Beach Huts!

I love beach huts and would love to retire to one (especially the ones at Mudeford sand spit in Dorset which are super posh!).  For the time being I shall dream and stitch!

New summer floral range

These form part of my new summer floral range.  It consists of bright funky floral appliques on charcoal denim and black and white check and polka dots.  The larger purses also have covered buttons and a ruffle flower handstitched in place.  I have also stitched on funky vintage buttons.  These were much more time consuming than my usual appliques but so much fun! 

New summer collection of vintage fabric purses

I have started on my summer collections this week and I began by making purses using thin strips of vintage fabrics, ribbons and trims.  They are also lined and backed with vintage fabric.  The full collection is available now in my ebay shop.  Next I am planning on making linen and denim purses with appliqued vintage fabric flowers with button centres.  Photos to follow.

Some new commissions

Last week, amongst my many usual commissions I had a couple of more challenging requests.  The first commission was for a chairty ball and the lovely customer wanted two cushions to auction off.  The first was a lady on a horse and the second was Tattersalls in Newmarket at night (where the ball is being held).  These were great fun to do but my poor machine struggled to cope with the quantity of free machining on Tattersalls!  The second commissions was for another great customer who wanted her semi-detached house embroidered onto a cushion.  Again, another challenge but she was thrilled with the result, which made the project very rewarding.  Whatever next!

Something different!

One of my suppiers kindly sent me some fabric, lace and trim offcuts which have inspired some new designs.  I love the fabrics and if this range goes well I may expand it to cushions, hearts etc.

Two specially commissioned cushions - Paris & Ickworth House

These two oblong cushions were designed and made for a special customer.  They were a pleasure to make and a really pushed me out of my comfort zone!  Ickworth House is a beautiful building near Bury St Edmunds.  It has a destinctive rotunda which is represented on the cushion.  Both cushions are made from Laura Ashley Oatmeal linen and the appliques are made using vintage tweed fabrics.

Back in action - vintage fabric purses

After a well earned break I have been back to my sewing machine this week and have made a selection of purses from my gorgeous stash of vintage and liberty fabrics.  The fabrics are so lovely to work with and make a welcome change from my usual Cath Kidston!