A cautionary tale

I'd been to a very instructive workshop given by Philippa Naylor on applique and decided to try and redo some of the samples we'd made.  I drew out the design onto fusible interface and ironed the interface onto the back of my fabric ready to cut out.  When I looked down my design had completely disappeared!!!   I had picked up the first pen (Philippa said pen worked better than pencil on copying designs onto iron on interface) I came to.   It was a Frixxon pen which I had completely forgot disappears with heat... durrh.

Here's |Philippa showing how to turn a narrow rouleau strip the easy way.   I was very impressed with the technique which I am sure is not new to many of you.   Before you start to sew the strip you pull out both top and bottom threads to a length longer than the strip you want.   Then right side facing up start to sew 2 or 3 stitches only at the mid point at the top of your strip.  It's very important that you stitch these threads into the middle of your piece.  Then fold the strip lengthwise with the right side inside, sew down the seam.   Trim the seam allowance and holding the tube at the top end where you sewed the threads, gently pull the thread tails and your tube will turn inside out smoothly.  I managed to sew a quarter in tube and was really proud of myself.

I mentioned last time that I was going to the Knitting and Stitching show in Harrogate.  Well I really enjoyed myself there but didn't take any photos as I was too busying looking.   The exhibition devoted to Beryl Dean was outstanding, just wish I could sew a faction as well.  I was dazzled by all that goldwork.

Keith bought me my Christmas presents there, I was hoping for an IPad2 but I think I'll have to save my pocket money for that.   I know I'm getting a lovely new lightbox and one of the new long rotary blade sharpeners and several books.   I bought lots of lovely Oakshott fat quarters for Philippa's workshop then never used them so I'll have to think of something else to do with them, ah decisions, decisions.

I've spent the last few days putting the final touches to Christmas presents and as my dil informed me she was looking forward to her's as she'd read my blog I am not putting up a photo until later.   Bought some beaded bauble kits at the show, all I have to do now is work out how to make them up.

I have finished my Christmas sampler, just half an hour ago, and here it is.

It was my nephew's 21st last Sunday and the family gathered to celebrate.  His mother put on a tea for him which we all thoroughly enjoyed.  

My sister Lesley and my nephew Chris.