Dutch blue

send me the pillow that you dream on; swap

2010-10-06T15:40:00.000+02:00

Hello,
Please come over to dutch sisters to read all about our new swap!

Just click on this button above.
groetjes,

Moving..

2010-09-16T11:31:00.000+02:00

So guess what- I'm moving today!

Yeah, I'm not kidding. My sister and I are sharing a blog from now on.
How exciting is that?
We already had so much fun with assembling the new blog.
and making a new banner. We are very pleased with the results.

Here is our new adress: http://dutchsister-s.blogspot.com/

I’d love for you to visit our new blog and let us know what you think.

Thank you all for your visits and lovely comments on Dutch blue.

So come, please hop on with me to our new blog!

Groetjes Corry

Hoi..

2010-09-13T20:03:00.003+02:00

How are you, did you have a nice weekend? Ours was lovely,
despite the fact that I had to work.

But first let me thank you all for your lovely warm wishes and welcome
to our grandchild Sofie.

Everything is still going well, she's doing wonderful.

Remmember the crochet grannies I made this summer.
I'm gonna use them to make pillows.

This book I bought last week. Cath Kidston's sewing lessons for beginners.

It's a lovely book and it contains lovely projects which are not that difficult to make.

The book comes with a complete sewing kit for the bag that's shown on the cover.

Have a good beginning of the week.

ps. In the very near future there will come some major changes for the dutch blue blog.

A small hint....Heleen and I are going to bundle our forces.

So stay allert!

Baby news!

2010-09-01T17:22:00.000+02:00

Meet our new granddaughter Sofie. She was born last sunday, August 29.
All went wonderfully well and both mother and daughter are in good health.

Isn't she lovely..our little bundle of joy.
I'll be back in blogland soon.

Groetjes,

Monday again...

2010-07-26T21:11:00.000+02:00

Hoi, thank you so much for all your lovely comments on last post.
So good to know I'm not forgotten!
My apologies for (still) being way, way behind on visiting your blogs.
I love to read all about your creative adventures.
July past by so quickly, just 14 days and I will be free for 3 weeks!!
Holiday!! Can't wait.

July page of the birthday calendar by "tesselschade arbeid adelt"

Today I made a new bird, a summer bird. I used light/ bright colours and for the bird's tail I used vintage lace. A few finishing touches before it will be ready for the store.

And three single hearts on a string...
I love making these hearts!

Have a wonderful week...
Groeten,

Hello dear blog friends

2010-07-21T23:30:00.000+02:00

It's been a while since my last posting. Did you miss me..just a little bit?
Sorry for this kind of a long and unintentional break.
I have been busy with all sort of things and just didn't spend much time behind the computer.
I finished the babyquilt. It looks so sweet and it perfectly matches the crib.
I will show you some pictures soon.

In the meantime...let me show you this music mobile I made for above the crib.

I used the animals from the 'Kathe Kruse mobile' that's hanging in Luca's room as a model.

I added tiny roses and a heart in the middle.
dd is in her last month of pregnancy now. She's feeling great and all is well.She has decorated a beautiful and sweet babyroom.She's done such a wonderful job.
And now..., now we just wait... and meanwhile enjoy summer!
See you all soon! Groeten,

Weekend

2010-06-19T13:08:00.002+02:00

It's our last weekend in zeeland and it's raining outside our caravan.
But inside its cozy and warm.
We had a lovely week with gorgeous weather.
And despite my best efforts ...I could not avoid a little sunburn!
I think its due to the combination of wind and sun.
And there's always wind in Zeeland.
Last week we visited the weekly market in Middelburg.
Here a picture of The Lange Jan, a churchtower.

we listen to streetmusic.

and I digged out piles of fabric.....

to find these lovely pieces.

this one comes from another store.
I love the windmills and the red, white gingham.

And I got me the new country living to read and browse through.

So I'll enjoy our last weekend here
before I have to go back to normal live on Monday.
Have a Happy weekend too and hope to see you back next week!

Monday

2010-06-14T15:23:00.001+02:00

greetings from Zeeland. We are enjoying a mini break at the seaside.

It was a bit hazy when I took these pictures this morning .

And ofcourse I didn't leave home without a little something to do while I'm on a break.

The weather forcast for this week is not bad. So I probably will build next to a stash of grannies a healthy tan as well!
Groeten,

Free as a bird in June...

2010-06-08T16:39:00.001+02:00

June already..... it's hard to believe we are almost half way through 2010!!

It still is a bit quiet here on my blog, sorry for that...
Just hope you haven't forgotten me by now!

Update on last post...I was still thinking abc and numbers for the new baby quilt when I spotted this gorgeous fabric. With Heleen I was in this lovely quiltstore in Zoutelande. And there they were...cute little birds.

I immediatly had a vision on how to use these cuties in the baby quilt. I had the perfect pattern made up in my mind. This pattern didn't included abc or numbers, so they have to wait for a future project.
I bought the fabric with the larger birds (above) and this pretty stash (below).
I did cut out all the birds and only used the blue ones for the quilt.

The pastel colored checker fabric is also the fabric that's used as liner for the baby crib.

The finished top is on the hoop and ready to quilt.
Hope I'll be back soon to show you the result!

Groeten,

Oops..

2010-05-27T13:02:00.001+02:00

...May is almost past, just in time for this months calender page!!

Thank you'll so very much for your congratulations
and sweet words on last post good news.
I didn't start on the baby quilt yet, but I have a plan for the pattern..and that counts as half the work is done, right!!

(picture from patchwork book) I'm thinking ABC, alfabeth, numbers....And here are most of the fabrics I'm gonna use.

Because my daughter wants to re-use the crib they are almost similar as the ones I used for Luca's babyquilt.

Enough babyquilt update..
A few weeks ago I saw this lovely tin at AH grocery store and I couldn't resist buying it.

I quicly went up my mothers attic (again) and filled it up with beautiful wool.

Since I crochet my first granny square I'm hooked.I can't help myself...crochet grannies is one of my favorite things to do right now!

I'm using Lucy's wonderful methode.

This is it for now, I'm off. Hopefully I'll see you again soon.I'm sorry for neglecting you. I'm so, so behind reading your blogs to see what's keeping you'll busy.I believe there are more than 650 posts waiting in google reader for me!!Oops..that's a lot!! Groeten,

a new babyquilt...

2010-04-29T23:00:00.001+02:00

It seems like I'm having a mini blog break.
Yes, things are real quiet here at dutch blue's crafty front. But I've got a feeling that won't be for much longer.
Because have I got some happy news!! A new grand baby is on the way. Luca is going to have a baby brother or sister by the end of August. And my daughter asked for a babyquilt.

She's so cute!

What a wonderful weekend it was..

2010-04-19T12:20:00.001+02:00

This past week I haven't really had much time to blog, and today is no different.But....I had a wonderful sunny weekend in Zeeland.We had a marvelous time... I enjoyed a long beach walk wearing my new pair
of walking shoes. Not the most charming pair but they fit me great!
The weather was so wonderful we've spent most of our weekend outdoors.
Doing a little shopping in Middelburg. No weekend without fresh tulips..

And I bought new cotton for future crochet projects..
Maybe more granny squares, not sure yet!

For now I'm still having fun crochet flowers for the hearts on a string

How was your weekend... I hope you had a lovely one as well! Groeten,

hearts on a string

2010-04-09T12:15:00.002+02:00

I crochet some flowers. Thought it was best to start with, what looked like the easiest pattern in the book. The first flower took me a while to figure out but the second one and the rest that followed after that did go much easier. I didn't even had to use the book anymore! I used the crochet flowers to decorate my hearts on a string.

What do you think....Don't they look lovely?
Well I'm off now, gonna make more flowers.Have a wonderful weekend!

flowers to knit and crochet

2010-04-07T21:50:00.002+02:00

Mom had noticed how much I enjoyed making the granny blanket.Therefore she brought me a present she thought I certainly would like. The book '100 Flowers to Knit and Crochet' by Lesley Stanfield.It's a lovely book filled with challenging knit and crochet flowers.
Beautiful flowers in red and pink

white and yellow
Flowers to use for decoration
I got my cotton ready to get started. But first I've to figure out how to read a crochet pattern!
Thanks mom, you're right..i love this book!
Groeten,

One hundred granny squares plus...

2010-04-05T13:52:00.000+02:00

a border with scalloped edge later.....
My granny square blanket is finished!!It's made from left over wool found at my mothers attic.measurements: 110 square cm.

(sorry for this blurry picture)

I really love how this turned out..
a colorful scrappy blanket.

And it looks gorgeous on mister chair too..
Have a wonderful beginning of the week!
Groeten,

Happy Easter

2010-04-02T23:37:00.003+02:00

Wishing you a Happy Easter weekend.These lovely bunnies are made by some very talented people and found on Flickr photosite.Follow the links below and you can find out yourself!

1. Two easter bunnies, 2. Easter Bunny stuffies, 3. bunny, 4. Pom-pom Bunny, 5. Untitled, 6. Rabbit, rabbit, 7. Amigurumi Easter Bunny, 8. Betty Bunny Egg Cosy, 9. Felt bunny, 10. Hurrah craft Easter bunny, 11. bunny family, 12. Bunny finger puppets, 13. Easter rabbit 03 03, 14. Guaranteed to Make you Smile Felt Bunnies- Bunny Pair, 15. Bun-bun, 16. Easter Bunny Dotee Doll Close up

April and swap gifts

2010-04-01T16:27:00.000+02:00

A new Month....

Brings a new page....
and a new saying....

Here are he gifts I recieved from my spring swap partner Chris.
She made me a beautiful bag. It's perfect to hold my crochet or sewing work so I can take it along where ever I go.- Thanks Chris! -
I love the fat quarters and the gorgeous tulips card.-*-*-*-*-This is what I made for Chris. It's a Spring chicken egg warmer.

I made one a decade ago and ust recently re-found the pattern again.

I think it will look lovely on the Easter breakfast table.So I made one for me too..

Only a few days until Easter and despite all good intentions to make decorations myself...nothing to show you so far.So I think I'll put my good intentions in the closet for next year and go visit the Hema for something nice, right now!

busy

2010-03-25T13:27:00.001+01:00

I'm so busy....so

just a quick post today. We're going away for a few days and be back on Monday.
Heleen and I hope that you all sent your spring swap parcels out the door!
If you haven't are have troubles regarding the spring swap, please mail
Dutch sisters. I've seen already so many beautiful and lovely crafted gifts!
This matroushka photo has nothing to do with this post what so ever...just a colorful picture. For the Dutch readers...I bought this matroushka at the blokker. it's a small moneybox.
Before I go...I like to point out these two lovely ladies. They are having a blog giveaway.
Vivienne from greenrabbits designs and Nichole from the happy wren studio. Happy weekend!

First monday in spring....

2010-03-22T17:04:00.003+01:00

and Easter is comming soon.I like to make some Easter decorations myself this year. Not sure what to make, yet. I like to use these fabrics think I need to add some yellow.

Yellow...like these lovely yellow tulips.

I'm usually not so fond of Monday mornings...I'm a slow starter.But this morning started of really wel!I've got a wonderful surprise in the mail send to me by sabine from Smila's World She thought I would love these fabulous ribbons..and she was so right.I do love these a lot!! Thanks Sabina!

Granny update:I've decided that 100 grannies are enough to make this granny blanket.So I started crochet the border and I think I'll end with scallops as finishing touch.

Have a good start to this week

Friday's inspiration

2010-03-19T13:54:00.002+01:00

In Holland we call it a prikbord. In English you say a pinboard. But when you hang your crafty bits and pieces, postcards, magazine clippings etc....on it then it become an inspiration board!

More inspiration boards found on flickr

1. noticeboard_4, 2. Inspiration board, 3. childhood tapestry, 4. Inspiration Board: vintage, 5. My Inspiration Wall, 6. New Inspiration Board, 7. Untitled, 8. Inspiration Board, 9. closer view, 10. where i do some of my work, 11. i heart inspiration, 12. my pin board, 13. mypinboard, 14. my kitchen inspiration board, 15. w o r k [ s p a c e ], 16. anthropologie craft room window display 2 How about you? Do you also collect things that inspire you?
Do you have a prikbord, or pinboard too?Wish you an inspirational weekend!

It felt like Spring...

2010-03-18T19:29:00.002+01:00

The weather was lovely today...temperature about 16 °C.feels like spring is just around the corner.

And talk of Spring..... there is a deadline coming up!
We hope you're making progress on your projects for your swap partners. Remember that the mail-out deadline is just a few days away.Because the postoffices are closed on a Sunday, Monday 22th of March will be the last day to ship your items to your partner.Many of you did already sent and received their presents. And photos from the "Dutch sisters spring surprise swap" are slowly showing up and there are some truly creative and amazing crafts. Check them all out in our flickr group.!!! Call for Jeanette, please contact your partner or dutch sisters!!
If you're having troubles or questions regarding this swap orif you haven't heard from your partner, please send a mail todutchsisters@live.nl Succes ladies and have FUN!

must be my lucky day

2010-03-17T16:30:00.001+01:00

I'm a very lucky woman. I have two swap partners, which means I've to make two surprise gifts but I also will receive two surprise gifts!! And today this was in the mail..Wendy sent me a beautiful broche made from gorgeous fabrics and tiny beads in the middle. I love it and I think it looks great on my jean jacket..thank you Wendy!

She also sent me these two lovely fat quarters.

And today must be realy my lucky day!This beautiful package came also in the mail....Nicolette had a little game going on on her blog.She showed a box filled with hexagons and asked to guess the right amount.And guess what!! I was closest.
This package contains all the materials you need to make a lovely pincushion and a needlebook.There is also a pattern for a wrist pincushion included.And see the postcard with the polkadot boot... so cute! And there's more good news...I finaly had a finish!!

Something to add to the OPAM list.

I go now and enjoy my beautiful gifts.Have a lovely day..

Once in a year moment of fame

2010-03-16T12:20:00.004+01:00

I bet we all have one...
A quilt, a knitting, crochet or other project
that you never seem to finish..ever!
You didn't figure out exactly how or what...
and it's hard to bring up the energie to even get you started.But you want to get it finished because you love this project and think of all the hours you spent already. Does this sound familiar??Well, see here....here is mine.

This star charmquilt is paperpieced and not one piece of fabric is the same. I blogged about it before here.

This is the back of the quilt. And you can see by the wide seam allowences, i wasn't that accurate on measuring.
Just think this thickness will give this quilt extra comfort.

I use xray material for my starpoint model. Like paterno it keeps its original shape even after its used a thousand times.
And I use wallpaper for draw/cut each individual starpoint.

I wasn't sure about the border But I think I'll do it this way.Found this picture in a magazine.

For each star I like to match fabric of the same color.

So this was it, the once in a year moment of fame this quilt gets to see day light.One last picture before it goes back in the box.

So now I showed you mine.. will you share yours?
Please do...I would love, love to see your once in a year moments of fame!

On its way to the U.S.A...

2010-03-15T14:52:00.000+01:00

Just got back from the postoffice. My swap surprises for Chris are on its way to the U.S. now.
Here is a sneek peek and a hint....
The eggs are not in the envelope though!!

So now I'm going back working on my two little quilts that I want to finish this month..if possible!
But before I go I send you these lovely primulas first.

Have a good start of the week!
Groeten,

surprises and a cute little girl

2010-03-11T20:40:00.001+01:00

Today I have been babysitting luca. She's oma's little girl and such a joy!We've been to the garden center to buy flowers.
And when we came home there was a large envelope lying on the doormat.
In it was a fantastic quilt magazine, a gorgeous card and delicious chocolate. Thank you so much Nina...you are so kind.

Already there are beautiful surprise gifts send and received It's so great to see all your pretty swap pictures.We would love for you to add them to our flickr group.And please ladies remember the deadline!! Personaly I'm not that good with deadlines..but..I've send one package today to WendyAnd Chris yours is coming very soon too!

And since a picture is worth a thousand words
I'll let this one do the talking.

Groeten,

feeling blue

2010-03-08T15:18:00.001+01:00

This is what I saw when I opened my eyes this morning. Little snowflakes falling down and made all white again.
I'm so,so done with this weather!!!
Who needs snow in March?? ..I certainly don't! I desperately need sunshine, I need vitamin d, I need to smell fresh green outside,

I need a vacation!!No...I don't really need all that...
I think it's just the monday morning blues...

These are fun...but i don't need them either!

Groeten,

hip hip hooray for modern technology

2010-03-06T16:19:00.001+01:00

Yeah!! We're doing a little happy dance here..
We've got sunshine and although it's cold outside
sunshine makes everything so much better.
More reason for a little happy dance...
We've moved to another internet provider.
Things go much, much faster now.

No endless waiting for pages to load...Hip hip hooray for modern technology!
Downside...this corner in my livingroom!!
Does anyone have any suggestions??
Maybe we just have to build a closet to hide these ugly cabels!

Or I can place this vase with hyacinths in front of the cable mess.
I'm afraid it will have to wait until we'll redo our livingroom.Perhaps some time next year or so?For now I'm just enjoying my superfast internetand doing some granny crochet.
Happy weekend you'll!

bicycle fashion

2010-03-03T22:03:00.000+01:00

I came across this lovely picture in the March issue from Landleven.
Landleven is a Dutch country lifestyle magazine.
I love this crochet coat protector or bike-skirt.
There is a link where you can download the pattern here.
I'm sorry the pattern is only available in Dutch language.

On Flickr you can find more "pimp up your bike" inspiration.

1. Dscf0313 laboratory of Art, 2. 1910 Fongers, 3. Jasbeschermer painting, 4. Stencil Coat Protector, 5. First crochet thing, 6. Bicycle Wheel Decoration, 7. 103, 8. coat protector, 9. Untitled, 10. Skirt Guard, 11. IMG_1068, 12. Happy Bike, 13. Union bike, Staphorst Netherlands, 14. My New Skirt, 15. CIMG8082, 16. Bike Hat

Check it out, there is lots more!
Groeten,

March

2010-03-02T14:46:00.000+01:00

I turned over a new calender page.
March, the month of early spring, lambs, birds nesting and also the month where fresh green start showing in the garden.

"The March wind roars
Like a lion in the sky,
And makes us shiver
As he passes by.

When winds are soft,
And the days are warm and clear,
Just like a gentle lamb,
Then spring is here."
- Author Unknown

28th Februari

2010-02-28T15:29:00.001+01:00

Thank you for all the get well wishes, I'm feeling much better now...luckily!
It's a rainy last day of Februari...just where did this month go??
What exactly did I do this month..were there any finishes??
Nope, nothing to add to the one project a month list.

But, I crochet squares..76 so far.

I'm hooked! Crochet hooked that is!

This morning Heleen and I went to a local fleamarket.
We love sniffing around..hope to find treasures.
I found these gorgeous potholders, crochet dresses.

And before I go to pick up my crochet needle again...
I show a small peek of the swap presents i'm making for Chris and Wendy.

Of course I won't tell what it is....it's a surprise!!

Have a lovely Sunday!

feeling a bit under the weather

2010-02-22T13:24:00.001+01:00

I came down with a cold this weekend. I wasn't feeling very well, all I did was hang out on the couch surrounded by a pile of tissues.
I'm a bit better now, just eat lunch and crochet a few squares.

While hanging on the couch this weekend I tried to make a plan for the swap. Matching some fabrics...thinking about what colors to use
RED...

GREEN...

or BLUE...

Or maybe mix colors up...
I found this pattern I thought i lost forever.
It would be lovely to use for the spring swap.

Ofcourse I won't tell here what it is.
It's a BIG secret!!!!
So to make it up I sent to you my monday tulips..

Have a good start of the week!

p.s. Thanks for all your good advices regarding my broken teapot.
Sadly it's not possible to glue or restore the teapot. I put it on a shelf in my cupboard for eyecandy, so I still can enjoy!

A hole in my teapot

2010-02-16T12:55:00.001+01:00

I have the most lovely teapot I use for serving tea....

It's the same most lovely teapot I use as a vase for flowers......

From this moment on I can only say USED FOR....
Because....
Look, there is a hole in the pot!!
A hole in my most lovely teapot!

I have only myself to blame (luckily for my family members, LOL).
Well, I suppose I'll get over it....

Craft news, I added more squares to this granny blanket (it will become a blanket). I only use wool from leftover projects found on my mothers attic.

And here is a house keyhanger.
I made several before to give away as a gift.

Have a nice day!

this and that

2010-02-11T16:26:00.003+01:00

Thank you so much for your kind birthday wishes.
It's almost a week later now and I've been so busy with work.
This is my first day off and I finaly had some time to catch up with blog reading and to post.
February the 6th was a happy cake eating and gifts unwrapping day.
This book was one of my presents

It contains some wonderful stitchery projects.
Like this needle book, I love to make this sometime.,

Heleen spoiled me with this most gorgeous bag.
Lucky me... to have a sister who can make such handsome bags!

This morning the streets were snowy white and a bit slippery, again!
I can't wait til this winter is over. I just about had it with the cold!
To keep warm I even added an extra quilt on the bed with the tacking cotton still in it! Wouldn't it be great to be able to quilt, stay warm and rest underneath it at the same time! It certainly would solve some time problems.

This dutch folklore only needs one side of the binding sewn on.
I can do that this evening.

But....I'm off to the supermarket now, buy some ingredients to cook diner for my family. Groeten,

p.s. Dear swap friends,I find it so lovely that some of you write emails back and forth and become swapfriends. How neat is that!!

Hello Friday

2010-02-05T12:11:00.002+01:00

The first day of a wonderful weekend ahead,
the first weekend of February.....

Here is this months calendar page
and ofcourse this months saying...
Really soon I'll be a year older and ~~wiser~~ !!

News from the crafting front..Only a very slowly progress. You probably noticed I didn't finished the quilt on time for OPAM January.Well, now my goal is to get it done this month!

SWAP NEWS
Heleen and I opened a Flickr group for the swap. Here is the link. We would love it if you joined us! Please, remember its a surprise, don't show pictures before your partner received her package!!

Some of you mailed us about not receiving the partner information mail...Check your spam folder. Sometimes mails end up in that folder

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

all partner emails are sent!

2010-02-03T18:36:00.004+01:00

After a very busy with work and swap week

i'm taking a brief moment to sit calm behind the laptop

and give you an update on the spring swap.
Heleen and I are overwhelmed with the high number of entries.
Including a few first time swappers and a lot of non- blog swappers
All 112 partner emails are sent out now.
So, if you haven’t received an email, please contact us.
Because there are many non- blogger participants in this swap
we had the idea to open a flickr photo group
so every participant has a chance to add swap photos
for all of us to enjoy. Please tell us if like this idea (or not).

Grape hyacinths for an early spring feeling.

Have fun swapping!

And I hope to be back tomorrow!

lazy day

2010-01-26T21:58:00.000+01:00

Brrrr.. its freezing cold outside, the cv (central heating) is working overtime.So I stayed in today and made a few granny squares. Did some laundry and made more granny squares, again.Just enjoyed a lazy day! Spring swap update: The list with participants is growing.So excited!!If we didn't send you an email yetthat's because we don't have your address!!Please send a mail to dutchsisters@live .nl

Dutch Sisters Spring Surprise Swap 2010 CLOSED

2010-01-24T16:30:00.005+01:00

CLOSED
If you are longing for spring
If you want to have that spring feeling
If you want to be lovely surprised
And receive new fabric
You do not want shipping costs being to high….
This is the swap for you!
What do you have to do?
1. Find your two most beautiful spring fabrics and cut of a fat quarter from each fabric. see this link2. Make a lovely spring gift.You can sew, knit, crochet, felt, embroider it!
It can be a anything as long as it is very pretty! A little bird, a heart, a little doll, a small mini quilt, a house etc..
Wrap it up all pretty, and write a nice note to send with it because...we believe notes make things extra nice!
Please, make your gift so very special you almost want to keep it yourself!The lovely gift and fabric has to fit and be send in a large envelope.
This is it nothing more nothing less.Parcels must be sent on or before 21st March ! Who can join?
Everyone can join (with are without a blog).
Because this is an international swap
you have to be prepared to ship overseas.

You can sign up by;
Leaving a comment on either Corry’s or Heleen’s swap post,
be sure to include your email address if you are a no-reply/ anonymous commenter.
Then you mail your e-mail address, real name and home mail address
and also your blog address, if you have one to dutchsisters@live.nl

The sign up will close on January 31, 11.59 p.m. (CET time).

We will match up and send out partner information the following week.
Once you receive your partner's details you can send her an email
to say hello and introduce yourself.

Please send an email to dutchsisters@live.nl and your partner
to confirm that you’ve sent your parcel.
Once you received your ‘spring surprises’ could you please blog about them
(if possible) to publicly thank your partner.
If your partner doesn’t have a blog
you can post and show your own makings on your blog
so we all can see your wonderful spring surprises.

If you have a blog feel free to add this swap button in your sidebar
Thank you!

Don't hasitate any longer and join us!

Groetjes

granny squares

2010-01-23T13:45:00.000+01:00

in case I made you curious about that wool on my plate (previous post).
I picked up the crochet needle again, found some pretty wool and start crocheting squares.

Lots and lots of wool to make many more squares.

Have a lovely weekend. I hope to see you back on monday, when Heleen and I will post all details of the spring surprise swap. So exicted..so much fun..hope you'll join!

nominated

2010-01-21T09:53:00.002+01:00

Both Heleen and I feel so honoured, Dutch sisters is nominated for one of the Poppies. It’s an award ceremony that’s taking place at this lovely blog “ Poppytalk” . The category is for ‘ Favourite Handmade Crafter’ so thank you! If you feel like voting for us (or anyone else, of course) you can do so here (scroll down). Thanks again for your support.

Today I......

2010-01-20T14:47:00.000+01:00

Today I.....
work with colors on my plate. Nothing to show for, yet.

and enjoy colors in my glass vase. This amarelys is blooming for the second time now.

And I was thinking, actually we were. Heleen and I wondered if any of you would be interested in joining our first swap. Sign up will be somewhere next week. First we have to work out the details.

so stay tuned!

for lack of nothing better to post about...

2010-01-18T16:57:00.000+01:00

I can easily fool you with this photo if I wanted to.
This looks like a finished tablerunner, right?

But I won't do that...

ofcourse I won't do that!!

Gnomes seen on flickr

2010-01-15T12:29:00.001+01:00

This one is for Elizabeth from "creative breathing". She's having a gnome blog party going on. It's so cute and so much fun, go check it out for yourself!

1. gnome in a nutshell 02, 2. Gnome and Fawn, 3. Gnome Sweet Gnome, 4. Tiny Garden Gnome, 5. Itty gnome!, 6. Gnome, 7. NOMs, 8. gnome_deer, 9. Gnome-Land, 10. Gnome and Frog, 11. Mushroom House: Red, 12. IMG_5745, 13. Wood Mushroom Trinket Box, 14. Gnome Needlebook, 15. Gnome, 16. Crafting 365/ Day100

Groetjes,

OPAM 2010

2010-01-13T11:58:00.006+01:00

It's still cold outside. Even calico cat found himself a pleasant warm place in front of the central heating.

I'm up in my attic dug around for unfinished projects.
I joined "OPAM 2010", The one project a month challenge 2010.

This will be my change to get some things finished.
My problem, you see, when I'm in the middle of a project
I start something completely new!

So, here is a glimpse of a tabble runner or mini quilt (not sure yet) I started here.
This will be my Januari challenge!

Flowers

2010-01-11T15:03:00.001+01:00

When I came down this morning the house smelled like flowers.
Hyacints have a very strong scent. You either hate or you love it.
Well, i love that sweet flowery, fruity smell!
That strong hyacint perfume made me want to wear my flowery skirt!

And talking about flowers
See this fantastic link, LPF ribbons.You probably know about this site but it is totally new to me!They have the most gorgeous ribbons.Here are some of my favorites!
Have a flowery monday too!

Happy sunday

2010-01-10T14:23:00.004+01:00

greetings for you from three little Dutch girls

wearing little Dutch aprons...

A happy Sunday from me too!

PS. Thank you for all your lovely comments on last post. Many of you asked where they could buy these jars. All I know is that my MIL purchased them at the AH store.
Groetjes..

after all the jam is eaten

2010-01-07T13:53:00.000+01:00

Bonne Maman confiture comes in lovely shaped jars with a checkered lid on.
After eating all the jam don't throw away the empty jars.
They are handy for storing buttons, beads, needles etc.....And they look great too!

Thank you MIL for eating lots of jam and saving the empty jars for me!

Just another Tuesday

2010-01-05T16:20:00.002+01:00

It's still winter outside and I'm sitting cozy upstairs in my own little space.

Drinking coffee and eating kitkat's, they are low in calories, you know (lol)! I'm looking at family pictures I picked up from the store this morning. They turned out great. Luca's first time in the snow.

Here is Daantje (that's her name)with her gorgeous flowery apron on.
Isn't she cute? She's posing for me so I can take her photograph.

You can see she loves flowers by the cross-stitch flowers on her apron and the roses on her dress.

I made a start on Daantjes friends. They don't have all their bodyparts yet and one needs a face. But the girls aprons are done!

I'm going now, make myself a second cup of coffee!
See you next time!

Welcome 2010

2010-01-04T00:55:00.003+01:00

Hello everyone, how are you all! Did you survive the holiday season?

Well we did alright, although I only ~~have to~~ will eat low calorie food

for the next few weeks or so!

A new year calls for a new calender.

This new one is hanging in my craftsroom. It's actually a birthday calender.

It contains beautiful cross-stitch sampler patterns

and a farmers saying for each month.

The calender is published by Tesseschade-Arbeid Adelt

Don't ask me to translate January's saying in English.

I'm sorry I don't think I can.

However if one of you can, please sent me the translation

and I'll be happy to add it to this post.

Besides all the eating I did this past two weeks

I also managed to squeeze some crafty time in.

A new doll. She asked me for some polkadot shoes....

And who am I to say no...

Have a good start of January's first week!

Farewell 2009

2009-12-29T12:54:00.001+01:00

I'll be taking the rest of the year “off”, but first I'd like to thank you’ll for dropping by, for your interest and attention and your lovely, warm and kind comments.
It's been a pleasure to be able to share my creative thoughts with you all.
I'm looking forward to a New Year full of creative pursuits to share.
Until then, I wish you much love, health and happiness.

See you in 2010!

Bring out the sled

2009-12-17T20:22:00.002+01:00

It snowed today!

painting by Grandma Moses 1960

Outside my window the snow coated everything white.

Inside it's cozy and warmIt's time for some hot chocolate.Enjoy your evening too!

it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2009-12-15T16:00:00.000+01:00

Things are a little busy here at dutch blue's place. But never the less..we still decided
last Saterday to get out the Christmas decorations and give the house a Christmas makeover.First the tree...and as you can see...i love color!!

A very sweet angel ornament
Cute familie wearing red hats

Red felt heart

Santa claus and his (wife?)
I believe December is the most busy month of the year. But it is also by far the most cosiest.I love to lit the candles in the evening and the smell of the Christmas tree.I love to do some handsewing projects while listening to Christmas music. The red/ orange quilt is done. I used a charmpack "recess" from moda for the nine triangles blocks.
On my quilt hoop now....Dutch folklore.

Happy stitchingEnjoy your day!

Trees, coasters and a before and after

2009-12-08T17:02:00.000+01:00

I think its a bit early yet but I've got a tree waiting outside...
Maybe (if I can wait that long) I put it up next weekend.

This little tree is already decorated...

This one too..
a tree from Hema(and snowman)......

Look what came in the mail! Aren't these coasters lovely! It was a giveaway I won, held by Heidi from " all my scattering moments " Thank you so much Heidi!

And to end this post,
remember the before....

Here is the after...

And notice.. the laundry is all done!
groeten,

Sunday inspiration

2009-12-06T15:55:00.009+01:00

Here are - cute- sweet- gorgeous- ornaments I found on Flickr.
Click on the links below to go check them out.

1. ornament swap, 2. ornament inspired by matte stephens charlie bird prints, 3. Christmas ornaments, 4. felt bird ornament, 5. ornament, 6. House ornaments, 7. Ornament swap, 8. small scented house ornaments, 9. Robin_ornament, 10. bird wreath ornament, 11. Knitted Elf Shoe Ornament, 12. Tree Ornament 2, 13. Felt Christmas Ornament Tutorial and Pattern, 14. étoile patch, 15. christmas ornament swap, 16. Felt bunny ornament

I'm trying to make an ornament myself by using an old Christmas card, cotton and a crochet hook.

Outside it's cold and wet. So, I better stay in and try some more of this ornament making! Update on the "knitted star tutorial";
Barbara made a perfect translation of the pattern in German language.
You can find these German instructions by clicking on the link in the sidebar. Thank you Barbara for your kindness! Groeten,

cross this one off of my list.....

2009-12-03T12:56:00.003+01:00

Hip Hip Hooray! Not only do we celebrate DD birthday today. I also have my Christmas quilt finished in time...!!
I gave myself a little pat on the shoulder (thought I deserved one).

It seems I can't get the whole quilt sharp on a picture.
The daylight is terrible today for taking pictures. And I don't use flashlights. So, this is the best I can bring you today!

I quilted large stitches in straight lines. The binding is done by folding the back fabric to the front of the quilt and sew with the machine.

Just finished in time to enter the contest!

this and that

2009-12-02T00:24:00.002+01:00

Is it really December already?? I can't believe how fast this year has flown by. This is also the last page of my 'Lot van den Akker' calender. Next year I'll come with a new calender and new pages.

I had a small leftover block from the red and white quilt and turned it into a pincushion. I think by now I have more pincushions than pins!
Notice the two vintage fabrics, aren't they lovely?

A few weeks back I told you about a small renovation going on here.
Well, the plaster and ceiling are done.
Now all we have to do is paint the walls and do the floor.
(And do the laundry!! ) To be continued ...

And before I go ending this post I happily put some flowers on the table. Specially for you, hope you love roses!

Thanks for all the nice feedback about my angel pattern.

angel pattern

2009-11-30T20:18:00.003+01:00

So, I finished the angel pattern. Here it is. Feel free to print the pattern and instructions if you like to make one yourself.

UPDATE: If you have trouble with downloading or printing the pattern please send me an email. I will send you the pdf file in return.
Pattern Angel Enjoy!

ps: If you have any questions please let me know.

drinking tea

2009-11-27T13:18:00.001+01:00

Enjoy your weekend!

See you again on Monday.

not an exciting post

2009-11-25T13:15:00.002+01:00

There's nothing exciting going on here. I'm still making stitches on the Christmas quilt.
Almost ready for the binding and then it's done, yes!!

Today it's grey and dark outside. Not the perfect light to make pictures.
And to leave this post not completly whitout photo's,

I thought I would show you some that were already on my camera.
These are small cross stitch motives made by my mother in law.
I have them hanging in a frame. Heleen used these motives for making ornaments.
Oke, not exactly the same but they look alike!

I love old cross stitch motives.
Here are more gorgeous pictures (found on flickr) where I didn't have to use my camera for.
In this mosaic are beautiful projects made by other talented people.
See the links to go and check them out.

1. p i n c u s h i o n, 2. Leaves and berries papercutting (40cm x 55cm), 3. Crocheted hearts blanket, 4. Bottle Cap Pincushion #317, 5. Colorful Crafting with Jen: SnoBuddy Family from Knitting at KNoon, 6. mary jane stockings, 7. first quilted cushion, 8. petit cross stitch, 9. Detail, 10. Bracelet, 11. Buck, 12. Christmas Fairy Bunny brooch, 13. HOUSE BAG FOR A SWAP, 14. Embroidery details, 15. Itty-bitty quilt, 16. Button for the "o"

To end this post here's a photo from a project I'm working on with my own two hands.

Not the best picture, but as I told you it's grey and dark outside!

Sunday inspiration

2009-11-22T14:46:00.003+01:00

I went shopping yesterday and brought the new Marie Claire idees back home.
This issue is really, and I mean really beautiful. It's packed full with the most wonderful inspirational idees.

I've taken some pictures to show, so you can see for yourself.

I love the paper made ornaments.
They look so simple and yet so very pretty.

Cute deer ornament.

And don't you just adore this sweet crochet pink teacozy!!

There's so much more. I better hide this magazine from 'moi' before I start making more and more ufo's! I'am the queen of ufo's, you know!
I start machine quilting the Christmas quilt. And as you probably see it looks terrible. So I removed all the stitches and decided to hand quilt.

But I make large stitches with a large needle so that works real fast!This way I hope to be on time for the contest.

Groetjes,
ps. If you like 'speculaas' go over to my sisters blog. she is holding a yummie giveaway!

touches of red

2009-11-19T12:51:00.001+01:00

The border is just about done and I found the right
fabric for the back that matches perfectly.

I made another gingerbread heart.
This one is a larger version of the ones I made last year.

It so much fun to create something new out of old stuff! The brown piece was originally a small table cloth with four embroidered corners. It came from a triftshop. I'm making the last heart from the last leftover corner.
So, that was one small, old tablecloth well used, I would say!

Because of a few days off from work I can get a lot of sewing done.
Here is another red angel bag. The same as last years angel bags, only this time I used a pink and red roses fabric for the lining and added a silk rose.

To end today's post I show you what came in the mail yesterday.
It has nothing to do with today's post title but I'm so happy with this Mary Engelbreit 2010 calendar. I bought this at Amazon.

I'm off now, have to get my Mexican flu shot this afternoon, brrrr!

A contest, a box and another log cabin

2009-11-17T15:59:00.001+01:00

When I got the quilting gallery newsletter from Michele,
I read about the Holiday Traditions Quilt Contest. I love to enter this contest but to make a quilt on such short notice!?? Still working on the fall quilt.

But then it came to me. I have a quilttop, almost done, hidden somewhere.
This will be a perfect opportunity to finaly get this one finished.
So I took a dive into the cupboard and found this box

Bits and pieces Christmas fabric, most are from the the eighties and nineties.
Probably also the last time this box was opened.

Here's after I neatly folded the fabric swatches.
Isn't that a lovely pile?

Here is the quilttop. It's a log cabin (again). I stitched the stripes on a background for this one. It needs borders, a back and quilting.
Final submissions to enter the contest is December 7, 2009

I think best thing is to use the machine for quilting.
So I can hopefully finish just in time.
Keep my fingers crossed!

Monday's quick post

2009-11-16T16:18:00.001+01:00

Just a quick post today. I spotted these yummie fabrics over here.
'Lorenza' from Alexander Henry fabrics.

I played a bit with this site photoscape, just to see how these lovely ones would look in a design.

Yes, just as i thought...these fabrics would look lovely indeed.
I put them on my wishlist.
- Better write a note to Sinterklaas!-

Have a good start of the week!

thinking Christmas

2009-11-10T13:32:00.002+01:00

The top is almost done.
I try to find matching fabric for borders and the back...

Meanwhile, despite my best efforts to avoid...
I have Christmas on my mind!

What shall I make this year..

I love to make ornaments..

And I love making these angels..

Well, first things first. Back to my fall quilt!
I go for the red flowery fabric and the solid brown for the border

Groetjes,

under construction

2009-11-09T10:11:00.007+01:00

My house is having some renovations done, new window frames, new plaster, new ceiling. So my weekend was filled with all kind of other non quilting work. -Wipe off grey concrete dust is not one of my most favorite jobs to do-. Let's just say it's all for a good cause!

But today the dust is gone and there are no workmen in the house.
So, I can quietly withdraw myself back into my cozy room upstairs
where the fall quilttop is still waiting to get finished.
I hope to show some pictures of it soon.
Have a good start of the week you all!

a new "what's in the box"

2009-11-03T00:19:00.001+01:00

Boy, it's hard to believe... November already, time past by fast....to fast! Again time to show some pretty drawings from the calendar by Lot van den Akker.And besides these drawings, so sweet don't you think, I have no other subject for this post....

So lets do another "what's in the box".
a) Because I don't have anything else to show here and
b) because I have many, I mean many boxes stuffed with WIP's. Lifting the lid once in a while reminds me there's still work waiting! Big question to myself; why always start new projects???

But I must be honest with you The contents of this box is not mine.
It's not my WIP. It's mom's. It ended up in my craftsroom because mom didn't felt like finish it anymore. I said maybe I would but I'm not sure.

When finished it should look something like this.
Sorry for the blurry picture, it was taken from another picture.

The different shapes and figures are glued to the background fabric by using double Sided iron on stabilizer. And then sew buttonhole stitches all around.I love mom's color choices
It realy looks lovely and it would probably be a lovely work to do also,but you know how things work with WIP's.Usualy they sit for a long time in a dark box are a closetwaiting for someone who comes along and kindly helps them to a good ending.Today it's just not this wip's time.
So the lid is back on, the box is closed. Maybe this wip has more luck next time!

small weekend pleasures

2009-10-30T16:41:00.011+01:00

I've got the flowers....

I got me a project to work on.....

I've got to figure out how to make a proper angel nose???

I got the new issue to browse through.....

And while taking these pictures I've noticed
I've got to do some dusting as well!

Wish you lots of small weekend pleasures too!

update

2009-10-27T12:24:00.001+01:00

I just thought I would give you an update on my log cabin fall quilt.
I'm using every free minute to sew stripes into blocks.

Each block has a brown, orange and red diagonal on one side and on the opposite a green and blue green side. So far I've managed to sew 16 blocks. Still 20 blocks to go!

The other day I saw a lovely quilt in a hoop right here. And you know how things are..seeing a quilt in a hoop works sooooooo... contagious. I made this quilt using fabric from moda. The fabric is called 'recess', I used a 5" squares charm pack. I added orange/ white checkers and red/ white polkadot fabric. For the back I used polkadot also. Quilting in a hoop...nothing can beat that!

What do you think of these two for an audience?

Aren't these two cute ?
Happy stitching!

Sunday inspiration

2009-10-25T13:44:00.004+01:00

More log cabin inspiration found on flickr

1. My project blocks, 2. "Log Cabin", 3. Sarah's Block, 4. www.flickr.com/photos/treefalldesign/295596671/, 5. Log Cabin Quilt, 6. Blue and Red log cabin quilt, 7. Towle's Log Cabin Syrup , 8. My new quilt, 9. detail of log cabin pillow top., 10. Completed Log Cabin VI Blanket, 11. Log Cabin quilt magnet, 12. log cabin (close-up), 13. LogBag - Left, 14. Scrappy Playdate Quilt, 15. three new childrens pillows, 16. Log Cabin Cushion

Flickr is an amazing resource for inspiration, go find out for yourself!

Stripes

2009-10-23T14:02:00.000+02:00

Stripes are cut and ready for sewing.

Stripes on the floor.

And a few stripes sewn into blocks.
Green is added.

I hope for more stripes this weekend....
and hope you've a good one too!

mix and match fall colors

2009-10-21T20:26:00.002+02:00

This plant gives me an autumn feeling.
Warm colors like orange, brown and earthly green. Such a pretty colors.

I went through my stash and did a bit of mix and match in search for that warm autumn feeling and eartly colors. hmmm, I think I need more green.....

And wouldn't it be lovely to make them into a fall logcabin quilt.

One like this. Oooh yes... It would be lovely indeed!!!

Just like this winter log cabin quilt from 2007.
but......

Pssst, don't tell anyone this one is in progress, still!

this past weekend....

2009-10-19T14:45:00.002+02:00

I had a lot of fun exploring photoscape

I also made an angel pattern. I'll add a link in my sidebar soon.

I made some new and finished some old birds.

On Saterday I came home from ikea with a new seat in the trunk of the car.

And while a was there I spotted this crocked flowers decoration set.i don't have a purpose yet

But think I'm gonna glue the red one on my red bag.

Well,I had a lovely creative weekend, I hope you had a great one too!
Have a good start of the week you'll!

Friday's post

2009-10-16T19:00:00.002+02:00

Hello, first a big thank you for your comments and kind words on my last post. I feel very honored by them all, thanks!
Friday already...is it just me or does time flies!! I had today off from work and went shopping. And a trip to the post office to send of two parcels.

And of course I couldn't go home without fresh flowers for the weekend. I love tulips. Maybe not the perfect flower to have in a warm central heated house, but I enjoy them while they last.

I also had to buy some magazines.

I can browse for hours in these magazines. look, I even found my perfect cooker.

picture from: country homes & interiors
Ooh and I want a cozy corner like this one....

picture from: country homes & interiors

And isn't this a charming chest for storage?

picture from: country homes & interiors

Mine is from Ikea.

Here a picture from my cleaned up cutting table.

I wonder how long it will stay this way?!
Happy weekend!

blogger's quilt festival

2009-10-13T14:24:00.001+02:00

Amy from park city girl is hosting a bloggers quilt festival.

Here is my contribution to the festival. You might have already seen this 'vogeltjes quilt' before, I posted about it in 2007. But because I still get questions about this quilt I like to show it here again.

The quilt is inspired by work and books of Jean Ray Laury.
I love her drawings, so wonderful to use for applique.

I made this quilt in the late nineties, I just had followed an appliqué course when I found these lovely birds in one of J.R.Laury's books. I started of making one, and another, and one more. And before I knew I had a stash of funny apliqued birds blocks.

I made an appletree for the center. I draw the design for the tree myself. The fabrics I used for the triangles and the border are a replica from an old dutch chintz bought by Den Haan & Wagenmakers

Now I had all those lovely birds sewn around an appletree. I thought it would be perfect to complete the quilt with a beautiful border. I chose this drawing also from J.R. Laury's book als my starting point and went from there.

I did all sewing, applique and quilting by hand. It took my a few years to complete. In 2000 I finaly did. The quilt was a gift for our daughter. I made a cross-stitch label for the back.

Today the 'vogeltjes quilt' still hangs in her livingroom and is often used for Luca's favorite game 'hide and seek'.

flowers, winners and a summer mini quilt

2009-10-09T16:39:00.007+02:00

Thank you, thank you, thank you each and every one of you for visiting and commenting.
Boy, o boy…did you have some great tips and solutions for my storage and tidying up problems!! You must be the tidiest people I know.

I tried to make a top 10 of the most workable tips that will work for me.

1. Close the door! Ha,ha, like this one…
2. Move to a bigger room. I would love to move but I think I’ve the largest room already!
3. lots of shelves.
4. Make tidying up fun with all kind of pretty boxes, tins, baskets.
5. Keep everything grouped together in pots and little dishes like needles, pins, buttons, pencils, scissors....
6. Store everything by colors.
7. Use see through boxes.
8. Put things away when you are done for the day. Wish I had more discipline!
9. Throw away what you don't use. I rather giveaway.
10. Don’t buy new stuff.…What!! No shopping?...how about my fabric addiction??

I can’t show you the after photo’s … I haven’t finished the job yet.
But I have two winners drawn for the giveaway. I used the true random number generator.

The winners are:: Virginia And Nina. Congratulations! please send me your snailmail adress and I'll send you your package. Summer swap update:

See this little beauty, how lucky am I? Barbara made this gorgeous mini quilt for me! I love it so very much! She noticed I love pink and flowers...so thoughtful of her.

And she wrapped the quilt in some lovely red, blue and white fabrics!! Thank you again Barbara……!

Have a marvelous weekend everyone!

Sandy's girl

2009-10-07T17:58:00.001+02:00

She said goodbye, I said goodbye, kisses, followed by a few tears.....
and there she goes!

She took her quilt along.

Thank you Sandy for your patience!

ps. I made a good start on cleaning up my craftsroom. I've folding up fabrics and sorted things out. Thanks for all your wonderful sugestions and tips. I put some in good use allready!! If you like you still have time to enter the giveaway.

giveaway

2009-10-05T14:07:00.003+02:00

It’s getting colder outside. More time to spend indoors. And guess were my favourite spot in the house is??? Yes, upstairs in my lovely, cozy craftroom. Most of the time it’s a mess up there, but I don’t care one bit. It’s my mess.
I just close the door and the mess is gone!
…You know I tell a lie here, right!

I do care, I do care a lot. I love working in a tidy place. I love things to be in there place. I don’t want to search for my scissors for hours
So I can use some help. Do you have any suggestions are tips?? Please let me know. Tell me your storage solutions, what works for you?

In exchange I’ll have a giveaway. I’ll make ~~one~~ two lovely surprise packages by filling a cardboard box with all kind of “Dutch blue” material. Including some pretty fabrics, band, lace, buttons, magazine and lots more.
To enter all you have to do is leave a comment and I will draw two winners next Friday. Hopefully you will have good tips for me on how I can keep my sewing place tidy!

Annie came in October

2009-10-02T14:35:00.001+02:00

The month October startet of very well for me!!

Look who traveled all the way from Sandy's place to mine, and is on my mister chair right this minute!

It's the lovely Raggedy Annie made by Sandy from "Raggedy sandy"
I'm so happy! Annie is the cutest doll ever, I absolutely love her! She's wearing a beautiful dress and has pretty curly red hair. She also wears cute little bloomers under her dress. Sandy, your little Annie is so adorable, you have such an eye for detail. Thank you so much!!

Sandy send me also these wonderful presents. There are some great projects in that magazine, my fingers are itching!

But first I've to finish of my part of the private swap, Sandy and I are doing. I've a free weekend ahead of me so lots of time to sew....
Have a lovely weekend too!

what's up

2009-09-30T21:49:00.000+02:00

Well, nothing much really. Yesterday we had a lovely walk in the dunes. It was peacefull and quiet.

Clouds filled the sky but the temperature was still nice although October is just around the corner.

My friends little doggie, here on his search for rabbits, had a great time too!

Quilting is going slowly. I used recess from moda for the triangles and orange checks for the strips. For the squares in between I used the red and white polka dot.

Talking about polka dots..........

She's a little handfull but always so cheerful and funny, just like her granny!

sweet

2009-09-24T17:32:00.006+02:00

Shades of pink

New purchases...roses, polka dots and checks.

Coffee and sweet chocolate......

I'm just not sure all these calories are that good for my waist line! ..

Kaffe Fassett interview

2009-09-23T17:16:00.004+02:00

I came across this link on Jane's "sew create it" blog. It's a link to a 45 min. interview with Kaffe Fassett.
It's all about color and inspiration.
Maybe you already saw this interview, but for those who haven't.... get inspired!

all done

2009-09-21T14:50:00.000+02:00

I'm done with my Good Ol' Summertime quilt and I'm pleased with the result. I can only hope my partner does too!

I made this quilt by cutting flowers out of a larger piece of fabric and
attached them on the background using vliesofix and a hot iron. Then I draw stems and leaves with a pencil and covered the pencil lines with embrodery stitches. The borders are sewn on with the machine and I quilted by hand. It's a very bright and colored quilt, I tried to capture summer, and I believe I did.

The quilt is wrapped and ready for sending. As usually I had to wait till the very last date, of course!

Well, and today is the first day of fall and still we enjoying the most lovely weather. So now I'm of to the post office...I've a package to send!

pre fall weather

2009-09-18T16:41:00.005+02:00

Today : sunny

Saterday : sunny

Sunday : sunny

Have a lovely, (hopefully with sunshine) weekend too!

things to do

2009-09-16T12:07:00.003+02:00

I had a late start this morning, I was feeling kind of lazy. And the best
way to start a lazy morning is reading the newspaper (in bed) while drinking a big mug of coffee.
Oke, I feel a bit guilty here, there is no time to be lazy.... lots of things have to be done before I go of to work this afternoon. Do laundry, vacuum cleaning the floors, going to the shop for croceries, preparing diner.
You see, my boys do need to eat while I'm at work!
But I can't force myself to do any of those things. I rather be upstairs in my room. Finish a summer quilt, there is a deadline coming up! Finish a little Dutch girl. Sew triangels from squares..
I have to buy more of this fabric so I can make a larger quilt.

I have to make angels... I promised people an angel...they still are waiting!

I have two star points ready for a lonestar...only six to go.

And then there is my cutting corner. I desperately need to declutter this area!

first things first....I better run to the store now!

Dutch Sunday

2009-09-13T23:31:00.002+02:00

Cross-stitch couple in Dutch costume. They are part of a large wallhanger.

Two thrifted windmills. I love the dutch blue one!

Tulips on a little girls apron.

And little Dutch girl, I start sewing her today. She's waiting for a face and two legs and her arms aren't stuffed yet. But when she's finished I'll have to kiss her goodbuy. This little Dutch girl is going to the U.S to life with Sandy and her cute dolls.

Last photo has non Dutch links what so ever....I just like this plant on my windowsill.

It's called a lidcactus in Dutch, not sure what de English name for this plant is.

flowers to start the weekend

2009-09-11T12:59:00.000+02:00

I've been to the weekly market this morning and bought myself some pretty pink roses.

I have this lovely blue coffeepot that is perfect to use as a vase, don't you agree?
Hmmmmm, Fresh flowers on the kitchentable....a good start to the weekend!
My friends, I wish you a splendid weekend too!

mister chair

2009-09-09T13:57:00.003+02:00

Meet mister chair who is also my best model. He lives upstairs on the top floor. I believe he's happy there, surrounded by stacks of fabric, books, and most of the time covered by all kind of stuff. I know I'm happy up there! You see, mister chair is up there in my craftsroom.

Besides sewing I also like to take my pictures in that room because of the great daylight that shines through the big window.
Also needed for taking pictures is something to hang or lay items on.
A perfect task for mister chair.

here are some things mister chair showed in the past....

These are mister chair today's ...

New fabric,

thriftstore find,

and a new bag made by mother,

Oke, I'm gonna rest my bottom on mister chair now and do some sewing.
Great chair that mister chair...I love things that are multifunctional!

monday morning

2009-09-07T11:56:00.003+02:00

Monday morning, ...the washing machine is working overtime.
The dishwasher is washing dishes, and me....
I quilt!

Have a crafty monday too!

that's quick

2009-09-04T16:20:00.004+02:00

Please join me for a cup of tea and enjoy my new teapot! It arrived yesterday morning and boy that was quick. I thought it would take a week or three. It's real pretty and goes perfect with my other china. I love a bit of mitch match.

I sort these fabrics for a private doll swap with RaggedySandy.
Not sure yet witch ones I like to use.

But first i have to finish my summer swap quilt!
Although my fingers are itching to get started!

Have a lovely weekend everyone! Before I go I love to share this cat with you. I copied this from the cover of Maison Idees Magazine no 38. I bought this magazine while I was in French and I love this 'chat héroïque'. I believe it's a doorstop (can't read French language)...See the bandage on his tail, so funny!

Tuesday evening

2009-09-01T22:26:00.002+02:00

It's Tuesday evening, September first and I'm sitting on the couch with a laptop on my lap and have no clue what so ever about this post topic. I do have some pictures though. I took them earlier today so maybe I just let them do the talking.

This morning I turned the page of my calendar.

See the spider in the corner...I found three big ones already. One yesterday and two today....brrrr i'm terrified for these creatures.

Let's see what else did I did today....
I made a mini herb garden for on the kitchen counter.

Spend money in the store.

I love Flow magazine. They had a special offer i could not resist.
A one year subscription and a pip teapot as gift.

I made some cross stitches.....

It's the beginning of a new DMC sampler.

And like I said I took some pictures....

Sunflower...such a beautiful flower.

busy fingers

2009-08-25T13:51:00.006+02:00

Things are back to normal over here. I've tried to stay in vacation mode for as long as possible but after a busy schedule at work.... I wish I had vacation again (lol)! Though I did manage to work some more on the quilt for the summer swap It's a quilt with cut out fabric flowers and stitchery stems and leaves. I'm almost done with the top, just have to add the borders.

These two I did in France. I always have something to do, a nice small work, with me on holiday.

Like this Ohiostar pincushion, I made it last spring vacation.

I just love to keep my fingers busy. Notice the tiny quilt in the back, it's a perfect match with the new polkadot teaset, my last purchase.

How about you, do you take your projects with you while on holiday? I'm curious, do you feel the need to keep your fingers busy all the time?
Well, I think I do.....off now....there are borders to sew on. Have a wonderful day!

a month later

2009-08-21T12:29:00.007+02:00

Here it is almost a whole month later, No..it is a month later, and I am just now catching up on reading blogs. My family and I had a wonderful summer vacation in france. We had have lovely weather, the most delicious barbeque dinners, some wine and done a bit of sight seeing in the area. Luca made her first steps on the beach and we celebrated her first birthday. I’ve started on my project for the summer quilt swap, show you some pictures later. For now I go back reading your blogs…I’ve a lot of catching up to do! Can't wait to see all the wonderful things you are working on and writing about.
Hope you are all fine and enjoyed summer too!

she's the cutest

2009-07-21T17:24:00.007+02:00

It's getting darker outside...we're gonna have some rain soon I'm sure!
So a quick post before I go take the garden cushions inside. Here is me and my new dollie. I made her today.

I loved how she came alive soon as her face was embroidered on.
Isn't she the cutest dollie?

Ahhh..I hear the sound of thunder..I better start running!

Sunbonnet Sue

2009-07-13T18:29:00.000+02:00

Some days you don't feel like doing anything. And today is just one of those days. Due to a lack of motivation I picked-up some magazines from the shelf. You see, browsing true old magazines always works for me! It gives me new inspiration and new inspiration means I have to do something. So, while browsing I came across these sunbonnets

The magazine is a Japanese quilt magazine from 2002. It contains an article about 'Sunbonnet Sue'. To bad I can't read Japanese. They refer to the book A meeting of the Sunbonnet children by Betty J. Hagerman. I also found an illustrated history of Sunbonnet Sue here.

This quilt is so beautiful, i love the flowers in the border.

Oh, wouldn't this bag be a pretty one for carry all my stuff around?

I believe some creative sparks are bubbling up inside of me, time for some action!
Have a wonderful day!

Friday again..

2009-07-03T14:13:00.004+02:00

Friday again...and boy, last week was 'HOT'! The forcast for today predicts a weather change with lots of rain, Thunder and lightning and possible hail. But right now it's hot, sticky hot! No complaints from me though, I love summer and July is a wonderful month, I rather have sun than rain.

Some of you asked me about these monthly drawings, did I made them? Wish I did, but no, I haven't, there is no hidden drawing talent inside of me. These lovely drawings are made by Lot van den Akker and printed in a calender with for each day a saying.

The calendar is hanging in my craftroom. One room where I didn't spend much time lately because of increased temperature on our top floor. I rather sat outside in the shade enjoying the pretty flowers.

I also managed to hand quilt and finish the binding on the crazy red and white mini quilt. I used cotton batting and I've washed and dried the quilt to give it the puckered, hand quilted look.

I love how this mini turned out. I also have a lot of blue fabric bits piled up so I might think of make a mini in blue and white!
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

swap surprise

2009-07-01T09:04:00.004+02:00

Yesterday I recieved my mini quilt, beautiful made by Kathy.

I absolutly love, love, love this quilt! And as you can see...I have "the" perfect spot to hang this pretty one!

Perfectly made details!

It was certainly worth waiting for. Thank you Kathy, you made my day!

red and white

2009-06-25T16:11:00.003+02:00

What do you do, when high piles of red and white pieces of fabric, blocking your view on your sewingtable?? You make a quilt!

Needed red and white scraps
an old white sheet for the stripes
an old tablecloth for the back.

Ready to quilt.
Have a nice day!

the very last minute

2009-06-23T12:25:00.003+02:00

Pffff...the mini quilt for the "spring blooms mini quilt swap" is on its way to my secret swap partner. Just in time before the very last mailing date! Why do I always have to wait till the very last day to finish a project??
I’d think to myself, "I’ve got plenty of time, it’s not due for weeks!" Then, before I know it...I hit the deadline!

I used an embroidery piece (found in the thrift store) for the center, I machine pieced the nine patch blocks and hand appliqued the green hearts. The minimal quilting is done by hand. I like how this mini quilt turned out and hope my partner will too! I can hardly wait to recieve mine.
A big thank you for Michele from quilting gallary for organizing this wonderful swap. If you go to her site jou can join a new swap she's organizing "In the Good Ol’ Summertime Mini Quilt Swap". The deadline to mail is September 21st...so plenty of time!!

pink in June

2009-06-02T19:19:00.004+02:00

A new month

A new color

A new mosiac

1. Crafting 365, day 173 - pink teacups, 2. Pink and patchy, 3. pink and purple poppies, 4. House Softie, 5. Pink Too!, 6. Funky dots pink pincushion, 7. Rosy Button ~ Page in my Happy Quilt Journal ~ for no particular reason other than I can, 8. pink lady plush, 9. 'Strawberry Sundae' wall art closeup, 10. Pink Brooch, 11. Pink Button Love Bracelet, 12. Pink and Orange Stackable Cloth Blocks, 13. Abstract #4, 14. Pink Birdie (C365: day 22), 15. Wee Porky, finger puppet, 16. pink patchwork tote

New inspiration!

A finish, squares, hearts and some doubt

2009-05-29T21:44:00.003+02:00

Thanks so much for all your compliments and wonderful comments on the "dollie blankie" from last post. Crochet these little squares is such fun. It's also a lovely little work to cary along in my bag. I can crochet in the car (on the passenger seat ofcourse), out in the sun or while having a break. I can even watch tv and chrochet at the same time. Once I've enough squares I sew them into a blanket, maybe a larger size this time.

According to the weather forecast this weekend will be sunny and warm. Perfect weather for doing some work in the garden. I bought this hydrangea for on the terrace. Perfect pink!

More pink... I'm not sure yet how to make this mini quilt. Are the green hearts to green...should I add more color, blue maybe?

Oo and before I go..here is another finished project....
The Dutch checker and stripes nine patch!

Have a wonderful weekend!

proud

2009-05-26T12:03:00.005+02:00

I’m not a very good, adventurous or fast crochetter, but TADA!!!...See here I finished the afghan I made for Luca's doll stroller.
I know the crochet squares seems a bit crooked here and there. Still I can't care less and love it anyway! Now I'm on the look out for fabric that goes well with the afghan to make matching bedding.
Luckely I don't have to hurry, Luca can't push the stroller yet. Instead she love to sit in it and let herself pushed around by someone else...in high speed that is!

Have a wonderful day!