Now, what was in that bag?..........

Welcome back Everyone, how are you all.  Do come in and make yourself at home while I pop the kettle on and bring in some cakes for us all.  It is so lovely to see you again and I do hope you have had a wonderful day or night depending on where you are in our gorgeous world.    

 

After yesterday's excitement meeting the lovely Sophie Tilley I had a bit of a mundane day tiding the house, shopping and catching up with marking that needs to be done before Monday comes around again!  I meant to tell you all that I am the older one in the photograph with the red top and red glasses whilst the lovely lady next to me is Sophie. 

The weekend just flies doesn't it.  I adore a Friday evening when I have the whole of the weekend ahead of me and I am planning what I am going to do - sometimes, sadly, that does entail housework and shopping so not always a thrilling prospect.  I can't complain though as I had a wonderful Friday afternoon and evening.  I forgot to say yesterday that before calling in on Sophie we had stopped off for some lunch and I had time to nip into the charity shop in the town.  I found this little sweetie.  Although the box was a little tatty it was priced £1 which was amazing as all the kit was intact.  What I found a little sad when I unwrapped it was that the gift tag was still in it. I hope that I can now make the little doll and give it a good home.  What do you think Folks?

 

 

 

 

On our way home from Sophie's we stopped at Llandudno which is a seaside resort in North Wales.  We didn't realise it at the time but they were preparing to show the film Jaws on an outside screen on the prom which would have been interesting as it was quite windy and a bit on the chilly side!  We spotted a very famous lady whilst we were there and even had the pleasure of seeing her being dressed as well.  Wonder if you recognise her?  Apologies to all my lovely overseas Folk you may not know who she is - or was to be precise. 

 

Yes it is Queen Victoria herself paying a visit to the lovely Llandudno.  Love her dress, very grand.   Here she is with her lady-in-waiting which all honourable ladies had at that time. 

 

Although it was quite a chilly night I did go for a brisk walk along the beach front which was so exhilarating - I adore being by the sea lovely Folks and my dream home would be one overlooking the sea.  I think the seascape is just fabulous as it is always changing and vibrant - just like all of you.

Now the big question?  What was in my blue shopping bag?

Well I had to buy some goodies from Sophie didn't I?  There was so much to look at and buy lovely Folks I could have spent a fortune there as it was all so tempting.    First I had to get some more kits for my little sweeties as they will adore Sophie's dolls.  I have more in mind but don't want to overload my poor husband with all these requests.  However, he did go out today to buy more paints so that is a good sign.  Honestly I think he enjoyed doing it and he has lots of plans of how each doll is going to look which is exciting.

I also bought two beautiful books for the girls.  Sophie has a new book coming out very soon which would make a truly wonderful gift for any lucky little girl.  Her newest publication comes with a book, a tutu and a gorgeous little headdress - any little girl would be over the moon to have this as a gift.  It would be perfect for Christmas.

Sophie was kind enough to put some personal messages in for the girls which was so sweet - makes the books even more special.

I had to have these cute little badges, look at the super little label with Sophie's name on.  This was such a nice little touch.  I am going to use these with the girls as they will love them.  Badges are always perfect on bags and dresses for the little ones.

Sophie also kindly gave me this cute little card and envelope. Aren't these lovelies just adorable?  I think I am getting addicted to my Sophie dollies. 

Now my Lovelies I also bought these beautiful bobbins for a special reason.  In November my blog will be six months old.  I can't believe how much I have loved doing it and how many wonderful people are out there in Blogland.  The bobbins will form part of  special giveaways to say thank you to all of you out there who have supported and encouraged me throughout.  Sophie has agreed to pull out the two winners for us which will be so special.  My lovely husband has agreed to paint them for me so they will both become very individual and hopefully the winners will be pleased with them.  Keep watching my blog for more details, it won't be long to November.

The lovely Sophie kindly gave us a pot of paint as we were struggling to find this colour. 

Now lovely Folks I need to tell you about the disaster with my latest project.  Remember that I had bought this lovely Liberty Babycord fabric from Rachel in my sewing class for £5.  I also had some brown silky fabric which I had managed to buy as a remnant from the Treacle Fair for £1.  I used this when I was making the cushion and bag last week for the birthday gift if you remember.  Anyway I had cut out my dress using a clothkits dress which I used as a pattern.  It was all going swimmingly well or so I thought.  If you remember the last time I spoke about the dress I had said that I was going to leave the buttonholes until I went to my sewing class on Wednesday.

 

Well Everyone I got to class and sewed up the sides and put the pocket on which looked really sweet.

 

I had chosen these little buttons as I thought they were fun and went well with the pattern.  Onwards and upwards I thought.  Rachel gave me a little tutorial to refresh my memory about buttons and away I went after a practise run.

Well Folks I put the first one in - disaster it was all wrong.  Took it out and tried again and again and again.  I managed to get one done before the end of the class (which is 2 hours long!) and went home quite despondent.  Rachel suggested that I leave it until next week but did I listen........no.   I went home and sat up until after 2am trying to get it right, again and again.  I finally gave up after trying to perfect the skill after the eighth try.  I was afraid that I was starting to degrade the fabric as I was having to unpick each one.  I finally admitted defeat and went to bed.

The following night I had one more go but it wasn't going to work for me so I had to revert to plan B.  I had found this vintage lace in my cupboard which I bought last year in Liverpool.  I just loved the look of it and am so glad I bought it.  I decided to put a lace collar on the dress as they are very in at the moment.

 

 

I also sewed the lace part way down the back panel and decided to add the buttons and use..........I hate to admit it.........press studs.  I didn't want to but I knew that if I carried on two things might happen.  Firstly I might give up the dress altogether which would be a shame or I would eventually end up ripping the fabric which would have been a disaster.  I would love to hear what you think lovely Folks.  I think sometimes we have to admit that something is not going to work and try something else.  I hope Rachel will understand, am sure she will as she is such a kind teacher.

 

Below is a photograph of the dress back - you can see the doomed buttonholes which I now need to unpick.  The lace has nicely hidden the mess I made on the fabric but hopefully it won't be so noticeable.

Here is the dress as it stands - I have to take up the hem, unpick the dreaded buttonholes and sew up the two lower back panels and it will be all done and dusted.  I have enough fabric and lining to make up a little shoulder bag which I intend to do.  I am just hoping that one of the girls will like it enough to want to wear it.  Any feedback or suggestions from you lovely Folks would be appreciated.  I think I have to practise more maybe just working on one buttonhole projects for a while to get my confidence up.

 

Well my Lovelies I have to leave you now as I have more work related stuff to do tonight before bed.  It has been so great to see you all.  Do leave a comment if you can and take care of yourselves.  I will keep you  up to date with the giveaways and hope you will all take part.  Have a fabulous day or night tomorrow and speak again very soon.  Lots of love as always, Dorothy :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

 

 

 

A wonderful afternoon with Sophie Tilley

Hello Everyone, do come in and have a seat.  I'll pop the kettle on.  I have only just returned from a wonderful afternoon out.  In North Wales this weekend is all about artists opening their studios to allow visitors to view them and see the work that is going on.  One of these wonderful people is the famous Sophie Tilley of the gorgeous doll fame.  You might remember that I bought one of these lovely creations a little while ago and my dear husband was painting it for me.  Well she was nearly finished last night but I just need to tidy up her dress with some lace and fancy buttons. Would you like to see her?

I am calling her Sophie after her creator.  Here is a photo of us both in her studio.  Sophie is such a warm and generous person - she immediately puts you at ease the minute you meet her.  I didn't really know what to expect and was a little in awe of her at first but those feelings soon vanished.  Sophie and her lovely husband Andrew both made us feel right at home with tea and cakes and we were immediately invited in to view her lovely home and studio.  Lovely people you would give your right arm to have a studio like this in such a stunningly beautiful location in Snowdonia.  I think I did mention that my husband's Mother was born a little way from Sophie's home and had grown up in the area so it is a small world. 

Below is a photograph of part of the studio, the blue bag is full of my goodies which I will share with you in the next post!  Sophie's family are so talented and her wonderful Dad makes the dolls which is just amazing.  From a young age Sophie and her family were always involved in making things and creating something fabulous from practically nothing.  She was into the allure of vintage many years ago well before the current fascination with such things.  She is an incredible artist and designer and it was such a pleasure to meet her.  Folks if you get chance to meet her over this weekend please make the effort, I promise you will really enjoy yourself. 

 

Look at these little cuties below, aren't they adorable?  Sophie's Dad made the clothes rail for the gorgeous little frocks.  I love them!  You can just see a little cup on the bottom of the photograph which is part of a new range of china wear designed by Sophie. 

The fabrics below are all Sophie's own work and she is currently working on fabric design, they were just stunning.

Here are some little dollies getting ready to fly off all over the world.  Sophie was saying that she sends these sweet lovelies all over the world including Russia and Australia.  She talked about having a wall made up of all the finished Sophie dolls - what a wonderful idea.

Here is another of Sophie's creations - I could see her on the top of a Christmas tree.  I must admit that I felt a little shy taking too many photographs although Sophie was really generous about this.  I can see now that some of the pictures are not that clear but it was because I didn't want her to feel that I just wanted to just take photographs.  Anyway we were much too busy talking - she is so interesting and knowledgeable and I could have stayed all night.

A close up of the fabrics currently being developed by Sophie.

A corner full of fabric dollies currently being finished - I would love one of these but they do sell out super quick.  Sophie was saying how influential her lovely Mum had been to her - she was a really talented lady who taught Sophie so much.  Many of the stories that Sophie has written about in her books contain characters which link to her Mum and family.  Sophie is half French and you could certainly see the French style in her - I thought she was amazing as you have probably guessed!

Below is another view of Sophie's studio - it was such an interesting place with so many lovely things in progress.  I could have spent a fortune there and taken everything home with me if I could. 

Well lovely Folks that is all for tonight as it is getting late and I have lots to do before going to bed.  I hope you have all had a wonderful day with lots to look forward to tomorrow.  I have more to tell you plus news of an exciting giveaway in November - do have a wonderful evening and I shall speak with you all very soon.  Thanks for calling by, it wouldn't be the same without you all.  Lots of love, Dorothy :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

A funny few days

Hello Everyone how are things?  Do come in and make yourselves at home, it is so lovely to see you again.  After the disappointments of the weekend it has been a difficult few days really.  Things are really not back to normal at all so I have had to fit in work with other important duties so feeling a bit flat and out of sorts. 

I wish I could talk to you all and see how you manage things in your life.  I always set out to fill my life with as much as I can - trying to make things, work and keep the home together but can never seem to manage a good balance between the three.  Work is always full on at a hundred miles per hour, the home and loved ones need to be cared for and looked after and then there is craft and all the things I love.  I was reading my little journal today and I had written at the start of the year that I was going to have three projects on the go at all times - crochet, knitting and sewing.  But lovely Folks I can't seem to keep to this and this makes me downhearted sometimes.  I read lots of fabulous blogs and am amazed at the wonderful work you all do and wish I could stretch my time to fit in more - perhaps you can all help me out with some advice? 

I wanted to catch up with you all tonight just to say hello and share a few little titbits with you.  I went to my print class this evening although I wasn't going to go but didn't want to miss anything.  I can't take photos there at the moment - it is pretty intense and tonight we did some colour images - I said that I was the duffer in the class and tonight I certainly was, the sketches produced by everyone were wonderful and I know that mine was just awful!  But I am going to stay as it will stretch me and make me look at things differently and who knows I might even learn something new. 

Over the last few days I haven't done any craft but am going to do some sewing tomorrow so will post some pictures.  However I have found a little treasure which I want to share with you all.  I bought something the other evening from a website selling vintage things - for the life of me I can't remember which one it was but will be able to tell you on the next post.  I couldn't believe it when I saw it and had to have it.  I am not sure if some of our lovely American friends can help me out on the history of it.  Have a look and see.

 

 

 

 

 

 

It says US Army Air Force - Hankies - Mother (on the bottom).  It is quite delicate and difficult to see on the photograph but the website said that it was something which Servicemen in the Armed Forces bought and sent home as gifts to their Mothers during the second World War - perhaps you have seen one before?

 

 

If is it from that era it is in such lovely condition.  I don't think it is silk but there are few marks on it, in fact it is like new.  I do love it and wonder which Mother was the lucky recipient of this gift - hopefully her Son survived the conflict and came home safe and sound.

 

 

The lining is a wonderful pale yellow and is soft and silky.  I love the little flower details on it as well.  Lovely Folks if any of you have one or know of someone who has I would love to know a bit more about these hanky cases - it is adorable and I will treasure it. 

 

As you know I am a big fan of Nicki Trench having met her a couple of times at the Woolfest.  She is such an approachable and down to earth lady and I just wish I had asked for her autograph when I met her - I am such a celebrity name dropper Folks!  Anyway I have keen to get my hands on her latest book and it arrived today.  I haven't had time to read it though yet, something for later this evening but I took a couple of quick photographs in case you haven't had chance to see it yet.

 

 

 

Isn't this bag just lovely - I am really ready to start getting my teeth into a 'proper' piece of crochet other than granny squares.  This pattern looks fairly straightforward although as you know, I am not that confident with crochet patterns yet but would love to have a go at this.

I love the lining as well, it really finishes the whole bag off - would make a rather pretty gift for someone special.  I know my friend in work adores this colour green and I am thinking of it for her.  Do you like it?

 

What about these adorable little rascals - aren't they just something?  I could see little ones quickly falling in love with these.  The would make perfect stocking fillers for some special little people.

 

 

Another little Ebay find of mine arrived today.  What do you  think - so cute and I can use them on so many projects, I love them and think they are fun.

 

 

Finally Everyone - I found this little gem today in a shop called The Works which have many branches all over the Great Britain, not sure if they are abroad as well.  I had popped in to pick up some sketching pencils for my printing course and spied this little book on my way out.  I thought it was a great find for £2.99 - I fell in love with the scarf bag immediately.  I was thinking of the vintage tea towels I am always looking for and I also have a few vintage headscarves as well.  However, lovely Folks I am not sure if I could bear to cut these up. 

 

 

 

The bag does look rather fetching though doesn't it.  Look out for The Works as they had a few craft books in at really reasonable prices.

 

 

 

Well lovely Friends I must leave you now as time is getting on and I have a few jobs to do before going to bed.  I have loved chatting with you all, it is a real tonic for me.  I hope you call by again soon and leave a comment if you are able to.  I do love your comments, they mean a lot to me.  Have a wonderful day or night tomorrow depending on where you are in our beautiful world and take care of yourselves.  Hope to speak to you again very soon.  Lots of love to you all, Dorothy :-)xxxxxx

A disappointing day

Hello Everyone, do come in - it is so lovely to see you.  Have a seat and make yourself at home while I pop the kettle on. 

 

It has been a disappointing weekend due to difficult circumstances beyond my control.  We all like to think that we can plan our life out according to what we want but when we love people then our plans sometimes have to be sidestepped to meet the needs of others.  I had planned to visit the Vintage Show at Morecambe today which was being hosted by the fabulous Wayne Hemingway and the wonderful art deco hotel there, the Midland.  I was so excited everyone as there was so much going on today including a huge vintage sale, vintage vehicles, shows and dances.  They were also running classes all day so I had planned to get there extra specially early to make sure I didn't miss a second. 

 

However, life had other plans for me and sadly someone so special to me became quite poorly on Friday morning so I had to cancel everything.  Things are stable now thank goodness but obviously I had to put the show on the back burner and forget about it.  It was difficult though I must admit and feel very bad about it as I realise how deeply selfish I can be sometimes. 

 

My special love encouraged me to have a few hours off this afternoon so I went for a little jaunt into Chester and found a little treasure to show you.  It is not vintage but it caught my eye in the window and I found it very appealing.  I hope you like it, have a look.

 

He is so cute isn't he?

I went into the shop and bought him and was shocked when the shopkeeper bought out a flat pack.  I immediately panicked thinking about glue, screws and hammers..........'Is it difficult to put together?', the shopkeeper smiled.  He told me that a 3 year old could fit it together.  I nodded, thinking I have heard that one before..............

When I got home I unpacked it carefully and looked at the instructions, oh dear, here we go again.......me and flatpacks do not go together lovely Folks.

But, I was wrong.  You simply pressed out all the pieces carefully and then inserted the pieces into one another securing with a tiny band of rubber.  Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!  I couldn't believe how easy it was - I finished it in 10 minutes flat everyone, how wonderful.

Here is the little birdie - have to find a name for him or her - any ideas?  Little birdie will sit very nicely with my bird cages - I am getting quite a lot of birdies to look after now.

Now just a little update on my Sophie dolly - she is coming along well thanks to my special man - have to get some blue paint now for her eyes.  She has to be ready for next week as I am hopefully going to meet Sophie Tilley at her workshop - so thrilled to be doing this so need to take Sophie along to meet her.  Do you think Sophie is a good name for her?  I love her and can't wait to see her finished and dressed.

 

Well lovely Folks I have to leave now as I have work to prepare for next week.  It has been a bit of a funny weekend so far, not the best but in life we have to be prepared for the ups and downs.  I hope you are all enjoying a fabulous weekend wherever you are.  Thank you so much for dropping by, what would I do without you all.  Lots of love as always, Dorothy :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

A change in the weather

Hello Everyone how are you?  I have been trying to get to the computer all week to catch up with you.  It has been a busy week in work so has been a bit on the tricky side.  I also started a new night course last night which was exciting but a bit daunting - a little more on that later.  Do come in and make yourselves comfy and I'll just pop the kettle on for us all.  For the first time this week I really noticed a chill in the air and the night drawing in.  I worked late on Monday evening and it was dark when I went home at 9pm - couldn't believe how quickly the day drew to a close.  We have had such a nice summer here in the UK it seems a little sad to see the light nights go - but onwards and upwards to the next season (my favourite one!).

I went to my first print making class last night and I must admit I was a little apprehensive as I was wondering what they would be looking for  in me.  The tutor was extremely friendly and kind but it was quite obvious from the word go that I was going to be the duffer of the class!  The lovely people who were on the course with me are jolly and highly talented artists, something I am not. There was a lot to cover in two hours and I didn't take any photographs as my hands were covered in ink, not a very good start.  Gregg, our tutor explained that the course would take us through all the different types of printing so that we can all use the print centre whenever we wish.  I am itching to get on to the fabric printing but guess I will have to be patient.  I promise I will try and get some photos next week.  I was tired out when I got home last night but really wanted to get  a post out to you all.  I was due to go to my sewing class this evening but had trouble with the car - which had to go into the garage, plus it was absolutely pouring down with rain.  I am going two nights next week instead.

I had a lovely surprise today Folks when a little box came - guess what it was - my yarn winder, can't wait to use it.  Have you got one of these?  I know that some of you had one as I read about them on your lovely blogs so thank you Guys for giving me the idea of getting one. 



 

I have been trying to do a little tidy each night in my sewing room as it is such a mess - just too much in here.  I did find a couple of little treasures for you to see.  Apologies if I have shown these before.  I found this little fairy on a second hand stall not long ago.  Just fell in touch with her, do you like her?

I also found this absolutely fascinating sewing bag.  The cross stitch is incredible and everything is hand sewn as you can see.  I like to think of someone sewing this on a long winter night, it is such a neat little thing with lots of lovely sewing treasures in it.  I love it.

Look at the workmanship or womanworkship!

Look at the fabulous construction of this bag, so useful.

Lots of lovely finds here.

 

When I got home tonight I really wanted to sew something - not been near the sewing machine since the weekend and feeling very out of touch, especially after reading all your wonderful blogs, you put me to shame!  I had found another Clothkits dress on Ebay and been lucky enough to win it. 

 

However, I wanted to see if I could make another one from the fabric I already had at home.  I had bought some Liberty Babycord from my sewing group for £5 and there is enough to make the dress and a bag.  The brown silky fabric was from the Treacle Fair in Macclesfield which I bought for £1.00, a real bargain as I have used quite a lot of this now and still have loads left.  I thought the brown went really nicely with the babycord.  Hope you agree.

 

I have been playing around with the pocket, haven't decided what to do with this yet.  I also want to add more decoration to the neck, maybe some tiny buttons or ribbon of some sort - what do you think lovely Folks?  Any ideas gratefully received.  I am a little concerned that this little dress may be a bit dull for my little ones as they do love bright colours and definitely know their own minds when it comes to clothes, young as they are.  I hope you don't think it is too grannyish?

This is as far as I have got tonight as time is moving on and I haven't sorted the dishes out yet.  Time seems to slip away and I get frustrated at not having enough time to get everything done - it is the same old gripe with me I'm afraid Folks.  I am a little unsure of the buttons again so am going to wait until I go to sewing class next week and get some help from the lovely Rachel.  Meanwhile I can be making the bag to the with the dress and finishing the other princess dolly pillow which needs to be done. 

Well lovely Readers I have to love you and leave you now - loads of other jobs to do, all boring but very necessary I'm afraid, I know that you will all understand as you have the same pressures as I do.  It has been so lovely talking with you all Folks, I do miss blogging after a day or so but always like to have something to show you or talk about.  I am hoping to get my Sophie Tilley doll finished soon in time for her studio opening to the public - hope to get some photos for you of the lovely Sophie herself if she is happy with this.

My lovely husband had a surprise gift for me tonight - a lovely vintage style box.  Some of our American cousins may recognise some of the advertisements on this tin - Kellogs Cornflakes.  I loved these as a child and can remember the free gifts that should to come with every box, it was always exciting - I am sure the children of today wouldn't be too fussed with the types of gifts given then.  I can remember plastic farm animals and you would try to collect the set, but, it would take ages as only one came in each box and the cereal would last for ages.  These tins are from a new series by Portmeirion Pottery which I love.  There are cereal bowls and dishes to collect, I think they are really cheerful and bright.  What do you think?  Now what shall I put in this tin?

 

 

Do have a most wonderful day tomorrow and take care, especially if you are out in the dark.  I will speak to you very soon everyone.  Thanks for dropping by again, it wouldn't be fun without you.  Lots of love as always, Dorothy :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mission accomplished!

Hello Lovely Folks how are you all doing?  Here's hoping you are all fine and well, enjoying your Sunday wherever you are in the world.  It is so lovely to see you all again, do come in and make yourself comfy while I pop the kettle on.  It is quite breezy with a chill in the air this morning and is starting to feel as if the chills of autumn are coming soon.  I must admit though I do love the autumn period as I suffer in the heat as you all known.  I would have loved to have gone for a long walk on the beach today if I had time but, sadly, there is work to be done here.  However, I did get up very early to make sure I finished the birthday cushion as I was fretting about not having time.

 

I have been searching in my cupboards for bits of fabric for the cushion and found loads of smallish pieces which weren't large enough for big projects but could be used for little gifts.  My gorgeous little granddaughters just love colouring as most young girls do so I had a thought about a pencil case for them.  I was up early yesterday morning so quickly measured up some fabric and pencils and came up with this little case.  It is not perfect but I hope she will like it - have another one cut out and ready to sew when I get some time today or tomorrow night. Hope you like it Folks - it is amazing the effect which blogging has had on my motivation to get things done, I wonder if you are there all find the same?  Wouldn't it be great to be able to bottle up this energy and allow others to share in it with us?  Wonder what you all think - would love to hear from you.

 

 

I just love the beach hut fabric - have some with the Volkswagens on too which is so adorable.

 

 

Now then a little update on my Sophie Tilley dolly.  I am so excited about her Folks it is quite unbelievable - two bloggers got in touch to say that they had ordered one each too.  I hope Sophie can keep up with the rush.  My lovely husband has sketched out the face for me and we now have all the colours we need so it won't be long before I am making her dress for her and she will be ready. I haven't thought of a name for her yet as I need to see what type of personality she has once she has come to life.  We are going to buy more for our lovely granddaughters as special gifts too.  I am hoping you will help me out with the name for my lovely dolly once she is finished - hopefully this week so watch this space Folks.

 

 

Now Everyone, back to the job in hand - the cushion.  I had found other fabrics which I thought I would use for the central panel.  I did take all your advice into account and didn't try to use the whole tea towel as it just wouldn't fit.  Below is the heart shape which I used and I decided to fit in the year, month, calendar and her name within this.  I cut out some flower shapes from the tea towel on the far right hand corner and then other shapes from the main fabric and from another piece of orange which I found hiding in the back of the cupboard.  I hope you think it looks ok?  I was having to move along with this because, as usual, I had left myself short of time.  My Husband always says I will be late for my own funeral as I try to do too much.

 

 

This the finished back - I used the silky brown fabric for the ties and inner sections which I had used for the bag but had found a brown cotton which I used for the heart shape.  I was worried about the silky material fraying which was happening as I was cutting it so I thought cotton would be a safer option.  As always I used the lovely Lilly Blossom pattern which serves me so well, I just love using it.  Lilly Blossom has opened the doors for me with regards cushions as previously I would never have attempted anything like this.  I love this style as it is classy and easy to sew up.  Thank you Lilly Blossom!

 

 

This is the finished gifts for her.  I do hope she likes them although I am always a little unsure when I give handmade gifts as they may not be to everyone's taste - we are all different.  Fingers crossed she is pleased.

 

 

A final photograph of the cushion, would love your comments, am always pleased for suggestions of how my sewing can be improved.  I am very conscious that in Blogland there are so many talented people and I have learned so much in the short time I have been part of the community.

 

 

Well Folks that is it for today and it is back to the old grindstone of work.  I do hope you all have a wonderful day or evening this Sunday depending on where you are in the world.  May you enjoy happiness, relaxation and peace each and every one of you.  I do hope you will come back and if you can do leave a comment as it is so lovely to hear from you all.  Lots of love to you as always, Dorothy :-)xxxxxxxxxxxxx