Oh! Sweet Everything Of Mine: April 2014

So if it were just to be in her relaxed and fun- loving presents, listening to that soothing glaswegian accents or taking in her funky 50's sense of style I would be there!

But to top all of the above, Caroline Austin agreed to give me a one-to-one Freehand Machine Embroidery lesson at her studio based at the offices above Snow Design & Interiors in Stamford.

I first met Caroline when she worked at Cally Co fabric shop and I went in for a fabric fix. I instantly loved her style and accent and approachable nature.

We quickly realised we are both have our wares stocked at Snow Designs and Interiors in Stamford.

Caroline's work is amazing. Her designs dance off the fabric and one of my favourite pieces is this feather cushion which looks three dimensional - you just want to reach out and touch it!!

I hold no hope or have no plans of doing anything as detailed as Caroline's work. I just wanted to learn a new skill that would complement my bag/ purse making and it was bloodily fun to learn.

Here are some photos of me learning this cool sewing technique.

Learning the technique

It was lovely to be taught by Caroline and we chatted about our kids (we both have two boys) and their craftiness. Her older son who is seven shows a keen interested about what his mum does and she encourages it by having him sit with her while she works. It was lovely finding out that Singer is Scottish made and that most girls, like Caroline, got their first machines at age 5.

Wee busy bee at work

Today I used my darning foot to add a bit of gold to this appliqué cat for this clutch.

Now listed on my Etsy Shop

Caroline offers lessons. Just clink below for info and to buy her wonderful, unique work:

www.twoturtledovesdesigns.com

It must have been a decision I made at the start of this year. You know- new year's resolution and such...

I decided it was time to start making time to make for me.

So far I've made these two items and started one the third:

Today's make: A Salvages. Zippered Purse for my Planner and stationery;

my everyday Sachet

The Laptop bag I've started

working on

I enjoy what I do. I've done it since I was a little girl and it gives me great pleasure making others ( my customers) happy with their purchased bags and purses from Oh Sweet Bag Of Mine.

But making for myself? It is bringing me an unexpected joy and calm and I am hooked!

Have you made yourself anything recently?

Please share photos!!!