tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63011792658058486122024-03-06T14:34:01.940+11:00My Black CardiganNikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-67837360313281725552010-03-31T23:30:00.002+11:002010-07-03T00:35:44.093+10:00My Holiday HouseI have been struggling with my blog and blogging for a while now. Working out how it fits in with all the things I want to do and want to be is challenging. But rather than stop blogging, I have decided that My Black Cardigan is going to be my holiday house..... a place I love to visit, where I get to catch up and visit friends, and where I can leave the day to day life behind.<br /><br />But even though holidays are wonderful, there is no place like home. Home is where the heart is, where my heart is. Home is where I am needed more at the moment and it is where I want to be.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S7Qm49mLmAI/AAAAAAAADpw/y1BC1Ev7zAo/s1600/IMGP8410.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S7Qm49mLmAI/AAAAAAAADpw/y1BC1Ev7zAo/s320/IMGP8410.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455027808701749250" border="0" /></a><br />But I am going to leave my suitcase packed so that whenever I have some time, I can grab my bag and head on down to my holiday house. See you then xxxNikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-29560337477916915702010-03-24T08:20:00.004+11:002010-03-25T08:24:13.479+11:00Little PeopleMy <a href="http://meandewe.blogspot.com/">sister</a> made these gorgeous little people for my gorgeous little people.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6kz7QpmV0I/AAAAAAAADn4/alx1Ra3wvDI/s1600-h/IMGP8294.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6kz7QpmV0I/AAAAAAAADn4/alx1Ra3wvDI/s320/IMGP8294.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451945917083440962" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />And they have been busy - getting together around the dinner table to share a meal, play <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pictionary">Pictionary</a> or have family meeting...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6iWHBtC_2I/AAAAAAAADno/UckJQhpYoRg/s1600-h/IMGP7869.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6iWHBtC_2I/AAAAAAAADno/UckJQhpYoRg/s320/IMGP7869.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451772396392611682" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />... and being tipped out the back of the dump truck along with the trains, cat and rocks!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6iWHiJZjHI/AAAAAAAADnw/_H7BIS3DGQo/s1600-h/IMGP8287.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6kz7khtW1I/AAAAAAAADoA/TGVsxB2CYCM/s1600-h/IMGP8296.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S6kz7khtW1I/AAAAAAAADoA/TGVsxB2CYCM/s320/IMGP8296.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451945922419055442" border="0" /></a></div><br />If you'd like to make some bead people, Trudi is having a <a href="http://meandewe.blogspot.com/2010/03/giveaway-from-me-to-ewe.html">giveaway</a> - a pack with all the bits and pieces you need to make your own. Head over and say hello to <a href="http://meandewe.blogspot.com/2010/03/giveaway-from-me-to-ewe.html">enter</a>.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-75356460409824419832010-03-11T08:45:00.002+11:002010-03-11T08:59:49.098+11:00My Creative SpaceOne day soon, little hands will help small people climb up high in these branches,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCz1Y91v3OAzEGNSg91KsB7OY69h6j4GZvQ33PyH69VqJd0XOcnwfkTSAVxW9ZT9qCtFeHn8PNjxP2Up1U3ZSy9fAHsxZ02zj-6W9_UZEpcwXliPQtMT8JhfTUnjr3BDsDqtQ9W5ZZxAA/s1600-h/IMGP8050.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCz1Y91v3OAzEGNSg91KsB7OY69h6j4GZvQ33PyH69VqJd0XOcnwfkTSAVxW9ZT9qCtFeHn8PNjxP2Up1U3ZSy9fAHsxZ02zj-6W9_UZEpcwXliPQtMT8JhfTUnjr3BDsDqtQ9W5ZZxAA/s320/IMGP8050.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446929633908816530" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />show animals <span style="font-style: italic;">(and let's be honest, probably trains too!)</span> that they can play and rest in the shade,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dhqOifPtI/AAAAAAAADcM/V3yvUOvsoGc/s1600-h/IMGP8046.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dhqOifPtI/AAAAAAAADcM/V3yvUOvsoGc/s320/IMGP8046.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446929652413054674" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />and help dragons and dinosaurs reach up to munch on the leaves to fill their bellies,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dhpQ1UJqI/AAAAAAAADcE/n81pdYVqAlU/s1600-h/IMGP8047.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dhpQ1UJqI/AAAAAAAADcE/n81pdYVqAlU/s320/IMGP8047.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446929635849021090" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />and I look forward to sometimes sitting back and watching the adventures, and sometimes being part of them.<br /><br />This thrifted woollen blanket is going to be a playmat for my kids. The plan is to dry-felt a river and make trees and rocks and flowers and hills and lots of things the kids can move about and set up in whichever way they want.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dhqXISfKI/AAAAAAAADcU/_QUDvmg4k6w/s1600-h/IMGP8009_2.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dw3Ljv8WI/AAAAAAAADcc/-pvLrWn53LU/s1600-h/tree.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 209px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5dw3Ljv8WI/AAAAAAAADcc/-pvLrWn53LU/s320/tree.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446946367625752930" border="0" /></a></div><br />I started with this tree. It is made using beautiful felt that I got from a new online shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MeandEweShop">Me & Ewe</a>. It is 100% wool and hand-dyed.... by my sister. She's taken a big jump into her own business and I'd love you to stop by and check out the gorgeous pure wool felt she has... and to say hi to my <a href="http://meandewe.blogspot.com/">taller-but-she's-still-little sister</a>!<br /><br />For other spaces full of creative goodness, <a href="http://www.kootoyoo.com/">Kirsty's</a> got the list!Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-57058032418976098302010-03-07T15:29:00.008+11:002010-03-07T16:32:35.032+11:00A tart, a pie and stuff that starts with "t"I tell my husband that 'I am a lover not a cooker' in the hope that his mind may start to wander and he wont notice that I am serving up chicken snitz and vegies for the third time that week. The truth is that I don't enjoy cooking. It just seems like a whole lot of time and effort put into something that will be gone in a few minutes.<br /><br />Having said that, if push comes to shove, I can sort of cook. We had some friends over for dinner so I made this delicious lemon tart for dessert. Thankyou Cathie for <a href="http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/2009/05/lemon-tart.html">your help</a>.. you know <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/06/melbourne-epicure-deeelicious.html">your lemon tarts</a> are my weakness!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMuCbz0I/AAAAAAAADV0/Iwq6_oFCWw0/s1600-h/IMGP7768.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMuCbz0I/AAAAAAAADV0/Iwq6_oFCWw0/s320/IMGP7768.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445746070960983874" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Because I only had a smaller than suggested pan, I had some pastry left over. A quick call to Mum and I made a sweet Cherry Pie <span style="font-style: italic;">(at the risk of ruining my reputation, yes I did sing and hum and dance to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdDxz2bkfhE">this</a> while I was baking.... and it felt good!)</span>.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtM6Ldt5I/AAAAAAAADV8/Dv-QLeFF5R8/s1600-h/IMGP7771.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 210px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtM6Ldt5I/AAAAAAAADV8/Dv-QLeFF5R8/s320/IMGP7771.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445746074220083090" border="0" /> </a><br /></div><br />This is an easy one that looks and tastes way better than it should for the amount of effort required. Blind bake your <a href="http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/2009/05/lemon-tart.html">pastry</a>. Drain a jar of pitted cherries. Add a couple of tablespoons of arrowroot or cornflour to the syrup and stir until it thickens. Spread the cherries over the pastry. Cover with the syrup. Allow to cool then put it in the fridge. It tastes extra good with icecream.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtAttiCqI/AAAAAAAADU0/5FKvbeX0Yj0/s1600-h/IMGP7737.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 177px; height: 116px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtAttiCqI/AAAAAAAADU0/5FKvbeX0Yj0/s320/IMGP7737.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445745864714881698" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtA0VeUrI/AAAAAAAADU8/0CtPB-BqpuU/s1600-h/IMGP7739.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 115px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtA0VeUrI/AAAAAAAADU8/0CtPB-BqpuU/s320/IMGP7739.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445745866493022898" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtBMIQosI/AAAAAAAADVE/YS4SrC1lPcU/s1600-h/IMGP7740.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 115px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtBMIQosI/AAAAAAAADVE/YS4SrC1lPcU/s320/IMGP7740.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445745872880050882" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtBUJToII/AAAAAAAADVM/Uk6_YVJ0LZo/s1600-h/IMGP7741.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 174px; height: 115px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtBUJToII/AAAAAAAADVM/Uk6_YVJ0LZo/s320/IMGP7741.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445745875031924866" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMM2bIrI/AAAAAAAADVk/tmCeWfc2dkk/s1600-h/IMGP7752.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 116px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMM2bIrI/AAAAAAAADVk/tmCeWfc2dkk/s320/IMGP7752.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445746062052238002" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtM6Ldt5I/AAAAAAAADV8/Dv-QLeFF5R8/s1600-h/IMGP7771.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 118px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtM6Ldt5I/AAAAAAAADV8/Dv-QLeFF5R8/s320/IMGP7771.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445746074220083090" border="0" /> </a><br /></div><br />Then after dinner and too much dessert, I set my friends up with the <a href="http://www.myrtleandeunice.com/2010/03/t-is-for-towel-tea-towel-giveaway.html">"stuff that starts with T"</a> tea towel. I am pleased to report that they passed with flying colours and all 48 "t" pictures were identified.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMcXYKrI/AAAAAAAADVs/ocSpkxuOuCo/s1600-h/IMGP7765.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 231px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S5MtMcXYKrI/AAAAAAAADVs/ocSpkxuOuCo/s320/IMGP7765.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445746066216987314" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />How about you? Can you name all 48? If you think you can, visit <a href="http://www.myrtleandeunice.com/">Tania</a> and let her know. She's having a <a href="http://www.myrtleandeunice.com/2010/03/t-is-for-towel-tea-towel-giveaway.html">giveaway</a> of this fab tea towel/dinner party game that she designed.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-51232891984276875662010-03-04T09:56:00.009+11:002010-07-03T00:37:54.554+10:00My Creative Space - My Baby DollRemember old "<a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/blast-from-past.html">What's her name?</a>".......? Well she's all fixed up and it wasn't too difficult. Here's what I did....<br /><br />Unpicked about 10cm of a side seam and pulled out the stuffing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q4FqvD_I/AAAAAAAADTk/s9DF3436654/s1600-h/IMG_0794.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 183px; height: 244px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q4FqvD_I/AAAAAAAADTk/s9DF3436654/s320/IMG_0794.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547248852504562" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEKpLwFI/AAAAAAAADT0/9aAcuZItNqA/s1600-h/IMGP7656.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 243px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEKpLwFI/AAAAAAAADT0/9aAcuZItNqA/s320/IMGP7656.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547456346603602" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Washed her in the washing machine and hung her on the line <span style="font-style: italic;">(<a href="http://moobeardesigns.blogspot.com/">Steph</a>, I can hear your cries of fear from here!).</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIp01nJI/AAAAAAAADUU/Sm9nA3ci9bE/s1600-h/IMG_0792.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 236px; height: 177px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIp01nJI/AAAAAAAADUU/Sm9nA3ci9bE/s320/IMG_0792.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444548632948087954" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIzA9DDI/AAAAAAAADUc/d7b2Kt0zlMw/s1600-h/IMG_0793.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 177px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIzA9DDI/AAAAAAAADUc/d7b2Kt0zlMw/s320/IMG_0793.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444548635414826034" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Soaked her head in a bowl of boiling hot water which smoothed out the lumps and bumps and gave her face a good scrub.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q22EzHdI/AAAAAAAADTM/L7UdAv4klL8/s1600-h/IMG_0780.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 183px; height: 244px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q22EzHdI/AAAAAAAADTM/L7UdAv4klL8/s320/IMG_0780.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547227486985682" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEv5NTXI/AAAAAAAADUE/rcm9BNqjAPY/s1600-h/IMGP7659.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 244px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEv5NTXI/AAAAAAAADUE/rcm9BNqjAPY/s320/IMGP7659.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547466345926002" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Restuffed her with lots of new polyfill stuffing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q4FqvD_I/AAAAAAAADTk/s9DF3436654/s1600-h/IMG_0794.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 254px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q4FqvD_I/AAAAAAAADTk/s9DF3436654/s320/IMG_0794.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547248852504562" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEKpLwFI/AAAAAAAADT0/9aAcuZItNqA/s1600-h/IMGP7656.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 253px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEKpLwFI/AAAAAAAADT0/9aAcuZItNqA/s320/IMGP7656.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547456346603602" border="0" /> </a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q2Zs2j7I/AAAAAAAADTE/F9rdsGrmxA0/s1600-h/IMG_0778.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 248px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q2Zs2j7I/AAAAAAAADTE/F9rdsGrmxA0/s320/IMG_0778.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547219870355378" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEY6226I/AAAAAAAADT8/6ky0PCOpK9U/s1600-h/IMGP7657.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 163px; height: 247px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rEY6226I/AAAAAAAADT8/6ky0PCOpK9U/s320/IMGP7657.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547460178828194" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />It is amazing what a difference these few things made.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q38t462I/AAAAAAAADTc/P6WtHN5Dm0A/s1600-h/IMG_0786.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 177px; height: 236px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47q38t462I/AAAAAAAADTc/P6WtHN5Dm0A/s320/IMG_0786.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547246449814370" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rD03cMYI/AAAAAAAADTs/DTnL0tenCb4/s1600-h/IMGP7652.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 156px; height: 236px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47rD03cMYI/AAAAAAAADTs/DTnL0tenCb4/s320/IMGP7652.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444547450500821378" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />She is now slightly less creepy <span style="font-style: italic;">(honestly, who can be that happy all the time!) </span>and I must admit it is kinda cool to see my kids playing with something I used to play with... especially now that she sits up properly to be fed.....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIYHYZ8I/AAAAAAAADUM/aM3qFNxZ1FY/s1600-h/IMG_0755.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 159px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sIYHYZ8I/AAAAAAAADUM/aM3qFNxZ1FY/s320/IMG_0755.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444548628194027458" border="0" /> </a><br /></div><br />...although I think I need to let me boy know that she is not ready for solids just yet!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sJWBobAI/AAAAAAAADUs/ZPafs6g9rlg/s1600-h/IMGP7654.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 236px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S47sJWBobAI/AAAAAAAADUs/ZPafs6g9rlg/s320/IMGP7654.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444548644812909570" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Head over to see <a href="http://www.kootoyoo.com/">Kirsty</a> for more creative spaces.<br /></div></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-17309003046889227732010-02-18T12:28:00.008+11:002010-05-29T00:01:19.355+10:00My Creative Space - WalletWe have lift off....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3zBGZqIlhI/AAAAAAAADJc/7qNnbX9WdOk/s1600-h/IMGP7460.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3zBGZqIlhI/AAAAAAAADJc/7qNnbX9WdOk/s320/IMGP7460.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439434765667702290" border="0" /></a><br />A new project that has been bouncing around in my head for a while has finally been started. Let's hope I arrive at the other end on this in one piece!<br /><br />Moon walk on over to <a href="http://www.kootoyoo.com/2010/02/my-creative-space_18.html">Kirsty-the-Cleaning-Fairy's</a> place to visit other spaces of creativeness....Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-81229122970131627762010-02-16T22:03:00.009+11:002010-05-24T22:54:00.470+10:00Loads of Fishes SlouchSo many of us make beautiful things for others..... and it's easy to forget that we deserve beautiful things too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3p8bDs_n7I/AAAAAAAADJE/Obuxg58UGIM/s1600-h/IMGP7358_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 293px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3p8bDs_n7I/AAAAAAAADJE/Obuxg58UGIM/s320/IMGP7358_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438796304295632818" border="0" /></a><br />This is my new bag. The pattern is the <a href="https://www.nicolemdesign.com.au/shop/intermediate-bag-patterns/2067-small-slouch-bo3054.html">Small Slouch</a> from <a href="http://www.nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/">Nicole Mallalieu</a> and those gorgeous fishes are a <a href="http://theaandsami.blogspot.com/">Thea & Sami</a> design, <a href="http://www.thea-sami.com.au/teatowelLinen_fishes_black.html">Loads of Fishes*</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3p8alON6RI/AAAAAAAADI8/lmm1TOrrSB4/s1600-h/IMGP7353.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3p8alON6RI/AAAAAAAADI8/lmm1TOrrSB4/s320/IMGP7353.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438796296113482002" border="0" /></a><span><br />It's the perfect size to take everything you need for a night out with good food, good conversation and an amazing person sitting opposite you.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3qABjNHvbI/AAAAAAAADJM/aIE29VWK0YM/s1600-h/IMG_2433.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S3qABjNHvbI/AAAAAAAADJM/aIE29VWK0YM/s320/IMG_2433.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438800264121793970" border="0" /></a><br />Hey.... why don't you make something for yourself? Go on....<br /><br /><br />*<span style="font-style: italic;">I'm sorry Thea, but those fishes are way too beautiful to be drying dishes!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-59990086524082858572010-02-07T13:44:00.007+11:002010-02-12T20:02:33.611+11:00Some things for me, something for youSome lovely things I have been given...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24tGdj5L9I/AAAAAAAADCE/Z0fMpAF4Ico/s1600-h/IMGP7389_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24tGdj5L9I/AAAAAAAADCE/Z0fMpAF4Ico/s320/IMGP7389_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435331389320409042" border="0" /></a><br />Thankyou to Jolie for these <a href="http://tropicalsoup.typepad.com/tropicalsoup/2009/11/100-posts-giveaway.html">beautiful things</a>.... The Twisted Sisters Sock Workbook and some hand dyed yarn. Jolie also kindly sent some extra yarn and bamboo needles. For a girl who wears woollen socks to bed all year round<span style="font-style: italic;"> (tragic but true!)</span>, I am very grateful.<br /><br />I'm not sure how I <span style="font-style: italic;">met</span> Jolie but I love visiting her place, <a href="http://tropicalsoup.typepad.com/tropicalsoup/">Tropical Soup</a>. Aside from the gorgeous photos and cute things she makes, I often find myself laughing because it's <a href="http://tropicalsoup.typepad.com/tropicalsoup/2010/01/the-dancing-skirt-aka-its-not-a-tutu-mama-because-i-am-three.html">funny</a> OR because I am a little <a href="http://tropicalsoup.typepad.com/tropicalsoup/2010/01/ice-skating-kitten-food-socks-and-pudding-all-on-the-quiet.html">scared</a> at the adventures her twins get up to. Hmmmm, fun things for me to look forward to! Jolie is very sweet... why not pop over and say hi.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24swxG-MnI/AAAAAAAADBs/sYI5uzQiVpA/s1600-h/IMGP7387.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24swxG-MnI/AAAAAAAADBs/sYI5uzQiVpA/s320/IMGP7387.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435331016610689650" border="0" /></a>Thank you also to <a href="http://thehandmaden.blogspot.com/">Kelly</a> for the voucher at Retro Mummy I won in her <a href="http://thehandmaden.blogspot.com/2009/11/its-giveaway-time.html">giveaway</a>. As a very thrifty crafter, being able to buy myself some beautiful fabrics was a real treat. Thankyou so much Kelly.<br /><br />And now something for you. I have one of <a href="http://bettsykingston.blogspot.com/">Bettsy Kingston's</a> new patterns, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Far Away Tunic</span> to giveaway. Bettsy has a range of patterns you can see <a href="http://www.kelanifabric.com.au/index.php?PCID=11948">here</a>. To win this pattern, all you need to do is leave a ONE WORD comment describing your weekend. Why weekend and why only one word? Well, it's Sunday afternoon and why not! I'll draw the winner on Friday 12th Feb.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24sxvtOvjI/AAAAAAAADB8/sA50hzNRoSY/s1600-h/IMGP7390.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S24sxvtOvjI/AAAAAAAADB8/sA50hzNRoSY/s320/IMGP7390.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435331033414155826" border="0" /></a><br />Hope your one word for this weekend is a good one. xxx<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">**GIVEAWAY CLOSED.... Congratulations to </span><a style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://ifonlyihadchocolate.blogspot.com">Sarah</a><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"> who won!***</span><br /></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-2599257924741594232010-02-02T21:10:00.009+11:002010-02-02T21:57:22.829+11:00A birthday torchMy niece wanted a torch for her 3rd birthday so while I didn't think it was the most exciting present, I bought one for her. And I am so glad I did.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gAyttgpxI/AAAAAAAAC_8/eaQKCPPx8SM/s1600-h/IMGP7150.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gAyttgpxI/AAAAAAAAC_8/eaQKCPPx8SM/s320/IMGP7150.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433593821686441746" border="0" /></a><br />Rather than buy her a cheap and nasty kid's torch, I bought a plain silver, heavy duty torch.... much better suited to a busy 3 year old! I also thought this would be appealing as it was a "proper" torch. I made a carry case for it so it can be worn around her neck for easy access while exploring.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gBh0m6yPI/AAAAAAAADAE/QbCtRxIrcZA/s1600-h/IMGP6893.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 178px; height: 269px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gBh0m6yPI/AAAAAAAADAE/QbCtRxIrcZA/s320/IMGP6893.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433594630991694066" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gBiORTrpI/AAAAAAAADAM/QWLCYCovs1g/s1600-h/IMGP6894.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gBiORTrpI/AAAAAAAADAM/QWLCYCovs1g/s320/IMGP6894.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433594637880372882" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My niece loved the torch. She disappeared with her cousin after the party had finished and they were found hiding under a blanket with the torch. Just them, the torch and their imaginations.<br /><br />Torches are definately on my birthday-present-list now. They are not expensive and encourage exploration and wonder. A perfect present for a little person discovering their world.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gB152enMI/AAAAAAAADAc/W2VsWJZJVTk/s1600-h/IMGP6881.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gB152enMI/AAAAAAAADAc/W2VsWJZJVTk/s320/IMGP6881.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433594975996517570" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gB1NsCOkI/AAAAAAAADAU/1bj9rjvexB4/s1600-h/IMGP6879.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S2gB1NsCOkI/AAAAAAAADAU/1bj9rjvexB4/s320/IMGP6879.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433594964141554242" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-36803650598681981192010-01-27T14:20:00.002+11:002010-01-27T20:07:07.691+11:00A pram for my boySo I wrote a big long post wondering why<span style="font-style: italic;"> we* </span>are so comfortable giving dolls and prams to girls, but not to boys. But I decided it was too wordy and too long and I was having trouble articulating my thoughts.<br /><br />So all I will say is that I have been thinking a lot lately about the toys my children play with and how I - and others - influence them with the toys we give them.<br /><br />All this thinking started with a pram given to my girl for Christmas. When she is not busily pushing <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/05/birthday-cakes.html">Horse</a> here and there, my boy happily pushes <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/04/bug.html">Bug</a> around the place. So when my sister offered me another pram, I happily took it for my boy. My girl's pram is pink so I thought I would change this one for my boy <span style="font-style: italic;">(or am I worried what "we" would think about my boy pushing a pink pram..???)</span> so I replaced it with red and blue train fabric. My boy loves trains, as does my girl.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1Oz9g2DNrXfjGzs8Gobpb_X0Ni0YD5IA74gQXDk9svML9LfTT5Ow5gdc4rB-vULXTkPCPecLhm6QgiCANdwkXK7czMU3QlbuTuoOpDpme-CnU2aALW_KSqi6uKdfpuuNQNfQpQ6PIAUW/s1600-h/IMGP7228_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1Oz9g2DNrXfjGzs8Gobpb_X0Ni0YD5IA74gQXDk9svML9LfTT5Ow5gdc4rB-vULXTkPCPecLhm6QgiCANdwkXK7czMU3QlbuTuoOpDpme-CnU2aALW_KSqi6uKdfpuuNQNfQpQ6PIAUW/s320/IMGP7228_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430898749114381474" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S15tocyZdzI/AAAAAAAAC4E/Ztl8Sjp74FI/s1600-h/IMGP7225.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S15tocyZdzI/AAAAAAAAC4E/Ztl8Sjp74FI/s320/IMGP7225.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430898742345168690" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Then clearly on a parenting and sewing high, we went to get some jobs done and the kids took their prams. It was a fun but short trip... and we didn't get the jobs done! But I guess there is plenty of time for jobs.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1-ztArMByI/AAAAAAAAC4c/yelkYipV6dA/s1600-h/IMG_2312.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1-ztArMByI/AAAAAAAAC4c/yelkYipV6dA/s320/IMG_2312.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431257261488736034" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">*we: as in a big general "we". Of course there will be exceptions to the general we. I hope I can be one of them.</span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-3631974010810269852010-01-20T22:33:00.004+11:002010-01-20T23:42:23.091+11:00My Little Tulip<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">My girl is wearing a <a href="http://nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/2010/01/impromptu-button-hole-gauge-and.html">Tulip Dress</a>, made from <a href="http://nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/">Nicole Mallalieu's</a> new pattern. This dress is really sweet, with pleats on the front and back of the skirt, giving the dress its "tulip" shape.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bsRU1QxGI/AAAAAAAAC20/NAu7aGv9Wuw/s1600-h/IMGP6837_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bsRU1QxGI/AAAAAAAAC20/NAu7aGv9Wuw/s320/IMGP6837_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428786183235748962" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bsRsI4xlI/AAAAAAAAC28/Pt0aoadCWx8/s1600-h/IMGP6839_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bsRsI4xlI/AAAAAAAAC28/Pt0aoadCWx8/s320/IMGP6839_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428786189492078162" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bqYaPpC-I/AAAAAAAAC2U/PN_MS3cZtwM/s1600-h/IMGP6834.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bqYaPpC-I/AAAAAAAAC2U/PN_MS3cZtwM/s400/IMGP6834.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428784105924398050" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The pattern is really detailed, with lots of techniques not often included in children's clothes. Nikki has done a brilliant job of explaining these techniques, together with step-by-step instructions, sewing tips and a heap of photos and diagrams.<br /><br />Stay tuned to <a href="http://nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/">Nikki's blog</a> for more info on when the 'Tulip Dress' pattern will be available.... it's very soon! And if you'd like to win a copy of her new pattern, Nikki's having a <a href="http://nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/2010/01/impromptu-button-hole-gauge-and.html">giveaway</a>....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bqZbODmyI/AAAAAAAAC2s/9irFeQYsjjs/s1600-h/IMGP6865.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1bqZbODmyI/AAAAAAAAC2s/9irFeQYsjjs/s400/IMGP6865.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428784123366054690" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-53082205217295477582010-01-17T13:02:00.008+11:002010-01-27T14:46:29.816+11:00Homemade BackpacksI like the idea of the kids having their own bags when we go out. I know this means another two things to count <span style="font-style: italic;">(and another two things to possibly lose!)</span> but I think it will be worth the effort. The plan is that the kids will be empowered to pack and carry their own bags, and be responsible for looking after their own things. That's the plan anyway!<br /><br />I used the <a href="http://www.e-junkie.com/madebyrae/product/91333.php">Toddler Backpack pattern</a> from <a href="http://madebyrae.blogspot.com/">Made by Rae</a> after seeing the pattern and some very cool truck fabric over at <a href="http://3redbuttons.blogspot.com/2009/10/day-15-creative-space.html">Angie's place</a>. I told Angie I loved the trucks and she <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/just-because.html">sent me some</a>. Sweet her... lucky me!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jwh95rKNI/AAAAAAAAC10/7KvooFc5ROc/s1600-h/IMGP6708_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jwh95rKNI/AAAAAAAAC10/7KvooFc5ROc/s400/IMGP6708_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427524229789329618" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1JwhqJJT-I/AAAAAAAAC1s/WRUI0blQvME/s1600-h/IMGP6697_2_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1JwhqJJT-I/AAAAAAAAC1s/WRUI0blQvME/s400/IMGP6697_2_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427524224485511138" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I used denim as the base for the backpacks and laid out a heap of fabrics for the kids to pick one for the front. My boy chose the trucks and my girl chose purple on green <a href="http://www.thea-sami.com.au/petsandbones_jerseys.html">'Pets and Bones'</a>, a super cute print from <a href="http://theaandsami.blogspot.com/">Thea & Sami</a>.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jy3KyX-CI/AAAAAAAAC2M/t_9OuZ5AJTc/s1600-h/IMGP6766.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 205px; height: 308px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jy3KyX-CI/AAAAAAAAC2M/t_9OuZ5AJTc/s400/IMGP6766.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427526793048881186" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jy23oo6QI/AAAAAAAAC2E/cvddU2JxgdQ/s1600-h/IMGP6765.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 308px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1Jy23oo6QI/AAAAAAAAC2E/cvddU2JxgdQ/s400/IMGP6765.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427526787907774722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The instructions were easy to follow but they are a lot of work to make. Even though I used a heavy denim and added extra structure to the base, they don't hold their shape very well. I saw that <a href="http://and-so-i-sew.blogspot.com/2010/01/packed-and-ready.html">Karen</a> has also made one and is going to add interfacing next time, which would help.<br /><br />This project challenged my "when to make, when to buy" thinking in terms of time and costs.... especially when my boy let out a very loud squeal of delight at a $5 Thomas the Tank Engine backpack in Coles.... hmmmmmmm!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1JwiA3k9zI/AAAAAAAAC18/DWp9xaUoARs/s1600-h/IMGP6717_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/S1JwiA3k9zI/AAAAAAAAC18/DWp9xaUoARs/s400/IMGP6717_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427524230585841458" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"><u>Edited to add:</u></span> <a href="http://and-so-i-sew.blogspot.com/">Karen</a> has used interfacing and template plastic and purse feet to help with the structure of the backpack. Check out her hints <a href="http://and-so-i-sew.blogspot.com/2010/01/were-off.html">here</a>....<br /></div><br /></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-69340109628900366062009-12-23T08:39:00.007+11:002009-12-23T09:02:12.715+11:00A saved tree, another tradition and Merry ChristmasWe didn't have a Christmas tree and didn't really want to buy one... real or artificial... for lots of reasons. But when my Mr and I drove past this dead tree lying on the side of the road, we knew we'd found our tree. It is different and odd and not what you would expect and we love it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SzE-aKhn31I/AAAAAAAACo8/VN8sYNxfJQo/s1600-h/IMG_1280.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 291px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SzE-aKhn31I/AAAAAAAACo8/VN8sYNxfJQo/s320/IMG_1280.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418180445926317906" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bD4g80XCgOFG7RPhlEWNuDqHO7_po8TZWlHsveZ9cqxkRMCEsDgfRLDHsWv0MTQMFGxteZ5wVPTPpFDGIvUW5ST5Ctz07jPOaMhi_objDfK_mlNi79RHAJi6teZrzm-4ZyNLFhWmvOqU/s1600-h/IMG_1481.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bD4g80XCgOFG7RPhlEWNuDqHO7_po8TZWlHsveZ9cqxkRMCEsDgfRLDHsWv0MTQMFGxteZ5wVPTPpFDGIvUW5ST5Ctz07jPOaMhi_objDfK_mlNi79RHAJi6teZrzm-4ZyNLFhWmvOqU/s320/IMG_1481.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418180449725357698" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Hanging on it are decorations that have meaning to us including two new ones this year, the first of a new <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/happy-birthday-bunting-banner.html">tradition</a> <span style="font-style: italic;">(who would have thought that having children would make me get all tradition-y!) - e</span>ach year we'll make a new decoration for the tree. This year, I made my two little reindeers. Next year my little reindeers might make their own.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtxHAHYD3HGOWhyphenhyphenZ5uQ8Eicwj9_JMLrTB6PtlJsy-ZEUPU-55AGlg9OpCNW6asaxnQN0GVsv1JVKRa_kvV7DzNr3PAXoAvfTMmrTULoOzmOwKxvfS8QFOAnGLT19Ct2GbdX8semMbGuOU/s1600-h/IMG_1484.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtxHAHYD3HGOWhyphenhyphenZ5uQ8Eicwj9_JMLrTB6PtlJsy-ZEUPU-55AGlg9OpCNW6asaxnQN0GVsv1JVKRa_kvV7DzNr3PAXoAvfTMmrTULoOzmOwKxvfS8QFOAnGLT19Ct2GbdX8semMbGuOU/s320/IMG_1484.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418178639469180882" border="0" /></a><br />Also on the tree are two little stockings made just for my reindeers. Thankyou <a href="http://www.colouredbuttons.com/">Trixi</a>. They did make it off the kids' fingers and onto the tree!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SzE8w_1QzUI/AAAAAAAACoc/XjaOjRiONvY/s1600-h/IMG_1482.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SzE8w_1QzUI/AAAAAAAACoc/XjaOjRiONvY/s320/IMG_1482.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418178639169637698" border="0" /></a><br />So all that's left to say is Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you. Thank you for stopping by my 'place' this year. It has been amazing to meet so many wonderful people whose paths I would never have crossed until I started blogging. I hope you all enjoy the time spent with your special people, whatever you are doing and whatever you are celebrating. I look forward to chatting to you again in the new year. xxxxNikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-16017445945617060582009-12-15T09:46:00.011+11:002009-12-15T10:32:53.213+11:00Woof woof, woof woofIt's full steam ahead in the <span style="font-style: italic;">'Handmade Christmas Present Department'</span> over here at MBC Headquarters. On the finished list is <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/miss_marzie/2702939524/">Poppy and her Puppies</a> for my <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/10/assessed-with-dogs.html">dog-assessed niece</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFBzGu6BI/AAAAAAAACl8/QOa7psK_p_0/s1600-h/IMG_1367.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFBzGu6BI/AAAAAAAACl8/QOa7psK_p_0/s320/IMG_1367.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415232236648589330" border="0" /></a><br />My Poppy has 4 puppies, including twins. I thought my niece would think this was pretty special as her mum is a twin and she has twin cousins.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFClgSlTI/AAAAAAAACmE/2JISuxeOkIM/s1600-h/IMG_1372.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFClgSlTI/AAAAAAAACmE/2JISuxeOkIM/s320/IMG_1372.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415232250177557810" border="0" /></a><br />There is also lots of discussions with my niece at the moment about families and how they are all different.... just making sense of her changing world and the world around her <span style="font-style: italic;">(as we are all trying to do I guess!). </span>So joining Poppy and her puppies is Mr Poppy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFDXl7QzI/AAAAAAAACmM/NiiyVe7wuYE/s1600-h/IMG_1376.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybFDXl7QzI/AAAAAAAACmM/NiiyVe7wuYE/s320/IMG_1376.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415232263622968114" border="0" /></a><br />This cute pattern is an <a href="http://audreyandmaude.blogspot.com/">Audrey & Maude</a> design available from <a href="http://retromummy.com/item_133/Audrey-Maude-Poppy-her-puppies.htm">here</a> and <a href="http://www.kelanifabric.com.au/index.php?PCID=12112&PSO=236&PSID=AMPHP&PSV=Primary&CDO=">here</a>. I made Mr Poppy at 100% and Poppy and the puppies at 90% of the original pattern. The pattern says to use felt for the ears, tail and legs but a lack of appropriate coloured felt and a need to get started and finished, resulted in machine sewn bits.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybJemcwt8I/AAAAAAAACmk/pX_QMZqReyU/s1600-h/IMGP7394_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 182px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SybJemcwt8I/AAAAAAAACmk/pX_QMZqReyU/s320/IMGP7394_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415237129514039234" border="0" /></a>And a big thankyou to all the good wishes you guys sent me about getting <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/12/make-your-own-kids-books.html">back to work</a>. It was ridiculous how nervous I was! This motherhood thing can do wonders for your self confidence in some areas, but it can take a battering in others. Anyway, I am happy to report that within a few minutes, it was like I had never left. I even wondered at one point if I had actually had children! So it all went well and it looks like I'll be doing some more work in the new year.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-14777290697888757402009-12-03T08:25:00.007+11:002010-07-03T00:39:38.966+10:00My Creative Space - Recycled Musical ShakerWe had a hard rubbish collection round here not long ago, and when I saw an old vaccum cleaner on the side of the road, I was reminded of a session I went to at uni about making your own musical instruments. So I grabbed the vaccum cleaner hose and now we have some shakers for the kids to rock out with, with Mr on the guitar.<br /><br />Here's how to do it....<br /><br />You'll need a hose of some sort (I used a vaccum cleaner hose), electrical tape, rice or lentils or stones and a stanley knife.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY1BE_vFSI/AAAAAAAACcA/AqXisgwP4F8/s1600-h/IMG_9951.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY1BE_vFSI/AAAAAAAACcA/AqXisgwP4F8/s200/IMG_9951.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410570294969439522" border="0" /></a><br />Form a circle to decide the size of the shaker.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYysKWF_aI/AAAAAAAACao/CcY_rZBcQuk/s1600-h/IMG_0335.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYysKWF_aI/AAAAAAAACao/CcY_rZBcQuk/s200/IMG_0335.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410567736604884386" border="0" /></a><br />Cut it with the stanley knife. This is what you'll have.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYysaAi9CI/AAAAAAAACaw/tbDM2S96dkQ/s1600-h/IMG_0337.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYysaAi9CI/AAAAAAAACaw/tbDM2S96dkQ/s200/IMG_0337.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410567740809475106" border="0" /></a><br />Use the piece of paper to make a funnel to pour the rice/lentils/stones into the hose.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYys43LynI/AAAAAAAACa4/8mJG2C4NxaM/s1600-h/IMG_0338.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYys43LynI/AAAAAAAACa4/8mJG2C4NxaM/s200/IMG_0338.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410567749091707506" border="0" /></a><br />Cut about 3cm into one end of the hose. Be careful not to spill the rice/lentils/stones out the other end.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYytSyCweI/AAAAAAAACbA/jHK7GxCiyzg/s1600-h/IMG_0344.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 145px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYytSyCweI/AAAAAAAACbA/jHK7GxCiyzg/s200/IMG_0344.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410567756049465826" border="0" /></a><br />Cutting the end helps to push one end into the other end of the hose to form a circle.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYyt-fhpPI/AAAAAAAACbI/UAOT4zFe-FU/s1600-h/IMG_0347.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYyt-fhpPI/AAAAAAAACbI/UAOT4zFe-FU/s200/IMG_0347.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410567767782958322" border="0" /></a><br />Cover the join with electrical tape.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYy9YXl3TI/AAAAAAAACbQ/xIU6qzao8_c/s1600-h/IMG_0349.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYy9YXl3TI/AAAAAAAACbQ/xIU6qzao8_c/s200/IMG_0349.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410568032427040050" border="0" /></a><br />Wrap the tape around several times to make sure it's secure. You could tie ribbons or pieces of material on it for extra bling.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYy9jDHUuI/AAAAAAAACbY/MetQ_vq_1YU/s1600-h/IMG_0351.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxYy9jDHUuI/AAAAAAAACbY/MetQ_vq_1YU/s200/IMG_0351.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410568035293942498" border="0" /></a><br />That's it. Not only does this reduce landfill by a little bit, the kids get to play with something they helped create and they can make beautiful<span style="font-style: italic;">-ish</span> music! All they have to do is shake, shake, shake.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY3G5lZRAI/AAAAAAAACcg/SNP5VFmoboU/s1600-h/IMG_0958.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 271px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY3G5lZRAI/AAAAAAAACcg/SNP5VFmoboU/s320/IMG_0958.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410572594008638466" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY3GnLLj9I/AAAAAAAACcY/rFcB1KnFLg8/s1600-h/IMG_0959.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxY3GnLLj9I/AAAAAAAACcY/rFcB1KnFLg8/s320/IMG_0959.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410572589066850258" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />And it seemed that a bit of bouncing, jumping and rocking from side to side helps too!<br /><br />For more spaces that are full of creative stuff, stop by <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/">Kirsty</a> who is also making music...Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-16206244187209033182009-12-01T16:48:00.011+11:002009-12-01T17:14:10.698+11:00Ready to play in the sunIt's all about hats, hats, hats round these parts at the moment. After making sure my <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/2-hats-2-hats-4-hats.html">friend's girls</a> are ready for the sun, I finished off hats for my two kidlets.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSxIDb351I/AAAAAAAACag/JiGg6eyjcOw/s1600/IMGP6514.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 245px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSxIDb351I/AAAAAAAACag/JiGg6eyjcOw/s320/IMGP6514.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410143804298094418" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSvqzawD5I/AAAAAAAACZ4/VNcnvOj6yjA/s1600/IMGP6515_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSvqzawD5I/AAAAAAAACZ4/VNcnvOj6yjA/s320/IMGP6515_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410142202270584722" border="0" /></a><br />Using Nicole Mallalieu's <a href="https://www.nicolemdesign.com.au/shop/21-kids-hats">Kids Hat pattern</a> again, these are made using lightweight denim with a band of fabric on the crown that matches the fabric used for the brim lining.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSws1vOE5I/AAAAAAAACaY/CvIaZQJ7M5w/s1600/IMGP6522_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 258px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSws1vOE5I/AAAAAAAACaY/CvIaZQJ7M5w/s320/IMGP6522_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410143336764674962" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSwsnhp4WI/AAAAAAAACaQ/J1FIE9fTEuI/s1600/IMGP6515_2_2.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 257px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxSwsnhp4WI/AAAAAAAACaQ/J1FIE9fTEuI/s320/IMGP6515_2_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410143332949680482" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />I've almost finished another two hats for a friend's kids and while I'm almost <span style="font-style: italic;">hatted out </span>for this Summer, I can see my sewing skills have improved.... which is great for the next project....Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-68130863751925116502009-11-30T09:29:00.009+11:002009-12-09T21:12:52.164+11:00A cuppa, some chocolate & MixTapeSo today is starting well. The kids are in bed, the washing is on the line and I'm sitting down with a cuppa, some chocolate and the latest issue of <a href="http://www.mixtapezine.com/">MixTape</a>.... <span style="font-style: italic;">and I have something to give you too!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL11P6FQ9I/AAAAAAAACZY/H8ZtbRCNWD8/s1600/IMGP6527.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL11P6FQ9I/AAAAAAAACZY/H8ZtbRCNWD8/s320/IMGP6527.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409656397577405394" border="0" /></a><br />This issue of MixTape is full of lots of cool stuff, including an article by <a href="http://soozs.blogspot.com/">Sooz</a> about rules <span style="font-style: italic;">(yes, I too am embracing the wonk!) </span>and instructions from <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/">Kirsty</a> on how to make a Multi Tasker. I spent one very relaxing <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/2009/10/in-good-company.html">afternoon</a> making one of these and they are great.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDD1H1qV8f_AllP7FfW1jPAmPIN9OSLRkFH_nUvguK5tnNPqWiUFYrLJQZP_vnvUadGCCltsoKYrHcS5Qnv9LoyurhPws9S-T5YqL0W0t_pAeZUBjXkYwg94sP0NmZ9yNnIPy57PSNHNs9/s1600/IMG_0856.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 127px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDD1H1qV8f_AllP7FfW1jPAmPIN9OSLRkFH_nUvguK5tnNPqWiUFYrLJQZP_vnvUadGCCltsoKYrHcS5Qnv9LoyurhPws9S-T5YqL0W0t_pAeZUBjXkYwg94sP0NmZ9yNnIPy57PSNHNs9/s320/IMG_0856.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409659403009565074" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL4jathidI/AAAAAAAACZg/luXNg5ftlqA/s1600/IMGP6421.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 127px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL4jathidI/AAAAAAAACZg/luXNg5ftlqA/s320/IMGP6421.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409659389774760402" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL4kXH60jI/AAAAAAAACZw/TwEEl2yIQus/s1600/IMGP6435.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 127px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SxL4kXH60jI/AAAAAAAACZw/TwEEl2yIQus/s320/IMGP6435.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409659405991596594" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />Now as a treat for me which becomes a treat for you, the lovely <a href="http://62cherry.blogspot.com/">Justine</a> from MixTape has given me two copies of Issue 11 to <span style="font-weight: bold;">giveaway</span>. So to get your hands on one, tell me what you think is great about a mag dedicated to all things craft and cool?<br /><br />I'll choose two people to send the mags to on Friday 4th. <span style="font-style: italic;">But don't wait until then to sit down yourself with a cuppa and some chocolate! Have a great week.....<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >***Giveaway has now closed***<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Congratulations to </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" href="http://punkysmamma.blogspot.com/">Vic</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> and </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" href="http://katcreativeadventures.blogspot.com/">Kat</a><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> who have a copy of MixTape heading their way.</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></div>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-36412932216779476742009-11-26T09:00:00.004+11:002009-12-02T15:25:15.348+11:00My Creative Space - Birthday BuntingThis week, it's about a birthday, a bunting and a new family tradition.<br /><br />It was my Mr's birthday on Monday and a surprise arrival from <a href="http://clutterpunk.blogspot.com/">Gina</a> helped me make an idea that had been floating around in my head into something real .... a Birthday Bunting.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0KKGyGpMI/AAAAAAAACYw/iwq_KtF3k-Y/s1600/IMGP6482.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0KKGyGpMI/AAAAAAAACYw/iwq_KtF3k-Y/s320/IMGP6482.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407989896277566658" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0LfME7OOI/AAAAAAAACY4/9T5_LeYrZGE/s1600/IMGP6478.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0LfME7OOI/AAAAAAAACY4/9T5_LeYrZGE/s320/IMGP6478.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407991357987567842" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0KJ3DFOmI/AAAAAAAACYo/_j-xjy8lKH0/s1600/IMGP6462.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 160px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sw0KJ3DFOmI/AAAAAAAACYo/_j-xjy8lKH0/s320/IMGP6462.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407989892053809762" border="0" /></a><br />Each family has their own traditions, some we grew up with and some that begin with us. My Mum used to let us decide what was for dinner on our birthdays... this is a tradition I loved and look forward to carrying on with my children. And this bunting - that will be dragged out and hung for all our birthdays - is our new family tradition.<br /><br />For more creative spaces, head over to visit <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/">Kirsty</a> who needs a little TLC today.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-4843189847356778102009-11-22T13:32:00.009+11:002009-11-22T19:40:38.283+11:00Just becauseOne of the truly lovely things about blogging is the "<span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>".<br /><br />The kind words left in comments.... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>.<br />The supportive, funny and 'knowing' emails.... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>.<br />The things that arrive in the mail... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>.<br /><br />The other week I stopped by <a href="http://midgeandjudy.typepad.com/midge_judy">Midge & Judy</a>. Michelle had been busy busy preparing for Christmas and I left a comment, impressed with her <a href="http://midgeandjudy.typepad.com/midge_judy/2009/10/my-creative-space-2.html">marathon effort</a>. Well I happened to leave her 300th comment, so she made these collecting satchels for my kids..... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>. They are to take on walks to collect stuff and are great! The embroidered shells are beautiful and I especially love the gold thread french knots. We were all set to go collecting today but after a week of hot weather, the rain kept us inside.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwiwrikndwI/AAAAAAAACVg/xmCfBjQEEhY/s1600/IMGP6394_2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwiwrikndwI/AAAAAAAACVg/xmCfBjQEEhY/s320/IMGP6394_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406765614719530754" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwiwrZOO99I/AAAAAAAACVY/c3P3xbF02w0/s1600/IMGP6368.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwiwrZOO99I/AAAAAAAACVY/c3P3xbF02w0/s320/IMGP6368.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406765612209731538" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Another day, I visited Angie at <a href="http://3redbuttons.blogspot.com/">3 Red Buttons</a> who is making her boy a <a href="http://3redbuttons.blogspot.com/2009/10/day-15-creative-space.html">backpack</a> (a cool pattern which I also <span style="font-style: italic;">had</span> to <a href="http://www.e-junkie.com/madebyrae/product/91333.php">buy</a>). I told her that I thought the truck fabric was AWESOME... so she sent me some - and some cool clouds and rainbows too - <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>. The truck fabric is currently being carried from here to there and laid out as we look and point at every truck!<br /><br /></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rt-KeX4XekD9gDkg3IQLbYdY78F1I-2-SMwTO6iB2aE-tg8sIs-A6uuYQ6YJrIPmNjyeCtBVFydw5XMHK9RvuOwx3OfYLaS-Zlcz3SX-WHAkHVebfBKX5gONnAxmPlKtfQVuInFm6fTr/s1600/IMGP6359.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rt-KeX4XekD9gDkg3IQLbYdY78F1I-2-SMwTO6iB2aE-tg8sIs-A6uuYQ6YJrIPmNjyeCtBVFydw5XMHK9RvuOwx3OfYLaS-Zlcz3SX-WHAkHVebfBKX5gONnAxmPlKtfQVuInFm6fTr/s320/IMGP6359.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406750437794264866" border="0" /></a><br />And the delicious Cathie from the delicious <a href="http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/">Melbourne Epicure</a> had a <a href="http://melbourneepicure.blogspot.com/2009/09/yay100-and-special-treat-for-you.html">giveaway</a> to celebrate her 100th post. I was lucky enough to win a set of gingerbread family cookie cutters and a mini rolling pin.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Swii37mXMpI/AAAAAAAACU4/_5aNdOCD7us/s1600/IMGP6383.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Swii37mXMpI/AAAAAAAACU4/_5aNdOCD7us/s320/IMGP6383.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406750434433381010" border="0" /></a><br />But knowing that there are two little people in my house, Cathie sent me two sets.... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Swii3g1VV2I/AAAAAAAACUw/vEYjAvNw6a0/s1600/IMGP6380.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Swii3g1VV2I/AAAAAAAACUw/vEYjAvNw6a0/s320/IMGP6380.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406750427248416610" border="0" /></a><br />I have been blogging for a while now, yet I am continually amazed by the kindness, generosity and friendships I have found since I became "Nikki from My Black Cardigan".<br /><br />Thankyou to Michelle, Angie and Cathie for..... well..... <span style="font-style: italic;">just because</span>!Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-55214081312100370142009-11-19T09:17:00.019+11:002010-07-03T00:41:23.462+10:00My Creative Space - My Baby Doll<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR2jLwP1oI/AAAAAAAACTY/G9XvQUzApco/s1600/IMG_0785.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR2jLwP1oI/AAAAAAAACTY/G9XvQUzApco/s320/IMG_0785.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405575799574091394" border="0" /></a>This is my baby doll and highchair from when I was small. She is well travelled, moving interstate and spending time packed away in the roofs of 5 houses as my parents moved around. I am very grateful that despite having to lug four lots of cradles, highchairs and dolls from house to house, my parents never thought of getting rid of these.<br /><br />So as my kids are now starting to pretend, it was time for <span style="font-style: italic;">"I can't remember her name*"</span> to come down from the roof.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The kids do a great job of keeping her well fed and making sure she has lots to drink.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwRz8NSKyNI/AAAAAAAACSo/m6rKJZWaafc/s1600/IMGP6319.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwRz8NSKyNI/AAAAAAAACSo/m6rKJZWaafc/s320/IMGP6319.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405572930946648274" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0N5rK5oI/AAAAAAAACS4/c6a8Nf-LXr0/s1600/IMG_0754.jpg"><br /></a>but still, she's in a bad way. Her stuffing has flattened making her way too floppy, she needs a good wash....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0jhyCmeI/AAAAAAAACTI/pTcrpvGnInQ/s1600/IMG_0779.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 227px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0jhyCmeI/AAAAAAAACTI/pTcrpvGnInQ/s320/IMG_0779.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405573606463936994" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0jZFgdTI/AAAAAAAACTA/ppXE4pVqiZI/s1600/IMG_0783.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 226px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0jZFgdTI/AAAAAAAACTA/ppXE4pVqiZI/s320/IMG_0783.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405573604129666354" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">....and a bad position in the plastic container has left her head a little oddly shaped.... making her look just a bit too creepy. <span style="font-style: italic;">I apologise to those who will now have trouble getting to sleep tonight! </span>But on the plus side, look how happy she is within herself!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0j9oGygI/AAAAAAAACTQ/a3lJ1p4IbB4/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 178px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SwR0j9oGygI/AAAAAAAACTQ/a3lJ1p4IbB4/s320/IMG_0781.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405573613938461186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So after her success with <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/06/webster-his-homecoming.html">Webster</a>, Dr B Cardigan has been paged and the operating theatre (aka washing machine/sewing machine) is being prepared.<br /><br />For more creativeness, head over to visit <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/">Kirsty</a> who is settling into her new space.<br /><br /><br />From last week: Issue 10 of MixTapeZine is on its way to <a href="http://teddybearswednesday.blogspot.com/">Teddy Bear's Wednesday</a>.<br /><br /></div></div><span style="font-style: italic;">*OK, I'll admit it. She wasn't a favourite! I do remember my Cabbage Patch Doll's name was Eartha Ivy.<br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-76851256518633746162009-11-15T18:55:00.010+11:002009-11-17T21:37:00.970+11:00THE SuitSo when I first said it was a <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/man-sized-challenge.html">man-sized challenge</a>, I wasn't wrong. It was a big ask. And there was a few <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/not-so-good.html">hiccups</a> along the way. But you know what, I think it worked.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-2nLVcqAI/AAAAAAAACPw/5lPdthOEUwU/s1600-h/IMG_0603.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-2nLVcqAI/AAAAAAAACPw/5lPdthOEUwU/s320/IMG_0603.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404238862041786370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.jamestroi.com/"></a></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-2nd2e3dI/AAAAAAAACP4/23wQKusDDhQ/s1600-h/IMG_1642_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-2nd2e3dI/AAAAAAAACP4/23wQKusDDhQ/s320/IMG_1642_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404238867012181458" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Photo by <a href="http://www.jamestroi.com/">Jamie Troi</a></span></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-88ipZm-I/AAAAAAAACQQ/RwjAD515zG8/s1600-h/IMGP6302.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 319px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-88ipZm-I/AAAAAAAACQQ/RwjAD515zG8/s320/IMGP6302.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404245826146507746" border="0" /></a><u>Here's what I did <span style="font-style: italic;">(the short version**)</span></u>:<br /><br />- removed the suit collar and added a larger, black collar<br />- cut some padding out of the shoulders<br />- removed the jacket pockets and zigzaged them closed<br />- cut off the buttons and button holes and added black panels to the front<br />- shortened the jacket and added a zipper<br />- <a href="http://clutterpunk.blogspot.com/2009/10/thread-sketching-on-fabric-techniques.html">thread sketeched</a> buildings on the front of the jacket and on the bottom of the left leg of the pants<br />- sewed a black panel on the bottom of the right leg of the pants<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Now before you go thinking I am <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Boy_Who_Cried_Wolf">the girl who cried wolf</a>, panicking that first <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/10/some-success-and-beautiful-quilt.html">my top</a> was ruined then worked out, and then that the suit was ruined then worked out.... this refashioning thing can be tricky. Satisfying but also very frustrating. I love the freedom of not sewing to a pattern but that can also be hard when something goes wrong. On both occasions, I <span style="font-weight: bold;">really</span> thought what I had done was beyond saving. So the lesson learnt for me is that I must not panic when refashioning. It is likely that things will turn ugly before falling into place.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-385ga3tI/AAAAAAAACQA/bXik9zP5Rmw/s1600-h/suit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv-385ga3tI/AAAAAAAACQA/bXik9zP5Rmw/s320/suit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404240334724718290" border="0" /></a><br />So anyway, the gig was awesome and My Mr looked great! He loved the suit and even mentioned it on stage. I was very chuffed and even blushed a little!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv_JCg4pByI/AAAAAAAACQY/yVOewpWcL9M/s1600-h/IMG_0605.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/Sv_JCg4pByI/AAAAAAAACQY/yVOewpWcL9M/s320/IMG_0605.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404259122892310306" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">** the long version involves removing the collar then sewing it up without a collar, making a round neck, collarless jacket that looked like something my mum would wear. Now my mum dresses well, but never ever do I want my husband to dress like my mother. So after lots of looking and thinking and cursing and then a <a href="http://pippiwillow.blogspot.com/">fresh set of eyes</a>, I cut the neckline deeper and added the black collar. And you know those black panels that were added to the front, that was because when I cut off the buttons and button holes and added the zipper, the jacket was too tight to do up. So the zipper had to be removed while I tried to work out how to make the jacket wider... and that's the reason for the black panels.<br /><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-27916385130303179962009-11-12T09:19:00.001+11:002009-11-15T19:04:32.959+11:00My Creative Space - The Sorting GameA few posts back, I made up a <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/10/games-with-dinosaurs.html">board</a> to sort and play with some dinosaur toys the kids have. I got the idea from a friend so I decided to make up a game for her kids.<br /><br />Because she doesn't have dinosaurs, I made up a set of 4 shapes - circles, triangles, squares and rectangles - in 4 colours - red, blue, yellow and purple.<br /><br />Similar to the <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/10/games-with-dinosaurs.html">dinosaur game</a>, on one side of this game board, there are 4 white shapes. This side is used to identify the different shapes and sort them by type.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQawb3GeI/AAAAAAAACOo/IUZp0-mL2lQ/s1600-h/IMG_9920.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQawb3GeI/AAAAAAAACOo/IUZp0-mL2lQ/s320/IMG_9920.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402789492337088994" border="0" /></a><br />On the other side are 4 coloured blobs. This side is used to sort the shapes into the different colours.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQcrgziWI/AAAAAAAACOw/r_yzZflFpFU/s1600-h/IMG_9921.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQcrgziWI/AAAAAAAACOw/r_yzZflFpFU/s320/IMG_9921.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402789525375388002" border="0" /></a><br />Like last time, this game board is made from plywood wrapped in one of the kids' old fleece blankets, then covered with black fabric.<br /><br />I also made a bag to store the board and shapes so:<br />- they don't get lost<br />- my friend doesn't curse me when she finds little shapes all over her house<span style="font-style: italic;"> (not that she would ever curse me!)<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQZd6w54I/AAAAAAAACOg/AbgmX_8C9cU/s1600-h/IMG_9922.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqQZd6w54I/AAAAAAAACOg/AbgmX_8C9cU/s320/IMG_9922.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402789470186563458" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqTCTYjxxI/AAAAAAAACPQ/iIG0DQtFCdY/s1600-h/IMG_9898_2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 188px; height: 243px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvqTCTYjxxI/AAAAAAAACPQ/iIG0DQtFCdY/s320/IMG_9898_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402792370756634386" border="0" /></a><br />This game is easy to make and could be made from scraps and recycled/thrifted materials. I had plywood left over from another project but an old wooden/cork placemat would work just as well.<br /><br />I love this game because it is handmade, can be played with 1 or more kids and has some learning involved. I also like to imagine it is fun! Like the dinosaur game, I have plans to make a dice and can see potential for different games using the board and shapes.<br /><br />For more creative spaces, head on over to visit <a href="http://kootoyoo.blogspot.com/">Kirsty</a> who is getting all excited about making things in her new house.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvsrmH2uTiI/AAAAAAAACPY/ln_QUOaa1i4/s1600-h/Issue10cover.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 139px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvsrmH2uTiI/AAAAAAAACPY/ln_QUOaa1i4/s320/Issue10cover.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402960111904640546" border="0" /></a>And because I'm silly, I have an extra copy of MixTape Issue 10 (the current issue for a few more days!). I'll randomly choose a comment and send the issue to that person. If it's you and you already subscribe, then you can let me know I'll choose someone else. MixTape is great, especially when read while lying on the couch with a cuppa or coffee or other drink of your choice! If you want to subscribe to MizTape, you can <a href="http://www.mixtapezine.bigcartel.com/">here</a>.Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-21740193972486676192009-11-09T10:27:00.009+11:002009-11-15T19:04:04.239+11:00Not so good<span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;" ><u>WARNING:</u></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />This post contains an implication of explicit language.</span><br /></span><br />___________________________<br /><br /><br />I think I may have f***ed up the <a href="http://myblackcardigan.blogspot.com/2009/11/man-sized-challenge.html">suit</a>.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpORPPRkHvpoG5g1uxWVOzSTNkfnt8oUqgyo41NyiSzVMxxq6pOBJzjzWbnNn4iKrnz4vNr_2Sy4lFemTxbYhj42horH6cRi565MAyJLM3wGd4YN0p8EjAFoDlC64fQawqtyBXBH259CZ/s1600-h/IMG_0496.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpORPPRkHvpoG5g1uxWVOzSTNkfnt8oUqgyo41NyiSzVMxxq6pOBJzjzWbnNn4iKrnz4vNr_2Sy4lFemTxbYhj42horH6cRi565MAyJLM3wGd4YN0p8EjAFoDlC64fQawqtyBXBH259CZ/s320/IMG_0496.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401878522005939650" border="0" /></a>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-41419875780071884102009-11-07T15:22:00.010+11:002009-12-01T16:48:20.208+11:002 heads + 2 heads = 4 hatsWhen you have twins, there are many things you do twice. But when you have twins <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">AND</span> your friend has twins, there are some things that you do four times.... like at the park when you try and quickly work out how the two of you can go in four directions! But in this case, it's a little less frantic. In this case, it's making four hats.<br /><br />Using Nicole Mallalieu's <a href="https://www.nicolemdesign.com.au/shop/21-kids-hats">Kids Hats pattern</a>, I started with hats for my friend's girls. I tried to get my two to model them but this was the best shot I could get.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MmD-5cm5TuChkl3zzgDucOzJa_J0JlVWr-WD74dJvSSEsGjdQxHA1Cg8WVdJ-lnv-RbfLP5GMvWQ8CwZaal6N-6g5nnygMQhHDO2pCZp3MmNSyp1l_TBNeT13mB9daV1EF0mlKdsivx1/s1600-h/IMG_9982.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MmD-5cm5TuChkl3zzgDucOzJa_J0JlVWr-WD74dJvSSEsGjdQxHA1Cg8WVdJ-lnv-RbfLP5GMvWQ8CwZaal6N-6g5nnygMQhHDO2pCZp3MmNSyp1l_TBNeT13mB9daV1EF0mlKdsivx1/s320/IMG_9982.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401224469242048130" border="0" /></a><br />It seems that <a href="http://liamsolomonsmummy.blogspot.com/2009/10/noahs-new-hat.html">finding good hat models</a> can be a challenge! So I found a more complient and less inquisitive pair to model the new hats.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBCgqAMRI/AAAAAAAACMI/bhI4Pwqbkmw/s1600-h/IMGP6138.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBCgqAMRI/AAAAAAAACMI/bhI4Pwqbkmw/s320/IMGP6138.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401224470738252050" border="0" /></a><br />This is a great pattern that is very easy to follow. The hats sit well on the kids' heads and they have a wide brim, which is excellent for protecting little faces from the sun. My friend's girls also think they are great for tea parties!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBC_bXK_I/AAAAAAAACMQ/gv0tPe4Fd1c/s1600-h/girls.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 228px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBC_bXK_I/AAAAAAAACMQ/gv0tPe4Fd1c/s320/girls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401224478998342642" border="0" /></a><br />So that's two down, two to go. And given that the temperatures are hovering around 30°C in Melbourne at the moment, I had better get sewing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBDGHn6JI/AAAAAAAACMY/RW397WYlIEo/s1600-h/fabric.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvUBDGHn6JI/AAAAAAAACMY/RW397WYlIEo/s320/fabric.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401224480794601618" border="0" /></a>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301179265805848612.post-46721354344754378572009-11-04T10:23:00.007+11:002010-07-03T00:42:27.714+10:00A man-sized challengeIt was just a throw away comment.... <span style="font-style: italic;">"I'm making lots of things for me and the kids and nothing for you"</span>. Just an observation, said out loud. I didn't expect a reply and I certainly didn't except <span style="font-style: italic;">"Well make me something. Something to wear to the gig".<br /></span><br />You might see this as a simple request for clothing. But oh no. It is much more. It is a sign of trust. A sign of faith. A sign of true love.<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>You see, my Mr is in a band and they have a gig in a few weeks. So his <span style="font-style: italic;">"something to wear to the gig" </span>is suggesting that I can make something that is not only wearable, but wearable in public and wearable on stage. Now do you see the trust, the faith, the true love! <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span>So after much<span style="font-style: italic;"> "are you serious?", </span>we decided on some refashioning of a suit. I kinda figured I wouldn't find a suit in time so it sounded like a good deal. Well that afternoon, I found this on the 50 cents rack at the Op Shop.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvDEK5SAOiI/AAAAAAAACLA/hFJiwnc7aoA/s1600-h/suit1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 244px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_OvNOPnL9f_Y/SvDEK5SAOiI/AAAAAAAACLA/hFJiwnc7aoA/s320/suit1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400031644671293986" border="0" /></a><br />And surprisingly, it fits him better than it fits me*! So a new deal has been struck. I'll have a go but I get the final decision as it whether this will <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:courier new;">totally rock </span></span>or fade into blog-livion, never to be spoken of again.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">*Yes, that is me, living out my rock star dreams. I reckon I've got the whole rock star pose under control. Fortunately for you, you can't hear either the way I "play" guitar or "sing"...!!!<br /><br /></span>Nikkihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10921667979758743998noreply@blogger.com27