tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39381241259158111952023-12-05T19:47:20.825-08:00Pickled TinkPinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-25638305045428020772016-03-05T02:23:00.000-08:002016-03-05T02:29:59.792-08:00Spoonflower Design Challenge & BLOCK PRINTING with POTATOES <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
For those of you who I'm connected with on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinkyillustrates/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PinkyWittingslowDesignandSew/#" target="_blank">Facebook</a> you will have seen an onslaught of posts each day regarding the <a href="http://blog.spoonflower.com/spoonchallenge-design-a-day.html" target="_blank">Spoonflower Design-A-Day Challenge</a>. Each day for 14 days Spoonflower sends out a design technique prompt and you do a design related to that prompt and inspired by the technique for that prompt on the daily blog post/email. At the end of the Challenge Spoonflower selects one of the challenge days to use as the competition theme and then voting will open on that theme over at Spoonflower. Today is day 4 but as it's the weekend we've also got the day 5 prompt today too. Here are my entries for day 1 to 3.....<br />
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<a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/pinky_wittingslow" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/pinky_wittingslow" border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFyu9mQaO01sXhyphenhyphenb7g6mbmvC3XdrYoLaVtbhMC_MP2ozaQwwMpTYOFlHWViiACRmOQz2K0w6CvK3KOTcaXfZL0YQj7RuEWWleX2CWnVQphLwZigK40NcONIbkOT5pc3vyjo2b1Mwz4KF4/s640/blog-samplersday1to3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I got a little carried away with day 3. I have little kids and could see so much potential for library bags, pencil cases and leggings so I went ahead and did a few more colourways.....<br />
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<a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/5159787-chunky-abstract-alphapet-poolside-by-pinky_wittingslow" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/5159787-chunky-abstract-alphapet-poolside-by-pinky_wittingslow" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWckllrtrZPkJJe91WrMfUxt1GWXT92Dr3WRnXeGsDFKnGOe35n6FA9nnZbnjYDUiph0ryg0eMuMruSLQCp6xJ2fjIKg4E19nfD4fEHrd5hrghyFLmhsO6JSTqn4yZgiF0CtkGKuW52H0/s320/Colorway-preview_copyright_pinkywittingslow_2016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I really want to turn it into a real usable font.... add it to my infinite list o things to do right? <br />
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Then there's today. I woke up to discover that today's prompt was Block Printing. Yeah, this meant I really needed to do some traditional hands on work to get the right look. But what was I to do? I have proper artist's carving tools and blocks but they are buried in a box after moving house and with the heat there was no way my littlies would let me spend hours in the garage and then do some art un-assisted. OUT CAME THE POTATOES... they're more kid friendly after all I guess, this is the type of printing they do in preschool after all and you know what?<br />
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IT'S THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY POTATOES ON A LOW CARB DIET :D ...mum joke! </div>
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<b>POTATO BLOCK PRINTING</b></h3>
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Here's what you need:</h3>
- Potatoes (apples work too or maybe even a large carrot! <br />
- Short knife with a pointed tip (fruit knife, steak knife or pen knife)<br />
- paper towel<br />
- chopping board<br />
- marker (totally hit an miss as to what works on a damp potato for how long. Maybe a watercolour pencil would be better?)<br />
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<b>HOW TO MAKE A POTAO BLOCK </b></h3>
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STEP 1: Cut you potato in half as straight as you can. I used a BIG kitchen knife for this. I want a smooth flat surface as it will show up in your print if it's uneven. Then cut the rounded side off your potato halves so that they will sit flat for carving. You end up with two potato 'discs'<br />
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<b>STEP 2:</b> Dry your potato block surface. If you don't dry it a bit, your marker will stop working half way through drawing on your design. It would be best to leave your blocks to air dry overnight but hey, I wasn't going to twiddle my thumbs while my kids behaved... I needed to get shiz done! So I blotted mine with paper towel.<br />
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<b>STEP 3:</b> Draw on your design with marker....or maybe a watercolour pencil would work better? My taters were so fresh cut and hence damp that the marker only made it though drawing on the first block and conked out on the second but I felt there was enough line to work with. KEEP IT SIMPLE! It's not all about the detail with this type of printing, it's about effect shapes and the gorgeous textures that naturally come when printing....with potatoes. <br />
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<b>STEP 4:</b> CARVE IT UP BABY! I carefully cut around the outline of my fig (about 1/8" or 4mm deep) then removed the unwanted outside bits. THEN I worked on the finer detail which is a little fiddlier and takes longer so that if I buggered up with the bigger cuts I wasn't wasiting too much of my precious time starting again...Time is sanity when you're a mum of small kids! Don't talk to me about the tortoise and the hare, You KNOW who's side I'm on.<br />
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<i>Mmm taters precious! </i></div>
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<b>STEP 5:</b> It's time to get printing! Use some paper towel to blot your blocks dry again so your 'ink' isn't too week from potato juice. Then apply a bit of acrylic paint using a kitchen sponge. You want a nice even coverage that doesn't push heaps of paint into your carving or the print won't come out clear/clean. Don't panic though, you can experiment with how much paint you put on and wash it all off if you get a little over-excited OR if one of your own little darlings is helping you and over-does it!Place your 'inked' block straight down onto your paper, give it a bit of even firm pressure and try not to wiggle it or push to hard.<br />
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<b>STEP 6:</b> Do lots of prints and have fun. I used mine to make elements which I then photographed and took into Adobe Illustrator and turned into the fabric design below but you can do anything... Make wrapping paper, gift cards, an inexpensive picture in a frame for your in-laws (brownie points for making it look like the kids did it).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-s2PsFUbSNAyyOu0aYcfHNXhhFIvaZa3XsBF3t_KStH555HQ-WaymuNXtJsR0Gvq_oNLygCNApj9SJDALK25z_bW7TxFTdfuRhXmpIsOhOQ4dUPpsZ9gSboqhsDu_SB5A8HkcuWpXRl_/s1600/IMG_9008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-s2PsFUbSNAyyOu0aYcfHNXhhFIvaZa3XsBF3t_KStH555HQ-WaymuNXtJsR0Gvq_oNLygCNApj9SJDALK25z_bW7TxFTdfuRhXmpIsOhOQ4dUPpsZ9gSboqhsDu_SB5A8HkcuWpXRl_/s320/IMG_9008.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/5163199-figgy-delishiousness-purple-by-pinky_wittingslow" target="_blank"> The images I used to create my Figgy Deliciousness Fabric Design soon to be available for purchase through Spoonflower.</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/5163199-figgy-delishiousness-purple-by-pinky_wittingslow" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWycNhWcDDqblz4H27haUqD-MJqwG55u8fv7DyLf4sU32ioNQaXpi5vuC8ql_Zej0FNK0qUys3TlT76jYthroCJWCm4h55HkiOILcdkoVxYl9-9ayvh9PdEooZPHpbQLR0fJEawUCAmn0_/s320/Figs_Blog-preview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/5163199-figgy-delishiousness-purple-by-pinky_wittingslow" target="_blank"><br /></a></td></tr>
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And here's little piccy of what my baby girl got up to when I gave her my used blocks. I'm looking forward to her being old enough to use carving tools but until then she really just enjoys playing with everything and getting messy. There's more paint on her that the paper of course and bit of chewed apple was to distract her from eating the potato blocks. </div>
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I hope this post has inspired you in some way or at the very least given you a bit of a laugh. I think a future post might need to be a tutorial for taking a print on paper into illustrator and creating a final design. What do you think?<br />
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Enjoy my lovelies xo<br />
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- Pinky xoxox<br />
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Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-34470551385983263342015-10-26T02:44:00.001-07:002015-10-26T03:35:13.851-07:00NEW: Bippy the Bunyip easy Cut-&-Sew Panel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squishee hugs from my little boy</td></tr>
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I started sewing when I was a kid. I didn't have much pocket money and mum didn't appreciate me experimenting with her fabric stash ( example: the smock panel I destroyed to make a barbie dress). Creating a stash when you first start can be expensive and you'll probably end up with a bunch of fabric you don't use. Plus there's having to buy the pattern and other notions. It get's pricey if you have to buy it all. <br />
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I quickly discovered that the best value for pocket money as a novice stitcher were those easy cut and sew projects because you didn't need to worry about trying to find the right fabrics, it's all printed on the one panel. It was also great because I didn't have to fuss with a pattern. Reading patterns correctly is one of the big hurdles when you first start out and it is one of the main suggestions for my sewing class topics I have received. With cut and sew there's no need to fuss, you won't accidentally cut pieces against the grain or forget to flip them and then run out of fabric. Just cut it out your pieces and sew it up. Less scraps to hoard. <br />
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In light of this, I have created my very own cut and sew panel <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/designs/3965934" target="_blank">available for purchase on spoonflower in my designer's shop</a>. This is a project I would have been super excited about as a kid but it's just as fun to make him when you're an adult for a special little person you know :)<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Introducing Bippy the Bunyip:</h2>
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So what is a Bunyip? These mysterious mythical creatures come from Australia and can be found in swamps and Billabongs. Traditionally, Bunyips were thought to drag people away but we have enough scarey creatures in Australia already. Bibby is a kind young bunyip who often helps lost travelers back on to their path. He's definitely a fantastic companion choice for your little adventurer!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoCS_-vENpk394K9xe4QkpnQ0gViLEpCNC4_JT6GXp_kh4N2Ws3i9SY6ZSP51A-z76YDWbGHikpUuuHQ0CHhSIhufgVLuF0lhNJjqU_aefHvVfqoZaBG60PlhqT4afZv733mTvTQmWOGM/s1600/closeup-hold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoCS_-vENpk394K9xe4QkpnQ0gViLEpCNC4_JT6GXp_kh4N2Ws3i9SY6ZSP51A-z76YDWbGHikpUuuHQ0CHhSIhufgVLuF0lhNJjqU_aefHvVfqoZaBG60PlhqT4afZv733mTvTQmWOGM/s320/closeup-hold.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello there!</td></tr>
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I made this little guy in Spoonflower's Faux Suede and I highly recommend it! You do have a choice of fabrics of course, just make sure your selection is from the wider fabrics that are 54" wide yards or <span id="fabric_pane">Fat Quarter (27" x 18") </span>such as Eco canvas, Faux Suede or Minky. The Eco canvas and Suede are easy to sew with a sharp 'heavy' or 'denim' sewing needle in your machine. I like the suede because it has a really lovely 'pile' to it and feels beautiful. The Minky? Well, it is nice and soft and doesn't stretch too much BUT it is super slippery!!! It is not at all easy for a beginner or intermediate stitcher to sew. If you do wish to tackle it though, you will need a ball point needle in you sewing machine and A LOT of pins to keep the seams lined up. Or you could hand stitch the whole doll and you wouldn't have to worry about it slipping. <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/designs/3965934" target="_blank">Order your Bippy Panel here, from the Spoonflower website.</a><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
This is how Bippy arrives: </h3>
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The seam allowance is included and is the same colour all the way through so even if you don't sew right on the seam line it won't show on your finished doll. Of course I have detailed written instructions and photos for every step to make it super easy for you to sew this little guy up. I've started a separate blog especially for <a href="http://pinkywittingslow.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">sewing instructions here</a> later this will all be on my own website with all the fun crafty things I do. You can take a look at all the instructions and ask questions before you even order if you like :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr 4 showing off Bippy's colourful tail and bottom</td></tr>
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Of course you know what else is awesome about cut-and-sew toys? The fact you don't have to worry about the face... no more trying to transfer eyes and mouth placements and no time needed to sew these features on. And best of all? That makes them much safer for tiny little people who love to chew! My 16 month old daughter demonstrates this well. One lovely lady made Bibby for her adorable grandson and she sent me a picture of him having a wonderful chewy cuddle. <a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/designs/3965934" target="_blank">You can read her review of her experience creating Bippy and see her gorgeous grandson doing some 'product testing' at the bottom of my fabric listing on Spoonflower. </a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWn8Mc_1ZmoOKGpjXBHVeSwAvwQtNzF4cgc2cITLelxYc0bun8K7mdPJDc7noBsNvUkdO68LaXrhyk0FqrW5mr-OpZdl6VJRp4wfb-iCe8gLqKvDmuZ_v4Bb8MrYlxe5UcXJUSN4EpENk/s1600/Happy-owner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWn8Mc_1ZmoOKGpjXBHVeSwAvwQtNzF4cgc2cITLelxYc0bun8K7mdPJDc7noBsNvUkdO68LaXrhyk0FqrW5mr-OpZdl6VJRp4wfb-iCe8gLqKvDmuZ_v4Bb8MrYlxe5UcXJUSN4EpENk/s320/Happy-owner.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best of friends</td></tr>
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What do you think? Do you like cut and sew toys or do you prefer to use a pattern and customize it? Would you like to see me turn Bibby into a pattern like my Babushka and Boy doll? What sort of cut and sew projects would you like to see?<br />
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Thank you so much for stopping by my blog.<br />
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Never stop creating,<br />
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Love Pinky xoxo <br />
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Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-81428124630249042432014-10-08T05:39:00.001-07:002015-04-14T02:09:27.006-07:00POST BABY DISCOUNT PATTERNS!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It has been yet another long time between blog posts and while I had a good excuse having a baby, I feel anxious about getting back into some serious pattern designing sewing. To prove that this mumma of 2 means business, I've cut all my digital patterns down to $7.50 AND I would also like to announce that I am not only working on some alternate clothes for my boy doll pattern but also a friend for him! <br />
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What type of accessories am I working on you wonder? Here's a little hint; they are Christmas themed :D<br />
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You can purchase my original Boy Doll pattern or any of my other patterns <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176782343/boy-doll-sewing-pattern-by-pinky?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">from Etsy by clicking here</a>.<br />
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What sort of accessories would you like to see for this little fellow? Comment below :)<br />
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Love Pinky<br />
xoxo <br />
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Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-72185238432689423362014-05-12T18:18:00.001-07:002014-05-13T01:57:28.493-07:00Lilly Pilly Jam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I received my <a href="http://www.diggers.com.au/" target="_blank">Diggers gardener's club</a> winter magazine today and was delighted to see that this season they suggest a lovely selection of native trees to replace fire hazardous eucalyptus. One such tree featured is the wonderful yet overlooked Lilly Pilly which is actually a fantastic fruiter!<br />
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It has been a loooong time between posts. I've been married for a year and a half and we are now expecting our second baby! I never stopped crafting of course and while we have a real garden now, we have only just started out so aren't getting much out of it at the moment especially heading into winter.<br />
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We have been foraging though; in early march we found some gorgeous peaches, walnuts, figs (to die for!) and mini plums. I made all sorts of delicious preserves from that lot....except the figs, they were too good to cook and we ate them all before I could anyway. Hahaha!<br />
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The Plum Jam was so good that my husband got upset when I traded a jar for hot cross buns and a loaf of bread. He got over it when the same friend gave as choc cross buns the following week though :)<br />
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So where was I? Ah yes, Lilly Pilly Jam! I have been doing a LOT of sewing for our new baby and one day as I opened the blind in my sewing room and looked out the window I noticed this:<br />
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It's a gorgeous HUGE lilly pilly tree growing down the side of my neighbor's house and ours. This cheeky tree is actually blocking up our drains with it's roots so I figured it owed me one. I remembered eating lilly pillys as a child fresh off the bush, being ver tart they were never more than a novelty but certainly sparked my interest in bush tucker.<br />
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I did a google search to check for recipe ideas and 5 minutes later my 3 year old and I donned our gumboots and raided the tree, filling a bucket with fruit! <br />
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These were the berries we could reach without me climbing a ladder at 7months pregnant. Hahaha! Note that they are a little under-ripe. The riper fruit are darker and don't have any white bottoms. Don't worry, I sent my husband out with the ladder on mother's day to get me another batch and this time the are very ripe so the taste testing will be interesting!<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Lilly Pilly Jam Recipe</h3>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Ingredients: </h4>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>2.5kg of fresh picked Lilly Pillys (<i>this is about a kmart bag 3/4 full</i>)</li>
<li>500g raw sugar (<i>or you could use jam sugar or castor sugar</i>)</li>
<li>1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract</li>
<li>1 teaspoon of dried pectin (<i>or half a bag of Fowler's jam setter from Coles</i>)</li>
<li>1 teaspoon of citric acid (<i>or a tablespoon of lemon juice</i>)</li>
</ul>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Tools:</h4>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>A great big pot</li>
<li>strainer</li>
<li>ladel</li>
<li>4 x 300ml jars with metal lids</li>
<li>measuring spoons</li>
<li>wooden spoon</li>
<li>ladel</li>
<li>funnel</li>
<li>sugar thermometer (optional)</li>
</ul>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Method</h4>
<b>STEP 1</b><br />
Remove stems, leaves and any damaged fruit then wash your berries well using your strainer.<br />
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<b>STEP 2</b><br />
Remove the seeds. Lilly Pillys are very easy to break open with your fingers. It's a bit time consuming but you can do this as therapy while watching Gardening Australia on a Saturday afternoon ;). NOTE: <i>not all lilly pillys have seeds. If you leave seeds in, not only would they guarantee a trip to the dentist but I have read they can upset your tummy. </i><br />
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<i>The start of my de-seeded fruit, inside the flesh is white.</i></div>
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<i>The discarded bits: leaves stems and the seeds which vary in size and are a very pretty colour. I've kept some to see if I can germinate them.</i></div>
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<b>STEP 3</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Pop your fruit in your large pot and add water just to the top of the fruit. </div>
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<b>STEP 4</b><br />
Set to a low boil for approximately 30 minutes until the fruit softens and looks pale....<br />
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<b>STEP 5</b><br />
Add the sugar, vanilla and citric acid and let it boil down for approximately another 30 minutes until the liquid is visible reduced and the colour starts to intensify to a beautiful pink again.<br />
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<b>STEP 6</b><br />
Sprinkle your pectin over (or jam setter) and mix in with your spoon. At this stage I also add my sugar thermometer which I warm under the tap so it doesn't crack when I add it to the hot pot. Continue to boil down your jam, check on it and stir regularly. If you don't have a thermometer, pop a saucer or little plate in the freezer. Also, sterilize your jars now if you haven't already.<br />
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<b> STEP 7</b><br />
As your jam continues to boil down, that beautiful rich colour returns. You know your jam is done when the bubbles seem thicker and slower and your sugar thermometer hits 110 degrees C, just below 'soft ball' stage if you have the candy indicators on your thermometer. Turn off the heat.<br />
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NOTE:<i> If you don't have a thermometer, put a teaspoon of the mix on saucer you've had chilling in the freezer for 30 or so minutes, as the jam cools on the plate it will indicate if the jam is too runny or not. Continue boiling it down and testing until it reaches a consistency you are happy with.</i><br />
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<b>STEP 8</b><br />
Use your funnel and ladel to spoon your jam into your sterilized jars. You can then process your jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes or do what your granny did and invert the jars until they cool.<br />
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NOTE: <i>Both methods are used to decrease the risk of bacteria growing in your jam. It's worthwhile doing a little research into 'safe canning methods' if you want to give your preserves as gifts or even sell and trade them</i> :)<br />
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And you're done! You should have about 4 x 300ml jars of extremely gorgeous Lilly Pilly Jam. Try it on scones...absolutely to die for! NOM NOM NOM!!!<br />
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Let me know what you think in the comments.<br />
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Happy cooking, crafting and gardening all!<br />
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- Love Pinky xox<br />
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Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-80216082251004983092012-08-18T21:05:00.002-07:002012-08-18T21:23:56.382-07:00Handmade Wedding Flowers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So, with my wedding only a couple of months away, I have been busy as a bee crafting my little heart out. I am now very pleased to report tat I have finished my bridal bouquets AND all 4 bridesmaid bouquets! Admittedly, I do have some handy tools to thank such as these new Francheville punches I bought the other week at Spotlight $10 for the set on sale!!! WIN!!<br />
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These punches allowed me to make these....<br />
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I LOVE THESE!!! They were just what I needed to complement the rest of the flowers I had made. I was then ready to assemble the 5 bunches I needed so I absolutely covered the kitchen bench in flowers and it took me half a day to arrange them....<br />
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BRIDAL BOUQUET SNEAK PEAK....<br />
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There you have it! Do I have a flower-making fetish or what?! I have really enjoyed making all my flowers and I'm still making more for the headbands and table decorations. I would call it therapy for taking the wedding planning stresses away! LOL!<br />
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- Love Pinky xoxo<br />
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Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-71139384427926661522012-04-20T08:54:00.000-07:002012-04-20T09:01:55.320-07:002 Fabric Flower with Stems Tutorials<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have FINALLY put together the instructions for the fabric flowers I was demoing last week at the Australian Quilters Convention. Sorry for the delay Ladies, once I got back to Albury it was go go go! Client work, lesson plans and a busy 1 year old to boot...at the end of the week I am DESPERATE for some crafty goodness time. It's after midnight so please let me know if you pick up any mistakes, my brain is threatening to turn to pumpkin :)<br />
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The idea behind these flower tutorials is to give you a project for using up your scraps, creating beautiful everlasting blooms to save on waste, to compliment your quilts and to give as special gifts. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's start with the Kanzashi Flower...</span><br />
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There are several different versions of Kanzashi flowers out there. This version is very easy and you can use all sorts of fabric and make them in different sizes if you’re feeling adventurous. <br />
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<b>Materials & Tools</b><br />
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<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Yummy scraps of patchwork fabric</li>
<li>Strong thread (such as top-stitch or upholstery thread)</li>
<li>Buttons for the center of your flowers</li>
<li>Needle</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
</ol>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
You’ll need a circle template to cut out your petals. This can be any size but mine at the convention were made with 2” and 2 1/4” circles. If you needed another excuse to buy your quilter’s circle templates this is a good one! Hahaha! <br />
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Here is a template with 2 different size circles anyway so you don’t have to draw them if you don’t have templates. Right click on he image below to save it to your computer and then print it out.</div>
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<b>STEP 1</b><br />
Using your chosen circle size, cut out 5 circles from your fabric.<br />
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<b>STEP 2</b><br />
Prepare your needle and thread, leaving a 2” tail after your knot for fastening your gathering later. Take one of your circles, fold it in half and half again.<br />
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<b>STEP 3</b><br />
Run a gathering stitch along the raw edge of your quartered circle making sure that you catch all four layers. If you start the first stitch going through from the back to the front of your petal, make sure the last stitch on the petal goes from the front to the back, this will make your petals more uniform.<br />
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<b>STEP 4</b><br />
Repeat step 3 for the remaining four petals, gathering them as you go.<br />
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<b>STEP 5</b><br />
Leaving your needle attached, tie the thread ends together tightly to draw your petals in creating the flower.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWRO-l6flK0rap5StpTKrZ290DXFGxCsQcoorDtOoViz_A__NEQpr_LHu8SxsIoHgaO3xso6e3JIBJawdjIFx2fJKYIxBJZe59K7P1PVRksa8138Jgvjcbl1I_K7uF780jruJ0-yx-XZh/s1600/Kanzashi_tutorial_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCWRO-l6flK0rap5StpTKrZ290DXFGxCsQcoorDtOoViz_A__NEQpr_LHu8SxsIoHgaO3xso6e3JIBJawdjIFx2fJKYIxBJZe59K7P1PVRksa8138Jgvjcbl1I_K7uF780jruJ0-yx-XZh/s320/Kanzashi_tutorial_6.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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<b>STEP 6</b><br />
Choose which side you'd like to be the back of the flower. Draw in the hole in the middle by doing a few stitched across it catching the petals.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvs51x4jGKc8En9aijy_DMryrds_wUYtDCzgCrRCCg1SwpJ5-gj3IfYgBCGrgjSEDYieSs2yYcPwqW6HkcBPFuTd4kdBP2l0yqH-tj7lF4x7zB2DCr96bhBhY8pc2c45WHPgaj88mmbzUu/s1600/Kanzashi_tutorial_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvs51x4jGKc8En9aijy_DMryrds_wUYtDCzgCrRCCg1SwpJ5-gj3IfYgBCGrgjSEDYieSs2yYcPwqW6HkcBPFuTd4kdBP2l0yqH-tj7lF4x7zB2DCr96bhBhY8pc2c45WHPgaj88mmbzUu/s1600/Kanzashi_tutorial_7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>STEP 7</b><br />
On the front of your flower, sew your button in the middle covering the hole. Tie off. Congratulations! You've made your first flower :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpI71pGaCMI4NwaThFKmBAnb5F63gcPTsBmEYK29hb8sZ7yPSdtTowOHuRGGvzVrn7qth7_F4VGscM45ID2sAyeG9uyINBL4SYDcHB0IJcD_b1Dv4n9USWSu_ScSe5lHjX7jHcJLanTmq/s1600/Kanzashi_tutorial_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpI71pGaCMI4NwaThFKmBAnb5F63gcPTsBmEYK29hb8sZ7yPSdtTowOHuRGGvzVrn7qth7_F4VGscM45ID2sAyeG9uyINBL4SYDcHB0IJcD_b1Dv4n9USWSu_ScSe5lHjX7jHcJLanTmq/s1600/Kanzashi_tutorial_8.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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EXTRA CREDIT: <i>Go absolutely mental and make a whole bunch while you're watching Gardening Australia (or Doctor Who if you're like my mum). Then continue reading these tutorials for the next type of flower and how to attach your little beauties to stems. </i><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The Rosette Flower...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfQWDyJX0MtC7HjKvMw1gVO-YMIHEH5FF9hn012q_oSsyq0C4OQyd8tBCWxOfs1Elc_9Yv1VjCSmR4zD3qqUj6Iv7dZGI9cFxF6deKGmLZlACLJu3ZmG-0ncgW_FDDv8pLS8oUudkWw6s/s1600/Rosette_Flower_Done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfQWDyJX0MtC7HjKvMw1gVO-YMIHEH5FF9hn012q_oSsyq0C4OQyd8tBCWxOfs1Elc_9Yv1VjCSmR4zD3qqUj6Iv7dZGI9cFxF6deKGmLZlACLJu3ZmG-0ncgW_FDDv8pLS8oUudkWw6s/s320/Rosette_Flower_Done.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
This fabric flower is reminiscent of good ol' yo-yos but with one important difference; you use a strip of fabric instead of cutting out a round. So you can use fabric with stripes that will make a pleasing radial effect. This project is perfect for using up left over bits from jelly rolls. </div>
<br />
Once you've made a few in this size, go and experiment:<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i>The shorter the length, the more the flower will 'pull up' into an opening bud look, </i></li>
<li><i>The longer the length, the more gathers there will be and the flower will become inverted like an <b><span class="st"><i></i></span></b>Echinacea flower. </i></li>
</ul>
<b>Materials & Tools</b><br />
<br />
1. Yummy scraps of patchwork fabric<br />
2. Strong thread (such as top-stitch or upholstery thread)<br />
3. Buttons for the center of your flowers<br />
4. Needle<br />
5. Scissors <br />
<br />
You can use your ruler and rotary cutter to cut a 2 by 8 inch strip or right click on he image below to save it to your computer and then print it out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zYzr5_L0Mz6VO88ZAJpKBYoFMUICusX76DUxUZygKoJl6i5p6hmeqcxB6QwmLIf0QNrYNsYyRkEVBYqjDzX0zU5ppZGFqasKZ9gbGnlslzS9U2HWo6mJTL6wqMMKIclBkU8VgToO-K1I/s1600/Rosette_template.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zYzr5_L0Mz6VO88ZAJpKBYoFMUICusX76DUxUZygKoJl6i5p6hmeqcxB6QwmLIf0QNrYNsYyRkEVBYqjDzX0zU5ppZGFqasKZ9gbGnlslzS9U2HWo6mJTL6wqMMKIclBkU8VgToO-K1I/s400/Rosette_template.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>STEP 1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Cut out your 2 x 8 inch strip of fabric from your delectable scraps.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtQim9S06zXjxmC4CRcUhnwV_b9v6qh712sQMurRBr7PkUW630vI2ETTJZL8LPufIRwkvEQMgq_yh6uXY8CfEa8Ay58dTXsPNYhv-RUMSHId-fwAaV0O3U_2ZehZAz35PW8bGfBLFMjCS/s1600/Rosette_template_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="104" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtQim9S06zXjxmC4CRcUhnwV_b9v6qh712sQMurRBr7PkUW630vI2ETTJZL8LPufIRwkvEQMgq_yh6uXY8CfEa8Ay58dTXsPNYhv-RUMSHId-fwAaV0O3U_2ZehZAz35PW8bGfBLFMjCS/s320/Rosette_template_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<b>STEP 2</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Fold your fabric strip in half, right sides together, so that the short ends match up. Stitch the edges together using a 1/3 inch seam. Leave your needle and thread attached.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7y_f7FXMQCwiStU9X_VAipHgQ-Fu-kxu8_MkbtnB2r-2eat2N9BtJesapWufo8JC97fKbxaoZGE91Si6nVS3WNggbcfHeiq7lINCQOFN6mLpmiVNYXkDm5Zvy_uFF0S7hlhO2YQ1josRu/s1600/Rosette_template_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7y_f7FXMQCwiStU9X_VAipHgQ-Fu-kxu8_MkbtnB2r-2eat2N9BtJesapWufo8JC97fKbxaoZGE91Si6nVS3WNggbcfHeiq7lINCQOFN6mLpmiVNYXkDm5Zvy_uFF0S7hlhO2YQ1josRu/s320/Rosette_template_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<b>STEP 3</b><br />
Finger press your seam open.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovIlPsE415mB5bPumt3eP8_NYWTxJUzXBvmeCNgJAi30uYJLOLN0ir5BWeqiRjIPSpx64SgRXXNu0VM9pQm9TinQRkGtX_ApUM3VwYtwHbZbl7_Q0xQ_fInVKGXYKc76R-4KcQwKY53sV/s1600/Rosette_template_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovIlPsE415mB5bPumt3eP8_NYWTxJUzXBvmeCNgJAi30uYJLOLN0ir5BWeqiRjIPSpx64SgRXXNu0VM9pQm9TinQRkGtX_ApUM3VwYtwHbZbl7_Q0xQ_fInVKGXYKc76R-4KcQwKY53sV/s320/Rosette_template_3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>STEP 4</b><br />
Now the slightly tricky bit if you're a fumble-fingers like me; Fold the bottom raw edge up to meet the top raw edge. You should now have the right side of the fabric showing inside and outside your fabric circle. Run a gather stitch all the way around just in from the raw edge making sure you catch both layers. <i>Making your gather stitches as equal as possible will insure a neater looking flower, if you can't don't worry - imperfection adds character (speaking from experience HAHAHA!).</i><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYH5p3LIjBkTSKK7LVnotA4e0ZQ9FWjC3bMHPB3MO8L5Hq_doldEsT4PrE01tAPlTiQ7JD5TJGfK3p9pMjOlKP_0caWcxwRVm9fssV3P42n3qE_gVxWcgx63eptOgFT1VYzJ2rBw7VvcHF/s1600/Rosette_template_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYH5p3LIjBkTSKK7LVnotA4e0ZQ9FWjC3bMHPB3MO8L5Hq_doldEsT4PrE01tAPlTiQ7JD5TJGfK3p9pMjOlKP_0caWcxwRVm9fssV3P42n3qE_gVxWcgx63eptOgFT1VYzJ2rBw7VvcHF/s320/Rosette_template_4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>STEP 5</b><br />
Draw your gather stitched in to form the flower. Tie your threads together tightly to secure but leave your needle attached.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9DPYs9IouVf_EimbTxz9qDJYG-_UzYexanTQOYRAAhpuJXeQlEh0SMNJri1MjRcUOdBQC-yqwj2f9h7P921rdSnMxaMWtYNOBTHZJflsWakduCHl0iLVl51foLAPz09Lawx78AqO3liO/s1600/Rosette_template_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9DPYs9IouVf_EimbTxz9qDJYG-_UzYexanTQOYRAAhpuJXeQlEh0SMNJri1MjRcUOdBQC-yqwj2f9h7P921rdSnMxaMWtYNOBTHZJflsWakduCHl0iLVl51foLAPz09Lawx78AqO3liO/s320/Rosette_template_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>STEP 6</b><br />
Choose which side you'd like to be the back of the flower. Draw in the
hole in the middle by doing a few stitched across it catching the
petals.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zdzNvojgNmFLEmkXo8MyEztS55HC5lrs3Gk53hEHH2Qngj21WGW82MytI1gXaaudtxM8mBidgBlzLcENkAE7tSNUXztxjELOBGgcF1EJVyB4qUeqPeH5bMMw6zFkYoP54EpoIXJIvVRO/s1600/Rosette_template_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zdzNvojgNmFLEmkXo8MyEztS55HC5lrs3Gk53hEHH2Qngj21WGW82MytI1gXaaudtxM8mBidgBlzLcENkAE7tSNUXztxjELOBGgcF1EJVyB4qUeqPeH5bMMw6zFkYoP54EpoIXJIvVRO/s1600/Rosette_template_6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>STEP 7</b><br />
On the front of your flower, sew your button in the middle covering the hole. Tie off and you're done.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Crank up the production line because the next part is all about attaching stems! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">HOW TO ATTACH STEMS TO FABRIC FLOWERS<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span>.. and any other crafty flowers for that matter!<br />
<br />
I invented this method for attaching stems when I decided to make all the flowers for my wedding. It works for fabric, paper, and yarn flowers alike. So if you're an 'All-Rounder' crafter like me (<i>literally and figuratively in my case</i>) try some other flower tutorials on the net and use this tutorial for attaching them to stems. I did classes at my local Scrapbooking shop (<i>where I learned the basics for the 2 flowers above</i>) so that's somewhere else to check out if the ladies at your patchwork shop are getting sick of the sight of you! Hehehe. <br />
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<b>Materials & Tools</b><br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Cardstock that matches your stem colour (<i>available from Scrapbooking and Craft shops</i>)</li>
<li>18 gauge wire pre-wrapped with cotton or paper in green or brown (<i>I got mine from Spotlight and you can also get it from Florist Suppliers</i>) </li>
<li>Fabric Glue</li>
<li>Flower Punch (<i>Available at Craft and Scrapbooking stores</i>)</li>
<li>Small hole punch or Awl or mattress needle </li>
<li>Needle-nose pliers</li>
<li>Fray Stopper or clear Nail Polish</li>
</ol>
<br />
<b>STEP 1</b><br />
Punch out 2 flowers from your cardstock, alternatively you could just cut 2 circles the same size with scissors to save buying special tools. Use a small hole punch, awl or needle to make a small hole in hte center of one of your cardstock flowers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3_leVrZFnbpHryU5ZsT3_k4lLqEAcN35bhtRuyPxrBZ6Lsj7P0ktT-u4uA_5-lRVnKTZ20flqXMAga0gnsXTl2BPAa2K1Rb_wRg4ZdLraNzt35helnvkPy-bWt1v6lSG2vLmBmF2DDHj/s1600/Stem_attach_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3_leVrZFnbpHryU5ZsT3_k4lLqEAcN35bhtRuyPxrBZ6Lsj7P0ktT-u4uA_5-lRVnKTZ20flqXMAga0gnsXTl2BPAa2K1Rb_wRg4ZdLraNzt35helnvkPy-bWt1v6lSG2vLmBmF2DDHj/s320/Stem_attach_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>STEP 2</b><br />
Take your wire and bend the top inch to a right angle. Then take your pliers and curl the end round in a small loop. This stops the wire sliding out of the hole and beheading your flower later on. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilc4sEJINxP47wflNS3l995T-4z7-xEm8WHmvVieC6Q7Yw9WZp-N66WREvc1aSAyGxUElhG-LXPYt_xQXHZM4j35oQZUhTioUiPeRCvwH2L7-F9qQNijO79binEgEoQWwP1H5wus2YPzmS/s1600/Stem_attach_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilc4sEJINxP47wflNS3l995T-4z7-xEm8WHmvVieC6Q7Yw9WZp-N66WREvc1aSAyGxUElhG-LXPYt_xQXHZM4j35oQZUhTioUiPeRCvwH2L7-F9qQNijO79binEgEoQWwP1H5wus2YPzmS/s400/Stem_attach_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>STEP 3</b><br />
Use your fabric glue to adhere the cardstock flower WITHOUT the hole to the back of your fabric flower. Let dry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-l7wU6aPvv-tfgQOTyDPO3Jf3AmtP8gWQF0YgtzsQe2LCuXzHN6mYFh9DlRal3hp9jAv_iHSfrhUmQ2Q6bn4euEnPkhyphenhyphenBN1t6LTd-IIqE6X6pjWrDuicp0l48NaqM_PwwH-cHeOq-HHy/s1600/Stem_attach_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe-l7wU6aPvv-tfgQOTyDPO3Jf3AmtP8gWQF0YgtzsQe2LCuXzHN6mYFh9DlRal3hp9jAv_iHSfrhUmQ2Q6bn4euEnPkhyphenhyphenBN1t6LTd-IIqE6X6pjWrDuicp0l48NaqM_PwwH-cHeOq-HHy/s1600/Stem_attach_3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>STEP 4</b><br />
Slide the cardstock flower WITH the hole onto your wire and push it to the top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibusnNqFvU1JDi4zRX0Awu75rmxe7ifNA4PVtsCC7RK9W_JGa-rad2NeQFUireI8-oMMpPy2qLRPYmhyIPslkv-bUtKYFneimI-HzkUQcq4dMNJLd0o5FMyKGT8EyCtTLcaxV6O0ndTcb3/s1600/Stem_attach_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibusnNqFvU1JDi4zRX0Awu75rmxe7ifNA4PVtsCC7RK9W_JGa-rad2NeQFUireI8-oMMpPy2qLRPYmhyIPslkv-bUtKYFneimI-HzkUQcq4dMNJLd0o5FMyKGT8EyCtTLcaxV6O0ndTcb3/s1600/Stem_attach_4.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>STEP 5</b><br />
Add glue to the top of your cardstock flower and wire and....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYpzqsMCYuV1nihZA_1LcmOEuCoF4m26-DfKlukeAGY1euLg63VAelIGHL2Qvs3kCzQr2kID3UcpRZB1gloyPJ8vqMD8HoUNIsTKuDq_GIBuDvNptdklWwBu0ur6eb38j8atu4_VPoRFN/s1600/Stem_attach_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYpzqsMCYuV1nihZA_1LcmOEuCoF4m26-DfKlukeAGY1euLg63VAelIGHL2Qvs3kCzQr2kID3UcpRZB1gloyPJ8vqMD8HoUNIsTKuDq_GIBuDvNptdklWwBu0ur6eb38j8atu4_VPoRFN/s1600/Stem_attach_5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>STEP 6</b><br />
...stick it to the back of your fabric flower on top of the other cardstock flower. Press it together with your fingers until it holds well. Stand the flower face down until the glue dries completely. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gEMY7j8MLh9VTnl32M_Aej-PmrM4z936tjA1IFUOeminRVMLocEcZi2mjCU3nQOo3hicvbobxka3eqD5cixXTtFGW2Pvqps1avJpXwknwQj3JntsZPhBIs38-BpW0MXRVzPHAMR0RLIA/s1600/Stem_attach_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gEMY7j8MLh9VTnl32M_Aej-PmrM4z936tjA1IFUOeminRVMLocEcZi2mjCU3nQOo3hicvbobxka3eqD5cixXTtFGW2Pvqps1avJpXwknwQj3JntsZPhBIs38-BpW0MXRVzPHAMR0RLIA/s320/Stem_attach_6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The last thing you might want to do is apply a little bit of Fray Stopper or Nail Polish to the end of your wire to stop the cotton or paper unraveling.<br />
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There you go! You now have the know-how to make a whole garden full of fresh, fabulous fabric flowers.... and if you use up all your scraps you'll just have to go pick up some yummy fat 1/8s to make some more. SHUCKS!<br />
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leave a comment or email me: pinkyhiggs{at}gmail{dot}com if you need any help or if you've noticed that I'm silly :)<br />
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HAVE A FANTASTIC CRAFTY WEEKEND!!!</div>
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- Love from Pinky xoxox<br />
<br /></div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-44844191994325122852012-04-13T06:53:00.000-07:002012-04-13T07:08:02.862-07:00FREE OWL PATTERN<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hello lovelies! I had a wonderful day at AQC today (the Australian Quilter's Convention in Melbourne). I was mostly well-behaved, only buying a few fantastic fat quarters and only one new doo-dad tool for making baskets! I was demoing my Owl and how to make a couple of fabric flowers today at the convention and as I promised to all the wonderful ladies who stopped by to say Hi, I have the pattern instructions and <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B48x71w6fpjIZ0xjNWJVSHAxS0U" target="_blank">downloadable template here</a> for you all. I will post the flower tutorial tomorrow.<br />
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So, here he is, my little Pocha Owl:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefBSvNmXyCamFn_uGKhbTnXJtkil3MLG6n5CC-Cq63_IsCV0DJOQxRY4fMf5tOdNAZeODcF0XPUdbdZMKZTh3VLJMnrAPTcPnuphi37CJHZkkyxvUW8HbpgmAcV1jUqYEudnM8umxM_jE/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_PinkyHiggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefBSvNmXyCamFn_uGKhbTnXJtkil3MLG6n5CC-Cq63_IsCV0DJOQxRY4fMf5tOdNAZeODcF0XPUdbdZMKZTh3VLJMnrAPTcPnuphi37CJHZkkyxvUW8HbpgmAcV1jUqYEudnM8umxM_jE/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_PinkyHiggs.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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I call him my little Pocha Pocha Owl because he's a a cute fat little version of traditional Japanese owl toys (<i>'Pocha' is Japanese for chubby</i>). When I went to Japan a few years ago they had these cute little fellows all over the place. I wanted to make my own when I got home but couldn't find a pattern I liked so I made up my own and added wings and a little heart which aren't traditional.</div>
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Like most of my patterns, this little fellow has been designed to utilize your favorite scraps and button stash. I have included variations for the wings, you can either make them from felt (easy) or make them from fabric (intermediate) instructions for both variations are of course included :)</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B48x71w6fpjIZ0xjNWJVSHAxS0U" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Download the pattern here</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">INSTRUCTIONS</span></div>
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<b>Step 1</b></div>
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Cut out your Tummy, Base and Body from your chosen patchwork fabric scraps. Cut out your Beak, Eye Colour, Eye White and Eye Black from felt scraps. Decide whether you wish to do felt wings or fabric wings, cut out 2 pairs from your chose material using the relevant template. Cut your Base Template out of plastic such as template plastic or a clean ice-cream container lid.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8EgNX4lek9Typs4ot_A0xYXlJI4GZxVdBVqYA7PyzHxb6Z2G6c8DsMEDW0lZKn3pEPaJ6Az6mHWb_TaAH0ipt7QAD8mfrLFVsuy0KkPyVaIUYbuHw-P833w36vp82jdns6HFfTLQdRTI/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8EgNX4lek9Typs4ot_A0xYXlJI4GZxVdBVqYA7PyzHxb6Z2G6c8DsMEDW0lZKn3pEPaJ6Az6mHWb_TaAH0ipt7QAD8mfrLFVsuy0KkPyVaIUYbuHw-P833w36vp82jdns6HFfTLQdRTI/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_step1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 2</b></div>
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Pin and stitch one side of the tummy piece to body piece matching and finishing at the black dots marked ‘A’. Repeat for the other side of the tummy attaching it to the other side of the body. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_18iW6yvh4TGqhf9OBDGE4bHQo0CLDhdE-GFYCMrVudCHNvCbul3mKId754aQopEicC8oqKelyFHCWfmtJqyPsAYPrTbddC_-ElETj2Ds__jeIiZAQ3HfTgj-i7nWc-tTTDlZy_JoJsU6/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_18iW6yvh4TGqhf9OBDGE4bHQo0CLDhdE-GFYCMrVudCHNvCbul3mKId754aQopEicC8oqKelyFHCWfmtJqyPsAYPrTbddC_-ElETj2Ds__jeIiZAQ3HfTgj-i7nWc-tTTDlZy_JoJsU6/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_step2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 3</b></div>
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Fold the body in half and sew the seam between dot ‘A’ and dot ‘B’. Turn the body right side out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8Iyw8lnqmWc6CDDYp89CSuKDrXf2jePwm33Ve9GFWGNfgoOf9qfNwFx38PIyDS_wU76e_Sl-PT133ZZXW4AAYn7XI-kp3BK4ih-s1U0bFxddqCux0Ddy2aqjGNH6hpfM14YzQXQXcuEx/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH8Iyw8lnqmWc6CDDYp89CSuKDrXf2jePwm33Ve9GFWGNfgoOf9qfNwFx38PIyDS_wU76e_Sl-PT133ZZXW4AAYn7XI-kp3BK4ih-s1U0bFxddqCux0Ddy2aqjGNH6hpfM14YzQXQXcuEx/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 4</b></div>
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Use a needle with strong thread to sew a gather stitch around the bottom opening of your owl’s body. Draw up the thread a little and stuff the owl but avoid stuffing the top of the owl as this part will fold down to ‘shape’ your owl. Finishing drawing up the gather stitch and tie securely leaving an opening no greater than 1 & 1/2 inch wide. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8TNyQAqPBRmrI9M5dHBOXKoTC1yOBAB3t7Hx_NmQC9tmiG82L07JUBdP-AORi11z-wge4MpCRrSozTyh9oVyHKMv7Elt3a3-dbl2kPPclgNg9LSM5-qL3hWxOS4dBolp3njV00aZaIUjy/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8TNyQAqPBRmrI9M5dHBOXKoTC1yOBAB3t7Hx_NmQC9tmiG82L07JUBdP-AORi11z-wge4MpCRrSozTyh9oVyHKMv7Elt3a3-dbl2kPPclgNg9LSM5-qL3hWxOS4dBolp3njV00aZaIUjy/s400/Free_Owl_Pattern_step4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 5</b></div>
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Sew a gather stitch around your base piece. Draw in your gather stitch just a little, then place your plastic base in the middle of your fabric base and draw your gathered in tight around it. Tie off your thread tightly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwj1-F68hyphenhyphenGonSzhV0iIkh-iH0G_y4YdPRlYRGOOu4VtS9xESJ7_XOlbnsca3ckvAmBV0BJxEtLLzxIrQx-URPiVLLUOf3tlnnxeI0pbJ8MbXVcZxuzq3y-a9qmsM4URfa_fgEHaVbPwX/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwj1-F68hyphenhyphenGonSzhV0iIkh-iH0G_y4YdPRlYRGOOu4VtS9xESJ7_XOlbnsca3ckvAmBV0BJxEtLLzxIrQx-URPiVLLUOf3tlnnxeI0pbJ8MbXVcZxuzq3y-a9qmsM4URfa_fgEHaVbPwX/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_step5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 6</b></div>
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Position your base over the opening at the bottom of your owl. Stitch your base down to cover the opening until you get three quarters of the way around. Add extra stuffing if required and then finish stitching the seam closed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrT7aGbRnXkfqp_R_ZdFytCGptKo4Z5sgBg6qYbvU-32zjOBB2vQt2FVwxgp0q-kqB1yTTG_fW4LCBYnrTZIDH3ZDcAYkwq5dKD5SdxUdD45rM4e7Q5ZcBkPzTq7cJg1CVcifu9tojlXAB/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrT7aGbRnXkfqp_R_ZdFytCGptKo4Z5sgBg6qYbvU-32zjOBB2vQt2FVwxgp0q-kqB1yTTG_fW4LCBYnrTZIDH3ZDcAYkwq5dKD5SdxUdD45rM4e7Q5ZcBkPzTq7cJg1CVcifu9tojlXAB/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_step6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 7</b></div>
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Fold the top of your owl down to shape the head. Tack the point in place with a couple of stitches. Now, take your felt beak piece and position this over the point. Stitch in place.</div>
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<b>Step 8</b></div>
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Take an Eye White piece and use the paper template to mark the center point with a marker. Position the Eye White on the top of an Eye Colour piece and stitch in place with top-stitch thread. Repeat this step for the second Eye White and Eye Colour pieces. </div>
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<b>Step 9</b></div>
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Take one of your Eye Black pieces, place and stitch it in the center of your Eye White and Colour piece. Repeat this step for the other eye pieces. NOTE: You could use black buttons instead of the black felt piece too, I just avoid using buttons on toys intended for children under 2 years or for pets. </div>
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<b>Step 10</b></div>
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Pin both completed eye pieces to your owl, positioning them one either side of the face next to the beak. When you are happy with the position of the eyes, stitch them to your owl’s face.</div>
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<b>Step 11</b></div>
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Your little owl is almost finished! The last thing we need to do is to make his wings. You can make the wings 2 different ways. The first way is to make the wings from fabric:</div>
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<b>Fabric wings</b></div>
Take two fabric Wing pieces and pin them right sides together. Using the template as a guide, sew around the wing leaving an opening. Trim your seams back by half and clip carefully into the curves so that they sit flat later. Turn your wing right side out through the opening. Press your wings with a hot iron to neaten the seams. At this point, add a little stuffing to the wing if you wish. Stitch the opening closed. Repeat this process for the second wing.<br />
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<b>Felt wings</b></div>
Take a felt wing piece and embroider your desired design. Take another felt wing piece (the one you want as the underside) and pin it to the back of your embroidered wing, wrong sides together. Neatly stitch around your wing with a decorative stitch of your choice and note that the back stitching will be visible on the underside of the wing. Repeat this process for the second wing. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnsgA61QZX7KgufWMfWY1mpoOFdipbt9kPl7qBiuhZr9giPo8RLCYgcUBKCs86zkV9yQRtKS-1Z9rcSqDNJZbI0x3KA5tLCmRJEx2qnnjs83NVn_80MqEUKutArGJXh3v6S55YmRr3fGQ/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step11b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRnsgA61QZX7KgufWMfWY1mpoOFdipbt9kPl7qBiuhZr9giPo8RLCYgcUBKCs86zkV9yQRtKS-1Z9rcSqDNJZbI0x3KA5tLCmRJEx2qnnjs83NVn_80MqEUKutArGJXh3v6S55YmRr3fGQ/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_step11b.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 12</b></div>
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Now to attach the wings to your owl. Use a pin to position your wings either side of your owl’s body. You can then either: </div>
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<li>stitch the wing straight to the body using strong thread creating a ‘cross’, </li>
<li>whip-stitch the top edge of the wing to the body which creates the best ‘flapping motion’,</li>
<li>or you can use buttons to attach your wings.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ049xVawkfe4ENaT7stbqONJn-y6aI29_GKlugYqWHo1kSAQuz7MYOICYUMtFll4kWNCpMjtU3ocQrBKTLUQ1OkRM1dCuVR5AbmuGOMYKRdrP21eHWd2w9PW3u0IogFlcK5Wq6KQkzwrm/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_step12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ049xVawkfe4ENaT7stbqONJn-y6aI29_GKlugYqWHo1kSAQuz7MYOICYUMtFll4kWNCpMjtU3ocQrBKTLUQ1OkRM1dCuVR5AbmuGOMYKRdrP21eHWd2w9PW3u0IogFlcK5Wq6KQkzwrm/s400/Free_Owl_Pattern_step12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">CONGRATULATIONS!</span> Once you have attached your wings, your little Pocha Pocha Owl is finished :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-H8L_7X0gnlsyZ2kM7xxJ2096ovSKzwQKeVDFFamklShTVKvzrNTepRjIBlEGioqwwt_qzERu0KUC4cemKtKvWQx_xAHSLvWYIJTtzpbnr3HOvz_YovXAsaahdgaJLZGeXkGkR4A9GTd/s1600/Free_Owl_Pattern_Finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-H8L_7X0gnlsyZ2kM7xxJ2096ovSKzwQKeVDFFamklShTVKvzrNTepRjIBlEGioqwwt_qzERu0KUC4cemKtKvWQx_xAHSLvWYIJTtzpbnr3HOvz_YovXAsaahdgaJLZGeXkGkR4A9GTd/s320/Free_Owl_Pattern_Finished.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Please feel free to make as many owls as you wish for friends and family. I’m also happy for you to use this pattern to teach sewing students or to sell to make money for charity and school fundraisers. The only restriction is that I don’t allow my patterns to be used on a commercial scale; I’m all about keeping it personal, sustainable, handmade and full of love. </div>
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Lastly, leave a comment if you like my pattern or have any suggestions :)<br />
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Love from Pinky the Toy Maker xoxo<br />
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<br /></div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-9090143967631103002012-01-05T03:02:00.000-08:002012-01-09T02:48:11.903-08:00COOPER'S DOGGY COOKIES<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-CkcW4P7dngVTnOg9gdhpkUilzRjyEwQPFEbqogvEUQ_rnJQKMwFu_71yo4D9HxkEF2qabUoBuKRfGBMDItyiLCWvIu8d3hD2jYOyoTUPvGYdb-0D1dcbbnOePYjWsFX8QKSH7nVYGMj/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-CkcW4P7dngVTnOg9gdhpkUilzRjyEwQPFEbqogvEUQ_rnJQKMwFu_71yo4D9HxkEF2qabUoBuKRfGBMDItyiLCWvIu8d3hD2jYOyoTUPvGYdb-0D1dcbbnOePYjWsFX8QKSH7nVYGMj/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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I'M AN AUNTY!!!! ....Well, to a fur baby that is. My brother and sister In law finally got their puppy after a looooong wait. He is just the cutest little fluff ball, I reckon he'd fit in a teapot!<br />
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To celebrate Cooper's arrival, I baked him a special doggy treat...COOPER COOKIES thanks to <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/264802/homemade-dog-biscuits?center=307040&gallery=275173&slide=264802" target="_blank">Martha Stewart's Dog biscuit recipe</a> on her website.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RJ4rqDdAcPfvdk2P_JAbQjHzGpzTj8wUREEGSubdlhYS8-OVLgrW6n-UD8_ILEeU5Ae2oPb4FgQ-XA1dxIO-bTEJX0zortC26SnfHKSW0FMGagDbYkfpE1wO22TpblzVup58JkmrEday/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RJ4rqDdAcPfvdk2P_JAbQjHzGpzTj8wUREEGSubdlhYS8-OVLgrW6n-UD8_ILEeU5Ae2oPb4FgQ-XA1dxIO-bTEJX0zortC26SnfHKSW0FMGagDbYkfpE1wO22TpblzVup58JkmrEday/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I did tweek the recipe a bit... I replace wheat germ with rolled oats, and instead of liquid stock I used 2 teaspoons of powdered chicken stock. I also added a Tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese and instead of the oil and to make up for the lack of liquid from the stock I used 2 free range eggs. Then I mixed some more powdered sock with another egg and brushed the biscuits so they browned nicely and were irrisistable for a little doggy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLHxSopqyr9KzBIBTkfU9jrqNBavtc_MEqQVU28qqjCVvuIC8C73Il5VXZddafPy0-Cg8a8lYTrU1bKQ_HKuWo43BwyWkjoHOCRHs8SAkEprtmGcM9UTmyuTvvHj2_PScvkIZAOlOBaD2/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLHxSopqyr9KzBIBTkfU9jrqNBavtc_MEqQVU28qqjCVvuIC8C73Il5VXZddafPy0-Cg8a8lYTrU1bKQ_HKuWo43BwyWkjoHOCRHs8SAkEprtmGcM9UTmyuTvvHj2_PScvkIZAOlOBaD2/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Here's the link to Martha's recipe: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/264802/homemade-dog-biscuits?center=307040&gallery=275173&slide=264802" target="_blank">Homemade Dog Biscuits</a>.<br />
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Harrison and I delivered the cookies to Cooper. We think they did the trick because Harrison had him won-over the minute we walked in the door and the two of them chased each other around the floor and drooled on one another until they were both exhausted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXq83bYcWeui4L7hU9_mr6y-yMNY8AmPrQrs80ubrx0QGSC6-yBXdgMr-Xdmk3Adq_ZjTDvtEir-CwR5CxGcJM02fT9czuropOCPZ5tViY_TZUt4I-98dxEyvjvyZxt0L8wHBEIW9CWDJb/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXq83bYcWeui4L7hU9_mr6y-yMNY8AmPrQrs80ubrx0QGSC6-yBXdgMr-Xdmk3Adq_ZjTDvtEir-CwR5CxGcJM02fT9czuropOCPZ5tViY_TZUt4I-98dxEyvjvyZxt0L8wHBEIW9CWDJb/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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"<i>This little fluffy thing is great fun mum!</i>"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3Y6xi9iu8_XEaZj6ishdhzPm3HPzVMsp5I-gmDWeqAmaS5WNLN6gm1q36WHu6nNPsqi91pq9VFKhvZrNuyce2iP-ey79m0bQaAnXkeR6ziNLzC1As8y3dSdzlHuPtAiLxpgqi3cSqM8h/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3Y6xi9iu8_XEaZj6ishdhzPm3HPzVMsp5I-gmDWeqAmaS5WNLN6gm1q36WHu6nNPsqi91pq9VFKhvZrNuyce2iP-ey79m0bQaAnXkeR6ziNLzC1As8y3dSdzlHuPtAiLxpgqi3cSqM8h/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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"<i>Hmmm, those bikkies are good are they Cooper? Glad you like them. Do you mind if I just try a little piece...?</i>" (Yes, mummy intervention was required)</div>
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Martha actually has lots of lovely pet crafts on her site, Cooper is going to be a very well-off dog on his birthdays and Christmases. </div>
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- xoxox Pinky</div>
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</div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-29914299823213862692012-01-04T18:37:00.000-08:002012-01-07T18:38:52.801-08:00Green Tomato Chutney<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It's been a productive week for me but I haven't even gone anywhere near the sewing machine. With the hot weather and all the rain we received before Christmas we've had an absolute bumper crop of zucchinis and tomatoes in Grandpa's garden. Being our very first season of growing our own vegetables, there are a few bugs to iron out, literally and figuratively speaking! We got so excited about our Heirloom Tomato mix (<a href="http://www.diggers.com.au/shop/product/S246/TOMATO%20TEN%20COLOUR%20HEIRLOOM%20MIX.aspx">seeds bought from Diggers.com.au</a>) that when they first started sprouting, we didn't have the heart to pull them out. We have of course learned from our mistake and had to rip out several plants last weekend so the stronger ones had room to grow without disease threats and lack of nutrients. The good news is we saved all the green tomato fruit ( 3 + kgs worth) and I was able to make Green Tomato Chutney last night YUM YUM!!! I used a recipe from my Nanna's cookbook of 60's newspaper clippings and handwritten recipes, see below for details.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQ-lCSC7-w14CywL7e8Oiw-bXIpJs56_R_HF_FW5r-osmiqzjglUco4fmajVNjYVcEjAwq3GnqEEFDtA30-f0VkINm6DrRqtVERIFYVHc7RmX3aD6iwQNzJeJU8dePcgeAzzQr6AQAvIO/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAQ-lCSC7-w14CywL7e8Oiw-bXIpJs56_R_HF_FW5r-osmiqzjglUco4fmajVNjYVcEjAwq3GnqEEFDtA30-f0VkINm6DrRqtVERIFYVHc7RmX3aD6iwQNzJeJU8dePcgeAzzQr6AQAvIO/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Weighing the tomatoes, yes there are a few red ring-ins!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZQaaBDkxyrszxE5-Co3x1Aq-l21RtFbvb_umUXoVzCwBLN_2W4sHZgpID3C0dU6V1q-fHpS7KkChR-zYY30L_F3m3epUo0onfs1yaS7VMTs2li8gZ_WTlbtg3aqq8h6PNLZ7vx9e7qmx/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZQaaBDkxyrszxE5-Co3x1Aq-l21RtFbvb_umUXoVzCwBLN_2W4sHZgpID3C0dU6V1q-fHpS7KkChR-zYY30L_F3m3epUo0onfs1yaS7VMTs2li8gZ_WTlbtg3aqq8h6PNLZ7vx9e7qmx/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My finished Chutney in the Oooo lala new Italian canning jars I bought from Spotlight (<i>jar brand: Quattro Stagioni</i>).<br />
(<i>In the background you can see a glimpse of the giant tub of zucchinis that I need to bake, pickle, puree and freeze over the next couple of days :s</i>)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Green Tomato Chutney</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1.5 kgs of green tomatoes </li>
<li>3 large brown onions</li>
<li>2 cups organic sugar</li>
<li>2 & 1/2 cups white vinegar</li>
<li>1 Tablespoon flour</li>
<li>1 Tablespoon curry powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon chilli powder</li>
<li>1 Tablespoon mustard powder</li>
<li>1 Tablespoon Salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup of water</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Equipment</span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>6 x 250ml jars with lids </li>
<li>Large Saucepan</li>
<li>Ladel for filling jars</li>
<li>Wide mouth funnel if you have one</li>
<li>Extra large pot that will hold all your jars</li>
<li>Round metal rack to fit inside extra large pot</li>
<li>Rubber gloves</li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Step one:</b> Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and quater any large ones taking out the stalky bit. (I used a mix of large and cherry sized tomatoes). Put all of your tomatoes in a big saucepan. Dice your onions nice and small and throw them in the saucepan too. Add the vinegar and sugar to the saucepan and set it to boil gently on the stove top for an hour or so until the tomatoes are all mooshy and it's bubbling thickly like a witch's cauldron :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Step two:</b> While your tomatoes are doing their thing, prepare your jars. clean them well in hot soapy water. Sterilize them in a dishwasher (boo hoo, I don't have one) or an electric sterilizer ( Yay! I have one of these for my son's bottles) or you can boil your jars and lids in a big pot on the stove if you prefer. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Step Three:</b> Mix your flour, curry powder, chilli powder, mustard powder and salt together in a small jug. Add the water gradually to avid lumps making a nice smooth paste. Add this mixture to the saucepan stirring it it well as you go. Leave to boil for a further 5 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Step Four: </b>While the jars and tomato is still hot, using rubber gloves to protect your hands, fill the jars to 1 cm from the top. Use a damp paper towel to clean the rim of the jar if you spilled any (I always do...one day I will buy a wide funnel to avoid this issue). Screw the lids on firmly.Depending on how much your liquid boils down, you will get 5 or 6 250ml jars full. <i>I got 5 and a half jars last night so the half jar went straight in the fridge to be used on meals this week.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Step 5:</b> My Nanna never did this step, but it's best to do it to ensure that your chutney doesn't spoil. You don't want anyone sick or yourself sick from spoiled chutney, otherwise you'll be greener than the tomatoes you started with. To kill and bacteria and to vacuum-seal your jars, place a round metal cooling rack in a big pot and fill with warm water (you don't want to go putting hot jars in cold water in case it causes breakage). Place your jars in the pot, sitting on the rack and NOT touching each other (this can also cause breakage and poor distribution of heat). Make sure the water level is 5cm ABOVE the top of your jars. Bring the water to the boil, once boiling set a timer for 15 minutes. Check the water level regularly during boiling to make sure it doesn't expose the tops of the jars, if the level is getting low, top up with boiling water from a kettle ( I prep my kettle when I first put the jars in just in case). Once 15 minutes is up, turn off the heat and let your jars cool in the water. Once cool, dry your jars off, label them (contents and date made is always a good idea...unless you like to play "<i>the what's that green stuff I found in the back of the cupboard and how old is it guessing game</i>" with your grandkids 40 years from now. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For mor info on food safety, canning how-tos, recipes and equipment advice I use <a href="http://www.pickyourown.org/allaboutcanning.htm#Canning">www.pickyourown.org</a>. It's an American site so I have to scrounge to find Australian equivalents locally but the info is excellent.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Share your Chutney and enjoy :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">xoxox Pinky</div></div></div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-53097989070912527112011-12-19T15:12:00.000-08:002011-12-19T15:29:18.168-08:00FREE TOY PATTERN<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Yes, you read it correctly! I have finally put together a free pattern for you all to enjoy as a Christmas Gift to celebrate my gorgeous baby boy's first Christmas. Introducing you to the Crunch Jellyfish pattern!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHLzYNNGfyuuVTaFudvS4B2Ql7oepCp8kdu8rYLv6-VIcaLXzD_RopulUXjvwBsio9sdLIef4l99szorxE-NA2vZJ_k7jjiiZvF7U4hImIpkch-qo4xmeXGIgn9BayJ4PiELZC3df8Eqh/s1600/White-jelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHLzYNNGfyuuVTaFudvS4B2Ql7oepCp8kdu8rYLv6-VIcaLXzD_RopulUXjvwBsio9sdLIef4l99szorxE-NA2vZJ_k7jjiiZvF7U4hImIpkch-qo4xmeXGIgn9BayJ4PiELZC3df8Eqh/s320/White-jelly.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
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Designed specifically to stimulate little minds, this toy has been tested and approved by Mr Harrison (my 8 month old). Never sewed before? Well that doesn’t matter! This pattern is simple enough for the most beginnery of beginners and you can even sew it with a needle and thread if you wish. Of course, if you don't fancy sewing you can buy or order a custom Crunchy Jellyfish from my<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PickledTink?ref=si_shop"> Etsy Shop</a>.<br />
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The Crunchiness of this jellyfish is due to a bit of cellophane inside so when baby scrunches the toy it makes a great crackling sound to stimulate his senses. You could also change the sound of your jellyfish by inserting a squeaker or a rattle instead. You could even make a band of Jellyfish! <br />
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<div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B48x71w6fpjIYWZkODg1YWItMWIwOS00YWFhLTgzMjctMTFiNjMyOTkyYzlh">DOWNLOAD THE PATTERN HERE</a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Materials you’ll need:</b></span><br />
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- Scrap of fabric for the body (about 22cm x 16cm)*<br />
- Scraps of fabric for the tentacles (about 13cm x 15cm for each tentacle)*<br />
- Scrap of felt for the heart (about 3cm x 3 cm)<br />
- Embroidery thread for the face and heart applique (black for the face and red for the heart)<br />
- Stuffing ( I use polyester stuffing as it’s machine washable)<br />
- Ribbon about 1cm wide and 6cm long (for the loop on top)<br />
- A piece of crackly plastic (I find Glad Oven Bags make an excellent crackle but you can use cellophane or clean plastic packaging from anything that sounds good)<br />
- Thread for sewing your jellyfish together<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tools</b></span><br />
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- Sewing needle and/or sewing machine<br />
- Sharp scissors<br />
- Embroidery needle<br />
- Chopstick or stuffing stick for turning and stuffing<br />
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<b>* I use polar fleece for the jellyfish I sell, this is because it’s soft and easy to wash because it’s machine washable and dries super fast (my little man is a major drooler) That said, most fabrics would be suitable. Felt is easy to sew but hard to turn the right way out and tends to pill a lot. Wool is a nice natural alternative and so are bright coloured cottons commonly used in Patch-working. If you’re feeling thrifty try using an old sweater for an extra Ooomf of character :) </b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 1.</b></span><br />
Print and cut out your <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B48x71w6fpjIYWZkODg1YWItMWIwOS00YWFhLTgzMjctMTFiNjMyOTkyYzlh">paper pattern pieces</a>. Pin the pieces to your chosen fabric and cut out. You will need 2 body pieces, six tentacle pieces and one heart piece cut from felt. <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B48x71w6fpjIYWZkODg1YWItMWIwOS00YWFhLTgzMjctMTFiNjMyOTkyYzlh">Download Pattern PDF</a> (you will need <a href="http://get.adobe.com/reader/">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a> installed on your computer available <a href="http://get.adobe.com/reader/">Here</a> for free)<br />
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- <b>Body piece:</b> cut 2<br />
- <b>Tentacle piece:</b> cut 6 (3 pairs)<br />
- <b>Heart:</b> cut 1 from felt (felt doesn’t fray so it’s great for applique)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15kKlin8tQjq889Nc8CcHA6B1rzqyWjoIM3J28uXq6BtgRoXM01mFQnUaaFifSSh9gMcFuXW0kA8gmp72T4zt6uRqmsfN06Py2cgXMPzDnKzCxmbdm6DNGkeudPycWxcLnJsgd7v8JIUw/s1600/Jellyfish_step1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15kKlin8tQjq889Nc8CcHA6B1rzqyWjoIM3J28uXq6BtgRoXM01mFQnUaaFifSSh9gMcFuXW0kA8gmp72T4zt6uRqmsfN06Py2cgXMPzDnKzCxmbdm6DNGkeudPycWxcLnJsgd7v8JIUw/s320/Jellyfish_step1.jpg" width="177" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 2. </b></span><br />
With right sides of the fabric together, pin and sew around the tentacles. Trim the seam allowance back by half (this helps curved seams look smoother). Turn the tentacles right side out, use the chopstick to help turn it out. You should have 3 finished tentacles. Set these aside for later.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dOPf6ibebWIFplaGDvrBxAjkaixODUS54fOaBY4yvk8QasqyLiOkA2zMh8uaQABRh_d_meEg5XdRHZgz7wkVIuCB1aFKmHQencD60zE7GtXoHM3g4JMdzEe4gvVq6p5tzOY93bMJZ8ek/s1600/Jellyfish_step2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dOPf6ibebWIFplaGDvrBxAjkaixODUS54fOaBY4yvk8QasqyLiOkA2zMh8uaQABRh_d_meEg5XdRHZgz7wkVIuCB1aFKmHQencD60zE7GtXoHM3g4JMdzEe4gvVq6p5tzOY93bMJZ8ek/s320/Jellyfish_step2.jpg" width="168" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 3. </b></span><br />
Using the embroidery guide on the body pattern piece, transfer the markings onto one of your body pieces using a fabric marker. I carefully cut along the smile and eyes on my paper pattern so I can poke the pen through and mark the fabric accurately. Otherwise you can ‘Wing it’ which can give you the best expressions and most unique toy. Embroider your jellyfish face using your embroidery thread start with the eyes, then mouth and finish with the eyebrows.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sv_75RoAmoEFJ7XuUkLN-ekFsLshUR7hPGw3RL9NtlrQqDRBOiNGG5dLb4GltA6xZdrTrrbYeCz6SUpiUrCqkTPEgcEM-XDkutwGsnXHzeNMgiZWaa7G5jKwLdqftn9K4Q6bhKQFpYXY/s1600/Jellyfish_step3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sv_75RoAmoEFJ7XuUkLN-ekFsLshUR7hPGw3RL9NtlrQqDRBOiNGG5dLb4GltA6xZdrTrrbYeCz6SUpiUrCqkTPEgcEM-XDkutwGsnXHzeNMgiZWaa7G5jKwLdqftn9K4Q6bhKQFpYXY/s320/Jellyfish_step3.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 4.</b></span><br />
Again, using the placement guide on the body pattern piece, take your felt heart piece and stitch it in position using embroidery thread on the same body piece you embroidered the face on.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfWCIgR7gaz7BrFXjOYt0I3B08rcVz5hbrea58br4eKFHCp4B_4YAou1Zyap5jRlkNAwBlTH2JsYuhcxkZCJj1A2uYPLKpsBRv18ksPLjxANFyk6gaPo6Wnoy-xI7Ag9UIypSAPEpIErG/s1600/Jellyfish_step4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfWCIgR7gaz7BrFXjOYt0I3B08rcVz5hbrea58br4eKFHCp4B_4YAou1Zyap5jRlkNAwBlTH2JsYuhcxkZCJj1A2uYPLKpsBRv18ksPLjxANFyk6gaPo6Wnoy-xI7Ag9UIypSAPEpIErG/s320/Jellyfish_step4.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 5. </b></span><br />
Using the placement guides on your paper body pattern, pin the tentacles to one of the body pieces with the tentacles facing into the body. Slowly and carefully sew the tentacles down 5 mm from the edge of the fabric (this is just tacking them down in place and also makes sure they won’t pull out during rough play. Notice I don’t stuff the tentacles? That’s because it’s easier for little fingers to grab, chew and bend. I made prototypes with stuffed tentacles and without and my son thought the one without was way more fun. But feel free to experiment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2GLzIoG2N0hdH5NX4_WiqcUYzOBKQ3SjOmvAxw3QWna6eOwVIrQlfhqP-Bq6AqNyBCYJNe6cGrB0_UHVoCSvq_XmT6Sa8hDk6O_TqSE7ocI6BROjIuLtpmhHz-E6D542Z401l15E7B4j/s1600/Jellyfish_step5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2GLzIoG2N0hdH5NX4_WiqcUYzOBKQ3SjOmvAxw3QWna6eOwVIrQlfhqP-Bq6AqNyBCYJNe6cGrB0_UHVoCSvq_XmT6Sa8hDk6O_TqSE7ocI6BROjIuLtpmhHz-E6D542Z401l15E7B4j/s320/Jellyfish_step5.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 6. </b></span><br />
Take your piece of ribbon and fold it in half. Pin it to the top of one of the body pieces as indicated on the pattern pointing it down into the body. Stitch it in place 5mm from the edge of the fabric like you did with the tentacles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbTZetRQaCb7_rtDJk2Kwfbur5kIwpYktIz5hyphenhyphenVoEha2142ILwYBH30xRAv169VUZJadPIsEnVdMqqYQAMiM-MDbABJx7neG3W4s7dJwkv77k_z4ksLarcbnsOsxsyJBfEktDg2K2lzqb/s1600/Jellyfish_step6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxbTZetRQaCb7_rtDJk2Kwfbur5kIwpYktIz5hyphenhyphenVoEha2142ILwYBH30xRAv169VUZJadPIsEnVdMqqYQAMiM-MDbABJx7neG3W4s7dJwkv77k_z4ksLarcbnsOsxsyJBfEktDg2K2lzqb/s320/Jellyfish_step6.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 7.</b></span><br />
ALMOST DONE!!! Now you can put your body pieces together. Pin the body pieces right sides together. Carefully stitch around the body leaving a small section open for turning as indicated on the pattern. Turn your jellyfish right side out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKUmMW6GBPk6n-obGRBj90zR8_O-D4qnG2yn4WZA2Ilp-b48YqdvLAeoeUrKY-eTKSf1IRKw1gTl6FDEfqlMkHraT8uXSaiI018AFnHtBbHP8KoK7WbrPDtocYHRGre_aEXn1Njg2hF7Y/s1600/Jellyfish_step7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKUmMW6GBPk6n-obGRBj90zR8_O-D4qnG2yn4WZA2Ilp-b48YqdvLAeoeUrKY-eTKSf1IRKw1gTl6FDEfqlMkHraT8uXSaiI018AFnHtBbHP8KoK7WbrPDtocYHRGre_aEXn1Njg2hF7Y/s320/Jellyfish_step7.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 8. </b></span><br />
Time to stuff!!! Grab your plastic scrunchy material. Roughly cut 2 rectangles about the size of your jellyfish’s body. You may find you want 3 pieces for extra crunch. Place the rectangles on top of one another and insert into your jellyfish using your chopstick to help flatten it out. You want the plastic evenly distributed. Then take your stuffing and work it in behind the plastic until it’s nicely pudgy, again your chopstick will come in handy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZKijVtb03e5r9nj9S3eptdY0aUTbOp4z0MbYOcCxtZejW36lr2xTEAeCHXWICP0g6WVy9PN2xckR-j0U-3Rs31TK8TqyUm8aOC5-sE3Knqdaodwx9sHvrh-9pYNtleX6MHkHlgbbvTBF/s1600/Jellyfish_step8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZKijVtb03e5r9nj9S3eptdY0aUTbOp4z0MbYOcCxtZejW36lr2xTEAeCHXWICP0g6WVy9PN2xckR-j0U-3Rs31TK8TqyUm8aOC5-sE3Knqdaodwx9sHvrh-9pYNtleX6MHkHlgbbvTBF/s320/Jellyfish_step8.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 9. </b></span><br />
The last step! Now take your needle and thread and stitch up the opening of your jellyfish. TA DAAAAA! You clever thing you, congratulations on making your very own lovable Crunchy Jellyfish for your little one :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qudN9kfjjy3wSH3u65dALTZqOaaBMIZ-xMuqILYKfk6oTKeydZ_u67hE9FGt53AmJPIOMXbmLMXfomWf7s0lvoIKfsRsiaI6hfQTJG4pe16HYTjrjsAPaxTcq2wdRHYTI0b-_A9m4Yak/s1600/Jellyfish_step9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qudN9kfjjy3wSH3u65dALTZqOaaBMIZ-xMuqILYKfk6oTKeydZ_u67hE9FGt53AmJPIOMXbmLMXfomWf7s0lvoIKfsRsiaI6hfQTJG4pe16HYTjrjsAPaxTcq2wdRHYTI0b-_A9m4Yak/s1600/Jellyfish_step9.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can use this pattern to make as many jellyfish for your family and friends as you like but please don’t sell toys from this pattern. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xX9x6Jotq8HQEKlQJWKjwrPq-QixQ2wbP16QgpOWOGcPI_LYEE9z0Eci6j-qhlzW22SRmgLss_GuJSXF4G7wCpiApYu_HwOvv-BRe_UBQPsAp0AMilpOQS9WW2A92WejUlK0iQoM4J5G/s1600/BabyTested.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xX9x6Jotq8HQEKlQJWKjwrPq-QixQ2wbP16QgpOWOGcPI_LYEE9z0Eci6j-qhlzW22SRmgLss_GuJSXF4G7wCpiApYu_HwOvv-BRe_UBQPsAp0AMilpOQS9WW2A92WejUlK0iQoM4J5G/s320/BabyTested.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My Official tester performing the 'chew test'.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> Now that you have your beautiful Jellyfish, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1832162@N20/pool/">show him or her off to the world on Flickr</a>! I created a group just so you can upload your photos <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1832162@N20/pool/">here</a>.<br />
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I would love to know what you think of the pattern in the comments section below and feel free to give me suggestions or ask any questions about the pattern.<br />
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This pattern is also available on <a href="http://kidindependent.com/">Kid Independent</a> in the Christmas 2011 Guest Series which I originally created it for. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red;">Merry Christmas</span> and Love from Pinky The Toy Maker xoxo</b></span></div><br />
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<br />
</div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-64245851306570134782011-12-19T14:40:00.000-08:002011-12-19T14:40:50.427-08:00Albury Twilight Markets<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My recent adventures to the Albury Twighlight Markets where a huge success with lovely shoppers, a great atmosphere and some much needed fresh air on my part! The very best moment was when a little 4 year old boy came up to me to buy a hand puppet. He was the cutest little guy and so polite! The best bit was that he took it straight over to his little sister and started entertaining her with it... TOTALLY ADORABLE! Here's some pictures of my little stand:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8Kmi4j-ntHyokPlgmZwilWpz63nMnSTlXyi1vcdRrOcibkH3N9w7Pww6qLLSky_W5GDaSC6pKD9UMUlEWga0jp7pvSa1P5ueSGPDnqN6cfv9wRWXOKIUT30iKaQiA4152bd63v3sgXAJ/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8Kmi4j-ntHyokPlgmZwilWpz63nMnSTlXyi1vcdRrOcibkH3N9w7Pww6qLLSky_W5GDaSC6pKD9UMUlEWga0jp7pvSa1P5ueSGPDnqN6cfv9wRWXOKIUT30iKaQiA4152bd63v3sgXAJ/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I'd already sold a few toys and puppets before I remembered to take a photo. 'Barry he Bedtime Bandit' (orange puppet with crazy face :) as his new owners call him, went to a very good home and he currently entertains a little 8 month old girl who likes to giggle when Barry tickles her with his head feathers.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-sCxHpVN_c_v9PzD1wDuShAXcVJCXdpzyxBIHtaUN7eESp0OJtGaOj7O8Orx-0mkFuiF0hqClAmj8g609YVu_CqF3vCD6kfYlE9TkN5RBhWXQwc9_4Yscu2japENziBl-qdiUS3-InOV/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-sCxHpVN_c_v9PzD1wDuShAXcVJCXdpzyxBIHtaUN7eESp0OJtGaOj7O8Orx-0mkFuiF0hqClAmj8g609YVu_CqF3vCD6kfYlE9TkN5RBhWXQwc9_4Yscu2japENziBl-qdiUS3-InOV/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mr Sock Sloth, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49808468/1st-prize-button-bunny-rabbit">Bunny</a> and Retro Froggy chilling alongside some <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PickledTink?ref=seller_info">Huggy Wuggs</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRigebC68qC0ryNTxM7cn6_SW6ZCZImGfv3Bn-tqQyDinVNzR689wRvL3wTvoQL4AQSC3KXJoLlndVFUoFoS4W6iiAfSWheoThJznOsFo36Vca358iRBPid9nzFwVfZH1-DjG0crtQCdv/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRigebC68qC0ryNTxM7cn6_SW6ZCZImGfv3Bn-tqQyDinVNzR689wRvL3wTvoQL4AQSC3KXJoLlndVFUoFoS4W6iiAfSWheoThJznOsFo36Vca358iRBPid9nzFwVfZH1-DjG0crtQCdv/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Scrap-o-saurus Herd </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkyzgjGLRhxK1qjawXxp-gxCrTgutP1tMybW1t994T-IhkV2ACsj2N6VWxHYzVSddEpVtKCY9bBG64IrvQQewCUfqV_dQLBa4aIJkKNY3zsS5yagL2-kjMOJi23y3vU47-b614bjRw0Lr/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkyzgjGLRhxK1qjawXxp-gxCrTgutP1tMybW1t994T-IhkV2ACsj2N6VWxHYzVSddEpVtKCY9bBG64IrvQQewCUfqV_dQLBa4aIJkKNY3zsS5yagL2-kjMOJi23y3vU47-b614bjRw0Lr/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> SQUEEEEEKY POOS!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
These little fellas were a super hit with the boys young and old :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2kkAHiCeFCqt4Ow8-YUxrMR0YhivB2ZBiuQB2H-jdv6ew8cbrWvTfC3sqzNeOW7PCoHKBwKH3SJIICZaU93UtTGfUptz5GUrLWBjgwDmNKW3RLOTXjJwRqrpyU2Lli5oocgv3F7-ynL3/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2kkAHiCeFCqt4Ow8-YUxrMR0YhivB2ZBiuQB2H-jdv6ew8cbrWvTfC3sqzNeOW7PCoHKBwKH3SJIICZaU93UtTGfUptz5GUrLWBjgwDmNKW3RLOTXjJwRqrpyU2Lli5oocgv3F7-ynL3/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PickledTink?section_id=5306690">My patterns</a> on display</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL0uDSITOjgFy_cNWfBjXNgGogPjm8iYOHlj-cfIeZPmhsuIqJaZYUi-aHH8JcV_wcKimlrt3mN-pxHw26bpF6R1isaUn_VLX3OUNBMfBIXl4tJRzQv6cuXKgLgiI1EnZq2SnOYWY84Fc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL0uDSITOjgFy_cNWfBjXNgGogPjm8iYOHlj-cfIeZPmhsuIqJaZYUi-aHH8JcV_wcKimlrt3mN-pxHw26bpF6R1isaUn_VLX3OUNBMfBIXl4tJRzQv6cuXKgLgiI1EnZq2SnOYWY84Fc/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A School of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86961373/yellow-crunchy-jellyfish-for-baby">Crunchy Jellyfish</a> (And Lucas enjoying is Pad Thai in the background :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdOz-WPc4pRILT5mheE06aP26kKnCI4u9vIlyunw5c4eodHP6-7rJzzWPGBSZV8WNf31qCScyFdhrbt5O-7NUElplwrN7ZpmvXt1ZAsxLbMY8g6d_CxRQBBRzFTe8T45P3JbfyUxi51el/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdOz-WPc4pRILT5mheE06aP26kKnCI4u9vIlyunw5c4eodHP6-7rJzzWPGBSZV8WNf31qCScyFdhrbt5O-7NUElplwrN7ZpmvXt1ZAsxLbMY8g6d_CxRQBBRzFTe8T45P3JbfyUxi51el/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86941203/monobrow-marvin-the-marvelous-monster">Marvin the Monobrow Monster</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I of course couldn't have attended the markets without the help of My wonderful Mother in Law, Lucas and Bubby (My official tester who was so well behaved both nights!)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I am busting to do the markets again and think I might attend the February twilight markets next. I need a month or so to replenish my stock...after sewing up a Christmas storm for my friends and family that is!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Thank you so much to all those who came to see me at the markets and especially my Mum's Group who are brilliant supporters and to Ren, the organizer of the markets at <a href="http://www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/www/html/196-event-details.asp?intEventID=1758">Albury City Council</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Pinky xoxo</div></div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-5669721290169029162011-01-21T03:00:00.000-08:002011-01-21T03:00:12.208-08:00NEW PATTERN NOW AVAILABLE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Drum roll please....<br />
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Introducing 1st Prize Bunny!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fmWhFrrqDkYOpBjq3mCoaSg2yMnwtf4TFwO7ghA7LI74C4GsfE2dW47O5hezzKO1rnztkWZ4eR46P5P06OQnaR9fDkXYeKHbcoJx1t36ttDv_SMtpcIc4E-i_d1grRMW1_kpkmqu8_JM/s400/Bunny_001a.jpg" width="300" /></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGi5iMz31_0EEeqmxI-XMGkgMEolLZd59CNXTDF-zRmYHkwNa67B5S78bKc5dJtxEdvCPZCu0o1oprCTKAUi7TAWVqKkI7VnvUNLcDGixqFz6EPQmRXoCSi-RdZHlWe-KooiSVmQrsGUV/s400/pattern_sample.jpg" width="318" /></div><br />
Here is my new pattern. I have 2 finished bunnies for sale on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PickledTink">Etsy</a> but have decided to make Bunny into a pattern due to several requests.<br />
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I've included loads of illustrations to go with the written instructions as usual. It's good for beginners to advanced sewers.<br />
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You can buy the pattern from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PickledTink">Etsy Shop</a> and stay tuned in to my blog for freebie additions to use the pattern in different ways!<br />
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</div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-25925729658592690702010-07-09T21:42:00.000-07:002010-07-09T21:53:33.959-07:00New Babushka Doll Pattern<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2jPNirS012qbd9yDMXqHzsrEExHfZi-wSyeEdYMfc2lRmRkAQoizRvIj1nKmWkTXXcn7qL_MtOmijenZXylSPduWw9uXBahOI3gFhZO8o4Zxrytn-tW-hoHRBaWN4St2gSGnVQDMXmS3/s1600/babushka_front.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2jPNirS012qbd9yDMXqHzsrEExHfZi-wSyeEdYMfc2lRmRkAQoizRvIj1nKmWkTXXcn7qL_MtOmijenZXylSPduWw9uXBahOI3gFhZO8o4Zxrytn-tW-hoHRBaWN4St2gSGnVQDMXmS3/s320/babushka_front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492133594192792002" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Introducing my latest pattern:</span> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51185972/babushka-doll-pattern">Medium Babuska Doll</a><br /><br />This little cutie is now available for download from my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/51185972/babushka-doll-pattern">Esty store.</a><br /><br /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpe0JQb4gItEQsvEtjHhQ_NyOKJuci8X-SBqmO2DaahU8DXRrsqG4s4hsdHoJtyThX9ZUdORkKHr6B297p59dGw9pZVv_5sh65XtJevbb9JR6uWlUDfTlMk3YdS47YHmoQYeOKvQwSsf7/s320/babushka_pattern.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492133832018556754" border="0" /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRsjvEW_GiD6XBpt5KUpehuArmsz0buzVk3xkGxzE6y_w09WR-aB6CXWCT1HoFsfDZxt98zfuqdv63ljuUgpj00aRhqn5PSOAvWiWcTtGun6gDooKlyjkjhqnZuZrSiWDdcLTdPAXEHgB/s1600/babushka_closeup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRsjvEW_GiD6XBpt5KUpehuArmsz0buzVk3xkGxzE6y_w09WR-aB6CXWCT1HoFsfDZxt98zfuqdv63ljuUgpj00aRhqn5PSOAvWiWcTtGun6gDooKlyjkjhqnZuZrSiWDdcLTdPAXEHgB/s320/babushka_closeup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492133761535982802" border="0" /></a><br />She is so much fun to make! you can use whatever patch working fabrics you like and she's perfect for using up quilting scraps or sampling those fat <span style="font-size:130%;">1</span>/8s you just had to buy last week ! :)<br /><br />As with all my patterns, I'm always here to help so message me if you have any questions.<br /></div></div>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-44606405416160054862010-06-29T04:52:00.000-07:002010-06-29T05:27:03.157-07:00My Crafternoon Creation<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvUsSVy9pmTvD0YY79DRVJ5O879d-T68A8F6uGF04iTkoPZx7AzLGoPcAug062SFpVThnhScBxHx-b96QZGrYB_0HbOJz8x2qRkzBPCAeFR3kGrsCBYmHnOokZwtaJoKMKlSuAGDmNl7s/s1600/Willie_Crow_Pinky_Higgs.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvUsSVy9pmTvD0YY79DRVJ5O879d-T68A8F6uGF04iTkoPZx7AzLGoPcAug062SFpVThnhScBxHx-b96QZGrYB_0HbOJz8x2qRkzBPCAeFR3kGrsCBYmHnOokZwtaJoKMKlSuAGDmNl7s/s320/Willie_Crow_Pinky_Higgs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488169454728782178" border="0" /></a><br />Now that birthday season is almost over for the year, I'm finally gaining a little crafternoon time for myself on a Sunday afternoon. The product of my afternoon craft therapy is the wonderful Willie Crow, complete with Beret and Woolen Scarf! (<span style="font-style: italic;">It's winter here in Australia now so I though nice warm accessories were in order</span> ). He is such a happy little fellow and for that reason he has pride-of-place on my shelf so he can greet guests when they come to visit. I'm busting to make some feathery friends for him soon.<br /><br />- Love PinkyPinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-31961809108954243682010-06-26T20:59:00.001-07:002010-06-26T23:59:56.135-07:00Potato Sack Panda<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EdcYjKPz3TgibPrh5_O46xPbvb_8tEUE_rGROVlkbijJLfOgTNLDeYB9rCuqHa3ZGx9z7vGQMnJuPpH07osnoU_Wuh-cu65eA8xmRwcsgDcAQ8I8o1PCKCH8iU24aRktjap68IulycLZ/s1600/Panda_001e.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EdcYjKPz3TgibPrh5_O46xPbvb_8tEUE_rGROVlkbijJLfOgTNLDeYB9rCuqHa3ZGx9z7vGQMnJuPpH07osnoU_Wuh-cu65eA8xmRwcsgDcAQ8I8o1PCKCH8iU24aRktjap68IulycLZ/s320/Panda_001e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487299318356768866" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavB4EcCJSLqvKTXe0kQrgKQuEAlQXZFW9xVenUt42u66BNfUvf86Y8zPUdR0B7KIu4ye1gX-5dXqz-9V5rYcOKlE82X1uAZpMcJ3pknikv84Os3NZ2DUqaUlS-1iyeX72B4IaZg3lp1SK/s1600/Pinky-Higgs_panda.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavB4EcCJSLqvKTXe0kQrgKQuEAlQXZFW9xVenUt42u66BNfUvf86Y8zPUdR0B7KIu4ye1gX-5dXqz-9V5rYcOKlE82X1uAZpMcJ3pknikv84Os3NZ2DUqaUlS-1iyeX72B4IaZg3lp1SK/s320/Pinky-Higgs_panda.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487299309775610402" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.pickledtink.etsy.com/">Get this pattern here</a><br /></div><br />Here it is! My first ePattern! As a qualified pattern maker and graphic artist I have finally had time to create and finish my first Panda PDF pattern in between client work and Teaching.<br /><br />I've designed this pattern so that it is easy enough for beginners and inspirational enough for those of you who know how to sew but want to try different materials and adding your own flare!<br /><br />The pattern has been design for all; I have included all metric and empirical measurements and I have also created A4 and Letter sized PDFs to best suit your printer.<br /><br />So often you buy a pattern and the copyright info states that you can only use it for personal use. With my patterns however, I want you to be able to make toys from my pattern and sell them...you put the hard work into sewing it in the first place! The only catch is that if you are selling toys from my pattern, please include my blog, ESTY or email on your tag.<br /><br />I also have a special offer for any teachers wishing to teach sewing classes to their students using this pattern so please email me if you're interested or know someone who would be.<br /><br />I would just LOVE to see any photos of toys made from this pattern!<br /><br />Now, that's enough talking. I've been away from the sewing machine far too long!<br /><br />Until next time, HAPPY SEWING!<br /><br />- Love PinkyPinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-42966151492376413472009-01-19T04:39:00.000-08:002009-01-19T04:52:53.931-08:00THEY'RE BACK<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MrXKTpXvl-DGReyxdei38K8rnqLs8NqclwfLwykfD_eR3sAhaWjLo5mx13HxZbeDAPONb6m8yBrsvCupRIK9lPmag3215MMdofoJ3c59szfm3bc8LzC2cgy90Fcm2K9KP8YzXsAFliBD/s1600-h/yellandO.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MrXKTpXvl-DGReyxdei38K8rnqLs8NqclwfLwykfD_eR3sAhaWjLo5mx13HxZbeDAPONb6m8yBrsvCupRIK9lPmag3215MMdofoJ3c59szfm3bc8LzC2cgy90Fcm2K9KP8YzXsAFliBD/s400/yellandO.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292984963641884658" border="0" /></a>Here they are, all the way back from America and my-o-my did they have fun! The Softies arrived home safe and sound and were so very happy to climb into bed for a good night's sleep. Yell was still excited about the whole trip to Crammed Organisms but O was cranky as he didn't get much sleep on the plane home as Yell kept talking.Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-42020892105352900642008-08-10T00:34:00.000-07:002009-01-19T04:54:10.667-08:00HOORAH! WE'RE BACK ONLINE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8Ofi0uyVkEBrc6VQRPKdgq0Gnhkc8Bip7cQ1xZDfqRh5MYm7IjqCWK0iwyTUGjWc75Qk-B8VMr-5D_yR9nmfGa7Q8gX6xwNPO761F3avIqmYrz8NY20oPUIA5o5Wi3_4X6TBiWKj3bsi/s1600-h/hmmph.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8Ofi0uyVkEBrc6VQRPKdgq0Gnhkc8Bip7cQ1xZDfqRh5MYm7IjqCWK0iwyTUGjWc75Qk-B8VMr-5D_yR9nmfGa7Q8gX6xwNPO761F3avIqmYrz8NY20oPUIA5o5Wi3_4X6TBiWKj3bsi/s400/hmmph.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232797248063763394" border="0" /></a><br /><br />4 WHOLE MONTHS after moving out with my boyfriend, I FINALLY manage to convince him that we need the internet!<br /><br />it has been too long my fellow softy-loving friends and I do apologise.<br /><br />I may have missed several months of contact with softies all over the world but I can assure you that not having the net has given me more time to create despite working full time and doing housework :)<br /><br />I hear that the Crammed Organisms show was a huge success in Saint Louis and I'm busting to receive my book in the mail when Cranky Yellow finds time to grab a breather.<br /><br />I am also working on the new Pickled Tink website and hope to have it up online before the end of August. It will give you all a good look at my softies, hopefully some free patterns, links to my blog here and my shop on Etsy and I'm also working on some fun mini-games for little kids and big kids alike :D<br /><br />so enough wasting time talking, I'll get back to work.<br /><br />Happy sewing everyone,<br /><br />PinkyPinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-54695000017196099842008-04-14T02:51:00.000-07:002008-04-14T03:29:07.592-07:00SEW SEW SEW WHAT'S NEW?!WOAH! IT'S BEEN A WHILE!<br /><br />I realized that I hadn't posted in almost a month! I've been so busy over the last 6 weeks. I got older, almost sold out of toys at Wodonga Carnival Wild, Have a new AWESOME JOB that I didn't have to go to the city to get AND I'm moving out this week or next.<br />So where do I find time to sew? HA! THERE IS ALWAYS TIME TO SEW AND CREATE!!! I just have less time to sleep and post blogs! haha.<br /><br />I've only had time to check my emails every second day however, last night I checked my email after shooting a short film with my best buddies(yeah, I even find time for that!)and guess what?!<br /><br />I got an email from Cranky Yellow saying that I'm one of the artists selected for the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.crammedorganisms.com/artists.html">Crammed Organisms Show</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>(check out the extremely awesome advert for it to the top right). It is going to be a brilliant show! I only wish flying over to the US was a little cheaper, I think I will go for my pilot's license after all :)I can afford to fly my softies over for the show I'm sure they'll tell me all about it if they come back home that is.<br /><br />I recommend you all check out the <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);" href="http://www.crammedorganisms.com/artists.html">website</a> because there are a lot of great links, inspiring artists from all over the world and The website is just so fan-dangled you don't want to miss <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.crammedorganisms.com/artists.html">checking it out</a>!<br /><br />So, back to other news on the Pickled Tink softies front. Blarney Bug did really well in his section of the parade on Q.D.Patooties, He didn't win but he though puss in boots was very dapper and charismatic indeed. Blarney Bug has decided that maybe he'd have a better chance if he didn't drink so much Guinness right before the parade.<br /><br />Check out <a style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/689268@N20/">SOFTIES CENTRAL</a> on flickr to enter the 2nd Annual Softies Awards. It's lots of fun and anyone can enter....no I don't know if you win anything I just went i it cos it's fun!<br /><br />Ok well, I have lots more little bits of news but I have itchy fingers that just have to go and create my little plushies friends sitting patiently in my imagination.<br /><br />Toodle pip for now :)Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-68411105134763134622008-03-18T05:42:00.000-07:002008-03-18T05:54:23.044-07:00Happy Easter!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.qdpatooties.blogspot.com/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.qdpatooties.com/easterparadeavatar.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Well, the first Annual Easter Parade is well under swing at <a href="http://qdpatooties.blogspot.com/">Q.D.Patooties</a> and Lisa has done a wonderful job of all the organizing.<br /><br />I'm so proud to have my Blarney Guinness Grub in the parade this year. Voting starts at the end of the parade so vote for me and some of the other wonderful easter creations on show!Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-2172238021015207212008-03-12T04:43:00.000-07:002008-03-12T04:57:02.817-07:00March MadnessThe beginning of March has always been busy for me having my birthday early on but, this year it's set to be busy the whole month with easter to finish it off!<br /><br />I started the month with the monthly Wodonga Markets selling my softies so well that buy the end of the day I had next to nothing in stock!<br /><br />I then decided that maybe people did really like my softies after all and that it was worth the sacrifice to work at the markets the following Saturday which happened to be my birthday at Wodonga Carnival Wild.<br /><br />I spent the whole week sewing like a chicken with a chronic egg-laing disorder. I still wasn't happy with the amount I got done but once I had stepped back after setting up my stand I realized it wasn't a bad amount for a one-woman sweat shop!<br /><br />I did sell a lot of toys that night and felt that it was a huge success. I had an overwhelming flood of lovely comments from people of all ages getting joy from seeing my critters. The most rewarding customer was a little baby boy. His mum bought him one of my Cuddle Buddies and his eyes lit up and he had the biggest smile as she gave it to him.<br /><br />I can never stop making toys now :)<br /><br />I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who stopped by my store, you made my day!<br /><br />I hope to grow and continue the passion for handmade toys here in Albury Wodonga so stay tuned for many more huggable friends coming form my studio!Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-54057328021591020722008-02-17T22:39:00.000-08:002008-12-09T14:13:12.877-08:00Busy Blythenstien Weekend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwLg3DjnyASH7QvevcXrUUYClTa6MZOOoyzifvvLsVJBXORXQLOzXVZ46C5S8ijjUcQmNJCN4ENPK5fudr2DJDwdVkIDQnVPnHQrvX71lluGdpc0rCW9_0zdhaZbTPcqKVWexkuxiJtVy/s1600-h/retrokitty+1square.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwLg3DjnyASH7QvevcXrUUYClTa6MZOOoyzifvvLsVJBXORXQLOzXVZ46C5S8ijjUcQmNJCN4ENPK5fudr2DJDwdVkIDQnVPnHQrvX71lluGdpc0rCW9_0zdhaZbTPcqKVWexkuxiJtVy/s400/retrokitty+1square.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168217698341832594" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kFlRP_HctqU/R7kynz-NR6I/AAAAAAAAADY/kbMrgAKE1Ng/s1600-h/orangeeyeowl+1+front.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kFlRP_HctqU/R7kynz-NR6I/AAAAAAAAADY/kbMrgAKE1Ng/s400/orangeeyeowl+1+front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168217706931767202" border="0" /></a><br />I spent most of the weekend working on Frankie and her Blog rather than making the new softies I'd designed the week before.<br /><br />I did however make my boyfriend a companion cube softy for St Valentines Day. he was so stoked he's still grinning about it!<br /><br />The other softy-related thing I managed to do in amongst housecleaning and Blythe scalp-plugging was to take a few photos of some softies a made at the end of last month (see pictures above). They are going up for sale on Etsy after I finish this blog.Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-70062044756749705712008-02-06T23:34:00.001-08:002008-02-07T00:46:04.552-08:00MY ETSY SHOP OPEN FOR BUSINESSAs the title suggests, I have now opened my <a href="http://www.PickledTink.etsy.com">Etsy Shop</a>. I will work hard to put as much as I can in my shop for the next couple of weeks, I need to clear some room in my studio for all the new projects I have lined up!<br /><br />My friend's mum owns a cute little book shop and she wants a whole bunch of my softies to sell. I have to agree that there is nothing better than curling up with a good book and a softy to cuddle!<br /><br />I also went to the Saturday markets last weekend and had a great response for my softies. I meta lady who makes gorgeous little hair bows and she wants to sell some of my sock monkeys and softies on her website.<br /><br />On top of all this good news <a href="http://qdpatooties.blogspot.com/">Q.D.Patooties</a> has featured my Blarney Guinness Grub on her blog as part of the up-coming 1st Annual Easter Parade. I'm so honored!<br /><br />Anyway, Time's -a- wastin' and there's softies to be made!<br /><br />PS: Sorry I couldn't put a photo in this blog.....Blogger is playing up!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-2592039502921857342008-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:002008-12-09T14:13:13.384-08:00Introducing Milly Monsters<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XZ6K3ST-9CsDwxNuI6FpkDysXvfllxIoJhMNHvwlad6sQY6cuN_UJmFAx8oYX-oV9n-TYVZJtygHS3aM5YL4M2yN4vRZoBbuXY0yl8Fl9PFgpkJ972j7FvyvJLCtVWo5aCZnOJqukzcq/s1600-h/pinkhorn_small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XZ6K3ST-9CsDwxNuI6FpkDysXvfllxIoJhMNHvwlad6sQY6cuN_UJmFAx8oYX-oV9n-TYVZJtygHS3aM5YL4M2yN4vRZoBbuXY0yl8Fl9PFgpkJ972j7FvyvJLCtVWo5aCZnOJqukzcq/s400/pinkhorn_small.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162759874626069106" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIfLOaPNhSLIOl6NC2ecIeOrHV7lUB5bXTxuJOPh2o9EBWoTGhaQZlROya5zsWJAPAROQpaq91jjDUqOsC2T_efKr5xj6vvVLQkXgsZEtROoWjYhhcpfk_isido2vwVRXOy79nqFXSck9/s1600-h/blackeye_small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIfLOaPNhSLIOl6NC2ecIeOrHV7lUB5bXTxuJOPh2o9EBWoTGhaQZlROya5zsWJAPAROQpaq91jjDUqOsC2T_efKr5xj6vvVLQkXgsZEtROoWjYhhcpfk_isido2vwVRXOy79nqFXSck9/s400/blackeye_small.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162759891805938306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya5Z77avaUOOZ8cfugonI4sWkWaCoB2swYSlQmEUHWBkzYBCuh1MefhNfWauAXknUVVZ1Mlw5Weixt0pr-OrU1wqqcJUOBQHbngEYZGeGfBGwxusqJ5aKrGmE00UvyeYk7B4rahcYEDpB/s1600-h/orangeteeth_small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya5Z77avaUOOZ8cfugonI4sWkWaCoB2swYSlQmEUHWBkzYBCuh1MefhNfWauAXknUVVZ1Mlw5Weixt0pr-OrU1wqqcJUOBQHbngEYZGeGfBGwxusqJ5aKrGmE00UvyeYk7B4rahcYEDpB/s400/orangeteeth_small.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162759908985807506" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153); font-weight: bold; font-family: verdana;">Coming soon to my Etsy shop are a motley bunch of lovable, cuddly monsters.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Milly monsters may look a little crazy but they are always there to make you smile by pulling a funny face.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Each monster is unique and has been designed to suit all ages especially young children with the use of safety eyes and easy washability. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Milly Monsters are named after my younger sister. She can be an absolute terror some times and her many moods are represented in the faces of these monsters. </span>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-3925864537245197982008-01-26T01:18:00.000-08:002008-12-09T14:13:13.742-08:00The Blarney Bug<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK7VFoVhGXy0JiSFc8IZr6tesV-TxEfZ6GgWcAjQuMxFrnPRL3CkDC5JJvacL8J3K-h90iNLX9Mj71H5iRMlh4KQ-JuEWKUZB_dVbjhj4hKr-HJBxylsBgownbb-ekxBLdv-hLuB8W50P/s1600-h/Blarney+grub_pinky+higgs_2008.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK7VFoVhGXy0JiSFc8IZr6tesV-TxEfZ6GgWcAjQuMxFrnPRL3CkDC5JJvacL8J3K-h90iNLX9Mj71H5iRMlh4KQ-JuEWKUZB_dVbjhj4hKr-HJBxylsBgownbb-ekxBLdv-hLuB8W50P/s400/Blarney+grub_pinky+higgs_2008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159712518020145666" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scientific Name:</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Blarneyus buggius<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Common Name:</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> "The Blarney Bug" or "The Blarney Guinness Grub"<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Description:</span><br /><br />The Blarney Bug is a native species of Ireland however is found all over the world. He grows to a height of approx 7 inches tall, has green skin and a carrot-top Mohawk. This little bug loves to eat and drink any time of the day and has a bit of a pot-belly to prove it but still has a heart of gold.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Feeding habits:</span><br /><br />- eats four leaf clovers<br />- his favorite drink is Guinness<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Sightings:</span><br /><br />Like a true patriot, the Blarney bug can be found partying around the clock on St. Paddy's day from early morning way in to the whee hours of the day after.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />This is my entry in the </span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://qdpatooties.blogspot.com/2008/01/1st-annual-softie-easter-parade.html">1st Annual Softies Easter Parade</a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> run by </span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://qdpatooties.blogspot.com/">Q.D.Patooties</a><span style="font-family:verdana;">. There are several categories to enter and this particular creation is for the 'A Bit of Blarney' section. I'm very proud of him as I hand-stitch him all while I am sick with the flu. I wasn't too sure that my pattern would work as I was a little out of it, but he turned out well I think.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">If anyone is interested in the pattern I can put it up for you to download.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He is the first softy I have made from mostly wool felt.I have been making softies since I was a very little girl...cutting up good jumpers to make critters and hiding the scraps from mum. But it hasn't been until recently that I have been inspired to use felt in my toy-making.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Living in rural Australia, it wasn't long before I found myself sick of using the terrible acrylic felt from spotlight. So, I shopped around online and found</span><a style="font-family: verdana;" href="http://stores.ebay.com/Bumble-Bee-Designs_W0QQ_trksidZp284Q2em158QQtZkm"> Bumble Bee Designs</a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> on Ebay. They offer a great selection of felts and you can choose whatever colours you want so naturally I got as many colours as I could afford!</span>Pinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3938124125915811195.post-46170647444121616562008-01-21T00:38:00.000-08:002008-12-09T14:13:13.900-08:00The Monkey Trade<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP95UlO0PePqUacsj62exN0UI4_oxPbC3a_TAvJbesSId_BhoQlGLBIyL9mnDkWGFFenGqDKgBilDjqtUWKNi8oQMGEPUiFT8FLQpJYRprCotEFETQc_Rl0mcCSdIBuBTt-Yq-GOvQzOGu/s1600-h/Bump+and+ButterCup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP95UlO0PePqUacsj62exN0UI4_oxPbC3a_TAvJbesSId_BhoQlGLBIyL9mnDkWGFFenGqDKgBilDjqtUWKNi8oQMGEPUiFT8FLQpJYRprCotEFETQc_Rl0mcCSdIBuBTt-Yq-GOvQzOGu/s320/Bump+and+ButterCup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157846875394486274" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Ta-da! Introducing Pinky's Sock Pals<br /><br />After hand-stitching my first sock monkey from an old pair of socks at my boyfriends house one night I have decided present some of my sock creations for sale. This is a sneak preview of my little pals as they wait for me to set up my online store. and yes, I make all my for-sale critters out of new socks and new materials. Email me if you are interested in purchasing either of these little fellows. Stay tuned for more monkey business!<br /><br />-Pinky HiggsPinky Wittingslowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15492854398906625560noreply@blogger.com0