kate m sews

A change in hours

2011-08-07T22:28:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone,

I have been in a bit of a thinking mode lately..as well as a busy Mum and in busy sewing mode. It is a never ending job being a parent isn't it. The hardest job in the world. Sometimes seems the perfect job and some times those little darling just drive us to distraction!!!

Anywhoo where am I going with this. Firstly I love love love my little sewing business and am so pleased to have the workshop space. On the flip side of that is that it makes it harder to keep up with all that needs doing at home. Especially now that my husband, a builder, has become very busy in our quake devastated city.

So.... I have decided to change my opening hours at the showroom. Not too much of a change. I just now will be closed on a Tuesday and will no longer be open on a Friday evening. New opening hours are now
Mon 10 am - 2pm
Wed and Thurs 10 am - 2pm
Fri 10 am - 2.30pm

I am more than happy to be there at other times by appointment....I just need a little bit of notice, so please don't hesitate to contact me.

Hope your weeknd went well.

Take care
Kate

A handmade birthday present

2011-08-03T18:16:00.000+12:00

Hi all,

Recently my neice celebrated her 5th birthday. They have also just moved into a new home. Their last home was badly damaged in the Feb earthquake and is no longer habitable.

So I wanted to give her something special for her birthday. What better present than some handmade goodness. Here is what I came up with.........

A fabric bird mobile

Gorgeous Fabric Flowers

She was delighted with them both. It is always so thrilling when they love what you give them.

Onto more sewing for the spring/summer round of fetes which begins on the 15th October. More about that soon. Right now I really must go and get dinner sorted for the family.

Have a great evening

Cheers
Kate

Let it snow.....

2011-07-25T17:11:00.000+12:00

Hi all,

Yesterday with the bad weather that was forecast, all the children could think about when they went to sleep was would there be enough snow for a snowball fight when they woke in the morning.

Well I guess that dreams do come true..... In the night the snow had arrived with a vengence and very cold temps... -9 (gulp)....so this is what outside the front door now looks like.......

The freezing temps could not stop the children. So bundled up, snowball fights and snow sculptures later, they are happy little campers.............

I am too much of a wimp and have been enjoying staying in the warm house with the log fire cranking. Although I have not been doing fun things....cleaning the bathroom and fridge....but I am very happy with how they are both now sparkling!! And my husband cleaned out and sorted the pantry yesterday. I know I know how lucky am I

Hope you are all having fab days

Cheers
Kate

Happy happy

Riccarton Bush Artisan Market

2011-07-11T16:49:00.000+12:00

Hello everyone,

My world has been very quiet actually. So a very quick post with photos of the Riccarton Bush Artisan Market.

This market is held every Sunday at Riccarton House from 11am to 3pm. It is a small market but there is some great foodies, music and stalls to look at. All in a beautiful setting.

I have a stall there. So if you can't make my showroom during the week, come see me at the Sunday market

Happy happy day

Kate

Australia and a craft market

2011-06-27T10:17:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone,

We have actually been home a while but I have been slack getting onto my blog. No surprises there!!!!!!!

We had a great time in Brisbane. The weather was absolutely fab......sunny, warm, just glorious. Shorts and t-shirts weather for sure. First on the list my uncle's wedding. Brilliant day at a totally beautiful location. Such happiness all around. We then spent the rest of the time having a look ardoun Brisbane and up and down the coast. The children (and husband!!) really enjoyed Wet n Wild. Mr M was actually speechless after shooting down the aqua loop at 60km/hr. Not for the faint hearted such as myself. Sea World, the trip along the river at night, staying at Mermaid Beach (big thanks to my uncle and aunt for their apartment), and the Eumundi market were all highlights. But in saying that it was all great. A highlight for my husband and son was definitely seeing their beloved Crusaders play....first time all season.......at Suncorp Stadium. Just a shame they did not win.

So home to get organised for some craft shows. I am attending the Winter Encraftment Market at Villa Maria College on Sat 2nd July.

I have got all my new product sorted and have done most of my cutting out....to be fair I probably could have got more done but there have been some pretty hairy aftershocks....now I think I have earthquake brain. We will never get used to them as each time they give you one big fright. Thankfully we still remain very lucky in our own home with very little damage. Others are not so lucky.

Ok troops. I must get myself away to the workshop. Been a busy morning already as I decided to feed the children pancakes to get them going on a very cold frosty morning. Does leave a bit of a mess though in the dishes category. Oh well they are happy little campers with full bellies.

Hope you all have a great day

Kate

A family trip away so a closed showroom...

2011-05-24T15:49:00.000+12:00

Hi Everyone,

We are very excited in our house to be heading for away for a 9 day vacation to Brisbane, Australia. YAY. My uncle is getting married, which is just fantastic. By all accounts it is going to be a great day.

We also plan to have a couple of days on the Gold Coast.... a bit of sun, surf and theme parks for the kids.

So the showroom will be closed from the 26th May and will re-open on the Tuesday after Queen's Birthday (that must be the 7th June)

I have no pretty pictures to show you as I have spent the week cutting out. Not an exciting job but a necessary one. Hopefully that means I will be go for launch once I return from Australia.

Happy happy day.

Take care
Kate

New Things

2011-05-18T22:53:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone,

I have been busy sewing this week and have some new handmade goodness in the shop. It is late and I do need some shut eye.... so only a short and sweet post.......

Floral Change Purse

tall oilcloth sponge bag with internal pockets

shoulder 'buttercup bag'

shoulder 'buttercup bag'

Happy Happy Day

Take Care

Kate

Oilcloth and an opening.......

2011-05-04T22:04:00.003+12:00

So the day is finally here that I can show you photos of the showroom and let you know that as of Monday the 9th, we are open for business. I will be open Mon - Fri 10am til 2pm. I can also be open by appointment in the evenings and weekends. Just drop me a line and we can arrange something.

The address is

Unit 3/301a Blenheim Road
Middleton
Christchurch

It is on the same side of Blenheim Road as The Warehouse and about 150m past, just after Hubbers. Can be a little tricky to find as we are up the drive behind Speedy Signs. Oh, so many directions but that should make it a little easier for you. There is some parking by the workshop just park in the J B Mooar Builder spots (Mr Mooar won't mind!!). You can contact me if you have any questions about finding the place.

So that is all the necessary written bits. Now for some pretty photos. Just before I show you those, remember my bargain purchase from Trade Me of the Old Bar. Well a bit of white paint, some red spotty fabric and fancy paper has really transformed it. Here are the before pictures

I am sure you can spot the makeover in the showroom. I still have a little bit of fluffing to do in the room....that is more about me being a little fussy of how things look!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The other great news is that I have my oilcloth. Brilliant. It looks devine sitting in the corner of the showroom. I am itching to get sewing with it. Just to remind you it is for sale at $45/m and is 137cm wide. I have also listed it in the online store here. You can see all of the five colours, red dotty, english rose in grey, powder blue deckchair stripe, retro floral in red, and taupe dotty. Just gorgeous.

On the home front. We have had some fab weather in our fair city ( a bit of rain and cold too but we won't think about that.....) so the family has been in the garden. Digging out the old and putting in the new. The children were great helpers...in fact I think that I might have just got the job of taking the photos. Although I did plant the lemon tree... very excited about my lemon tree.

Mr Mooar and I have just been to a friends wedding in Auckland. It was rather special. We were both pleased as punch to see our friend, the groom, so happy as he has had some tough times over the past 5 years. I made a dress for the wedding. The first dress I have ever made......Which did evoke some moments of 'what on earth was I thinking'. But in the end I prevailed (as did my sanity and Mr Mooar's) and here is the end result...........

I have to say, I am quite proud of myself and Mr Mooar looks very handsome!

Just one more pic to show you. Over Easter Mr Mooar and I were very busy tidying up and sorting the workshop....considering it was a tornado zone before it is looking so much better now. Of course the children had to be there with us. So to stop the boredom, Henry (with a bit of help from Liv) decided to do a little bit of building craftmanship himself. So he built his Dad a box with a lid (no photo sorry) and he built me this little car.......

Superb I say. It has pride of place on the shop counter but it is not for sale. A little good luck talisman.

So I look forward to seeing you all in the showroom/shop. Tell all your friends too.

Happy Happy day
Kate

PS If you would like to come and see the showroom or purchase anything before the 9th, give me a call. I will be in and out of there a bit so can arrange something with you. Cheers

Coming Soon......

2011-04-12T16:31:00.001+12:00

Hello,

Just a very quick post as I race out the door to get a mountain of jobs done. I have ordered some oilcloth from the UK and it will soon be arriving..........

The colours available in the above picture as well as taupe dotty. It is $45/m and is 137cm wide. Just gorgeous and very popular. I have added it to the online shop here. If you would like to pre-order some please email me and let me know. It should be here within the next 2 weeks.

Also new and here now is Divine Twine in 5 yummy colours......aqua, lemon, green apple, cherry and cotton candy. This is perfect for craftting, scrapbooking, gift wrapping and so much more......

It will be up for sale in the shop very soon as a full spool of 219m for $30 or smaller reels of 10m for $6. I just need to get a few more photos taken.

On a different note. Work on the showroom is going well. Painting almost finished. Next is the wood flooring to go down. I am really hoping to be finished by the end of this week. Famous last words!!!!!

Wallpaper is up in the bathroom at home. Looks devine!!! Photos soon I promise.

Cheers
Kate

Blog Parties

2011-04-06T09:21:00.000+12:00

Good morning,

Part of the world of blogging is sharing what you do with other guys and gals out there in blogland. So I put my little pinky in the water and 'shared' my drawer makeovers with these 2 blog parties this last week.

There are so many talented people out there doing amazing things. You should drop by and check some of them out. ENJOY!!

Cheers

Kate.

Martinborough and some furniture re vamps

2011-03-31T11:12:00.000+13:00

Good morning all,

The second Martinborough Fair seems such a world away now. It was another good fair day, although a bit of a slow start due to rain. My husband and I met some fantastic people and everyone was very supportive when they knew we were from Christchurch. It was actually a little weird leaving the city and our children (with my sister in Blenheim) and a little emotional as well. In the end it was good to have a wee break away, do some shopping in Wellington with my cousins (who are fab people by the way!) and just enjoy good food and a few beveridges. But it is nice to be home again and have some sense of normailty. The children have really enjoyed being back at school and all their activites. We are very lucky on this side of town to be able to return to 'normal'

I decided before Martinborough that becasue the last 6 months had been so hectic with all that had gone on, that I would take a break from sewing and concentrate on a few things around the house. so with that in mind and the pressure off, I set to work on a couple of sets of drawers.

The first was a queen anne style that I purchased for my daughter. This turned out to be a bit of a mission. I purchased some varnish remover and set to. What I then got was a sticky sticky mess and not much varnish coming off. So I washed it down with soapy soapy water and left it overnight. Now it looks like this.......

Unfortunately it was still very sticky is some places and I could not sand it down as the sandpaper was getting stuck to the sticky mess. Frustration was creeping in and I nearly gave up at this point. I decided to put a coat of paint on and then try to sand it (once it was dry of course!!!) this did help a little and one very tired arm later I had managed to sand it down. It did actually look very cool at this point and my daughter liked the heavy distressed look but we decided it might not look right in the bedroom. So moving onwards and 2 coats of paint and some decoupaging later. Now it looks like this....it just needs some knobs........

Looking pretty amazing if I do say so myself. My daughter love it. Thank goodness. I had to do some major distressing on it because of the sticky mess I had in the beginning but in the end it worked out. YAY!

Next piece was a chest of drawers that my husband and I bought before we were married.

It had been sitting in the garage for some time. I got a bit of inspiration from Kristine at The Painted Hive one of my new favourite blogs. This one was easier to get the varnish off but still a little sticky. I then mixed up walnut and charcoal stain. But when I put it on the first drawer I did not like it. A bit too poo brown (can I say that!). So I sanded it back! I was not sure what to do stain wise and so I diluted what I had mixed up with some meths and then added a bit more charcoal stain. I tried it on the back of the drawer until I got something I liked. Trial and error were definitely visiting our house that day!!! I wiped the stain on, left it for a while and then wiped off with a damp rag. I did remember to use gloves thank goodness. I then put on 3 coats of gloss polyurethane ( no mean feat in the back hall at night).
Now it looks like this........

don't you think that looks fab. Such a great bedside table. It has even made our bedroom less cluttered by giving us some more storage space. Fantastic.

I have also been stripping the purple paint off the trim in our house. this is a horrendous job as there are 2 coats of purple, one coat of peach and one of cream. It is taking forever. Here is a bit of progress.

It is amazing how much brighter it looks already. The bathroom ceiling has had one coat of paint and the wallpaper has arrived from the UK. We have decided on flooring and are hoping to get it all finished by next week. I can't wait to show it off.

My next job, which I have also started is getting my showroom up and running. I have one coat on the walls and am heading back there now to put the next one on and sand my treasures I bought. You can read about those here

Best I get my little self moving or I won't get a thing done today.
Bye for now

Cheers
Kate

How life changes in an instant

2011-02-27T14:41:00.001+13:00

The harsh reality is that that instant will forever be etched in the minds of Cantabrians and that instant has tragically happened twice for our city.

On Sept 4th 2010 our lives were forever changed when we were awoken from our beds at 4.35am by a massive earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale. It was frightening on a level that no one can really explain. There was large amounts of damage to some areas, including our central city. Buildings were demolished and homes were left inhabitable. There was a little luck on our side in that no one died as a direct result of the earthquake. For my family it meant the sudden and tragic death of a much loved grandmother and in the midst of dealing with upset children and so so many aftershocks, we buried her.

Life slowly moved on and the people of this province had returned to work, school and hopefully some sort of normality. We kept telling ourselves that we were lucky, that it could have been so much worse. The aftershocks slowly settled, although some caused more damage and frayed nerves again (Boxing Day comes to mind).

But as the re-building of not only homes and buildings but our lives took place, the unthinkable happened. Another large quake. This one not so strong, 6.3, but closer to the city and at half the depth. This time, luck was not on the side of our city. This one happened at lunch time and much more frightening than the first for so many people. This one devastated our city, more homes are destroyed, buildings have completely collasped and lives have been lost. More lives than we even know. Many more are still missing.

What has touched us as a country is the amount of help pouring into this city from our international friends. The amount of work that is been done by these people and our very own emergency personnel is absolutely outstanding.

As I sit in my home with the sun shining in and my children playing happily outside, I have much to be thankful for. All friends and family working in the city managed to escape safely. Although some were trapped for a time. One friend was buried for 5 hours and others around her did not make it out. Our home is not damaged, we have power and water. I feel so removed from what is happening a few kilometres from my home.

Yet I crave some normality. So I have thrown myself back into my work. I feel quilty and it seems really selfish when all others want is their loved one home, but it is what I need right now. What my children need. My husband (builder bob) has been out helping friends and family with their chimneys etc. What a good man.

There are many many people not so lucky as me. Not only from our fair city but from all over the world. My thoughts and prayers go out to those people. We are still carrying your hopes with us.

Our city will smile again. We will rise again to be the beautiful city that we were. It will take time and much more heartache but we will get there.

Keep safe everybody.

Kate xx

A holiday, a fair and a workshop

2011-02-17T09:46:00.000+13:00

So a few exciting things to tell you about. Because I am just about the worst blogger in the world, there has been a few happenings in my world. I am not sure how others with these amazing creative talents can manage to make all the things they do, organise their families AND write a blog. They are definitely super talented and super organised. As I look around my house that looks like a tornado zone, I just don't know where to begin. So I decided to leave it just now.... oh I know I will pay for it later. At least I have managed to have a bit of a tidy up and put some washing on the line. Some where between organised and chaos, that is where I roll.....

Let's go back a few weeks and start at the top of the list..... a holiday. In other words, a much needed break for our family from the routine in a place we absolutely LOVE! I have to admit though that the journey did not start well with us leaving a few things behind and having to turn back twice!! Thankfully neither time we were very far down the road. So on the road at 6.30am instead of 5am.. Are you stark raving mad I hear you say. But our destination is 6.5 hours away and leaving early not only means the kids sleep in the car for the first few hours but we miss most of the traffic. Not this year though....bummer. Keeping our stops brief meant we kept ahead of it a bit and by 2.30pm we were in the heat setting up the tent.

Unfortunately the weather was a bit hit and miss in the first week. A bit of rain did not stop the kids from having some fun................

Overall we had great weather and a little bit of this.................

and this.......................

and this.................

Oh it is so hard to come back home again. But one must as the work awaits to be done for the Martinborough Fair. Which brings me to the next item on the list. Martinborough is a gorgeous wee town 1 hours drive over the hill from Wellington. A bit if a trek for me. But well worth it. The fair is held on the first Sat in Feb and March and so I make the trip twice. My sister comes with me in Feb and my husband in March. It is a very long hard days work. The fair is held around the town square and there are 400 stalls. Shoppers start arriving by 7am!!!!! This equates to a very early start and we are down at the stall site by 5am setting up and yes it is dark. At 5pm the day is done we are packed up and heading back here........

for a well earned beveridge and to put the feet up. I am a happy camper as most of the stock has gone and everybody has loved my stall and my products. A friend asks if I feel proud. My husband and sister are extremely proud and I am relieved

I have to tell you that even though I have done a few fairs now, I still get very nervous in the morning and can never eat and have to try very hard not to snap at my marvellous band of helpers. Not because they are doing anything wrong but just because I get myself in a bit of a stew. I over worry that the stall doesn't look right and that no one will buy anything. I really should not worry so much.

So home to order more fabrics.....yummy. It is getting very hard to choose. Make a heap more stock and to sort out making a reading folder/book bag that I promised a few ladies. I also have some change purses I want to get done, men's sponge bags and more cushions. Oh no it is that time factor thing again and the mess in the workshop, oh the mess!!

Which brings me to the lucky last item on the list. The workshop. What a god send it is being able to have all my work out of our little house. Unfortunately we have been so busy that we have not managed to get it fully organised yet so it is a bit chaotic but functional. It is heaven I have to say, even in the mess it is in.

So after the March Martinborough fair, I will be getting a little showroom ready. A bit of painting here and there, a bit of flooring put down and these treasures I purchased on trade me (which I am going to paint and put new fabric on) to jazz it up a bit.

It is only a small space but I am really hoping to have it looking great and a place for people to come and see my wares. Watch this space

There it is. A rather long post. I hope I did not bore you all to tears. I must get better and writing more often says the worst blogger in the world.

Bye for now. See you after Martinborough.

Cheers

Kate

Since my last post.........

2011-01-11T10:20:00.001+13:00

Which was forever ago!!! Life here with my family has just been overwhelming and a bit crazy.

I managed to get enough stock sewn for the fete in Southland at the end of November. It was supposed to be in Nokomai but had to be changed to Acton Downs just north of Mossburn. I left on the Friday morning with my husband and friend Trudy. Such a long journey down to Queenstown and such a hot day as well.

We stopped for ages at some road works and I got a bit carried away with taking photos of the lupins on the side of the road. They are everywhere in the Mckenzie Country and Central Otago. It is amazing and beautiful.

The sun shone hot and bright until we reached Cromwell where it became cloudy and decidedly cool. I of course became a bit anxious!!! Rain is not good on market days. But as there was not much you can do about that I decided to just try and enjoy myself. Starting with the view out the window form the apartment. The Remakables and Lake Wakatipu. Stunning......

Then it was time for me to do a little bit of work........

sitting on the floor in the corner with the glue gun

An early morning start in Queenstown on a beautiful already warm morning. I am my usual bundle of nerves and sit quietly in the back seat. the nerves get worse as the weather gets worse. Colder, cloudy, bit of drizzle and some fog!!!! I have had all weather on market days now, except snow. (oh I probably should not have said that). But on with the show...........

Turned out ok in the end even though the rain did come. It wasn't really cold and thankfully the people still came. So home to Christchurch the next day. Another hot day for travelling and an amazing view of Mt Cook across Lake Pukaki. WOW.........

So home to a bit of an enforced break from sewing. Not because I wanted to but because I had too. You see we had great excitement in November in that we bought a house. Yipee!!! Here is our little gem............

if you look closely that is the new kitchen bench on the porch!

Such a cool wee house with an awesome feel. So it was onto the henious process of moving. Going from a larger 4 bedroom house with 2 living rooms to a smaller 3 bedroom house with 1 living space was always going to pose a few problems. So a massive clean out was in order. We did as much as we could until we just ran out of time and had to get everything moved. I literally despise moving.

In the midst of moving my Dad became very ill in hospital with pneumonia fighting for his life. My Dad has been a fighter for the last 5 years battling cancer. He has been absolutely amazing and our family is constantly thankful that we still have him. This time was very scary but once again he has battled through and came home 2 days before Christmas. Go Dad!

The move was also made a little crazier by the fact that we decided to re do the bathroom before we moved in and then the kitchen was done the week after we moved in. Most of the old kitchen was ripped out (was a bit gross with mouldy cabinets). So that meant no kitchen for a little over a week. The kids did get sick of filled rolls for tea!! But it was worth it. Here are some before and after shots. .........

The bathroom is still waiting to be finished but it is functional. We are having a bit of a time deciding on flooring and a wall colour. Oh the decisions. Do you realise how many different shades of white there are?????

The kitchen was finished on Christmas Eve just in time to have my husband's family for Christmas day. Which was a great day but I have no photos!!!

So Christmas has passed for another year. The decorations are packed away and the sewing life has begun in earnest again. Because our house has no extra space for 2 businesses (my husband has his own building business) we have leased a warehouse with a front office. I am now sewing there and will make 3/4 of the office a showroom. I must say it is nice to have all the business stuff out of the house and actually have somewhere to go for my work. It has taken a little bit of adjusting though especially with the kids home on school holidays. But the workshop is still a novelty for them and they haven't minded too much spending a bit of time there.

We are away on our annual summer holiday to Golden Bay on the 15th. We cannot wait. It is going to be bliss!

So there is my life in a nutshell for the past few months. It is a little less crazy, thank goodness.

I hope you all have had a great festive season and the new year has started well for you. Good luck with everything you do this year.

Take care

Kate

Time is flying buy........

2010-11-17T22:52:00.000+13:00

Something we are all saying to ourselves and before we know it Christmas will be here. I know, I shouldn't say that!!!

So another successful fete has been completed. Hunters Garden Marlborough Market Day in Blenheim has been and gone. It was another beautiful sunny day and plenty of shoppers came out. My family of helpers was in full force again. On the day my husband and brother in law were up early with me and down to the market to set up. Here they are......

After their compulsory coffee, they tootled off home and dropped my sister back down for the morning shift!! What a great family. Here's some pics of the stall all set up and ready for business...

in this photo is my spotty chair that I bought from the local recycling store, and resanded and recovered her. She is up for sale but the more that day went on the more I kept thinking that I would just keep her.....

I am quite happy with how the stall is looking but still think some minor tweeking is needed!!!! I can hear my husband cringe from here.

So one more fete before the end of the year. Off on a massive journey to Southland. One hour south of Queenstown. More sewing in store to top up the stock pile (which is currently all stacked up in our bedroom ahhhgh....). Then I will be able to shop for some more fabric....... ahh bliss.

Right now though it is off to bed otherwise I will be dreadful getting up in the morning. Although I might just take a sneak peek at my favourite blogs.....................

Happy happy days

Cheers

Kate

The fete and other things

2010-11-02T09:43:00.000+13:00

Hi All,

I have been so busy sewing for the Culverden Fete that I have not had time for a post. I managed to get quite a bit of work done in the end but there were a few late nights.

My friend Pat and I travelled up the night before and met my Mum up there with her car full of stuff as well. We set up the gazebo and all the shelves and tables. Then off to the pub for a great meal and a couple of drinks. They were well deserved!! Mum Pam tootled off home and Pat and I walked along the road to the B&B. Such a lovely place to stay and the owners were very accomodating and great hosts. We had a fantastic full cooked breakfast in the morning. Yummy. All set for the day, a short walk back into Culverden to be picked up by my inlaws and back to the fete.

It was an absolutely beautiful day and the shoppers came out in the truck loads. A very steady busy day and following the pack up and a wee glass of wine, I drove away a happy little sewer!!!

So no it is onto the next one. The Hunters Garden Marlborough Fete in Blenheim. We take the whole family and stay with my sister so as well as making a few sales it is a fun weekend.

Apologies again for no photos. I forgot to take my camera again!!!! I will get some at Blenheim. Promise.
So must go and sort out Molly with a bath. she is home with the chicken pox. Oh what fun. Poor wee mite.

Need to try and get some work done to add to the stock. Some things are quite low in numbers. A good problem to have.

Happy happy day
Cheers

Kate

A little lost.....

2010-10-18T09:37:00.000+13:00

Hello everyone,

It has been such a long time since I have written a post. I must admit that after the earthquake and my grandmother's death, it was a little hard to stay focused for a week or two. Then it became a mad panic to try and get things completed ready for the Centrewood Estate Spring fete in Waimate. I got enough done in the end but isn't it always the way that we wish we could have doen that little bit extra.

I have no photos at the moment to show you as my children spilt water on my lap top last week and it is dying!! What a nuisance that is. It is in at the computer shop having a damage report. I only hope they can get all my information off it. Oh my gosh, there was a doozy aftershock. We have still been having quite a few of those !!! Not particulary fun. In fact it is fair to say we are all well and truly over them.

So the day for Waimate started early with pick up of the helpers at 4.45am!! For a girl who is not a morning person that is hideous. But it was worth it in the end. After surviving the strong wind gusts and a bit of rain, there was a good crowd of people who had a wee spend and I went away from the day quite happy.

I am now tackling the mountian of work that needs to be done for the Culverden Fete. There will be a few late nights I think.

So I must head into the sewing room and get cracking.

Happy happy day

Kate

Time to get busy

2010-09-13T13:56:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone,

For us without any major damage to our homes, life must keep moving on. It almost seems a little surreal given that we are trying to install some sense of normality within our own family life and there are those within our city that are dealing with a disaster zone on a daily basis. Last week almost seems like a blur as somehow we found the strength to try and come to terms with my grandmothers sudden death.

We are still getting the aftershocks, in fact one just made me dive under the table from cutting out fabric on the floor!! However most of the time we are coping with them as they are getting less in intensity and frequency. Some sleep is being had which makes a huge difference.

The children have gone back to school today. It made for a tough day for me as having them around meant that I knew they were safe as well as having something else to focus on. I do think they were quite happy to go and see their mates. It has made the house very quiet and almost a little eerie. Makes it a little difficult to focus! But with my first show just over 3 weeks away, I need to get cracking! My mother now has these key fobs, mop tops and shower caps to price.........

The swim bags are also completed and cord all threaded through. So that is something. I am a little behind in my work given recent events but am hoping to still get plenty made in time.

A new thing on the radar is a different syle of kids sponge bag. I have made up a sample.......

Turned out great (if I do say so myself!!!!!). This morning I have spent on the floor cutting more out. When my zip order arrives I will get these made.

On a lighter note, the school recently had a talent show. After auditions, Liv and Molly made the finals. Molly dancing with a group of friends and Liv singing solo. They were great even though they were very nervous. Liv got 3rd place and Molly Highly Commended. One of the highlights of the show was the item perfomed by the school yukele orchestra.............

.....made up of the school staff. Who knew we had one of these. Every school should have one, they were brilliant. Well done!!!!

Righto back to work.

Happy happy day

Cheers

Kate

A sad week

2010-09-10T10:44:00.001+12:00

Hello everyone,

Well what a week it has been in our city. We were woken on Saturday morning to the violent shaking of the house along with the terrible sound like a freight train coming through the house. Along with many Cantabrians we have been very fortunate not to have sustained any major damage. Our thoughts go out to those folks who have lost their homes or who have sustained a lot of damage.

For us the worst aspect of the day was the loss of a much loved grandmother from a massive heart attack early Saturday morning. It has been a terrible shock to our family and we are very much still coming to terms with everything that has happened.

I hope that all who read this from Canterbury are doing ok and managing to cope with all the aftershocks.

Take care everyone
Kate

Been away a while...

2010-08-25T17:36:00.000+12:00

Hello all,

It has been some time since I last posted some news. Life has been very busy in this household over the past few weeks.

My sewing for the round of craft shows beginning in Oct is moving along nicely. The make up purses, girls headbands and flower hair clips, ladies sponge bags are all done and I am now onto the mop tops and shower caps. I hope to have those completed by the end of the week. I have no photos to show you as they have gone to my parents house for pricing. I am filling up their spare bedroom and my Dad tells me I will have to start taking things back soon!! Not sure where they will fit in this house so I will definitely have to stall him on that.

We have celebrated a number of family birthday this month, including mine and Olivia, she turned 10, double figures. WOW.

Olivia and I went to Auckland for a long weekend to celebrate our birthdays. We had such a fab time (even though it rained all the time!!!!!). Caught up with some friends, went shopping, and checked out a large number of cafes. The highlight of the trip was to see the musical 'Grease'. Brilliant show which we both loved. So much fun to do the 'grease lightening' to live music. What a blast.

I did manage to visit a couple of suppliers whilst in Auckland and have some new interfacing to try and well as some new fabric (which I didn't really need but just couldn't resist)

Winter club sport has now finished. The children will miss it, however I will be pleased for a little break before the summer chaos begins. Henry still has a few rep rugby games over the next 2 weekends. Here is my little rugby super star.....

All the children have been sick with the flu/nasty viral bug but all better now. Thank heaven.

Tomorrow is a big day with the girls in the final of the talent show at school. I cannot wait to see them up there on the stage.

Righto, that sums up my world for the last few weeks. Hope all is well in yours.

Happy happy day

Cheers

Kate

A better day today....

2010-07-28T11:25:00.000+12:00

Hi Everyone,

Yesterday was a bit of a sh*&%y day. I won't bore you with all the details. Because I will rant and rave for two long!! Needless to say that it involved our little blue diahatsu sirion named Edwina. But it is all sorted today and she now has a warrant and a registration. YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!

So moving onto happier things. My daughter Olivia (age 9 and gorgeous, here she is above.......) has picked up the craft mantle. Armed with a box of buttons and some wire..

She has created this beautiful heart........

A bit of finessing and some ribbon to hang and they will be all set to sell on my stall at the Culverden Fete. Here is another that she is working on....

I am very proud of her.

I myself am working on a stack of make up purses which I ma hoping to have finished by the end of the week. I have 72 of them cut out and last night finished cutting out the plastic coating. Now I'm off to cut out the waterproof liner.

Have a happy happy day

Cheers

Kate

Forgot

2010-07-21T14:27:00.001+12:00

Oops. Forgot to thank everyone for their wonderful comments on the new online shop. I have even had my first order and a 'girls night in' booked for next month. Going to be oh so busy.

Also big thanks to Emily (my future sister in law) for her help with the photography. She is a very clever chick. And my cousin Sarah, for her help with the blurbs and wording. Another super clever chick

K :-)

Chaos......

2010-07-21T14:22:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone,

So chaos has hit the sewing room. There is fabric and patterns all over as I start the mammoth job of cutting out. I have to keep getting up to give my knees and back a break.

Take a look .......

The family help has now kicked in. The peg bags have gone to my mother to price, these newly cut out bags will be off to my mother-in-law to get the interfacing put on and my wonderful husband has folded the washing. Thank heaven for families!!!

Righto back to the floor. A little more to get done before getting the children from school.

Happy happy day
Cheers

Kate

The online site is live.....

2010-07-19T22:36:00.001+12:00

Yipee. It is 10.30pm and I have finally got the online site to go live. Wow! Exhausting but satisfying at the same time.

So take a look, click here.
There is also a link on the side bar at the right.

Happy shopping!!! I'm off to bed.

Cheers
Kate

Culverden Fete here I come.....

2010-07-19T12:25:00.001+12:00

Good morning,

So on another dreary day (although the sun is trying to peek through), the one bright shiny moment is that my application for the Culverden Fete has been accepted. Yipee!! I am thrilled as it is tough competition with the standard of applicants so high and they turn away a largenumber of people. So that means one thing..... get busy sewing. Now the panic button needs to be hit!!!

I was going to start with more cutting out today but I really do need to get this website finished so I have been taking a few more photos for that. I am almost done and ~~think~~ know (and really hope) that I will put it live tonight.

So a short post as I must get cracking. Just needed a wee break from the frustrating job and not being a good photographer.

Happy happy Monday

Cheers
Kate

A new bag ......

2010-07-16T16:58:00.000+12:00

Hello.

Hope your school holidays have gone well. Boy they have just flown by haven't they.

Since I have been sewing my bags, I have had numerous requests for nappy bags. I have never been game enough to try. Until now that is. One of the lovely teachers from my children's school, who has become a big fan of mine, called me and requested a nappy bag for her friend. How could I refuse. In fact then I got quite excited and told her I could add all these options. Afterwards, as my children zoomed around the house making every sort of mess imaginable, I did have a panic attack and wonder, what on earth was I thinking!!

So I did what my Nana (who is a marvellous 87 years old) does and told myself to get it together. With a bit of internet research and the fabrics she had picked, away I went. There were a few frustrating moments (and more than a few curse words I might add) but it is all done and ready for pick up. I think she will be very pleased with it. So for the great reveal..... here we go..........

Complete with inside pockets, one side pocket and a cell phone case. Just lovely. She should be here any minute to pick it up. Here's hoping she likes it as much as I do!!

(PS sorry the photos aren't great. I am still working getting that better)

Happy happy Friday. Have a great weekend.

Cheers
Kate

What have I been up to.......

2010-07-12T10:28:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone,

Well the school holidays have been keeping me busy with the 3 children at home. They have actually been very good and not too many world wars have broken out! They were very tired from a long school term. So being in their pj's all morning in heaven to them.

I have been busy on the sewing front getting ready for the round of shows which start in the spring time. I have applied and am just waiting to hear if my applications are successful. So I have made a whopping 68 peg bags!! Gosh I really was over those by the time I was done. A pic of about half of them.....

What has also kept me busy is my office chair redo. Remember this......

The brown steel and the mustard brown covers are gone and now it looks like this......

What a huge difference and so styly!! It was a bit of an effort to take off (so many staples......thankfully my husband came to the rescue... and whilst he was watching the All Black test. What a guy!!)and unpick the old seat covers as the fabric was starting to fray and the cotton quite brittle. I needed to keep them together as much as possible to use as a pattern for the new covers.I ended up being up way too late making the spotty covers because I got so excited about it. I am still thinking that I may paint the black wheels and knobs but it will have to wait for now. I have other projects and sewing that I need to get onto. Any hoo I am super pleased with it. Now I just have to get the rest of my office looking as sharp. It is a tornado zone at the moment!

Must away and get some work done. The heater should have warmed up my office now. It is freezing here this morning because of a very heavy frost.

Have a happy happy day

Cheers

Kate

WOW.... THIS IS BRILLIANT

2010-07-02T19:57:00.000+12:00

The best thing ever has happened this week. I have had a mention in the Avenues magazine. This is a monthly mag about goings on around Christchurch. They have a 'hit and miss' column and I made the hit list. Yipee, so amazing and such a big thrill.
So here is the magazine........

and here is the little blurb inside........

So how about that. Made my week. If anyone is new to the blog and wondering where all my online range is. I am in the process of making a new web page with my own online cart. Contact me if you are interested in coming to see the range. Keep checkign back in as the new web store will be up very soon.

In other news, my children had the last day of term today. So that meant a disco tonight. Molly got dressed up as Wonder Woman. It was a mad panic to make a costume this afternoon, as the $50 costume at Spotlight was just too much to stomach. Check her out...she looks fab

I'm loving the wig!! The other two did not want to get dressed up but Olivia did wear her pink cowboy hat! I forgot to take a photo. She will be cross with me. I will get a photo tomorrow as she is having her dance recital. Busy day tomorrow.

Hope you are all well. Enjoy the sunshine tomorrow. It is a bit dodgy for Sunday.

Cheers
Kate

Exciting news

2010-06-28T09:52:00.001+12:00

Good morning,

Just a very quick blog as I need to do my morning tidy up before sitting down at my new sewing machine (more about that next time) to sew the velcro onto the peg bags.
Some very exciting news. My son (Henry aged 11) was nominated from his rugby team to go to the rep rugby trials for the Ellesmere Under 12 rugby team. And guess what he made it!!!! We are so very very proud. His acheivement is all the more greater because he was so very very nervous the morning of the trial and was not even sure if he would go. But we had a good chat (and a hug) and away he went. The weather was appalling, cold and heavy drizzle. So he came home chilled to the bone and covered in mud, with the biggest smile on his face. Just brilliant.
OK, I rave on about that enough. Back to work!!

Happy Monday
Cheers
Kate

PS remember I talked about Elizabeth from To Be Charmed. Well here is a couple of pictures from her blog, go over and check her out here

What is happening...

2010-06-26T17:04:00.001+12:00

Well for one thing the rain and dreary-ness (is that even a word??) continues. Luckily we did get in sport this weekend, and with 2 wins and a loss, we have a pretty happy household.

I have finished cutting out the peg bags, and started on the clutch purses, change purses and glass cases. So thinga are starting to tick along. More fabric has arrived. Bit of a mixed bag really. Some I am thrilled about, others still waiting to get thrilled about! There are times when a fabric looks it's best once it is made up into scrumptious bags. Can't wait for that. Here is a pic of the new fabrics (not the best sorry - lighting is all up the shot!)

I should have actually mentioned in my last blog, that Molly (my baby) turned 7 on the 12th. She had a blast of a day and even ended up having 2 parties!! Not bad going. Her little hockey team sang her Happy birthday after their game. She was that thrilled. Here she is looking coy. Something she does very well

After much searching, isn't the internet wonderful?, I have found some new bag patterns to make for the coming show season. Here's a sneak peek

I can't wait to get making these. I purchased them from sewingwithme in Toronto. How exciting and how clever is she.

Rightho, I am heading off to the ballet tonight and so I must away and get dinner organised for the family and get myself spruced up.
Hope all is well with everyone. Happy happy day

Cheers
Kate

A new purchase

2010-06-22T12:07:00.002+12:00

Hello everyone,

I am still not used to blogging. I am not sure there is anybody out there!! It is quite hard having a little 'chat' with oneself. But I suppose I must look it as written account of what has been happening with me and my family.

It has been the same old same old here. The children are very tired and looking forward to the school holidays. Thankfully we have had some good weather and sport has been on. Henry's rubgy team remains unbeaten. A big thrill for them and they continue to play very well. He was pleased as punch with his tackling and scavaging for the ball skills on Saturday. Olivia's netball team also continue to win and they go from strength to strength to each week. I do have to say though that it is very frustrating on the sideline watching the girls (ages 8-9) all standing still and not moving for the ball. They will get it though. And finally the youngest Molly, plays hockey. They had a draw. Great excitement for us in that Molly very nearly scored her first goal. Oh it was sooo very close. So there is the sports round up.

I have started cutting out fabric, beginning with something easy, peg bags! It has been slow going as I injured my arm a few weeks back whilst buying fabric at Spotlight and I now have a Tennis Elbow. It is an extremely annoying thing to have. I have started physio and it is improving but I have to take things easy on the work front.

So I have spent some time on trade me looking for items to bring some life into our home. I have bought this office chair

and am hoping to use this wonderful tutorial from Elizabeth at To Be Charmed (more about her later) to make it a bit more fancier. Check out the tutorial here. I love her blog and the dreamy things she finds.

So back to the fabric cutting I go before I head out to take Edwina (our pale blue Daihatsu Sirion) for her service!!

Hope all is well with everyone. Enjoy the sunshine. Happy day!

Cheers
Kate

Sunshine

2010-06-09T13:18:00.000+12:00

Good morning,

It is an absolutely beautiful day here and the sun is shining brightly. Thank heaven for that. It certainly does boost the soul!

So my morning has been spent very busy with washing. Getting all those sheets and duvets onto the line that have been sitting in a pile on the laundry floor! Yay. How very exciting!! It is the simplest things in life.

I have put the new plants that I bought out into the sun. I am quite convinced that they are smiling as well

Willa, our 2 year old black labrador is also enjoying being outside without getting her feet wet. She is definitely a bit of a sook!!

I have wrapped the orders ready for pick up

I think they look fantastic.

So after all of my busy-ness, I have had some well deserved chocolate. Whittakers Peanut Block one of my favourites.

Now I am off to tackle the sewing roon. It is in need of a tidy once again. Wish me luck!!

Till next time

Cheers

Kate

My lovely friend

2010-06-03T10:49:00.002+12:00

Good morning,

Well now that I have done the morning clean up and literally scoffed a packet of Mand M's, it is time for a quick post before I get onto my work ( this morning I am taking photos for my website).

I have this absolutely terrific friend whom I have only meant once. Sounds a little strange I know. Her name is Fiona Robinson and she owns this devine shop in Tarras, Central Otago.

Not that I have ever been to her shop but those that have tell me it is gorgeous. Fiona is one stylish very clever girl.

We first 'met' (by phone) a few years ago when she approached me about stocking my products in her shop. She was just opening then and was looking for different things. Here are a couple of pictures of her shop as it was when she opened.

So what started as a business relationship soon became a friendship as we realised we had similiar tastes and ideas. We talked often and of all sorts of things not even remotely related to business. So last year when we were both attending a Trade Fair in Christchurch, we met up in person. It was just lovely to finally meet her and now we know what each other looks like, not just an imaginary friend, so to speak.

We have not talked as much lately, but when we do somehow we always manage to perk one another up, share ideas and have a great giggle. Everyone should have a phone friend like that!

If you are ever in Tarras, please stop in and see her. Tell her I sent you. I have no doubt you will find a treasure.

Righto, off to work. Have a happy happy day.

Cheers
Kate

An exciting day

2010-06-02T13:53:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone,

What an exciting day. I have finished my orders, just marvellous. Here is how some of them look.

Something else exciting in my day was the postal delivery and a part of my fabric order from the US. Just yummy. I am in fabric heaven again!!

And my last big thing of the day was fabric shopping at some of the local quilters shops and here is what I got.

How scrumptious are these!! There will be some fun to be had.

So now I have a little time before picking up the children from school, so I need to have a go at designing my business card. I think that will take me more time than I have but I am willing to start. I will keep you posted of developments.

Hope your days have some excitement in them as well.

Cheers Kate

lessons in photography

2010-05-30T16:31:00.001+12:00

Hello,

Today the rain has finally stopped. The sun did try to shine through the clouds but it is still very grey and dreary. We have had a 'day at home' for our family today. Although the children did spend half an hour down at the local park the rest of the day has meant movie watching for Dad and the kids and some tidying up for me followed by an afternoon on the computer trying to learn some photography tricks!!

So much to learn and all so mind boggling. However I did feel that I got some grasp on my Canon EOS Digital Camera. Here is one picture which I don't think turned out too bad for a beginner. Need a bit more work on lighting perhaps.

But really that is enough time on the computer and the day is now darkening, so that must mean dinner time is approaching.

Till next time

Cheers
Kate

A song appropriate for today and to keep you smiling

2010-05-27T12:06:00.001+12:00

Hello again,

Just been doing some internet browsing (in between the housework!!!!!!) and here is a song that I think is just great for today. It is playing now. How cool is that.

Really must finish the housework

Cheers
Kate

Rain rain go away

2010-05-27T10:47:00.002+12:00

Good morning all. Just when we think the rain has stopped along comes the hail and today is absolutely freezing. Hopefully we get some sunshine soon. Sports practices and games have been cancelled and so the children will be completely stir crazy!

So where to begin. I must get myself better orgainsed for this blogging. The big hiccup that I have is that I am just no good at getting photos taken to put with my words.

I have been very busy making things for the showcase evening that I had on Tuesday night. I sent out an invite to family and friends to come and have a glass of wine and some nibbles and to browse my product range. The evening was a great success. Such a lovely relaxed atmosphere. No stress like there normally is with market days. Yay for that. Thanks to all my wonderful family and friends who helped out and all of those who came out in the bitter cold and wet evening to take a look. We will definitely do it again. Watch this space.

Here is some pics of what I made for the night. Apologies for the 'not so good quality' photos. It will give you some idea anyway. The glass cases are a new item for me. Made from a pattern I purchase online from Studio Cherie. Great pattern and they turned out lovely.

Now I have a couple of orders to fill, a sewing room and a house to tidy. It is a never ending battle the tidy house, but at least it will last until the children get home from school!!

Oh and by the way, the big half marathon walk. I made it!!! Yipee. It was hard work the last few km's as my feet were getting quite sore. My time was 4 hours 2 mins, which included a 10 min toilet stop (the queue for the toilet was long!), so I am very happy. Not so sure that I will do another big walk. I think 15km is about my limit.

Here is a pic of the wine bottle that we received when we finished. Not so sure that I won by a nose considering the fastest walker was a fella in a time of 1 hr 56 mins. Little bit faster than me.

Almost forgot to tell you, that I made a friend in blogland. The girl that I purchased my tray from on trade me is a very clever "doer-upper". Take a look at what she does,www.restyledvintage.co.nz . I think it is all fab. Go you Karen.

Right, so back to the housework. Have a great day

Cheers
Kate

Ever So Busy.......

2010-04-30T21:41:00.001+12:00

Well I have been away from blogland for a while. Where does the time go?? I know that everyone asks themselves the same thing.

It has been a busy week here. Molly, the youngest, had a very sore tooth and gum after having a filling last week and spent most of the weekend having to have Pamol. A visit to the school dental nurse on Monday revealed an infection in the tooth. Poor wee mite had to have the tooth extracted. She was very very brave, just a few wee tears. It wasn't until I dropped her back at school that the whole thing just got too much for her and I was soon returning to pick her up for cuddles, medicine and an afternoon on the couch.

The rest of the week was spent trying to get up to walking speed for a half marathon walk that I am doing in Blenheim next Sat.

I have been walking 2-3 times a week, each time getting very sore hips. Very much feeling like an old lady. But yeaterday I managed the full 21km in 4 hours. My gosh I was that jolly pleased with myself but my gosh I was quite sore. I am looking forward to the event next week but am really not sure if I will do another.

Today I am excited as I have bought 2 things on Trade Me to use on my stall as display.

I think they will both look great with brightly coloured fabric items in them. Don't you?? I will pick them up next week and have a bit of a play!!

The sewing has begun with a clean up of those partially finished items and items that went wrong and need unpicking. Yes I can make mistakes just like everyone. Very frustrating isn't it.

Well I must away for some kip as it is up early for hockey and rugby games tomorrow.

Catch you all soon

Cheers
Kate

Yummy things

2010-04-17T20:24:00.004+12:00

So instead of getting busy with the sewing that I really need to do, I have been 'surfing the net' and settign up my blog. I am constantly amazed by the number of really talented people out there.
I came home from work (at my part time reception job where there was nothing to do, hence the web browsing!!)this morning all inspired to launch myself into my work but alas I could not cope with looking at the pile of clean washing that needed folding any longer. So unfortunately the washing won.

I have discovered these beautiful necklaces by Lisa Leonard. Aren't they just gorgeous. I do beleive I will have to lay down some serious hints to my husband in order to get one. Perhaps I might just treat myself. The sewing will definitley have to get done first!!

Enjoy yourself looking over these. I have put a link on the side under "My Wish List"

My children are back at school next week, so some normality in my day will prevail. Hence work should get done.

Hope to have some pictures up of some new things I have made.

See you then
Cheers
Kate

A newbie

2010-04-16T10:24:00.000+12:00

So I have decided to make a blog about my world as a crafter. Could be a bit crazy as I have no idea what I am doing. It is supposed to be easy so we will see.
Right now it is school holidays and I promised my children that I would taken them to the bike park. So blogging will have to wait!

Watch this space. Hopefully there will be more soon

Cheers
Kate