are from Prints Charming. Such a lovely Lady at the Sydney Quilt & Craft Show stand. Jane and I are going to share these fat quarters, and also the Christmas Ornaments kit. So cute. There was also a beautiful quilt on the wall there that I will just have to do, one day. Thank goodness for online shopping!

And these came from the Amitie stand. I don't know how long I was there? I inched from one corner around to the other. The squirrels are Kokka and the other is a sample piece. I so LOVE those squirrels.

I have more to show. This is only a fraction of what I bought. Oh dear, way too much fabric now. I going to see if I can restrain myself from buying any for a month, and concentrate on sewing!

Quilts for All - June blocks

2009-06-06T20:33:00.011+10:00

Here are my first 3 blocks for the Flickr group 'Quilts for All'. Each block is 12 1/2" (inc 1/4" seam allowance). We are just pulling from our stash, following each others preferences. There are, in total, 15 of us, so we'll all have a nice sized top by Christmas.

I (lucky girl) will receive all my blocks in August, which I must admit, is very exciting. This is the first block group I've joined and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. These blocks are really so quick, it took no time at all.

Blocks will be criss-crossing the globe, with participants from USA, France, Germany and little ole me in Australia. It's fun to be connected to other craft minded people from so far away, I love it.

Cheerio for now,
X Mandy