Owlapalooza

Market was so busy Sunday that I've started to run out of my handmade toys; no more squeaky owls, and only two bunnies left. Although I won't be back at the market until May (owing to easter), I thought I'd better get a head start on the sewing before uni and my teaching placement takes up all of my time.

A couple of new owls in progress. There will be matching bunnies for these too, just need to stitch their faces on before I finish them off.

(Bliss, Sunkissed, Central Park)

I've also just ordered in some pre-cuts of Strawberry Fields by Fig Tree; they should be in sometime this week.

Mulgrave Maker's Market

Another month, another market. Fortunately we made is through a whole market without a speck of rain, and despite it being a bit cool, the crowds really were out in force this month.

(so early that it was still dark in the pic above)

I also had my first Blogger meet, with Renee popping by with her gorgeous baby girl.

The only disappointment was another stall holder wandering around at the end of the market complaining about the lack of business, and trying to get others to complain. I had a really successful day, and I love going to the market each month and spending the morning amongst other crafters, as they are a fab bunch.

Quilting Ideas: 2009 FQS Mystery BOM

I've been sitting on the quilt for quite some time, and I've even had the backing and batting sitting by also. But I just haven't had the mojo to quilt it! I've pieced the backing today so I'm getting closer to being ready.


Any suggestions for quilting design? I was thinking a feather design or similar for each of the blocks, stipple in the green sashing...but what for the little stars and the centre? I've only seen one other quilted so I'm a bit lost for inspiration, and this quilt really deserves to be finished.

Maker's Market

The next Mulgrave Maker's Market is next Sunday, 27th March, from 8am till 1pm. I'll be there with the usual handmade goodies and lots of fabric, including bundles of fat quarters, Charm packs, and Jelly Rolls. My market prices are usually a little lower than my online prices too.

I've also been lucky enough to be 'spotlighted' in time for this months market...so if you have no idea what I look like, this is your chance. Though I will admit, that photo was taken a few years ago, and I was in full bridesmaid makeup.

Fabric Busting!

I've got my eye on some cute new fabrics, but I need to make some space! I've reduced the price of Riley Blake's Bloom & Grow down to almost wholesale price.



I've also listed in the store fat quarter bundles for Bliss and Central Park. The Bliss bundles are done by colour (pink, red, blue, green), and the Central Park bundle is all 7 fabrics I have in stock.

Tote Bag

Just what every girl needs to lug her books around uni (plus someone commented the other day that I always use the same black freebie bag). The pattern is from the Moda Bake Shop, but I elected to make the outer bag from one fabric, and the lining from another (both Central Park by Kate Spain).

All up it requires only 1 meter of fabric plus interfacing. I probably should have used a stiffer interfacing, but the bag can be folded up and shoved in my handbag whenever I go to a farmer's market in case of unexpected purchases.

Fried Rice and iPhones

I've been a bit of a slack blogger; I started back at uni last week and the sewing machine has pretty much sat idle since then, as I comprehend the number of assignments I need to complete over the next three months.

Last night for dinner I whipped up a quick and easy fried rice. For this one all you need is some cooked rice (preferably cooled), and whatever "filling" you want. I use bacon, some cooked egg, peas, carrot (pre-cooked) and corn kernals. Mix the whole lot together in a frying pan until warmed through then glug over some soy sauce and serve! Bean shoots are a nice addition too, but mine was a 'what's in the fridge?' dinner.

I have been doing a little bit of sewing; some iPhone/iPod pouches for my next market. Just a handful to see if there is any interest, though I'm finding that what sells well one market can sit untouched the next.

Carrot Cake

First day of autumn (or fall); its cool and windy. Summer vanished under clouds of rain. Perfect weather for baking, and with uni starting tomorrow I need to plan snacks for my 11 hour days.

I've always liked carrot cake, but never been fond of adding such large quantities of oil. Instead I decided to use some sour cream thinned out with a bit of milk to create the same softness without the fat overload. Recipe here.

I also halved the recipe and baked it in a small loaf tin for 45 min. Turned out super yummy!