This Christmas, I decided to make a family heirloom (well, traditions have to start somewhere!).
So I designed and created the following 8 quilted placemats. Each has a red central piece (from a larger Christmas panel), and the border fabrics are from the same jelly-roll, bought in December 2012. The black and red iron-on fusible bias binding was from a Stitches and Craft show purchase about 8 years ago.... yes, it is worth keeping everything! Did you notice that each placement is different? The backing and binding are a cheerful apple green, with positive words printed, like 'Family Love, Strength, Home and Good Health'
The placements held pride of place at our 'early' Christmas Family Lunch on Sunday 15th December... and will stand us in good stead for the years to come. They were greatly admired by my husband, adult daughter & son, and my two step-sons, and added a personal festive note to our special day.
Today is a low-key celebration with phone calls to interstate relatives this morning, and a quiet dinner with my step-children this evening.... so my wonderful husband and I are now off to have our own private Christmas lunch on the beach!
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Monday, November 11, 2013
October Retreat - Patchworkers' & Quilters' Guild of Victoria
Where has October gone.....! Time rushes past so fast, as the end of the year draws closer.
Recently I had a wonderful weekend away with about 45 other Quilters at a gorgeous country venue in Arrabri (near Warburton, Victoria). It was a terrific way to meet other members of the Patchworkers' & Quilters' Guild of Victoria, which meets monthly in Ivanhoe. (aka P's & Q's). Thanks so much to Caroline & Lyn for talking me into attending. It was worth it!
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| That's me, second from the right. |
Such a well-organised Retreat, with fabulous country cooking, hearty meals, peaceful surroundings, friendly fun and nothing to do but sew! Above is my (modest) attempt at a "Traditional Quilt" class, thanks to Raelene for her patience. I may not have made many blocks, but it was such a luxury to have TIME to think, and plan and then sew. During the weekend I met many lovely, friendly ladies, and also enjoyed the presentations by the various shops which were invited. Can't wait until next year!
One of the many admirable activities arranged by the Guild each year is the combined donation, preparation, sewing and quilting of Caring & Sharing Quilts' I was happy to help out with sewing on the borders for these three quilt tops (I can't take credit for the actual blocks), and really enjoyed "doing my bit to help.
At the November meeting of P's & Q's, we had a visit from a female Sergeant of the Australian Regular Army (who had previously served in Mazurka, Egypt). She was promoting the wonderful work of Aussie Hero Quilts. She advised us how the serving members overseas felt deeply grateful to receive a hand-made quilt, all the way from Australia. The soldiers, sailers and airmen & women do a fabulous job serving our country in very harsh climates, and miss their family and friends at home. (Can you tell I come from a military family?) Do check out this site, if you can help. I hope to make a quilt to donate over the long Christmas holidays. Sadly, there will probably still be Australians serving overseas in conflict areas, for the next few months to come.
A fitting ending to this post.... on Remembrance Day.... 11th November 2014.
"At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them".
Stay safe,
Lisa.
Labels:
Aussie Hero Quilts,
Charity Quilts,
P's & Q's,
Retreat
Monday, September 30, 2013
September Seedlings
Last day of September, nearly a third of Spring has passed! These gorgeous seedlings have grown rapidly from seed, and will be turning into summer salads before too long. Lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, shallots, cucumber, parsley, coriander....can't wait!
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Winter's Last Day - Sunny Marmalade!
This looks so yummy! One freshly picked orange makes one tangy jar... Do you like my hexagon- shaped glass jar?
As we bid farewell to the warmest Melbourne winter on record, we can't wait for longer, warmer days in the garden and on the beach!
Can't believe it's Spring tomorrow... Gives me a spring in my step.
Cheers, Lisa
Saturday, July 6, 2013
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