July 2014 Newsletter

Despite the glorious weather we have enjoyed in June, my thoughts have turned to Autumn projects with a visit from the representative from Lewis and Irene. Thrilled to see their fabrics displayed in the shop and to hear how well they are selling we got down to serious business.  Armed with a wide selection of fabrics, shades and spring designs their enthusiasm was infectious, I have ordered a mixer range called Bumbleberries to complement the existing fabrics.  A free bag pattern accompanies a five fat quarter bundle of stunning fabrics, which, along with a competitively priced jelly roll, will offer a challenge to those of you looking for inspiration.

We also stock other ranges of fabrics and batiks.  New on the shelves is Giant Ric Rac, in exciting colours, this has many different uses and can be an interesting embellishment for your quilt and embroidery, especially thinking towards Christmas !

Illuminated Letters Workshop

“An air of studious concentrationhung over the workroom as Llinos gave very clear and easy to follow intructions and explained the complexities of working with gold leaf, especially in a breeze. The work produced was diverse and varied, the medieval designs were delicate and intricate – I thoroughly enjoyed my day” – Daphne Heighway

               Shelia

          Class in progress

Phillipa Naylor

South West Quilters booked the workshop for a two day master-class with Phillipa Naylor.  A renowned International quilter, exhibitor and author I was excited to be taking part but was soon at ease as Phillipa demonstrated the secrets of her techniques and ideas which we were able to copy. Reminder – really must practice more! We were all buzzing and inspired, no wonder Phillipa is booked up until 2017. I now have in stock the equivalent needles that Phillipa uses for her free motion quilting.

Lynda Monk

Places on Lynda Monk’s workshop, this month, were quickly snapped up but I plan to book her again in the New Year.  Keep a close eye on the web site and newsletter. (I couldn’t resist this one also) Report next month.

Gwen Hartley

If you want the chance to develop your ideas and explore design possibilities, Gwen Hartley will run a Stitch and Design course.  Starting in September 5th the course will run monthly.  With an eye for detail, colour and design, Gwen is inspirational and produces the most innovative work. Your designs will be suitable for Embroidery or Patchwork or whatever medium you may choose

           Paper Collage

        A finished piece

         Work in progress

Starting 4th Sept

Inspired to make your own clothes?  Karen Fanzo is a very experienced tutor, teaching all age groups and abilities.  If you are new to dress-making or want to brush up on forgotten skills Karen will assist at each step: seams, zips and sleeves.  There is a free pre-course consultation session to help choose fabric, pattern and haberdashery, Karen hinted there might be cake as well!  The evening classes are nearly full but Karen has agreed to run a class in the afternoon as well.

Casket

Karen will also be teaching a Mixed Media Casket class on 30th August and on Saturday 20th September a Mixed Media Landscape course.  During these classes Karen will be exploring a range of techniques, and will encourage students, of all abilities, to start and create an Inspirational Journal using all the samples and small pieces you have tucked away over the years.  This is a chance to collate all your favourite snippets, move out of your comfort zone, explore and extend your creative hidden talents…….. give it a go!

Beading

If you attended the earlier bracelet workshop, Sue Cattell is running a class on her beautiful beaded necklaces which would make a stylish accompaniment on the 18th July.  Come along and learn a new skill.   If you missed the bracelet day, Sue will help you to catch up on this skill.

WIP Days

The WIP or work in progress classes run on a regular basis. For those starting a project, in the middle experiencing that ‘brickwall feeling’ or, at the crucial finishing stages,  I will be on hand to help with your decision making, design interpretation and completion of those Un Finished Objects or Projects Half Done – UFO’s and PHD’s.  Dig them out from the back of the cupboard and book a WIP!

Please contact me if you are interested in any of the courses, or wish to book a workshop place.

A reminder of Forthcoming workshops, which have a few places remaining.
Sandra Coleridge – Recycled Sari 13th July
Beginners Crochet – Barbara Brooks 17th July
Llinos Spriggs – Special effects 25th July

Looking further ahead, on the 18th October there is a Craft Fair at the Beehive in Honiton. If you would like to book a table or demonstrate your skills, please contact me for all the details.

Again thank you so much for all your support and spreading the word.

Zoe