tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23654843971833237802024-03-13T20:15:48.107+11:00MsMidgeMsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.comBlogger574125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-68188316902472417562015-02-16T15:12:00.003+11:002015-03-13T12:01:45.824+11:00MOVING ON UP - Important if you want to keep reading my blog!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hello!</div>
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This is a very quick blog post for you all. I have finally made the big jump over to my old self-hosted website! It's a much prettier and simpler place to hang out, and although it's still a work in progress - I love it! I hope you'll love it too!</div>
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But for now - I need to direct you all over there - </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.msmidge.com.au/">www.msmidge.com.au</a></span> </span></div>
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If you are typing that address in to your search bar and you still land straight back to this blogspot page, then you will need to clear the cache on your computer. I had to do that! </div>
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I am working on getting my new site switched over on Bloglovin, so if you follow me via there, please bare with me!</div>
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Thanks so much!!!</div>
<br />MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-26140422131987836722015-02-10T15:09:00.000+11:002015-02-15T14:35:53.682+11:00Sew Cute Tuesday - Back To My Regular Schedule<div style="text-align: center;">
As I gently re-enter my regular routine, I've returned to gift sewing. You see, I worked my proverbial butt off over January, doing what we call "sleepover shifts" during the school holidays, so I could be home with the kids. Once the kids headed back to school, I had a glorious ten days off work to get this house, and my sewing, back in to order! So today, I'm sharing a few goodies I managed to get sorted.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16478857312" title="2015-02-09_04-15-16 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="2015-02-09_04-15-16" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7315/16478857312_82bf819536.jpg" width="352" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago, I got myself one of these fabulous Moda Modern Building Blocks sets. I've seen some amazing quilts being made on Instagram (check out the hashtags #modabuildingblocks & #modamodernbuildingblocks) and was looking forward to making my own version. </div>
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When it came to making January's Handmade Birthday Club gift for Leonie, I pulled out my handy-dandy-block-set and found myself stopping at block number 7! It's an 18" block, so the perfect size for a quilted cushion cover....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16293597819" title="Tula Moda Building Blocks #7 Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Tula Moda Building Blocks #7 Cushion" height="477" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8634/16293597819_9be197060e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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One of Leonie's many favourite fabric designers is Tula Pink. So I rummaged through my stash and found some Acacia to pair with the most divine Deer print from her Moonshine range. I was incredibly happy with the way the colours played together, and love the way one block can look many different ways....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16478917832" title="Tula Moda Building Blocks #7 Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Tula Moda Building Blocks #7 Cushion" height="331" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8613/16478917832_babb4e404a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I used the gorgeous Dove Aurifil in 40wt for the quilting, and did a 1/4" version of matchstick quilting. The textural finish is awesome. Leonie received her gift yesterday and thankfully loved it!</div>
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Once I'd ticked that pressie off my to-do list, I moved on to something for me! I have been in need of a new purse for a little while, but was baulking at spending a small fortune on something that wasn't perfect. So I reached out to some of my crafting friends, and asked for a pattern recommendation. It was a resounding response - the <a href="http://www.emmalinebags.com/the-necessary-clutch-wallet/4575098877">Necessary Clutch Wallet!</a> I would be lying if I told you I wasn't scared to death about tackling this pattern, but it was worth the fear.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15859691223" title="Necessary Clutch Purse by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Necessary Clutch Purse" height="310" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7323/15859691223_ca1a98341b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Because at the end of a day and a half of cutting, reading pattern, ironing, reading the pattern again and again and again, and sewing - I had these two divine purses! Now, if you've been around these digs for a while, you will know I DON'T DO FIDDLY. Until now. Yes, they were a tad bit fiddly. And yes, I had to be incredibly patient. Especially with the installation of the clasp hardware. But I got there in the end.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16478074491" title="Necessary Clutch Purse by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Necessary Clutch Purse" height="357" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8625/16478074491_36527987a1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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As you can see - there is plenty of space for cards, money, receipts etc - and there's a great amount of space in the centre section there, you could pop a phone or some lippy in too! So my beautiful purse now lives in its co-ordinating handbag. And the second one was grabbed up a friend who asked if she could purchase it. Win, win!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15859727633" title="Enchino Make up bag by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Enchino Make up bag" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7419/15859727633_5e49a04708.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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This little make up purse is for a family member as requested. I'm being very brave of late, and am cracking open my Tokyo fabric purchases frequently. This Enchino print is just so darn cute with its geometrics and the zebra!</div>
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Another family member's request - this time from my youngest son..... When in class last week, he announced to his teacher he needed a pencil case, said teacher asked him why didn't he ask his Mum? (Said teacher received a pencil case from me for Christmas!)</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15859593023" title="I think this is only the second time cadyn has asked me to make him something.... A quilt and now a pencilcase! #ifeelspecial by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I think this is only the second time cadyn has asked me to make him something.... A quilt and now a pencilcase! #ifeelspecial" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7399/15859593023_bd37a16185.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I whipped this pencil case up on Sunday, after a couple of days of him asking if I'd made it. This is literally only the second time in history Cadyn has asked me to make him something! <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2012/12/chevron-love.html">His quilt</a> was made a couple of years ago, so I thought I best strike whilst the iron was hot! He very proudly took it to school on Monday and has his pencils stashed safely.</div>
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And that, my friends, is my past week of sewing.... What have you been up to this past week?</div>
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I'm linking up - You can too!</div>
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<img alt="Sew Cute Tuesday" src="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Sew-Cute-Tuesday.png" width="125" /></div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-71589601270170751062015-02-06T16:31:00.001+11:002015-02-06T22:25:11.952+11:00Star Crossed - Waterfront Park<div style="text-align: center;">
If you've been around these parts a while, you may remember I fell madly in love with Violetcraft's Waterfront Park last year? I ordered my bundle, received it, and swiftly turned it in to a quilt top........ I even got halfway through making the quilt back. But for some reason (known to me - the quilt top was a tad wonky) it languished in my WIP pile for far too long.</div>
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Fast forward to this week. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16453947705" title="Star Crossed Waterfront Park by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Star Crossed Waterfront Park" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8609/16453947705_4fd176a2ed.jpg" width="339" /></a> </div>
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And she is complete! I am still utterly in love with it, and am quite torn about giving it away. When I showed my Mum today, and told her I was a little sad to see it go, she told me to keep it. But I've got to come to terms that I just cannot keep every. single. quilt. I. make.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16452217961" title="Star Crossed Waterfront Park by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Star Crossed Waterfront Park" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8582/16452217961_7e24a441f1.jpg" width="331" /></a> </div>
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I had this baby basted quite quickly, and then sat in front of it wondering how on earth I was going to quilt it? I had a migraine last week (the first in about a year) and the headache hangover still had not shifted, so needed to quilt quite minimally. And because of its slight wonkiness, I needed something that would not make the wonkiness scream! I ended up going with some pretty organic straight line quilting...... Organic because I did not measure the spaces because the lines. I just winged it. I used my very trusty Aurifil #2024 in 40wt for the quilting, and it didn't let me down. When you get close up, the shimmer is divine.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15833897593" title="Star Crossed Waterfront Park by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Star Crossed Waterfront Park" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7357/15833897593_9e425d4df0.jpg" width="363" /></a> </div>
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And love the end result. I even love the wonky backing! It is actually quite squared up.....but the writing on a slant doesn't help!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15833885943" title="Star Crossed Waterfront Park by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Star Crossed Waterfront Park" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7351/15833885943_1fbe7820e0.jpg" width="331" /></a> </div>
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I envisioned a beautiful photo shoot down at the beach for this quilt. Clearly, that vision did not come to fruition - so I had to settle for the front yard and help from my three youngest children. My gorgeous Chelsea wrapped herself up at the end and I couldn't help but keep snapping.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16427978826" title="Star Crossed Waterfront Park by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Star Crossed Waterfront Park" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7289/16427978826_14fc11c143.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
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If you wish to make your own version of this quilt, I used a free tutorial for the <a href="http://www.dontcallmebetsy.com/2012/01/star-crossed-block-tutorial.html">star crossed blocks</a> by Don't Call Me Betsy. They're a fun block to make, with endless possibilities for fabric selection. I then just whipped up some simple cross blocks for the cornerstones, to match the width of my sashing.<br />
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And just for a laugh, I thought I'd show you this......<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16267184070" title="Working with Children.... by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Working with Children...." height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7295/16267184070_dfe26f8a9b.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
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Whilst photographing yesterday, my youngest (who is currently nicknamed "devil-child") was being a fool. It wasn't until I uploaded the photos today that I spotted something flying through the air in the very first shot! Pretty good (or bad) timing really!</div>
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So - this throw sized pretty will be off to its new owner and I will be crying in the corner. Nah, i'll be happy to make someone else happy!</div>
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THE STATS:</div>
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Size: 43" x 61.5"</div>
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Fabric: Waterfront Park by Violet Craft</div>
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Backing: Ikea Numbers</div>
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Thread: Aurifil #2024 40wt</div>
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Another WIP bites the dust!</div>
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MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-38876570393427612622015-01-26T08:49:00.000+11:002015-01-26T08:54:05.896+11:00Australia Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is a public holiday here in Australia. AUSTRALIA DAY to be exact. So in true Aussie style, our family is heading down to the beach to meet up with a couple of other families, and will spend the afternoon sitting in the sunshine, having a few drinks and cooking up a bbq lunch.</div>
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Today, I'd like to share with you my perspective on being a quilter in Australia. Angie from <a href="http://gnomeangel.com/">Gnome Angel</a> threw the idea out there........so thanks Angie! You're making me think out loud!</div>
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Living in Australia can sometimes feel like you are so completely removed from the rest of the world. At times, I watch news reports and read stories of far away places, and it's hard to imagine such things are happening? But then other times, it's like the world has landed on our doorstep!</div>
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Being a quilter in Australia is somewhat the same! By that, I mean you see all of these amazing quilt shows, websites and fabric stores in other countries and you think - "why don't we have that here?!?!!?" And then next thing you know - you discover an amazing quilt shop and someone starts the first Modern Quilt Show in Australia! You get yourself an Instagram account and discover UH-mazing and talented Aussies doing the stuff you've been coveting from international crafters! And then, then you dig a little deeper, and you find an endless array of fabulous Aussies in the Blogosphere. It's quite simply - Inspiring.</div>
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Australians are a loyal bunch. And supportive - OH SO supportive. We like to see one another succeed, and once a friendship is formed, it generally lasts forever (well, for me anyway!). Over the past couple of years, I have been lucky enough to make friends with a whole bunch of Aussie quilters, and at times, they have been the ones who have encouraged me to go forward with ideas - whether it be patterns, fabric swaps or even just a quilt I'm constructing. I've met a number of these lovely peeps, and although the majority of our interaction is online, knowing they live in the same country, and that I CAN actually go and catch up with them is really lovely.......</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15740046383" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Had a lovely day with this fab chick! #nolongermystalker @gnomeangel by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Had a lovely day with this fab chick! #nolongermystalker @gnomeangel" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7305/15740046383_d526d8ec9a.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angie and I meeting up at the Quilting Show in Melbourne last year...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16359999605" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Yay!! @blossomheartquilts by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Yay!! @blossomheartquilts" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8661/16359999605_47857c4014.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alyce and I spent the day fabric shopping in Tokyo in October....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16172382098" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="White glove ladies. by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="White glove ladies." height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/16172382098_0342997b7a.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the gals from the Melbourne MQG on white glove duty at the Stitches & Craft Show in Melbourne 2014.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16174137027" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Proof that online friends do exist IRL! Had a lovely day fabric shopping and lunching today with @sewdeliciousros and @abbythingsforboys Be brave and meet your online friends! by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Proof that online friends do exist IRL! Had a lovely day fabric shopping and lunching today with @sewdeliciousros and @abbythingsforboys Be brave and meet your online friends!" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/16174137027_585c4cf969.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ros & Abby met up with me for a day of fabric shopping & lunch last year....</td></tr>
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This past year has been HUGE for me. I was published in <a href="http://www.makemodern.com.au/">Make Modern Magazine</a> with my very own quilt pattern, and continue to write my Domestic Quilting Goddess column each issue. I started the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1530592583860763/?fref=ts">Aussie Charm Swaps</a>, and in turn, am encouraging Australian quilters & crafters to support Australian businesses by having them as sponsors of giveaways. AND I have expanded my small business to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/747652291975409/">selling Aurifil threads</a> here in Australia. All of these things could not have been possible without the ongoing support of my Aussie quilting friends, and I am ever so grateful for that! </div>
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The talent of so many Australian quilters is being recognised world wide, and I have so many wonderful people to look up to. Wishing you all a very happy Australia Day and I hope that you are all spending the day doing something you love, with the people you love.<br />
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You can catch up with some other Aussies here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.gnomeangel.com/" target="_blank">Angie @ GnomeAngel.com</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/2015/01/australia-day-expat-quilter/" target="_blank">Alyce @ Blossom Heart Quilts</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.catandvee.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Cat @ Cat + Vee</a></div>
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<a href="http://prettybobbins.com/2015/01/25/aussie-quilter/%20%E2%80%8E" target="_blank">Gemma @ Pretty Bobbins</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.makemodern.com.au/#!blog/cobw" target="_blank">The Team @ Make Modern</a><br />
<a href="http://www.sunflowerquilting.com.au/sunflower-quilting-blog/">Sunflower Quilting</a></div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-82632960311726717422015-01-25T13:49:00.000+11:002015-01-25T13:51:06.342+11:00Sunday Stash & Giveaway Winner!<div style="text-align: center;">
A funny thing happened early last week..... One of my Melbourne MQG friends posted in our FB group that Spotlight was stocking some gorgeous Cloud 9 canvas. And said canvas was from the Koi range by Rashida Coleman-Hale! What is funny? Well, when I receive my Spotlight catalogues in the mail, I usually don't need anything, so I just throw them in the bin (gasp!). So on this day, I had to go rummaging through my garbage bin to find the catalogue! And when I did, I knew I would be hot-footing it down to Spotlight on Wednesday, when the sale began.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16359731315" title="I hot footed it to spotlight this morning for the advertised #koi canvas! Found it!! #winning by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I hot footed it to spotlight this morning for the advertised #koi canvas! Found it!! #winning" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/16359731315_e3a913279b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I was there right on opening time, and whizzed down to the canvas section, and found these delightful pretties! I promptly purchased the three prints on the right, and then exited the store. That same afternoon, I pulled out my <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2011/03/241-tote-pattern.html">241 Tote pattern</a> pieces, and got started on my new handbag.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15739769603" title="Yay for a new handbag! #twins #241tote #koifabric @iheartlinen by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Yay for a new handbag! #twins #241tote #koifabric @iheartlinen" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/15739769603_9b4c7b80dc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And by Friday afternoon, I'd made not only one, but two! I changed a couple of things. You see, these are my 6th and 7th 241 totes, so I am learning each time what works and what doesn't. This time around, I added a zipper pocket to the outside that has plenty of room in it. Although I love the look of the two little zip pockets on the original pattern, they aren't really that useful! I have also enlarged the pattern, to around 110% when printing it out. You'll see further down in the post a comparison photo with my original bag. And lastly, I'm using the 640 fusible interfacing from Spotlight, which is a little more sturdier than others I've used. Gives the bag much more body and strength.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16358844092" title="I suck at modelling......but hopefully this pic demonstrates the size of the #241tote when enlarged! #koifabric @iheartlinen by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I suck at modelling......but hopefully this pic demonstrates the size of the #241tote when enlarged! #koifabric @iheartlinen" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8595/16358844092_e90a2fe098.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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And just for your amusement, I took this shot and shared it on IG so everyone could see just how big this yummy bag is!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16359780575" title="And size comparison... #241tote @noodlehead531 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And size comparison... #241tote @noodlehead531" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7379/16359780575_74d6838356.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Size comparison! The top bag is the first I made, and as you can tell, is a little floppy due to a thin interfacing. Can you also tell I have a thing for Rashida's fabric designs?? :)</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16173554349" title="IMAG0807 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0807" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8562/16173554349_10f148cc42.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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And just in the interest's of honesty.....I actually went back to Spotlight on Friday - mainly to get more interfacing - but also to see if they had the Koi print for my Mum. I found a couple of other prints too. So - I grabbed myself the dragonfly and grey crosses too.....</div>
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If you're looking for some lovely quality canvas, then you should pop in to Spotlight (if you're in AUS) and check them out!</div>
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NOW - on to the giveaway from last week! Thank you to everyone who entered for the chance to win a mystery pack of fabric from my stash! With over 200 entries, it was really interesting to see who everyone's favourite designers and colour were. But as always, there has to be one winner - and thankfully, Rafflecopter chooses for me!</div>
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A big congratulations to Suesewstoo! I shall email you shortly and get your postal address. Then send a mysterious little something out to you!</div>
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Thanks again everyone! </div>
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xxx</div>
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<a href="http://www.mollisparkles.com/" title="Molli Sparkles"><img alt="Molli Sparkles" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg65oH0cmWNGj_s1k8rLzU2Jzc4D6OOmmeXR1S_Jt50lwek_Xqh6XoWzuzr1WSVueydpEheEH4yTFBwlapSz811obZG3nkYraBai3HM3kSU0OfSJAUfLTkp4zCllYbXEUVPPNtw0qfn-Q/s1600/molli_sparkles_sunday_stash_button.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-42184758042163613942015-01-20T20:23:00.002+11:002015-01-20T20:23:18.518+11:003000 - A Facebook Celebratory Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A very exciting (and sneaky) number crept up on me.......I was doing a little makeover on the <a href="http://www.fb.com/msmidgemadebyme">FB page</a> today, when I noted that my number of "followers" had clicked over the 3000 mark!?!?! What the!?!?!?</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKOrXyLk12A/VL4bN0ILRZI/AAAAAAAAD4o/o_mLFx9EWhA/s1600/wow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKOrXyLk12A/VL4bN0ILRZI/AAAAAAAAD4o/o_mLFx9EWhA/s1600/wow.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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So, in the spirit of celebrating, I thought how about a little old fabric giveaway???</div>
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I have a tonne of fabric. Literally. I have no idea what I'm going to give away, but it will be at least a few fat quarters, some scraps, maybe more! If you'd like to be in the running, just follow the Rafflecopter prompts below - it's easy peasy!</div>
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Thank you to EVERYONE who has been following my FB page - whether you've been there since it all began in 2010, or whether you only just clicked on this week. I truly appreciate you all!</div>
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The giveaway starts now and ends 12am Sunday 25th January. I will announce a winner here on the blog later that day/night!</div>
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GO!</div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="5cc1c1c42" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5cc1c1c42/" id="rcwidget_0n1r7d2j" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com105tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-72135846044525526912015-01-19T18:30:00.000+11:002015-01-19T18:30:00.874+11:00Sewing For Sydney - Team Blue!<div style="text-align: center;">
You may have heard about a wonderful quilting collaboration - <a href="http://www.mollisparkles.com/2014/12/help-for-sydney-heroes.html">Sewing For Sydney</a> - happening at the moment? The delightful Molli Sparkles came up with a wonderful idea - to make quilts for the families of the two people who were sadly killed during the Lindt Cafe siege in Sydney before Christmas. I was totally on board the day I saw the call out, and whipped up five blocks and sent them off.</div>
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A few days later, I noted just how many blocks Molli was receiving, which meant his goal of making a "couple" of quilts was going to be very quickly blown out of the water, and he may just need a little help? I sent him a quick message, telling him I'd be more than happy to put a quilt top together if need be. It was a resounding yes, and a couple of weeks later, 168 lovely little hashtag blocks arrived on my doorstep.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16127992047" title="We have a layout! My 6 & 10 year olds just asked what I was making? I just explained the whole story of how @molli_sparkles and the world of quilters have come together and who the quilts were for and why. They were both very impressed and thought it was by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="We have a layout! My 6 & 10 year olds just asked what I was making? I just explained the whole story of how @molli_sparkles and the world of quilters have come together and who the quilts were for and why. They were both very impressed and thought it was" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7478/16127992047_11dea9e085.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And a couple of hours later, I had a layout, ready to sew together. It was a very random layout, as requested by Molli, and I loved the way the colours all looked!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16312061001" title="Done! #teamblue has a completed quilt top.....just needs pressing, which will have to wait until I get home from work tomorrow morning! #glitteratitotherescue #sewingforsydney @molli_sparkles by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Done! #teamblue has a completed quilt top.....just needs pressing, which will have to wait until I get home from work tomorrow morning! #glitteratitotherescue #sewingforsydney @molli_sparkles" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7569/16312061001_55948a3f82.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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The quilt top was reasonably quick and easy to put together - it helped that I was directed not to worry about lining up the hashtag seams - cos that wasn't going to happen!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16313832805" title="Hashtag Quilt For Sydney by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Hashtag Quilt For Sydney" height="370" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7502/16313832805_9096992b4a.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Yesterday was our Melbourne Modern Quilt Guild's sit n sew day. I took the quilt top along, as the Blue Team's baton was being handed over to Andrea - a fellow Melbourne quilter who had offered to put the backing and binding together. We showed the guild members - some of whom had contributed blocks to the cause. It was a really lovely way to demonstrate how a community of quilters, from ALL over the world, can come together to hopefully bring some cheer to families who have lost such a dear loved one.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16127658249" title="Hashtag Quilt For Sydney by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Hashtag Quilt For Sydney" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8674/16127658249_02a90e633e.jpg" width="293" /></a>
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So, this lovely quilt top will soon be off to our Team Blue's <a href="http://leanneharvey.blogspot.com.au/">long arm quilter</a>, for some magic to happen, before it is bound and sent back to Molli for distribution!</div>
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So - I just want to send out a big THANK YOU to Molli, for allowing me to be a part of this bigger picture. You've done a good thing girlfriend. xxx</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-29795268785502866252015-01-18T19:35:00.002+11:002015-01-18T19:35:41.727+11:00Sunday Stash - It's been a long time between deliveries!<div style="text-align: center;">
It would be fair to say, I have had incredible strength since returning from Tokyo in October. Yes, I have made a few small fabric purchases here and there, but have not placed a large order since. Did I want to? Well, yeah! But I basically couldn't justify it. I have so much fabric, it's ALMOST ridiculous. And I have such a small sewing room - it IS ridiculous! So I have made a rather conscious decision NOT to purchase fabric. </div>
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Until now.</div>
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You see, I can't even begin to explain just how much I have been waiting in excited anticipation for the second release of Cotton + Steel. I had seen snippets of the ranges ever since Quilt Market, and I was being reallllly patient. So about a week ago, when Hawthorne Threads sent their newsletter, and announced they had C+S in stock - I couldn't wait. I wanted ALL the fabric. But once again, showed great restraint and "only" got the following.......</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16120360109" title="IMG_20150116_121008_1 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_20150116_121008_1" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8659/16120360109_d39745cef0.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
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I would apologise....but no. I may have almost wet my pants when I opened the parcel up......</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16118955358" title="IMAG0758 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0758" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8605/16118955358_e8872bf9a7.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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Mochie by Rashida Coleman-Hale. Enough said really.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16280574756" title="IMAG0757 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0757" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7558/16280574756_9db5bbf1d1.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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Sigh..... Bunnies. Moons.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16305644812" title="IMAG0756 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0756" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7569/16305644812_c3656aa1d6.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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I also chose my favourite prints from the other designer's ranges - Tokyo Train Ride by Sarah Watts. Playful by Melody Miller - I mean, View finders!!!! I loved the other ranges in the collection, but controlled myself....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16120346769" title="IMAG0755 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0755" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8650/16120346769_e842e1a6b4.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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But did manage to pop in a couple of yards of the most divine octopus lawn! It is seriously beyond amazing....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16112707619" title="Voila!! One very cute and simple dress for this little monkey! @cottonandsteel @sarahwatts #tokyotrainride by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Voila!! One very cute and simple dress for this little monkey! @cottonandsteel @sarahwatts #tokyotrainride" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7560/16112707619_8c93153e83.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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My parcel arrived on Friday. And by 6.30pm Saturday, I'd made this cute little frock for the six year old. My overlocker isn't working at present, hence why I haven't been making clothes of late. But not even that little issue could stop me. I worked out the overlocker stitch on my Bernina and came to terms with the fact nobody would be looking on the inside of the dress, so who cares if it's not overlocked?!?! Chloe was THRILLED with this little dress, and wore it to a birthday party today! Oh, and I used a fabulous little tutorial for the dress, by Girl. Inspired. - which required NO PATTERN PIECES. I repeat - no pattern pieces! You can find it <a href="http://thegirlinspired.com/2012/04/recital-dress-tutorial/">HERE.</a> Just to top it all off....... I made piping for the first time! WINNING!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15667546664" title="I've hit the selvedge jackpot!! Thanks #hawthornethreads for cutting my fq bundle!! Lol @cottonandsteel by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I've hit the selvedge jackpot!! Thanks #hawthornethreads for cutting my fq bundle!! Lol @cottonandsteel" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7552/15667546664_a9bfcd1d3c.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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And just to end this post on a high - my fat quarter bundle of Mochie was delightfully cut ALL on the selvedge side of yardage!!!! WINNING AGAIN!!! I call it selvedge porn......</div>
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So that's it - my first Sunday Stash for 2015! I can actually alllllmost guarantee you that I will not be regularly posting on stash additions, because I would like to think I'm going to be able to continue with my self control, and not purchase left, right and centre.........</div>
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We'll see.....</div>
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<a href="http://www.mollisparkles.com/" title="Molli Sparkles"><img alt="Molli Sparkles" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg65oH0cmWNGj_s1k8rLzU2Jzc4D6OOmmeXR1S_Jt50lwek_Xqh6XoWzuzr1WSVueydpEheEH4yTFBwlapSz811obZG3nkYraBai3HM3kSU0OfSJAUfLTkp4zCllYbXEUVPPNtw0qfn-Q/s1600/molli_sparkles_sunday_stash_button.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-21334895474308806352015-01-15T13:34:00.002+11:002015-01-15T21:54:18.854+11:00Anna Maria Horner Aussie Charm Swap - Limited Spots Left! (Edit: all spots taken!)<div style="text-align: center;">
EDIT - All spots are now filled! Thanks everyone! x<br />
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Good Thursday to everyone! I have a little old favour to ask - There are SEVEN spots left in the AMH Aussie Charm Swap. I have shared myself silly and would love to fill these last spots to give my swappers a full swap!</div>
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If you were on the fence about joining, or know someone who love AMH as much as Me, then head on over to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1530592583860763/">Facebook Group</a> and/or shoot me an email - which you can do by clicking on one of the bright pink icons over there to the right of this post >>>>></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16218844662" title="amhswap by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="amhswap" height="410" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7472/16218844662_fdcf5c88c4.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>
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There are some absolutely STUNNING fabrics included in this swap, and if you're wondering what on earth you can make with charm packs, well, you just have to pop over to my group <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/msmidge/charm-square-love/">Pinterest board </a>to see the endless ideas!</div>
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So, there you have it! I'm actually begging!! You can find ALL the details about what happens with a Charm Swap on this post <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2015/01/anna-maria-horner-aussie-charm-swap-open.html">HERE</a>.</div>
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Have a fabulous day! xxx</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-39577798200297326742015-01-11T16:47:00.001+11:002015-01-14T10:08:02.353+11:00Anna Maria Horner Aussie Charm Swap OPEN!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16218844662" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="amhswap by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="amhswap" height="410" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7472/16218844662_fdcf5c88c4.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>
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The sign ups are now officially open for the Anna Maria Horner Aussie Charm Swap! Anna Maria has some of my favourite fabrics and I think 112 of her fabrics mixed together will be quite simply - amazing!<br />
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<span style="line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">Here are the details:</span></div>
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1) FIRST IN, BEST DRESSED! This swap will be open to 56 participants, me being one of those! You HAVE to email me to obtain a spot. Your spot is not confirmed until you have received a return email from me! All of AMH's QUILTING COTTON fabric lines <u><b>except</b></u> for the SOLIDS can be included.<b> </b>The included lines are listed below.</div>
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2) Each spot is 2 AMH fabrics, 1 yard of each, and <u>I strongly suggest </u>that you purchase at least 1/4 yard <u>more</u> in case of any cutting mistakes you might experience. Better safe than sorry.</div>
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3) Fabric must be new and unwashed and from a smoke free environment.</div>
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4) Press your fabric and <u>remove the selvages</u> before cutting. Cut your yardage into 5 inch squares (56 per yard) total = 112 charms. You can follow the great tutorial on how to cut your charms from yardage by Elizabeth Hartman of Oh, Frannson! found <b><a href="http://www.ohfransson.com/oh_fransson/2010/05/charm-squares-101.html" style="color: #f01e1e; text-decoration: none;">here</a>. Please sort your charms in to pairs, as demonstrated in this photo:</b><br />
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5) Post them out to me by <b><u>31ST OF JANUARY</u></b>. Put them in a Ziplock bag and include your 112 charms, an index card with your name, mailing address and email address (in case your package opens up, your charms will stay safe and dry and your contact info will get them back to you. You must post them to me using a PRE-PAID SATCHEL. You must also include a <span style="color: red;"><b>SELF ADDRESSED PRE-PAID SATCHEL</b></span> so that your charms can be mailed back to you. Unfortunately due to the cost and complexity of shipping back internationally, this swap will be for Australian/Kiwi participants only. Kiwi participants will be required to send a return shipping satchel, and will be invoiced via Paypal for return postage.</div>
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Once I receive them all I will sort and return a stack of 112 different charms to each participant! You can sign up for ONE SPOT, however, if there are spots remaining after a few days, I will open up those remaining spots to existing swap members. They will be in the mail to you 2-3 weeks later. I will be aiming to have them all in the return post by end of January/start of February - fingers crossed!</div>
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6) <u><b>Very important!!!</b></u> Please choose fabrics that have not been claimed by another swap member. Please join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1530592583860763/" style="color: #f01e1e; text-decoration: none;"><b>MS MIDGE AUSSIE CHARM SWAP FACEBOOK GROUP</b> </a>- Once you have had your spot CONFIRMED, then check in the FB photo album before purchasing fabrics to see what has already been chosen; we want to avoid duplicates. Once you have chosen your fabrics please post pictures, with the Fabric line and specific print/colour information to the Facebook group Photo Album. Once you've chosen your fabrics make sure you add the photos AND include the name/description of them.<br />
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7. There is a $5 fee per swap spot. This is to be paid via Paypal, once your spot is confirmed. </div>
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So who wants to join in on the Anna Maria Horner fabric fun?</div>
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<a href="mailto:msmidge1@bigpond.com" style="color: #f01e1e; text-decoration: none;">Email me:</a></div>
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Your Name</div>
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Mailing Address</div>
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Email Address</div>
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Phone Number (just in case)<br />
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When I email you and confirm that you are in the swap, I will include my postal address and Paypal information.<br />
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<span style="line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">Here are all the Anna Maria Horner fabric lines that are included in this swap. Remember, no SOLIDS fabrics. Some of the older lines are a bit hard to find, but Google is your friend! I have popped a little old blog button down the bottom of the post if you'd like to add it to your social media!</span></div>
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MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-46540367310448493372015-01-06T13:13:00.000+11:002015-01-06T13:13:26.483+11:00Happy New Year - Reflections on 2014<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome to 2015! Crazy isn't it? I feel like last year went past in a blur and I'm left sitting here, in the first week of January, wondering what happened? I did sit down before Christmas and update my Quilting Projects for 2014 page on the blog, so if you want to see the 18 quilts and some of the other goodies I made, head over <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/p/quilting-projects-2014.html">HERE</a>.</div>
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We have had a lovely break over Christmas, heading up to The Murray River for five days of relaxation with friends...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yarrawonga at dusk.</td></tr>
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I spent a fair bit of time lately wondering where I was going to let 2015 take me? Because I feel like 2014 was quite crazy, and I didn't plan things well, and I guess that's how I ended up stressed out and somehow contracting the <a href="http://pityriasisroseapictures.net/">RASH FROM HELL</a>! In the lead up to the skin virus, I'd had cysts on my eye, mouth full of ulcers and was literally just run down. I am making a concerted effort NOT to let life get the better of me this year, starting with looking after myself. This began with lovely 10km walks with one of my best friends whilst on holidays, and I'm happy to say, has continued since returning home - with daily 6km walks around our local area. I've also started taking a bunch of vitamins and supplements too. Which I suck at remembering to do, but am trying!</div>
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I turned my sewing machine on a couple of days ago, for the first time since just before Christmas. I had my December bee block to get done, and was happy to tick that off my remaining things to do. But as I sat in my little sewing room, I wondered what to do next? I have so much "stuff" in that room - fabric, notions, wip's, finished quilts, blah blah blah. And it's all a little overwhelming. I've said before that I am not a "list" kind of girl, but I'm thinking I really need to write down what I want to achieve. I read <a href="http://gnomeangel.com/must-make-list-2015/">Angie's Must Make List for 2015</a> yesterday, and felt compelled to make one for myself. But still haven't!</div>
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So, where does that leave me? Lots of babbling and no real plan. My quilty new year's resolution (which I shared in the current issue of Make Modern magazine) is to slow down. Stop rushing around, and rushing in to projects. This is easier said than done - for me - as it's how I naturally go about life. But these are just a few things I've signed up for this year, and have plans to do.....</div>
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** Artistic Licence Bee with Melbourne MQG (January is my month!)</div>
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** Aussie Charm Swaps - I hope to run at least four this year. The first one is in planning stages, and I've opened a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1530592583860763/">FB Group</a> for all interested. So if you're an Aussie or Kiwi, feel free to join.</div>
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** Hazel Hedgehog QAL with Gnome Angel</div>
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** Charm Dash Blog Hop - Coming in March, so get our your charm packs!</div>
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** Write up pattern for Confetti Cannon and decide how/where to publish/sell it</div>
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** The Bee Hive with Blossom Heart Quilts - Get all the details <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/2015/01/the-bee-hive-a-quilt-block-tutorial-series/">HERE.</a> My month is November!</div>
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** Make 3 more 40th quilts for my BFF's - and maybe fit one in for myself!</div>
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** Continue writing my column for Make Modern magazine</div>
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On top of all of the above, I have a few custom order quilts already being planned and would really like to build my Aurifil business up.</div>
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Phew. I guess I've just started a list!?!</div>
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Right. Back to sewing. I've just pulled this out of my WIP pile.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16022900788" title="Just pulled out my favourite wip from last year! #mustfinish #waterfrontpark by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Just pulled out my favourite wip from last year! #mustfinish #waterfrontpark" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7536/16022900788_313a641593.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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It is my favourite WIP from 2014, and I want to get it finished. So that's my starting point for this year.....wish me luck!</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-60039635237482059552014-12-23T19:26:00.001+11:002014-12-23T19:26:33.052+11:00Christmas Sewing - It's a Wrap!<div style="text-align: center;">
As with every other household in the world, things here have been crazy!! We've had my 16 year old God-daughter staying with us for three weeks - which meant I had five kids to sort out, children finishing school, organising school for next year. Christmas parties, birthday parties and work work work. I'm also struggling dreadfully with a horrid virus called "pityriasis rosea" - otherwise known as "the rash from hell". In between all of that and more, I've managed to get a ridiculous amount of Christmas sewing done. I didn't actually realise just how much I had done, until I sat down to do this post. You see, although I haven't been blogging very regularly lately, I HAVE been taking photos of what I've made and waiting until I had time to sit here and document it all! Now is that time..... Here are lots of pretty pictures, capturing all the pretty things that have been gifted or are waiting to be gifted!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16052561152" title="Zippered Pouches by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Zippered Pouches" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7561/16052561152_d8cecbe312.jpg" width="478" /></a> </div>
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Three lovely little zippered pouches. The middle one was gifted to my Mum and is Liberty - it proved very interesting to sew. Anyone with tips and hints on sewing with such fine fabric, feel free to share! I love the other two pouches also, as I cut up little Cotton + Steel selvedges and added them.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16051305621" title="Zippered Pouches by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Zippered Pouches" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7498/16051305621_437509da1e.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I've become obsessed with metal zippers.</div>
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This yummy cushion cover has been sent to our December birthday gal from the Australian Handmade Birthday Club. Simple AMH squares working together beautifully with linen and 12wt Aurifil thread.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15433621383" title="AHBC Gift by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="AHBC Gift" height="331" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8584/15433621383_b1fa43b293.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I added a fat quarter of Tula and a little key fob.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15865814648" title="Personalised Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Personalised Cushion" height="481" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7517/15865814648_89922b6183.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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We had our annual family Christmas party for my father in law's family this past weekend. We only buy gifts for the kids under 16, and there's only our kids and two others left in that pool now! So little Bianca received her own little personalised cushion. She loved it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16027500296" title="Teacher's Gift by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Teacher's Gift" height="346" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7468/16027500296_c4805b4f0f.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Teacher's gifts have been received now. This zippered case is for my daughter's teacher - a 23 year old man in his first year of teaching. I was very happy with how enthusiastic he was upon opening it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15865826408" title="Teacher's Gift by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Teacher's Gift" height="368" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8612/15865826408_a6d7e917a9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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May have had something to do with the contents....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867236309" title="Teacher's Gift by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Teacher's Gift" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7576/15867236309_20670934ca.jpg" width="448" /></a> </div>
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The prep teacher was gifted this yummy cushion. I asked her what her favourite colour was a few weeks ago - yellow.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867242229" title="Teacher's Gift by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Teacher's Gift" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7518/15867242229_e38fb2e425.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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More 12wt Aurifil. I freakin love using it for a distinctive finish!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867205739" title="Just whipped these babies up for @molli_sparkles will pop intge post today! #hashtagblock #glitteratitotherescue #sewingforsydney by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Just whipped these babies up for @molli_sparkles will pop intge post today! #hashtagblock #glitteratitotherescue #sewingforsydney" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7577/15867205739_877b54a44d.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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After last week's horrible siege in Sydney, my lovely friend Molli took it upon himself to rally the quilting troops and whip up some of his hashtag blocks, which will be made in to some quilts for the victim's families. These are my contribution. If you want to know how you can help, head over to mollisparkles.com for all the details.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867494997" title="Another obsession begun....how quick and easy are these?!? #theyrenotperfect #letitgo by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Another obsession begun....how quick and easy are these?!? #theyrenotperfect #letitgo" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7485/15867494997_5868082129.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I joined the key fob gang, and whipped up these for little gifts.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867204249" title="November #qcabee5 blocks for Diane by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="November #qcabee5 blocks for Diane" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8601/15867204249_92a24d2592.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I caught up on November's QCA Bee Blocks.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16052567492" title="Uninterrupted sewing = increased productivity! Birthday present - check! #thisgirlisonfire by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Uninterrupted sewing = increased productivity! Birthday present - check! #thisgirlisonfire" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8569/16052567492_29d24a7f21.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And put together this personalised cushion for my son's best friend's birthday.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16052565372" title="Omg!!!!! I think I'm very spoilt!!! Thank you SO much @shequiltsalot it's all completely stunning and I love it all! I feel like I need to send an extra parcel to you!!!!!! Xxxxx #sweetpouchswap #ilovexmas by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Omg!!!!! I think I'm very spoilt!!! Thank you SO much @shequiltsalot it's all completely stunning and I love it all! I feel like I need to send an extra parcel to you!!!!!! Xxxxx #sweetpouchswap #ilovexmas" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7471/16052565372_2cee8bc8a4.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And last, but certainly far from least, I participated in the Sweet Pouch Swap - Xmas edition - run by Ros at Sew Delicious. This is my AMAZE-BALLS package I received from the ever lovely Peta! I was gobsmacked, and thrilled with what she had sent me. It was all a little overwhelming really! The pouch itself it divine. And when I took it with me to our Melbourne MQG get together, it got a whole lot of attention!!! </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867230579" title="Sweet Pouch Swap Xmas Edition by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet Pouch Swap Xmas Edition" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8625/15867230579_1f3f56bc12.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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In return - I sent off these goodies to Peta. I forgot to take photos, so Peta very nicely sent these to me! Peta is a huge fan of Bonnie & Camille, so I took out some of my charm squares and made her a linen and B&C pouch in Christmas colours. The Christmas tree is really simple to put together - basically three little flying geese and then a trunk on the bottom.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/16052597142" title="Sweet Pouch Swap Xmas Edition by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet Pouch Swap Xmas Edition" height="381" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7495/16052597142_bcac3465e4.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And this is the other side. Isn't she pretty?<br />
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So - that, my friends, is a WRAP! I do have one gift left to make, but will get to it asap. You know, given Christmas is two days away......<br />
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I hope you all have a super fabulous Christmas Day and enjoy time spent with family, friends and/or doing what you love. I am looking forward to some time away after Christmas, so am unsure whether I'll be back here blogging before the New Year. If I'm not, I'll just say Happy New Year now!<br />
xxxx</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-82761069190525410142014-12-19T16:56:00.003+11:002014-12-19T16:56:40.694+11:00T.G.I.F.F. - 2014 Quilt Finale<div style="text-align: center;">
2014 has been a big year for me - quilting and otherwise. As the year closes, I have my last two quilt finishes to share with you! I count myself very lucky to be chosen to make something, as special as a quilt, for others. The fact that people put their faith in me is really lovely. Both of the quilts I'm sharing today are for repeat customers. So I guess that says something about my product!</div>
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You may remember my <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2013/10/isosceles-on-point-triangle-quilt.html">Isosceles on Point</a> quilt from last year? Well, it now has a brother!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867253739" title="Custom quilt for Archie by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom quilt for Archie" height="435" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7503/15867253739_2290b10bd0.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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This divine king single quilt is made up of 5" squares in a range of beautiful blue and grey, mixed with black, white and taupe. It is a colour palette I wouldn't necessarily have thought to put together, but Larissa always has a great eye for colour, and chose them all herself - then delivered them to me. It was my job to make her vision come alive.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15867547387" title="Custom quilt for Archie by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom quilt for Archie" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7511/15867547387_59b3b7cb5e.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I placed all 221 squares quite randomly, only making sure there weren't pools of the same colour together. Once quilted with a variegated Aurifil thread #4060 - which is a silvery/moss mix - it really popped.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15866032330" title="Custom quilt for Archie by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom quilt for Archie" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7482/15866032330_1e4a30b4b5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Larissa chose this great striped backing. It's actually a sheeting fabric, which is super wide and made basting super easy. This quilt is going to wash up so beautifully, and will keep its little recipient snug as a bug! It was delivered today, just in time for a birthday!</div>
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Next up is the third quilt for a family. The youngest of three boys needed a quilt to call his own, after his big brothers <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/tgiff-two-for-one.html">received theirs</a> last year. Cass left the colour and fabric selection to me, and was in no rush, so earlier this year I bought a fabulous bundle from Pink Castle Fabrics. Greys, turquoise and orange were the winning palette and man, do they work well together.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15431014974" title="Custom quilt for Brodie by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom quilt for Brodie" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7537/15431014974_0e10c71d29.jpg" width="354" /></a> </div>
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The design is a basic disappearing nine patch, using 9" squares. I love the random placement you are left with when you cut up a nine patch! I also used a grey shot cotton from Spotlight for the solid mixer. If you ever get the chance to use the shot cotton, do it, it's actually really lovely.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15431033294" title="Custom quilt for Brodie by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom quilt for Brodie" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7507/15431033294_20b50b3076.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I quilted using a meandering free motion pattern, which I think looks a little jigsaw like. I used a vibrant orange Aurifil #2150.</div>
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So, there you have it. No more quilts for 2014! But plenty of WIP's awaiting attention and new projects in line.....</div>
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I know I have been a slack blogger of late, and I have not replied to everyone's comments, but I've been flat out and am now dealing with some sort of weird virus, which comes with a delightfully itchy rash and a 6-8 week cycle. Sooooo, thank you again for always taking the time to come and read my posts and please know I read all of your comments and really do have the intention of replying!!!<br />
xxxx</div>
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<a href="http://tgiffriday.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="TGIFF"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhBZ0iLdsZhMLDiXXsYrw8aNFdU7mJPiibAs9Z4fwR9ghPJ4GiaJ9ygKY2ekorLsHa83WknusFhYgB_j_l-Jn9SH-ifiUrde1ViOl5ahP2bcmR_r8lvppBC9tspdkmuTIbqX7u17WzVIO/s800/tgiff-button-blog.jpg" /></a></div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-43153968017432098042014-12-09T20:49:00.001+11:002014-12-09T20:49:46.429+11:00Project Pictorial<div style="text-align: center;">
Every now and then, I look through my downloaded photos to both Instagram and here on my computer, and I find finished projects I haven't shared with you! So here is a little "project pictorial".....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15950828485" title="Finished!! I hope whoever receives my Xmas decoration at our #melbournemqg get together likes it! #liberty #aurifil by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Finished!! I hope whoever receives my Xmas decoration at our #melbournemqg get together likes it! #liberty #aurifil" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8652/15950828485_93cc127b4c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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My Christmas ornament for the Melbourne Modern Quilt Guild swap! I cracked open my Liberty stash for this one, and love how it turned out. We swapped on Saturday at our Sit and Sew day, and thankfully my recipient said she loved it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15948869141" title="Custom order bag number one finished! by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom order bag number one finished!" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7578/15948869141_95d8d9affc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I have had a few last custom orders to get finished before Christmas. Last week, I managed to get two 241 Totes made - this one is made from some Home Dec fabric I purchased at Spotlight months ago and linen.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15925043016" title="And the second..... Ticking off lists here..... by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And the second..... Ticking off lists here....." height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7504/15925043016_bde85c540e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And this one is from some of the delicious Enchino I brought back from Japan, and more linen blend fabric. I love them both!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15950176732" title="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7482/15950176732_9860015e75.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Now this little project I made months ago! And forgot to share! I wanted to make something for Kate Spain in return for her generosity during the Charm swap/along and also with my Pavement Puddles quilt. I got all the teeny weeny scraps from my <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/kate-spain-charm-along-linky-party.html">KS wall hanging </a>and just made them work! </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15948875611" title="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7468/15948875611_7ceef680ec.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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On the other side, I paper pieced a K and then free motion quilted the rest of her name.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15764787499" title="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7528/15764787499_e49c042877.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Teeeeeeny weeeeeeny pieces of yummy fabric scraps! I think the pouch ended up being around 12" long, so that gives you an idea of how small these are.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15925022616" title="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Kate Spain Zippered Pouch" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7530/15925022616_2118dfb620.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I filled it with yummy Aussie sweets and the lovely Quilt Jane hand delivered my present to Kate at Quilt Market for me. Thanks Jane!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15331408643" title="Cushion for Skye by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Cushion for Skye" height="495" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7514/15331408643_2c61c0faa4.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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This delightful cushion started off as a bee block. And went terribly wrong when I trimmed all 27 geese down to size, without realising the tutorial meant finished size PLUS seam allowance. So I was left with all these yummy geese with nowhere to fly...... Then I read the bio of the November recipient in my Aussie Handmade Birthday Swap and see she loves yellow and orange! Win win! So I added some bits of white here and then to make it all fit and symmetrical, and BAM - cushion cover done!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15765009789" title="Cushion for Skye by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Cushion for Skye" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8679/15765009789_87960eb82d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I backed it with this beautiful Flora print!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15786016960" title="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion" height="492" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7485/15786016960_45bd354bec.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And yesterday - well, I finished this amazing custom order cushion cover! The customer requested a horse cushion. So I searched the interwebs, and given this was for a 10 year old girl, I figured the horse should look as realistic as possible! I used <a href="https://equiltpatterns.com/Quilt-Block-Patterns/Pictorial-Quilt-Block-Patterns/Folk-Art-Horse-Quilt-Block-Pattern">THIS pattern.</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15351048954" title="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7501/15351048954_019106d9b5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Fast forward to when I cut out all the pieces of pattern and nearly died at what I had in front of me! But I am SO glad I didn't chicken out and just jumped in. I am absolutely in love with the finished product and can't wait to send it off to the customer. I used a multitude of fabrics and pieced and quilted it using 40wt Aurifil threads in brown, turquoise and pink.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15973308905" title="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Custom order Folkart Horse Cushion" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7539/15973308905_fa79f8d112.jpg" width="495" /></a></div>
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And a little Wee Wander for the backing!</div>
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Phew. That's it - for now!</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-69463764962106606032014-12-02T20:06:00.000+11:002014-12-02T20:06:57.554+11:00Confetti Cannon<div style="text-align: center;">
When the MQG sent out an email a few months ago, regarding the Quiltcon Michael Miller challenge, I very quickly signed up thinking "this will be fun!" I received my little bundle of pastel cotton couture weeks later and thought "Ummmmmm". I had no idea how to make the pastels work. I mean, I've only ever used pastels a few times in my quilting life, so was left a bit deflated. I took them out again not long after and just stared at them. That was when I thought of Confetti. The tiny little pieces of pastel paper, which are used in celebrations everywhere. And that was my inspiration......</div>
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I went "old school" for the planning of this quilt. After weeks of having confetti twirling around in my head, I got myself some grid paper and pencils, and literally just drew up what I'd been thinking of. And the following day, made the entire quilt top. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15722361679" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8592/15722361679_915d0be225.jpg" width="451" /></a></div>
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As per usual, I winged it a bit! I made it up as I went along - literally dividing my design up in to blocks of squares of rectangles, however the little confetti spots would fit in. The 3" snowball blocks were easy-peasy. 34 in total. Because I wanted the confetti to be randomly scattered throughout the quilt top, it made the piecing rather, shall we say "interesting"? It is probably what some Modern peeps would call "improvisational" - I just call it random! But it worked - and that was the end result I was after...</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15906450831" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="331" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8646/15906450831_40d690f8a4.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Once I had the top made, I thought and thought and thought about how on earth I was going to quilt it. I had an idea in my head, but thankfully one of my lovely MQG friends - Katrina - cemented the idea and helped me visualise it! I think the diagonal lines from the bottom corner help create movement and project the confetti up in to the air!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15288806363" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7474/15288806363_1a0cd0c3ea.jpg" width="331" /></a> </div>
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I mostly stuck with the grey for the binding, but also added a little pastel rainbow to the side. I LOVE it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15720932058" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7480/15720932058_b1ae0b27f5.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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This photo shows you a little more closely how the piecing has been done. It's one very fiddly jigsaw puzzle!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15286217134" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7530/15286217134_7ac2dee229.jpg" width="379" /></a> </div>
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The Michael Miller challenge rules are to use all Cotton Couture in the quilt top and then any Michael Miller fabric for the binding and backing. I made a quick trip down to the large quilting store nearby and scoured their shelves for something to suit as backing. This quilt was always going to be for a baby/child, so when I stumbled (literally, I stumbled over it) over this Backyard Baby print, I grabbed it! It's SO perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15722726867" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7486/15722726867_a40c0299d5.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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It's a little difficult to photograph, but I used several pastel shades of Aurifil in the quilting - re-threading my machine after every. single. row. Was it time consuming? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15722675557" title="Confetti Cannon by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Confetti Cannon" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7529/15722675557_2a1f350f87.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
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I spent all day Saturday stressing about the photos to submit! You see, I've never actually entered a quilt show! And the rules state only two photographs to be sent in - one hanging on a wall and the other a close up. So I moved furniture in my front room so as not to get any shadows and did my best! I guess only time will tell.....</div>
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I have thoroughly enjoyed this challenge - because it really was a challenge! Throw a girl some pastels and see what she can come up with!</div>
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The Stats:</div>
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Name: Confetti Cannon</div>
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Size: 40" x 60"</div>
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Fabric: Michael Miller Cotton Couture pastels & Ozone. </div>
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Backing: Michael Miller Backyard Baby</div>
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Quilting: By Me on my Bernina</div>
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Thread: Aurifil 40wt Pastels<br />
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I'm linking up - You can too!</div>
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<a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Sew Cute Tuesday" src="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Sew-Cute-Tuesday.png" width="125" /></a>
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<a href="http://quiltstory.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Fresh Poppy Design" src="http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad311/freshpoppydesign/fabrictuesdayfinalcopy.png" /></a></center>
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MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-62149252760199721722014-11-24T19:00:00.000+11:002014-11-24T19:00:15.383+11:00Fast & Furious<div style="text-align: center;">
The Festival of Forties has literally taken over my life these past few weeks......My best friends and I are all turning 40 over the next 12 months, and the first two are now done and dusted! So between parties, Cuban Jazz Festivals and a WHOLE weekend child free in Sydney - there hasn't been much sewing getting done! I've also been very blessed with the company of another best friend, who arrived here on Friday for a long weekend with us!</div>
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Anyway...... Monday last week, I drove down to the local Officeworks and got myself some old school supplies and sat down to draw up the idea for my Quiltcon Challenge quilt, that had been rolling around in my head for weeks!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15678136087" title="So I just went to officeworks and bought a grid book and supplies because I really need to pull my finger out and get my #quiltconchallenge quilt designed and finished by the end of this month! #thiswillbeinteresting #canidoit also had a lovely chat with by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="So I just went to officeworks and bought a grid book and supplies because I really need to pull my finger out and get my #quiltconchallenge quilt designed and finished by the end of this month! #thiswillbeinteresting #canidoit also had a lovely chat with" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7555/15678136087_65ed02fa82.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Can you believe I had never used grid paper to design a quilt?? It was very cathartic.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15676520140" title="And we have a start! #quiltconchallenge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And we have a start! #quiltconchallenge" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8646/15676520140_0710124ace.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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The next morning, I put that plan in to action. Using very basic math, I made a tonne (OK, not a tonne, but lots) of teeny little snowball blocks, and then set about trying to make the before-mentioned "pattern" work.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15863226472" title="I did it! My #quiltconchallenge top is done! Now I just need to baste, quilt and bind it! #graphpaperisthebomb #pastelisthenewblack @michaelmillerfabrics by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I did it! My #quiltconchallenge top is done! Now I just need to baste, quilt and bind it! #graphpaperisthebomb #pastelisthenewblack @michaelmillerfabrics" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7532/15863226472_c2b1a535fd.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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It was no easy feat, but I did it. It's a lovely little splatter of pastels.......something I never thought I would ever say about a quilt I'd designed and made. But yes, I did.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15241574804" title="This could break all records here for quick quilt finishes! Just need time to quilt now! #quiltconchallenge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="This could break all records here for quick quilt finishes! Just need time to quilt now! #quiltconchallenge" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7489/15241574804_f2be94428e.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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It is currently basted, rolled up and patiently awaiting quilting. Which will hopefully happen tomorrow. Because it's the only day I have between now and the end of November - when this little creation is due for submission! Another thing I never thought I would ever do!</div>
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So - there you have it. I've almost finished my first ever Quiltcon Challenge quilt! Watch this space.....</div>
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MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-81762521915063473922014-11-09T14:00:00.000+11:002014-11-09T14:00:04.399+11:00Sunday Stash - Tokyo Part Two<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, where were we? Oh, that's right - the fabric!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502215518" title="DSC_0619 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0619" height="391" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7559/15502215518_3f8cae3177.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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In total, I returned to Melbourne with 14 kilos of fabric. Which is quite considerable! But what I can tell you is this - I was actually very picky about my purchases! I really thought about the fabric I chose, basically because I knew I'd have to get it home and also be able to fit it in my house. I'm pleased to say I am very happy with each and every piece of fabric I chose....So, here goes.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15067741944" title="DSC_0617 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0617" height="410" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3949/15067741944_a2a63b8b66.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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When Alyce and I walked in to Tomato, we stepped in to an alternate universe, where bolts of Melody Miller fabric were sitting patiently awaiting attention. I knew there was plenty there, so whilst they continued waiting, I walked around the corner from the bolts and nearly fell over my jaw which was dragging on the ground. Huge rolls of wide Melody Miller prints. HUGE I tell you! AND $4 A METRE! Just let that sink in for a minute. $4. A. METRE. It took about 30 seconds for Alyce and I to crash tackle the rolls and join them to our hip. I'm proud to report we emptied the roll of arrows between us. I think we got four metres each. There's about the same of the other two up there also. Great quilt backings in my future.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15068334333" title="DSC_0616 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0616" height="420" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/15068334333_6351986b32.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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We returned to the smaller bolts a little later, and I happily got myself some telephones and roller skates. What for? Who knows!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15501844749" title="DSC_0615 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0615" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7541/15501844749_55ccf4000f.jpg" width="486" /></a> </div>
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I bought these gorgeous linen blends from Pandora House. I think I have three metres of each, but once I was home, I wished I had more! I've fallen in love with linen this year.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15685800331" title="DSC_0614 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0614" height="419" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7526/15685800331_7ce6b41908.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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All of the little precuts on the bottom of this photo are from Tomato. Some Sarah Jane, Kate Spain and Cotton + Steel to name a few...... The geometry print and Ghastlies Xmas were from the shop I can't remember the name of!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15687726615" title="DSC_0613 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0613" height="405" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7567/15687726615_e41c909c49.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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All of this deliciousness came from Pandora House also. Love me some low vol prints.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15685820861" title="DSC_0612 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0612" height="331" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3951/15685820861_68bc867843.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Tomato's extensive range of American Designer prints was very satisfying. I was able to get some Cotton + Steel prints I didn't have, as well as stock up on a couple I really love. These were all around $10 a metre.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15068390353" title="DSC_0611 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0611" height="357" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15068390353_fd8d9a511c.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Now, if you ever head to Nippori, there's a little pre-cuts store down the street from Tomato. The cuts are all in clear packaging and they are all DIRT CHEAP. The pink C+S butterflies was a 2m cut for $12!!!!!! AMH was from Tomato in the remnants and the pretty deer print was from <a href="http://www.yuzawaya.co.jp/company/brochure3.html">Yuzawaya in Ginza.</a> I had a morning to kill time one day by myself, so printed off the address and hailed a cab. I had been told great tales about the Yuzawaya stores (think Spotlight, but way better), but I have to say I was a little disappointed with the newly opened Ginza store. I think it's quite small compared to others! I still managed to find some goodies though....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15685853701" title="DSC_0609 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0609" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/15685853701_c8948baf0b.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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These two double gauze prints were from the precut heaven. Enchino on the left and Nani Iro on the right. I bought both to make dresses/tops for my big girl.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15685865501" title="DSC_0607 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0607" height="383" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7506/15685865501_9e67483de5.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And another win from precut heaven - Jolli Pomme. I think these were about $6 per metre!!!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502831760" title="DSC_0605 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0605" height="331" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3937/15502831760_dacdd460ec.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Japan obviously has an amazing supply of Enchino! I picked up various different prints from all of the stores I went to. And they were all around $10 per metre. A few were remnants and were even cheaper.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502237748" title="DSC_0606 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0606" height="331" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3954/15502237748_42f0823b25.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And a close up - because the colours of these fabrics are sublime....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15068301773" title="DSC_0603 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0603" height="370" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7545/15068301773_16c2ca2bc7.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I grabbed a few novelty prints! Frozen fabric for my husband's cousin who wants me to make her nurse scrubs, as she works in a children's hospital. And princesses and unicorns, because - why not?</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15067712604" title="DSC_0604 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0604" height="388" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7475/15067712604_edbde86cab.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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One of the few things I specifically marked on my shopping list to purchase whilst in Tokyo was Liberty. I am one of the few quilters who did not own any Liberty. And basically only because of the cost factor. Here in Australia, we pay around $60 per metre for Liberty, which is just so far out of my budget it's not even funny! Given it was half that price in Japan, I selected a number of prints I REALLY liked (because it's still frigging expensive!) and got myself 30cm cuts of each of them. I really adore the Hello Kitty range of Liberty, so made sure to get some (far left). I also realised I really am more of a geometric girl when it comes to their prints. But there are a few florals I threw in for good measure.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502029529" title="Oh and probably my favourite find..... My Enchino umbrella! by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Oh and probably my favourite find..... My Enchino umbrella!" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5600/15502029529_7f4bcc9d68.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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But you know what I really got excited about?? I bought myself an Enchino umbrella!!!!!!! I was bummed I couldn't get one of the long ones, but hey, who cares!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15687884645" title="And this is my mum's fabric. #imustloveher by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And this is my mum's fabric. #imustloveher" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3953/15687884645_1841fa29b6.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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Last but not least - I also did some serious fabric shopping for my Mum. She put in a special request for lots of indigo fabrics - which I had absolutely no problem finding! I also got gorgeous precuts of Japanese fabrics and a few bright American designer prints.</div>
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Phew.....</div>
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I hope you're still with me! That, my friends, is my fabric tale from Tokyo! I did SOOO much more than fabric shopping whilst there, and have a million tales to tell. But will save them for another day. Tokyo is an amazing city, and the Japanese people are sooooo beautiful. If you ever have the opportunity to travel there - GO!!!!</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-32124928383362171822014-11-08T19:30:00.000+11:002014-11-08T19:30:01.736+11:00London Calling!<div style="text-align: center;">
It's finished! </div>
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I feel like this quilt has taken me FOREVER, but in reality, it's just been a process of patience and lots of love. It all started in April, when it was my turn to be Queen in our paper piecing Wombat Stew bee. I knew I had lots of quilts to make for 40th birthdays in the coming 12 months, so tried to think of one in particular that could use some paper piecing blocks. It didn't take me long to propose London themed blocks, and the lovely Kristy designed some <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/quilting/other/london-calling-pattern-bundle/99842">amazing patterns</a> for us to use, as well as Alyce designing her own Big Ben block!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15711478376" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3956/15711478376_43c8a0bc71.jpg" width="354" /></a> </div>
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The finished blocks started arriving and I was gobsmacked at how fabulous they were! I received seven in total, so then just had to make up the rest myself. I ended up with 13 paper pieced blocks, and added two fabric blocks to make up the numbers. The lovely Deborah Gun on Instagram sent me a fat quarter of London subway fabric - it's amazing! Putting the quilt top together was painstaking......literally, my brain was in pain with all the maths required. Nine of the blocks were the same size, the others were all over the show!</div>
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So I just sat on my loungeroom floor with a calculator, pen and paper, and worked out how big each row of sashing needed to be between every single block, in order to end up with a balanced quilt top. I'm incredibly proud of myself for making it work!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15735211435" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7542/15735211435_66d399b368.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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When it came time to quilt, I really had no idea where to begin. I threw it open on Instagram for suggestions, and I believe it was Melanie Sim who mentioned cobblestones....... When I sat down at my first ever Melbourne MQG day, I thought I'd give it a go. If you ask the ladies I was sitting with how much I enjoyed the pebbling process, I think you would hear a few expletives. I think in total, the pebbling over the entire quilt top took me about seven hours. I tried really hard to make the majority of them largish, so as to cut down the time - but really, who was I kidding?!?!? I am very glad I stuck with it though, because I love the texture and character it has given the quilt. I used a gorgeous variegated Aurifil thread #4060 - which is creamy/mossy/grey tones.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15549775618" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7530/15549775618_e39e862586.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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The backing I actually picked up at the beginning of the year! I was at a Spotlight sale and this Union Jack/British newspaper print was reduced to $3 a metre! I bought a few metres and stashed it away for the quilt I knew I'd make. I did THE BEST print joining on the seam - you can't even notice it's two pieces of fabric!</div>
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Now - let me just take you through each block, because they're all so special!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15550047477" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="460" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8558/15550047477_f33cc48637.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I knew I had rain drop fabric stashed away for good reason.... Kristy upsized her <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/quilting/other/umbrella-paper-pieced-block-pattern/22354">umbrella pattern</a> for me!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15549809108" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="331" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7509/15549809108_161e75175b.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Marieka made this super cute Bus! I free motion quilted the LONDON on!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15711551826" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="458" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3951/15711551826_5ba7cbd8de.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I pulled out my stash of these dots for the Beef Eater, and was able to use the same prints throughout the quilt. I also use felt for faces in paper piecing - it adds a great texture!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15735281745" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="492" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7581/15735281745_23b05d1d6f.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Gina sent me my London Bobby! Isn't he fabulous!?</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15733366341" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15733366341_f371b17ba3.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
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Alyce's fabulous Big Ben block! The fussy cutting of the Comma fabric is spot on.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15550108427" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="486" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15550108427_fb41ae4855.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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I also added the teapot. Another <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/quilting/other/elegant-teapot-paper-pieced-pattern-/41071">Quiet Play pattern.</a> It's actually one of my favourites blocks in the quilt.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15736849252" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="454" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7481/15736849252_59809ff91f.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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A very simple but great Underground sign.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15711603196" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="476" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3947/15711603196_dd42871e8a.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And my London Cab. I wish I had "London" on fabric to use for the bumper bar, but thought French would work!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15550135877" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="459" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3946/15550135877_7910179d52.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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Kristy made the Guard block, and her fabric choices just make it pop!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15549462889" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3937/15549462889_7f96125232.jpg" width="331" /></a> </div>
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Jane made the telephone booth and embroidered all the details. Love it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15115963503" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="482" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7489/15115963503_99daf38dc4.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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And Lara's crown block is awesome!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15115406144" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5598/15115406144_791a07eb01.jpg" width="335" /></a> </div>
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When I was one block short, Kristy just "whipped" up this post box block for me - she's amazing!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15736921172" title="London Calling Quilt by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="London Calling Quilt" height="331" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3943/15736921172_7d2d111516.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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So - there you have it! I finished it all off with a lovely navy and white spot for the binding, which I think works beautifully. I am reallllllly looking forward to handing this over to one of my best friends tonight, she's receiving this as it is being published!</div>
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The Stats:</div>
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Size: 61" x 44" - Lap Size</div>
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Fabrics: A cast of millions!</div>
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Thread: Aurifil #4060 40wt</div>
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Batting: Wool/cotton blend - it's fabulous!</div>
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Recipient: Karen - who just happened to live in London up until 18 months ago, when she returned to Melbourne!</div>
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I'm linking up - This was ready to post yesterday, but I didn't want the recipient to see!</div>
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MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-26482012545669737512014-11-02T20:35:00.002+11:002014-11-02T20:35:26.120+11:00Sunday Stash - Tokyo Part One<div style="text-align: center;">
It has been two weeks since I returned from my trip of a lifetime to Tokyo. I had many a plan to blog about my trip earlier than this, however, it took me a week to actually recover from my holiday!! It was literally exhausting - but incredibly exhilarating! The one question everyone asks me when I tell them I went by myself on a holiday to Tokyo is "Why?" Well, I am lucky enough to have a handful of amazing friends I have known since grade one. And one of those friends has lived in Tokyo for around 17 years. You will know her as my Tokyo BFF. Last year, my husband wanted to buy a new TV. I panned this idea and suggested that when we got our tax returns in 2014, he could get a new TV and I would go to Tokyo..... All in jest..... Fast forward to earlier this year, and we both changed employment and got generous payouts. He bought his TV.....and much to my surprise, I went ahead and booked tickets to Tokyo! It was one of those pipe dreams that I never thought would be a reality.</div>
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Soooooo, this post is a little entree to my fabric shopping during my nine days in one of the most amazing cities I have ever visited. I arrived very early Friday morning and literally hit the ground running! From the time I was greeted at the Tokyo bus station, I did. not. stop. I spent the first few nights sitting on the lounge nodding off, doing that hilarious head roll whilst trying to stay awake! It was a long weekend in the city, so I was fortunate to be able to see a bit of everything! Friday we spent the day wondering around the Tokyo Dome area - where I woke up when I stepped on to this monster....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15503190680" title="I'm about to get on this...... by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I'm about to get on this......" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7579/15503190680_28b4d7dcb1.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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We then did what I'm sure was completely normal, and headed to the HUGE day spa at L'aqua. Cue the hilarity of me finding out I would be spending the next couple of hours naked and surrounded by complete strangers - all naked too. And then being told I had to leave because I had body art....too funny! It was certainly a great introduction to Japan.....</div>
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Saturday morning was my God-daughter's sports day at their kindy, followed by an afternoon and evening walking all around Tokyo - taking in Ginza (OHEMGEE) and the Imperial Palace.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15688019645" title="Beautiful Nijyubashi bridge outside the Imperial Palace. by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Beautiful Nijyubashi bridge outside the Imperial Palace." height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3946/15688019645_b2067128fd.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Seeing parts of a city that are hundreds and thousands of years old is mind blowing.</div>
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Sunday we travelled a couple of hours out of the city to Hakone. A pirate ship took us to a port where we hopped on cable cars that travelled WAYYYYY up the mountains to some amazing geo-thermal sites.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15686145601" title="Steaming volcanic mountains. There were plenty of big rumbles! by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Steaming volcanic mountains. There were plenty of big rumbles!" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3945/15686145601_318eba5213.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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The sulphur steam spewing from the ground smelt awful, and when we went for a big walk up one of the hills to see everyone eating the black eggs the area is famous for, I spent some considerable time gagging! No black eggs for me, but I was most interested in the decent rumbling under foot.....</div>
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Monday. Now known as the day I first spotted fabric in Japan. We headed to a couple of local shopping centres. At AENO, we wandered around getting bits and pieces for my friend's children. She then casually mentions there's a fabric store up the other end, called "Pandora House". I hot-footed it over there and was greeted by this.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15067959094" title="Hello pretties! The fabric buying has begun. #midgetakestokyo by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Hello pretties! The fabric buying has begun. #midgetakestokyo" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7503/15067959094_87cf29d706.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Little pre-cuts of Yuwa and other Japanese prints.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502510208" title="And a little bit of this! Soooooo cheap! #midgetakestokyo by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And a little bit of this! Soooooo cheap! #midgetakestokyo" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7518/15502510208_8854cf25d8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And a rack of Enchino. So freaking good! I also found some beautiful cotton/linen blends solids. Lovely start......</div>
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We then drove over to<a href="http://tokyobay.lalaport.net/lala_eng/"> Lalaport in Toyosu</a>. Found the most amazing stationary store EVER and then was led to a fabric store that I cannot for the life of me remember the name of!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15067942784" title="Uhohhhhhhhhh by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Uhohhhhhhhhh" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7579/15067942784_21706ae9a8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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It was FULL of amazing fabrics - all the popular Japanese designers as well as a fabulous range of Liberty. I actually made my first ever Liberty purchase here. And for around $30 a metre, it was completely justifiable.</div>
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So Monday was a great day :) Skip forward to Wednesday.......</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502025389" title="I have tomorrow all mapped out. I just have to get from the bottom circle to the top circle. By myself. Easy. #nippori #fabrictown see you there! @blossomheartquilts by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="I have tomorrow all mapped out. I just have to get from the bottom circle to the top circle. By myself. Easy. #nippori #fabrictown see you there! @blossomheartquilts" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15502025389_7da4c74a9c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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And I had my trip planned out. Simple really? Just had to navigate the Tokyo subway system all by myself. Ahemmm.......</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15687878725" title="And I'm off to fabric town!! #haveluggage by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="And I'm off to fabric town!! #haveluggage" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3942/15687878725_f0fc754cdb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I set off in the morning, tugalong case on hand. A 15 minute stroll to Tokyo Central Station, a minor panic attack through a million travellers, and I eventually got myself to Nippori.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15685959621" title="In what can only be classed as a minor miracle..... I made it. Thank god for the few people who spoke limited English and helped me change trains when ours ceased moving!! #hallefreakinglujah by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="In what can only be classed as a minor miracle..... I made it. Thank god for the few people who spoke limited English and helped me change trains when ours ceased moving!! #hallefreakinglujah" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7476/15685959621_82b608097e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Nippori Textile Town (a whole freakin town!!) is what I would call Heaven. It's only around 15 minutes from Tokyo central and is a rather quiet little hub FULL of different fabric and notions stores. Before my guide arrived, I sat in a lovely little coffee shop and read the Woman's Weekly I had brought her with a hot chocolate to boot!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502024019" title="Yay!! @blossomheartquilts by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Yay!! @blossomheartquilts" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7559/15502024019_4657a3b257.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Then my guide arrived! The delightful Alyce from <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/">Blossom Heart Quilts</a> has been an online friend of mine for quite some time now, so it was very exciting to finally meet in the flesh! This is a shocker of a photo, but I love it, because it was before the rush of fabric hit me in the face!</div>
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We headed down the road to a humble little store called <a href="http://www.nippori-tomato.com/">Tomato</a>. And by humble, I mean frigging HUGE! Over five floors of different fabric, the ground floor was more than accommodating. Straight in the door and we find multiple racks of old school Melody Miller. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15503113390" title="IMAG0275 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0275" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7529/15503113390_a89f1f7861.jpg" width="283" /></a>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502735407" title="IMAG0274 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0274" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7580/15502735407_3999d9e254.jpg" width="283" /></a> </div>
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And on the quilting cotton floor - jackpot! Rack upon rack of Japanese designer fabrics as well as walls FULL of American quilting cottons. I very happily took advantage of the hour we spent on that one floor alone...... It was like quilt candy every direction you looked! It was with great self control that I managed to not buy one of everything.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15502061369" title="IMAG0280 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="IMAG0280" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7568/15502061369_982a30094d.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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And thankfully the thoughtful staff had reminders around the store in regards to their cutting practices...... I'm still trying to figure out whether I am separately competent.......</div>
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I don't think I need to tell you I had a brilliant day? We cleared Tomato, had a reallllly yummy lunch and talked and talked, then headed to a couple of amazing smaller stores. And with my tugalong jam packed and overflowing with fabric, got on the train and headed for home.</div>
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To be continued........</div>
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ps. I'd normally be linking up with Glamour-puss <a href="http://www.mollisparkles.com/">Molli</a>, but the glitter is on the shelf at present. Go send Molli some love!</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-26293740578847696642014-10-30T13:24:00.002+11:002014-10-30T13:24:24.904+11:00Blogger's Quilt Festival - Original Design - Charm Dash<div style="text-align: center;">
I am entering a second quilt in to the Blogger's Quilt Festival! I am very proud of my Charm Dash quilt - given it is <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/quilting/home-decor/charm-dash-quilt-pattern/114518">my first ever released Pattern </a>- so I am entering it in to the <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-original-design-quilts-2/">Original Design category</a>!</div>
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<a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/" title="AmysCreativeSide.com"><img alt="AmysCreativeSide.com" src="http://amyscreativeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Fall-2014-BQF-Button-small.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15472174840" title="DSC_0392 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0392" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15472174840_5da7ae2c96_c.jpg" width="530" /></a> </div>
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Those of you who have been around here for a while would know I released my Charm Dash pattern about a month ago, but for those of you who are new here (<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">You'll find some captivating information about me and my work up there in the "Who is Ms Midge" section ^^^^) -</span> here's the low down! The Charm Dash came to be after the first Aussie Charm Swap I ran, with Kate Spain fabrics. I was left wondering how to use my 5" charm squares without wasting ANYTHING? After tossing and turning one night, I spent the morning drawing up a block, which would go on to be the Charm Dash block and a whole quilt!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15221908307" title="Charm Dash Quilt Pattern by Ms Midge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Charm Dash Quilt Pattern by Ms Midge" height="617" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3927/15221908307_ecf46c0f91_c.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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The block is a bit of a mutant churn dash - except that you are using 5" charm squares and not wasting a single inch of fabric. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15221790330" title="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge" height="424" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3930/15221790330_36842c9724_c.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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It is perfect for showcasing your favourite fabrics - and in my case, the Kate Spain collection of prints was a stunning example of how fabrics from a multitude of collections can mix beautifully.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15408483555" title="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge" height="424" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2949/15408483555_245e589cb2_c.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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I pieced and quilted the whole quilt using my trusty Aurifil #2024 in a 40wt. The free motion pattern is what I'd like to call "vines", but you can call it whatever you like!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15405262701" title="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Charm Dash Pattern by Ms Midge" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3929/15405262701_dfb065aa01_c.jpg" width="509" /></a></div>
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The backing is a very simple on fabric finish - but oh, what a fabric!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15658552902" title="DSC_0368 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0368" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5608/15658552902_c6b8d87a23_c.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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This quilt made me believe that I could actually reallllly be original and come up with some of my own quilty ideas! Which in turn led me to designing my <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2014/10/bloggers-quilt-festival-large-quilt.html">Pavement Puddles quilt</a>. So I guess you could say it was the start of a whole new beginning!</div>
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A BIG thank you to Amy's Creative Side for always putting on a fabulous quilt show! You can check out the Festival main page <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-fall-2014-edition/" style="color: #f01e1e; text-decoration: none;">HERE</a>. Make sure you allocate yourself a few hours to get through all the quilty eye candy! And you can also nominate your favourite quilts <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-viewers-choice/" style="color: #f01e1e; text-decoration: none;">HERE</a>!</div>
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QUILT STATS:</div>
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Designed & pattern made by Me!</div>
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Size: 50" x 62.5"</div>
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Fabric: Kate Spain Charm squares & White Homespun</div>
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Quilting: By Me on my Bernina</div>
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Thread: Pieced and quilted with Aurifil 40wt in #2024</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-16279217016402966652014-10-29T21:45:00.000+11:002014-10-29T21:45:58.514+11:00Blogger's Quilt Festival - Large Quilt - Pavement Puddles<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm being very brave and throwing my <strike>hat</strike> quilt in the <strike>ring</strike> Blogger's Quilt Festival! If you're new here to my blog - WELCOME! You'll find some captivating information about me and my work up there in the "Who is Ms Midge" section ^^^^<br />
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<a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/" title="AmysCreativeSide.com"><img alt="AmysCreativeSide.com" src="http://amyscreativeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Fall-2014-BQF-Button-small.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
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I have a lot of quilts, yes, but the quilt I'm putting forward for the <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-large-quilts-2/">Large Quilt category</a> is my </div>
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Pavement Puddles.....</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/14904762648" title="mmblog by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="mmblog" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/14904762648_f3ac28e11f_c.jpg" width="539" /></a></div>
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I designed this quilt under a little bit of pressure - from myself mostly - to come up with something original for my first ever magazine submission. I was thrilled with the end result and loved the way the colours mixed from tone to tone and through the cool colour spectrum. It reminded me of the puddles on the pavement after a sun shower! I was also incredibly impressed with my mathematical ability...... As I designed the pattern all by myself!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZu4_Q2PaXY/VFC1YXPqzgI/AAAAAAAAD1o/bl0FVTYPscU/s1600/DSC_0433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZu4_Q2PaXY/VFC1YXPqzgI/AAAAAAAAD1o/bl0FVTYPscU/s1600/DSC_0433.jpg" height="640" width="465" /></a></div>
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It was also my first attempt at any type of hexagon! It may not be a traditional hexie - but nobody has ever called me traditional, so I can live with that.....</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q0ZmoURyQA/VFC1hyTmh1I/AAAAAAAAD1w/ifrJIzP7_j8/s1600/DSC_0442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q0ZmoURyQA/VFC1hyTmh1I/AAAAAAAAD1w/ifrJIzP7_j8/s1600/DSC_0442.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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The backing is a very simple, yet effective layout.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lEDbcvaBig/VFC5y7XpLEI/AAAAAAAAD2E/TMBC0j5MPeE/s1600/DSC_0438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lEDbcvaBig/VFC5y7XpLEI/AAAAAAAAD2E/TMBC0j5MPeE/s1600/DSC_0438.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3O2aaHyqplo/VFC5trrMzzI/AAAAAAAAD18/H5HtIFrKr5Y/s1600/DSC_0435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3O2aaHyqplo/VFC5trrMzzI/AAAAAAAAD18/H5HtIFrKr5Y/s1600/DSC_0435.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></div>
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And all of the puddles have been straight line quilted using varying shades of my favourite Aurifil 40wt threads!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/14904668549" title="mmblog2 by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="mmblog2" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5576/14904668549_8cf6edfe31_c.jpg" width="669" /></a><br />
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I had an absolute ball photographing Puddles......as you can tell from the above photo! I had a couple of wonderful "assistants" who just happen to be expert bed jumpers!</div>
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I said goodbye to this quilt yesterday! It was gifted to one of my wonderful BFF's for her 40th birthday, and I'm very happy to report that she sent me photos of it last night, settled in to its new home. </div>
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A BIG thank you to Amy's Creative Side for always putting on a fabulous quilt show! You can check out the Festival main page <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-fall-2014-edition/">HERE</a>. Make sure you allocate yourself a few hours to get through all the quilty eye candy! And you can also nominate your favourite quilts <a href="http://amyscreativeside.com/2014/10/24/bloggers-quilt-festival-viewers-choice/">HERE</a>!</div>
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QUILT STATS:</div>
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Designed & pattern made by Me!</div>
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Size: 51" x 74.5"</div>
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Fabric: Horizon by Kate Spain & Peppered Cotton by Studio E</div>
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Quilting: By Me on my Bernina</div>
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Thread: Pieced and quilted with Aurifil 40wt in various colours</div>
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The pattern for this quilt is published in <a href="http://www.makemodern.com.au/#!issues/c1f4q">Issue One of Make Modern Magazine</a>.</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-18154724456873680762014-10-28T20:43:00.003+11:002014-10-28T20:43:57.165+11:00The Bonnie & Camille Charm Along WINNERS!<div style="text-align: center;">
WOW! I have been completely blown away by the amazing projects everyone has been working on with their Bonnie & Camille charm squares! It once again cements the fact that 5" squares have a whole lot more value than they are given credit for! If you haven't already checked out all of the linked up projects, pop over to the linky <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.com.au/2014/10/bonnie-camille-charm-along-linky-is-open.html">HERE</a> and have a browse! Thank you to everyone who participated and especially to the 28 people who have linked up. You all put yourselves in the running for the fabulous prizes! Unfortunately, there can only be TEN winners! Which is pretty good!!!!</div>
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So without further ado, here are all the winners (as chosen by random.org):</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">The lovely Camille Roskelley has offered FIVE lucky participants their choice of ONE PDF pattern from her amazing range - including a couple of stunning new patterns!</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HffhHXCc5AE/VB6M_xm8f-I/AAAAAAAADs0/dmpXSIcXaN0/s1600/thimbleblossoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HffhHXCc5AE/VB6M_xm8f-I/AAAAAAAADs0/dmpXSIcXaN0/s1600/thimbleblossoms.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">FIVE winners of patterns are:</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktAJPd6WZ3o/VE8_XYlEgbI/AAAAAAAAD04/msTR1AfBdro/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.01.05%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktAJPd6WZ3o/VE8_XYlEgbI/AAAAAAAAD04/msTR1AfBdro/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.01.05%2BPM.png" height="320" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Missy Mack</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/127853792@N03/15635293825" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2014-10-25 20.23.31-2 by michelle Hickson, on Flickr"><img alt="2014-10-25 20.23.31-2" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15635293825_6d7efdd71b_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Michelle Hickson</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VpsBVslpVog/VE8-4FwMarI/AAAAAAAAD0w/RwWaUP8FSo8/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B5.58.54%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VpsBVslpVog/VE8-4FwMarI/AAAAAAAAD0w/RwWaUP8FSo8/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B5.58.54%2BPM.png" height="298" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tootle Jayne</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1nK2vPlR9KA/VE8-1pK_VkI/AAAAAAAAD0o/zqkyrUveBHY/s1600/winner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1nK2vPlR9KA/VE8-1pK_VkI/AAAAAAAAD0o/zqkyrUveBHY/s1600/winner.jpg" height="320" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kristi Kuhne</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/thepatchproject/14992746924" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Riddle and {Whimsy} B+C Charm Along (top-front) by Jo, on Flickr"><img alt="Riddle and {Whimsy} B+C Charm Along (top-front)" height="314" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/14992746924_8316dba68f_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Joanna King</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A $50 voucher to spend on the amazing range of Quilter's Solids at <a href="http://www.theozmaterialgirls.com/">The Oz Material Girls</a>. </span></div>
(Part of voucher is to cover postage costs).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0PIWt_sS4/VB_yPYiu9gI/AAAAAAAADt8/Vf58mOF6dnA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-22%2Bat%2B7.55.35%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0PIWt_sS4/VB_yPYiu9gI/AAAAAAAADt8/Vf58mOF6dnA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-22%2Bat%2B7.55.35%2BPM.png" height="276" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">ONE winner of $50 voucher is</span>:</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lVlVJvttBhk/VE8_xQaDH4I/AAAAAAAAD1A/HXfMw4ZMMIc/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.02.57%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lVlVJvttBhk/VE8_xQaDH4I/AAAAAAAAD1A/HXfMw4ZMMIc/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.02.57%2BPM.png" height="314" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anna Cromie</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://livelovesew.com.au/">Live Love Sew</a> has kindly donated a Scrumptious Layer Cake AND a copy of her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/180971459/xs-and-os-baby-twin-size-quilt-pattern?ref=shop_home_feat_1">X's & O's quilt pattern</a>!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfzEQBRcX94/VB-bXYAa9wI/AAAAAAAADtE/ckfp-6OIm94/s1600/sponsor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfzEQBRcX94/VB-bXYAa9wI/AAAAAAAADtE/ckfp-6OIm94/s1600/sponsor.jpg" height="251" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">ONE winner of Live Love Sew prize is:</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5M60r_-oZM/VE9ANZW65UI/AAAAAAAAD1I/TP5B2Dzl_tM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.04.34%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5M60r_-oZM/VE9ANZW65UI/AAAAAAAAD1I/TP5B2Dzl_tM/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-10-28%2Bat%2B6.04.34%2BPM.png" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kate (Manic Mumdays)</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6iaxzlfzd4/VB-cdImOv7I/AAAAAAAADtQ/iewssijKDwQ/s1600/fifis-fabricology-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6iaxzlfzd4/VB-cdImOv7I/AAAAAAAADtQ/iewssijKDwQ/s1600/fifis-fabricology-logo.png" height="81" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">$50 Voucher AND a Miss Kate Layer Cake!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">ONE winner of Fifi's prize is:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Claire Scott</span></div>
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<tr><td>Machine embroidered Towel, hand towel & face washer set, made to order, kindly donated by one of our charm swap members - Meg Pease.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbHMnyi_m4k/VB-4mbdnuoI/AAAAAAAADtg/wbJagl0KMro/s1600/mumcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbHMnyi_m4k/VB-4mbdnuoI/AAAAAAAADtg/wbJagl0KMro/s1600/mumcollage.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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ONE winner of Meg Pease's prize is:<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/113782374@N02/15420816650" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Bonnie & Camille Charm Along Charm Dash pattern by Suesews Too, on Flickr"><img alt="Bonnie & Camille Charm Along Charm Dash pattern" height="400" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15420816650_953059ac5a_z.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sue Sews Too<br />
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A SIX MONTH subscription to Make Modern Magazine! <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; text-align: justify;">Please note: You will receive access to the next three Make Modern issues published </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">after</span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; text-align: justify;"> you subscribe. If you subscribe after Issue 1 is published on 1 September, you will receive Issue 2 onwards</span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_Aw4C8wlfs/VB_wqeFL1uI/AAAAAAAADtw/7S-apUSqOZY/s1600/10643388_10152734693364260_261623122_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_Aw4C8wlfs/VB_wqeFL1uI/AAAAAAAADtw/7S-apUSqOZY/s1600/10643388_10152734693364260_261623122_n.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;">ONE winner of Make Modern subscription is: </span></td></tr>
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Melanie Sim</div>
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Congratulations to everyone on their amazing projects! You are truly all amazing and winners in my eyes - and thankfully it was not up to me to choose!!!! I will be in touch in the next couple of days to organise your prizes!<br />
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I look forward to seeing some of you finish your projects, and of course, as always, will be on the hunt for more fabulous charm square ideas!</div>
MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-57706475407350136452014-10-22T19:23:00.000+11:002014-10-22T19:23:00.345+11:00Bonnie & Camille Charm-Along Linky is OPEN!<div style="text-align: center;">
I may be a couple of days late - but the Bonnie & Camille Charm Along Link up is now OPEN! Unfortunately, I did not finish my quilt! You know the excuse I'm going to use - Tokyo. I'm looking forward to getting around to basting and quilting this baby, but it may be some time before I get to it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15256289158" title="B&C Charm Along Progress by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="B&C Charm Along Progress" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3935/15256289158_0909b50e19_z.jpg" width="617" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">Now - it's your turn! Remember - your projects don't have to be completed! Just link up what you've been able to achieve! I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone's goodies!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;"> I have rounded up these amazing Australian sponsors, with fabulous prizes for some lucky charm-alongers! All you have to do is link up your project at the bottom of this post before </span><u style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">4pm TUESDAY THE 28TH OF OCTOBER, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA TIME, </span></b></u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.5599994659424px; text-align: center;">and the winners will be chosen and announced that night here on the blog.</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HffhHXCc5AE/VB6M_xm8f-I/AAAAAAAADs0/dmpXSIcXaN0/s1600/thimbleblossoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HffhHXCc5AE/VB6M_xm8f-I/AAAAAAAADs0/dmpXSIcXaN0/s1600/thimbleblossoms.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">The lovely Camille Roskelley has offered FIVE lucky participants their choice of ONE PDF pattern from her amazing range - including a couple of stunning new patterns!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0PIWt_sS4/VB_yPYiu9gI/AAAAAAAADt8/Vf58mOF6dnA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-22%2Bat%2B7.55.35%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-on0PIWt_sS4/VB_yPYiu9gI/AAAAAAAADt8/Vf58mOF6dnA/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-22%2Bat%2B7.55.35%2BPM.png" height="276" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">A $50 voucher to spend on the amazing range of Quilter's Solids at <a href="http://www.theozmaterialgirls.com/">The Oz Material Girls</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(Part of voucher is to cover postage costs).</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfzEQBRcX94/VB-bXYAa9wI/AAAAAAAADtE/ckfp-6OIm94/s1600/sponsor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfzEQBRcX94/VB-bXYAa9wI/AAAAAAAADtE/ckfp-6OIm94/s1600/sponsor.jpg" height="251" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://livelovesew.com.au/">Live Love Sew</a> has kindly donated a Scrumptious Layer Cake AND a copy of her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/180971459/xs-and-os-baby-twin-size-quilt-pattern?ref=shop_home_feat_1">X's & O's quilt pattern</a>!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6iaxzlfzd4/VB-cdImOv7I/AAAAAAAADtQ/iewssijKDwQ/s1600/fifis-fabricology-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S6iaxzlfzd4/VB-cdImOv7I/AAAAAAAADtQ/iewssijKDwQ/s1600/fifis-fabricology-logo.png" height="81" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sponsored prize description coming soon!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbHMnyi_m4k/VB-4mbdnuoI/AAAAAAAADtg/wbJagl0KMro/s1600/mumcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbHMnyi_m4k/VB-4mbdnuoI/AAAAAAAADtg/wbJagl0KMro/s1600/mumcollage.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Machine embroidered Towel, hand towel & face washer set, made to order, kindly donated by one of our charm swap members - Meg Pease.</span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;">A SIX MONTH subscription to Make Modern Magazine! <span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; text-align: justify;">Please note: You will receive access to the next three Make Modern issues published </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">after</span><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-family: 'times new roman', times, serif; font-style: italic; text-align: justify;"> you subscribe. If you subscribe after Issue 1 is published on 1 September, you will receive Issue 2 onwards</span></span></td></tr>
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What are you waiting for? Go forth and link up!</div>
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Link up your Bonnie & Camille Charm Projects HERE:</div>
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<a href="http://new.inlinkz.com/luwpview.php?id=459276" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-91146626252428335502014-10-22T08:00:00.000+11:002014-10-22T08:00:02.387+11:00Bright Sky QAL - Ms Nightshade <div style="text-align: center;">
A few months ago, Alyce from Blossom Heart Quilts asked me if I would be interested in joining her Bright Sky Quilt Along? Sure, I said. No problem, I said. And really, it wasn't a problem - I just got my skates on and got the quilt top made incredibly fast! Seriously, this is a super quick pattern to put together! But I then had to leave it languish in my pile of WIP's, because, Tokyo.</div>
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Anyway - today is my stop on the quilt along! So I'm going to show you my version of the Bright Sky pattern. And it's a colour palette I never really envisioned EVER using!</div>
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This, my friends, is Ms Nightshade.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15586303831" title="Bright Sky Quilt Along by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Bright Sky Quilt Along" height="529" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15586303831_7f53e645db_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Isn't she beautiful? I was lucky enough to score a big bundle of Nightshade fat quarters from <a href="http://www.quiltjane.com/">Quilt Jane</a> earlier this year. I know two females in my life who would die over these prints, I just had to wait for the right pattern to use them in. And given Bright Sky's big scale pattern, I brought Nightshade out to play. It took a lot of umming and ahhing to convince myself it was going to work! I mean - olive, pink and black? And CREAM?!?!!? I ordered the solids from <a href="http://www.theozmaterialgirls.com/quilters-solids-fabric-p-5819.html">The Oz Material Girls</a> (their quilting solids really are beautiful to work with!) and was pleased when they arrived and actually co-ordinated well with the prints.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15588921095" title="Bright Sky Quilt Along by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Bright Sky Quilt Along" height="597" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15588921095_f8c7777be0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The next step was to make the cameo of this gothic princess work. Let me tell you - fat quarters and huge scale prints are not ideal! It almost killed me not using a complete cameo, but I basically had to fussy cut this baby so that it was pretty much centred. My fat quarter had the top of the cameo cut off - hence why the bottom is too! The great thing about this pattern however, is that the centre block just had to be 18" square. Which essentially means you can make that square up however you please. You would have seen Alyce's latest version, which she made in to a star, well this one is just a frame around the cameo. Winning.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/15588935955" title="Bright Sky Quilt Along by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Bright Sky Quilt Along" height="424" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3953/15588935955_703490bef9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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I was VERY impressed with my points on the inner star! It was relatively easy to put together in terms of the bias I was working with, but I was a tad worried during the process!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/msmidge/14968206104" title="Bright Sky Quilt Along by Ms Midge, on Flickr"><img alt="Bright Sky Quilt Along" height="424" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/14968206104_e432fe8ae9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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What I WASN'T impressed with, was how my outer star points ended up! Completely my fault, and I am dreading having to unpick to fix the problem. BUT, I can't really not have star points! I'm thinking the reason behind this minor issue was that the outer star rectangular blocks were a little bigger than they should have been, so I SHOULD have trimmed them down a little before piecing it all together. Doh. So that is my next step.</div>
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Now, a little dilemma I'm having is BACKING. I searched high and low whilst in Tokyo for the perfect backing fabric - to no avail. I even had lovely Alyce's help, but nothing. If you head over to <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/">Blossom Heart Quilts today</a>, she is having a little old giveaway - and all you have to do is suggest what fabric I should use for my backing. I look forward to getting some options!</div>
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And just for laughs......here's an out-take from the photo shoot yesterday......</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6WGu4N_nJO4/VEYPnWQ960I/AAAAAAAAD0M/56TgWEGlEos/s1600/DSC_0471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6WGu4N_nJO4/VEYPnWQ960I/AAAAAAAAD0M/56TgWEGlEos/s1600/DSC_0471.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
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Was a tad bit windy....</div>
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I hope you like my version of the Bright Sky pattern! You can find the pattern <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/pattern-shop/bright-sky-quilt/">HERE </a>and the full schedule of quilt-alongers is here:</div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Century Gothic', AppleGothic, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; text-align: justify;">
Monday 29th September – <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/2014/09/bright-sky-qal-choosing-fabric/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Choosing Fabrics Tips</a></div>
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<em>Week 1: Centre Star</em><br />
Monday 6th October – <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/2014/10/bright-sky-qal-week-1-centre-star/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Have Fun With Your Centre Star!</a><br />
Wednesday 8th October – Echo by <a href="http://www.mollisparkles.com/2014/10/bright-sky-qal-echo.html" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Molli Sparkles</a></div>
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<em>Week 2: Piece Outer Star</em><br />
Monday 13th October – <a href="http://www.blossomheartquilts.com/2014/10/bright-sky-qal-week-2-outer-star/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Outer Star Tips</a><br />
Wednesday 15th October – <a href="http://www.myfabricrelish.com/2014/10/yay-its-my-turn-to-share-my-bright-sky.html" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">My Fabric Relish</a></div>
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<em>Week 3: Piece Quilt Top + Backing</em><br />
Monday 20th October – BHQ<br />
Wednesday 22nd October – <a href="http://msmidge.blogspot.jp/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Ms Midge</a></div>
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<em>Week 4: Quilting</em><br />
Monday 27th October – <a href="http://www.prettybobbins.com/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pretty Bobbins</a> free motion quilting guest post here at BHQ<br />
Wednesday 29th October – <a href="http://astitchinbetween.blogspot.jp/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A Stitch In Between</a> (Bright Sky mini)</div>
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<em>Week 5: Quilting</em><br />
Monday 3rd November – <a href="http://theelvengarden.blogspot.jp/" style="color: #6db9ae; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Elven Garden Quilts</a> free motion quilting guest post here at BHQ</div>
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<em>Week 6: Final Linky</em><br />
Monday 10th November – Linky opens here at BHQ for a week</div>
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<em>Voting:</em><br />
Monday 17th November – Linky closes and voting opens for Viewers’ Choice award<br />
Friday 21st November – Winners announced!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4dYAlQaaAU/VEXV0gYjjcI/AAAAAAAADz8/4ryWYqzf-_0/s1600/Bright-Sky-QAL-quilt-along.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4dYAlQaaAU/VEXV0gYjjcI/AAAAAAAADz8/4ryWYqzf-_0/s1600/Bright-Sky-QAL-quilt-along.png" /></a></div>
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I'm also linking up with Freshly Pieced!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uF3Et19FNY4/VEYQ6o3oKSI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/AT0Qdrqb2qs/s1600/wip%2Bwednesday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uF3Et19FNY4/VEYQ6o3oKSI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/AT0Qdrqb2qs/s1600/wip%2Bwednesday.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2365484397183323780.post-32700257481550190632014-10-19T19:12:00.000+11:002014-10-19T19:12:07.104+11:00Sunday Stash - The "I've been to Tokyo and bought lots of fabric but am so stuffed I can't show it all to you" edition!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm home. Crawled in to my own bed at 3.30am this morning. Had a few hours sleep and then have powered on through today - handing out gifts to the kids and husband, sorting all my washing out and then heading to the shops for a SANDWICH!!!!</div>
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Tokyo was amazing. Totally and utterly mind blowing. I promise I will come back when I am more awake and able to type eloquently. In the meantime, I leave you with this.....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hi2QIFU8a-A/VENxDAAwDXI/AAAAAAAADzs/r-H7xGxG-Cg/s1600/DSC_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hi2QIFU8a-A/VENxDAAwDXI/AAAAAAAADzs/r-H7xGxG-Cg/s1600/DSC_0618.JPG" height="596" width="640" /></a></div>
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Approximately 14 kilos of fabric. That I somehow have to make fit in to my <strike>sewing room</strike> shoe box. I may seriously need to destash before they move in.</div>
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Needless to say - the fabric shopping in Tokyo is THE BOMB. Before I almost passed out and lost all energy, I did manage to take lots of pretty photos of these beauties, and will endeavour to have a full blog post featuring them all next Sunday Stash!</div>
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Promise.</div>
<br />MsMidgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04165622200849937469noreply@blogger.com13