Renae's cross stitches.

On Saturday night my good friend Renae came over for dinner and some craft. You see, Renae has been bitten by the cross stitch bug, actually, more than bitten, I would say more like gobbled up by it! She has many projects on the go at once (don't we all) but what impressed me most was how quickly she gets her stitching done!

I was lucky enough to see a couple of her pieces, and I took some photos so I could show you all too.

This is a cross stitch of an elephant and its baby. Renae has only just started this one.

This cute little possum (I hope) is a native Australian cross stitch. Renae spent hours trying to figure out how to make the French knots for his eyes!

This masterpiece is a gift for Renae's Grandmother for Mothers Day. I love this piece ssooooo much! Can you see all the cute little quilt blocks?

I have one very clever friend!

Sam xox

Redwork needlework.

For those of you not familiar, Redwork is the term used to describe a type of needlework that because popular in the 1870's. The name comes from the Turkey Red embroidery thread used at the time. This was a popular thread as it was colour fast and a lot cheaper than others available, thus it became widely used by the people.

I received a copy of the pattern below from a friend of my Mum's. Turns out she is a crafter too so I am excited about the possibility of swapping patterns and fabric in the future (fingers crossed).

I do not know how accurate my choice of thread colour was to the colour Turkey Red, but I am happy with how my needlework is coming along.

In my sewing corner...

Michelle came over last night for craft night. My mum bought me a book a few months ago from a local library book sale. It is called "Knit a square - Make a toy". It was right up my alley as I am a very basic knitter! Michelle is knitting a Koala from the book. Here she is with half the Koala's head!

It's looking good Pretty Child!

Sam xox

Sewing room chair.

Here is the chair I bought from out local charity shop to be used in the sewing room (second bedroom). It was only $20 and is so comfy. It has springs in it so it is super soft to sit in. I hope when Mill is back she will spend hours knitting in it while I sew away on my machine.....

My new chair! I know I know, the fabric is not overly modern, but it is in very good condition and a pretty gold/green pattern.

In amongst all the stress over Christmas I think I forgot to show you my eBay purchases!!!

I love them so much! I can't wait to use them when I serve Mill and Michelle high tea!

Sam xox