Treadles & Treasures

What I have been up to

2011-11-08T22:08:00.002+10:30

Well it is a long story. Have you ever had this calling that you have put on hold. I have an absolute passion for pastels. I started collecting them back in 2002 for that one day when I would have time for both my passions. Quilting and sewing are my first love but I am learning or should I say exploring pastels. I went to an exhibition of someones work and fell in love with pastels all over again. Workshops were offered in the school holidays and let us just say that the temptation was too great.
These pictures are not finished yet. Nearly but not quite. I am a little scared at putting in the final touches til I have explored a little more. As it is I have discovered that the outside look of the pastel is not necessarily the inside look. This is a person who has not done art really so I do not know any principals. I just go by my Gut instinct. I love the feel and texture of pastels but I have not rubbed any in as I prefer to lay colour over the top. I have discovered that I can draw standing up using an easel and I like that too. I love getting my hands dirty.

This was done on a Navy pastel paper. The photos were taken in our gorgeous Amazon Lily Pavilion in the Botanical Gardens in Adelaide. This is not an Amazon Lily though. My leaves just need a little tweaking. I am now going to an art class a week. Just to play. Who knows where it will take me.
Meanwhile I am still working slowly on that Nearly Insane. Made 2 corner blocks and did not like the green I used so they are going down the bottom and I have used a different green for the top. I have even prepared one of the LeMoyne stars!! Mind you that is going to be the only one I do.
Promise I will not leave it quite so long to post next time. Cheers Lynne

Block97

2011-10-09T21:52:00.002+10:30

No Sewing this weekend but I did manage to finish this one on Monday. Just the way it happens sometimes. This block is a little darker but it is a top block. Love the subtle blue centre. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane is happening Block 98

2011-10-02T21:42:00.002+10:30

Block 98. I couldnt put the first row together as I had not made B98. Made only one side as I just had to see what was going to happen when I added the sashing and cornerstones.
LOOK :-)

Ok so I have not made the top LH corner block or finished the second row as I need B96 but what do you think?? I like it. I like the colour graduation and the fabric is a little more golden than in the photo. The photo will enlarge

Here is a close up. Sure wish I had a wall to pin it on. I still have to make block 22 and I had been avoiding that one. I know the blue stands out in my sea block but there will be enough blue in the rest of the quilt to compliment. Long weekend Monday tomorrow and the weather is magic. Enjoy yourselves where ever you are in the world. Cheers Lynne

B8 Another Maltaville block

2011-09-28T21:25:00.002+09:30

I now have 5 blocks finished and 5 more on the go. I feel like I am getting somewhere. The gorgeous green in this block was thankyou to Christine and a scrapbag I won on her blog. It is perfect and just gorgeous. I finished The bird block too.

Happy now. I even put a little yellow beak on my bird. A friend suggested that I try back basteing on the sewing machine for my applique. I must admit that I was hesitant but after trying I love it. I can see the hole guides so much easier and it is also easier to needle turn under.
Hope you are all enjoying your projects.
Cheers Lynne

My Maltaville Blocks

2011-09-27T22:47:00.003+09:30

A2
A4

A6
E7

I have been busy making Maltaville blocks. A few girls in our quilting group had a wonderful weekend away and I decided I would like to work on my applique. I have quite a few of the other blocks started and some are all but finished. I know I am doing the Civil War Bride quilt but it nice to work on these bigger pieces. Love seeing the nice big pieces of colour and the texture of the fabric too. The last block is not quite finished. It needs a little piece on the bottom. The bluebird was a little tricky and it has a little tiny yellow beak. I am enjoying making these blocks. Happy Sewing time all Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 52

2011-09-04T12:50:00.000+09:30

Photos will enlarge. Thought you might like to see those little Roses Closeup.

Spring has sprung this week and the temperatures have been around 26c for a couple of days. My roses are out and so I could not resist making my block to include roses. I know the centre is not a Repro fabric but it is so perfect with little Red Roses and birds. I enjoyed making this block.

Now that Spring has Sprung I need to make myself some shirts. I am hoping we get a little more cooler weather before Summer takes over.

Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 85

2011-08-18T20:13:00.002+09:30

I quite like the way this one developed. Lots of tiny pieces but I did not lose the colour. Had fun with the stripes.
After seeing the gorgeous tiny version of the quilt from the Small Endearments by Sandi Fox on Dawn’s Blog, I thought you might like to see mine. My Good friend Nancy gifted the gorgeous little kit to me, purchased from Cyndi from Busy Thimble.

I even hand quilted this one too. This quilt was finished quite a few years ago and has been up on the wall.
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 33

2011-07-31T21:29:00.002+09:30

Not happy with my block 33 Thought it looked odd in the book.I want to turn those units around so that it is more or less symmetrical.As is is paper-pieced it is not easy to turn the units around. Maybe Salinda was having a bad hair day :-)
Feeling a little better as I see that Tazzie interpreted the block the same too. Maybe I should just leave it as a quirk.

Love that Dargate Indigo in the centre and decided to go for Green and Gold as an Aussie symbol. Pink is there as there are small pink flowers in the indigo. Besides I just happened to like that pink.
Finally finished all 120 units of 4 Flying geese! Loved doing them but I was sure glad to finish.
I can now concentrate on Nearly Insane and Maltaville. Have a Great Week All Cheers Lynne

Geese for My Blind Man’s Fancy Swap

2011-07-10T21:18:00.001+09:30

Enlarge the photo and see if you can find sandcastles, bees, butterflies, the chicken and the egg and cotton reels and I know the girls have a sewing machine on theirs and Gum leaves. Another that is partway finished has wattle. The fabrics are mainly repro but I wanted to put a little of me in. The sandcastles because I live near the beach. The wattle and gum leaves for Australia. One of the friends I am swapping with lives in America. She will know my geese :-)

I have been busy making Flying Geese units for a swap between 2 friends. There is lots of colour and texture in my geese.

I have made 3 times this many geese and there are two other sets the same for my two friends.

I still have 11 sets of 3 or 33 sets of 4 geese to go. I am having fun making them but they seem to be taking forever. Have been making them for quite a while now. Stealing spare moments of time to sneak out and sew just another lot.

They are all paper pieced. They are trimmed but the papers are still waiting to be removed.

I know I am behind on the Barbara Brackman CW blocks and the Nearly Insane blocks but I want to finally finish these geese.

Hope you All had a great weekend Cheers Lynne

Davis Vertical Feed c1891

2011-07-03T20:38:00.002+09:30

This machine is known as the New High Arm Davis Vertical Feed Sewing Machine. The Factory for Davis was in Dayton Ohio. United States America. Interestingly there was a branch in Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria Australia.
This is an early walking foot style machine. The fabric is pushed through by a pronged foot. There are no Feed dogs. It does have a boat style shuttle and a spindle.
This is a close-up of the centre bed decal. Barely visible is the Eagle above the American Flag.
All the phots will enlarge if you click on them for great detail.

See some of the damage. Love the little pull out drawer

This poor machine has had a hard life. She must have sat in water for quite a while. The only thing left of the pullout drawer was the front and the wooden base was in five pieces. She restored remarkably well and of course there are not any Before photos! Rob has her sewing now despite her being siezed so he is happy.

I have been getting some sewing done. Lots and lots of sets of Flying geese units. so far I have made 60 sets of 4 with 60 more to go! I need to photograph them. They are taking quite a while to make. Having Fun though. The Migraines have Gone and I am happy.
Have a great Week all
Cheers Lynne and Rob

Quilty Pleasures 100 blocks blog prize

2011-06-10T11:47:00.001+09:30

I am overwhelmed. I won the outside of America Quilty Pleasures 100 blocks blog prize :-) Can you believe it. I received it in the mail early this week and thought I would share some photos. I have been busy sending emails and Thanking the wonderful contributers to the prize

Lots of gorgeous patterns You can enlarge the photo to see. There is so much inspiration.

Fabrics from Clothworks I do have a small black and white stash.

Fabrics from Troy Riverwoods. Will really complement my Japanese Stash.

Lots of gorgeous books from LeisureArts and C&T Publishing and some more patterns. All the books have a different flavour. I don’t know about you but I like reading about peoples different methods and approaches to the patchwork and quilting. There are so many wonderful ideas out there.

Gorgeous hand dyeds from Iris Quilts so rich and vibrant.

1/2 yard cuts of some of the Papillon range by Jessica Swift for Red Rooster. Don’t you just love those gorgeous Butterflies and all that wonderful texture and colour.

FQ from the Pat Sloan range from P&B Textiles. Teh red is a wonderful paisley

I thank all these wonderful people and companies that so generously contributed to a wonderful prize and to Quiltmaker and the Quilty Pleasures blog with all the wonderful designers to their 100 blocks book which I also received and love. I just found out this morning that I am also going to get a mug. WOW Thankyou

I have had a rotten bout of cluster Migraines lately and this wonderful win has cheered me no end. While I have not managed to get much sewing done it has been wonderful to look and fondle and have a quiet read. There is so much inspiration in the quilt world out there.

Cheers Lynne

Winselmann Titan Saxonia Handcrank

2011-05-18T21:59:00.002+09:30

All the photos enlarge when you click on them so you can get a better close up.
This is a really beautiful example of the Winselmann made Titan. Made in Altenberg, Germany around 1890 to 1900.

This machine has what is known as a fiddlebed and a large hand wheel with the crank handle attached directly to the wheel. this style of machine is known as a Saxonia

This machine is a half-size machine.

She is a Transverse shuttle as in the boat shuttle moves along the length of the bed.

The decals on the dome are copies of badges won by the company for Trade awards for their machines.
Bought in a local Antique shop. Her decals are almost perfect and she polished up beautifully. She also has a lovely porcelain handle. Rob has always wanted one of these.Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 50 and Barbara Brackman BOW

2011-05-02T22:16:00.002+09:30

B50 is done. All those set in corners were a challenge. Yes I did paper-piece. Loved the way the colours interacted. That centre Chrome Yellow is a zinger. I only bought a fat 16th from the Quilted Crow and a little bit here and a little bit there sure stands out. I love it!!

My Union Square block is finished too. I do have lots of the other blocks in between to finish but I am going to work backwards.
I have reminded Rob to photograph a lovely Saxonia machine he has just finish pulled apart, polished and put back together again. It will happen soon.
Bye For Now Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 29 :-)

2011-04-10T11:49:00.000+09:30

Now that I am back to Insane I decided to make another with Australian Fabric. These prints are from very old ranges. The green wattle fabric compliments the inner stripe Repro. Love the gums and the waratah.
I am Behind on Barbara Brackman. In fact this is only the second block I have made so decided to work my way back. I do not need to start another quilt but I do like to work with lots of colour and lots of different fabrics. Maybe that is why I was tempted . Off to sew some more. Stay tune. Have a great weekend all Cheers Lynne

Lady of the Lake

2011-03-29T22:15:00.002+10:30

I can finally show you the top :-) We had lunch today to celebrate the birthday. Rosemary loved her Quilt top.
She now has the option of making 3 more blocks, using it as a centre to a medallion or maybe just adding a smaller border of half square triangles and finishing it off.
I am pleased with the finished result. There was a bit of cursing going on and finding that final fabric was a real challenge. There are a few birds in the border too.
There have been a few personal challenges on the homefront too but we are getting there.
I can now get back to Nearly Insane. Just Love Tara’s and it is time that I got back into the swing of mine.
Cheers Lynne

Civil War Block 2

2011-02-14T11:21:00.002+10:30

Sorry I have been quiet. Life is a little on the carousel at the moment. The dreaded bookwork is taking too much of my time too.
I am also working on a secret project with what little sewing time I have managed to get.
I am behind on Civil War and Nearly insane too. They are waiting patiently for me though.
Did manage to find a gorgeous Winselman Saxonia Fiddlebed sewing machine for Rob.
Stay Tune for Photos.
Have a Great Week all Cheers Lynne

Thankyou Quilt Threads

2011-01-10T14:42:00.002+10:30

The book I won on Quilt Threads arrived in todays mail.
Thankyou so much Meredith.
I just love it. There are some gorgeous block choices. One is calling to me. Lady of the Lake Feathered Star. Now I might be cursing all those HST by the end but after Nearly Insane Block 8, Hey I can do anything! Stay Tune.
I see Civil War fabrics and Lots of Colour.
Have a Great Day All Cheers Lynne

Finally Nearly Insane Block 8

2011-01-08T20:39:00.002+10:30

Block 8 is finally finished. I actually made it to the last border before I chose the fabrics for the last border. Did not like my first colour choices and this is my second.

I did manage to squeeze a couple of tiny bugs and a chicken’s head in. Not obvious or they will not be in the bigger quilt. I have set out to make this block 3 times in the last 18 months. and I am happy it is finished.

I have also made the Barbara Brackman week 1 block. Love that cheddar.

Have a great Creative weekend All

Cheers Lynne

Block 82 Nearly Insane

2011-01-02T19:18:00.002+10:30

Hi All I am straight back into my blocks. Hope to finish piecing all the Nearly Insane blocks this year :-) I have made 57 blocks so far. Oh and I am halfway through piecing the dreaded Block 8! Stay tune for a photo soon. Hope you have a Great New Years Weekend Cheers Lynne

Mermaid and Seahorse

2010-12-28T15:52:00.001+10:30

I needed to make one more Present and the little girl was not going to be around til after Christmas. So for the last two days I have been grabbing spare moments. I am not a doll maker and have not made a doll before. There are no buttons or anything that could get stuck in small mouths as the little girl is just one.

This is the pattern from the latest issue of Homespun –The Summertime issue- designer Natalie Ross. She looks a little different and has her own personality.

Happy New Year to everyone Cheers Lynne

Christmas Shirt is finally finished!

2010-12-24T16:51:00.001+10:30

I have just sewn the last button on my Christmas shirt and it is ready to wear. A friend gifted me this gorgeous piece of Liberty Roses fabric (So Me :-)) and I thought it would make a perfect Christmas shirt. Red and Green with gorgeous gold buttons. I am almost ready for Santa. Not being the most organised of people that is nothing short of a miracle.

Wishing Each and Everyone of you Joy and Peace at Christmas and the very Best of Health and Happiness in the year 2011.

Cheers Lynne and Rob

Nearly Insane Blocks 7 and 77

2010-12-06T13:24:00.002+10:30

Block 7 and Block 77. They look so different. There are little apples around the square in the square and what looked to me like Christmas lights in the Chrome Yellow in B7

Love Block 77Those Greens and Double pinks with a little Chrome yellow as a Zing

Wish I could say I was getting more sewing done! Plan on baking another fruit cake tomorrow. The Hazelnut one and other Christmassy things. Have a Great Week All Cheers Lynne

Fruitcake Baking Day

2010-12-01T10:50:00.002+10:30

Fruitcake making day :-) While I cook I have never made a fruitcake before and needed to learn the Art of Tin Preparation. A very important step in fruitcake making.

Yes we are both quilters. Notice the different cake personalities. Same recipe, except Rosemary left out the Ginger and made the weight up in fruit. Different size tin but that is all. We had such fun and they both look gorgeous. My cake is secretly stashed to mature for a week or two.

This is my Before shot. Lynne’s Cake

Rosemary’s Cake

Rosemary’s After shot YummYumm. Now Rosemary basted hers with Whiskey. Believe it or not cakes are the same darkness. Two different cameras

Lynne’s after shot. I basted mine with Brandy. I think we need to get together and compare cake flavours :-)

I have just found another Fruit cake recipe with Hazelnuts. Fruitcake is meant to keep right so I think while I am on a roll I should make another :-) Have a Great Day All Cheers Lynne

Block 4 and 53

2010-11-21T14:01:00.002+10:30

Block 4 Has a Bee in the Centre

Block 53
I rather like this one. Totally different but still a star. The next block I need to do is Block 7 which just by chance happens to be another star and then the dreaded Block 8 which I have successfully avoided since the beginning when it was issued as a challenge. I have been making this quilt since November 2008. There was a while when it was on the backburner but now I am enjoying it with renewed enthusiasm.
Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 48

2010-11-19T14:28:00.002+10:30

I have finished one of the blocks for the week :-)
Fussy cut the red and the black edge is fussy-cut from the same fabric. The black star and the gorgoeus yellow are fabrics I bought form the Quilted Crow while we were in Tasmania on our second honeymoon.
This quilt will be a journey of many memories. I am having fun. Cheers Lynne

Ward Brothers Sewing Machine

2010-11-14T20:43:00.002+10:30

Just love these gorgeous Daisy Decals on this “Vesta” made Hand crank machine sold by Ward Brothers in Melbourne. She looks like she has hardly been used.

This machine is a vibrating shuttle with the long style shuttle. It also can sew in reverse
Vesta manufactured this machine c1930’s. It began as L.O.Dietrich based at Altenberg in Germany. The name was changed to Vesta around 1910 .
Ward Brothers were a big department store based in Melbourne.
Notice the pin cushion on the parts box.
If you click on the photos they will enlarge nicely.
Cheers Rob and Lynne

Block 40 A Little of the Adelaide Collection

2010-11-14T11:37:00.002+10:30

Block 40 Features fabric I wanted to use from the Adelaide Collection (Bird in the centre and the 4 corners) Adelaide is where I live and I thought it most appropriate now that this gorgeous range just come out thanks to
the Lovely Michele Hill and Jason Yenter.

Just so love the Serpentine too. I have to confess I did not even look at the way the block was presented in the book this time. Nor did I plan this block apart from really wanting to use the birds in the middle and they only just fit and the cornerstones of gorgeous from the Adelaide collection . Influenced only slightly by recently acquiring the gorgeous serpentine. The rest of the block I just let talk to me as I went along :-)

Block 2 (my personal weekly challenge as I need to make a few to fill the gaps so that I can start to sash my blocks) features a sewing machine. Fabric again thanks to
Jan from Bemused. I was lucky to win this fabric last year. The 'L' came from the same FQ.

Remember the blocks are set on point so the sewing machine another squeeze fitted just but I am pleased with it. The cornerstones are straight it is just that I photograph on a board and cannot pin the flat so the edge is angled up
Looking forward to next weeks challenge on the Nearly Insane Yahoo group . My Personal Challenge for next week will be block 4. If I tell you all I will have to make sure I finish it or should I say both.

Rob has just taken photos of a sewing machine so I will put them up soon too. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 1

2010-11-07T20:37:00.004+10:30

Nearly Insane Block 1 (33 pieces)This is the 49th Block I have made. I thought it was 50. Oh well next one will be.
Taryn that is your little spinning top in the centre. I have not made Block 2 yet so that might have to be the next one. Wish I could say I got lots of sewing done this weekend but I did manage a few hours so that was nice.
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 6 and 76

2010-10-31T19:54:00.002+10:30

Block 6 was the Challenger for the week. Could not resist putting the L in the centre. Thankyou to Jan of Bemused. This was part of the fabric that I won on her blog last year. It fits perfectly. I know the wattle is not repro but it is so perfect.

This is Block 76 and has been in the making for weeks. Somehow on the backburner while I was distracted by Blind Mans Fancy (which I was still working on today) and my Little Bears Paws. The block is square just not photographed square. I have now made 49 blocks and am Half way :-) Will need to find some self discipline and get back to regularly making them won’t I.
Have a great week all Cheers Lynne

Blind Man’s Fancy Block 4 and 5

2010-10-24T15:57:00.002+10:30

I know I have been quiet for a while. Small problem or in our case large Internet problems We were going at snails pace there for a while. Thank goodness we could still send emails but I do now have a much greater appreciation of the returned speed and really feel for those on much slower speeds.

Block4

Block 5 I have made half of 2 of 3 of B5 so still have one and a half to go. Am getting there and then I have not counted how many flying geese blocks I need to make. It will be interesting to see Rosemary and Nancy’s versions.
Photos 1,2 and 3 are my Greensleeves Roses Day 1 There are no Green Tinges yet

Greensleeves Roses Day 2 Usually there is a distinct lime green colour. Stay tune.
A Red Single Rose Look at all the buds behind it. It really has been a wonderful year for roses. I just love them. There is lots of Garlic growing amongst my roses.
Have a Great Sunday Cheers Lynne

Another Blind Man’s Fancy Block

2010-09-20T20:14:00.002+09:30

I have finished another block. The other two (the Same are well on the way. I do not plan the colours till I have done each part. I chose the Square in a square. Then after they were put together I chose the HST. Then finally the cornerstones for onpoint. I have had the centres made for ages. That is how I always work. I like each step to be a surprise. It always works out. Enlarge the block to get a closer view of the fabrics. The block is square it is just my photography Have a great week All Cheers Lynne

Another WIP Bears Paw

2010-09-18T14:22:00.002+09:30

These blocks started out as Leaders and Enders to my Blind Man’s Fancy. Patterns is in an old Quilter’s Newsletter Magazine and is called Little Brown Bear. I am having fun just sewing the blocks. It will be a quilt one day, no rush. I will just enjoy the journey. Maybe I will do my own applique for the adjoining block. At the moment I am just enjoying the sewing. All Paper-pieced and the HST are all different. I just so love the super scrappy look. I still have 2 more borders to put on these blocks to bring them up to 12 inches. One is Another HST border. All those blues are going to sparkle.
All the photos enlarge. The fabrics are all repros but come from many collections Past and present. I just wish that I had started to collect Repros sooner. My stash of Repros has only been collected over the last 6 years and if I see any of the older ranges try to add them to the stash too.
Some people find Paper-Piecing maddening I just love it. Stay tune for the next borders. Have a great Weekend All and enjoy whatever you do :-)Cheers Lynne

Blind Mans Fancy Block Size 15in Finished

2010-09-08T15:43:00.002+09:30

I am making 3 of each block for a swap among 2 friends.
Block1 Before I had those wonderful HST papers. In case you are wondering the HST made for Block1 - 2 and 3 I have never delegated anything to the bin but they were getting the better of me. Just would not behave.
All the photos will enlarge :-)
Block1 Version2 Block2
Love Bird Fabrics :-) Love this block.Beginning of Block3
Beginning of B3 the HST this time are the same values. Just so that it looks different. I also have a finished project. totally different.
I have a great niece Zoe who is 1. I made her a present. Have not bought the little T-Shirt to match yet but plan on adding enough to it so that relates to the skirt. I has fun making this. It is nice and bright and fresh. Spring is here.

Close up of the flowers I plan to make another pink one and RicRac leaves to decorate the T-Shirt Cheers Lynne

Sturts Desert Pea

2010-09-08T15:17:00.001+09:30

Week1 (All the photos enlarge)

Week2 Week3 Don’t you just love them. A dear friend gave them to me last year when I was not well. Hers all died. She probably looked after them too well. I am sad to say that I neglected mine and can not believe the results. These gorgeous flowers State Emblem of South Australia normally grow out in the desert.

Sorry for the blog break. Have not been well – Fibromyalgia and a shoulder that I would like to give away. It keeps me awake at night and severely encroaches on my alert time for stitching. I am slowly getting on top of things and have found medication I am not allergic to.

Will post a few of the things I have been doing. Not anywhere near enough but little by little I’ll get there.

Here is my Lorraine Lea Rose in the side garden.

Cheers Lynne

1920’s Beale Sewing Machine

2010-06-25T19:50:00.002+09:30

Gorgeous Art Nouveau Decals Made by The Free Sewing Machine Company of Rockford, Illinois. Branded for The Beale Company based in Sydney. This company manufactured Pianos as well as selling a range of sewing machines. This sewing machine has the long bobbin and shuttle often referred to as a bullet shuttle.
The Decals are if you look closely Stylised Peacocks. A wonderful example of Art Nouveau of the time.
Yes I have drawn the decals and plan to use them as inspiration in a quilt. They are talking to me.

have a great Weekend Cheers Lynne and Rob

A Quilt Block Challenge Vintage Revisited

2010-06-25T14:10:00.001+09:30

I won this book on the Quilt Qua Blog a while ago. I had delayed blogging so that I could read, comment and do justice to a review of this wonderful book written by Mary Kerr.

It is amazing how different quilters with different styles of Quilting and Patchwork could take these Vintage blocks and use them to tell totally different stories. If only their original owners could see how each block could take a different journey under another quilters vision. In some of the quilts it is a challenge to find the original fabric from the original block. In others block or unit structure has been maintained. The original block is not always obvious.

I just loved the book. It would be fascinating to see what a group of friends would do if they had a single block and were issued a challenge to create something from that using the either the block or the original pieces of the block as an influence. Have a Good Weekend all Cheers Lynne

Wollmeise Socks

2010-06-13T22:32:00.002+09:30

Wollmeise socks designed by Monica Jines. Pattern can be found compliments of Sheri at The Loopy Ewe.
These socks were knitted from the toe up with a waste yarn cast on. A Close Up The Yarn is Mountain Colors Bearfoot and the colour is Meadow Colour of the fullsize socks is more accurate Photos can be enlarged. I just love bearfoot which is a wool/mohair combination. They feel so nice and warm on my feet.

Now Confession time. The ones above have been finished for a little while I had just not finished sewing the threads in or photographed.
The sock below is at the moment only one sock. I have another pair of socks tempting me and I need to hurry up and cast on sock 2 so that I am at least at the beginning.
Pattern is Nancy Bush’s Copper Penny Socks from Knitting Socks with Hand-Painted Yarns and the yarn is Mountain Colors Crazyfoot in Sandstone. I just love the stitch definition this yarn gives. The yarn was won from the Mountain colours blog so that I could test knit.
This sock was knit from the toe up using Judy’s Magic cast on. I am a convert. Much prefer to knit from the toe up. This sock is a little long but as I had already frogged back down to the toe once because I did not like the way the yarn was knitting up in one pattern I was not going to undo again!

Tonight I made Anne’s Scottish Parkin and it is yummy. Treacle rich and oaty. Perfect Winter treat with coffee. Holiday Monday tomorrow :-) Have a great Quilty or Knitty Day All Cheers Lynne

Bloggers Quilt Festival

2010-05-23T10:01:00.002+09:30

Thought I would join in the fun :-)

There are some gorgeous quilts in the Blogger’s Quilt Festival. Thankyou Amy Have some fun, Meet some wonderful Bloggers and take yourself through the virtual Quilt show.

My Quilt is called “From Me to You The Red Flowering Gum”

This Quilt was made 8 years ago. This was actually meant to be the back of the quilt and a 70th Birthday present fro my Mother. The front was a gorgeous Logcabin QS and it took a long time to make as the centre is a square in a square and it has maple leaf borders. Mum said at the time I would so like a feature back and silly me suggested that I go and do a workshop on Dyeing. Mum Wanted Muted colours.

I had always been inspired by the gum tree in the back yard and the gorgeous Gum blossom so thought I would experiment, Afterall it was only the back. Well you guessed it Mum preferred the back to the front and requested that another ‘Back ‘be made. I dutifully dyed another back I still have this gorgeous LogCabin QS Quilt that is a top! Someone talked me into entering it into a Quilt show and would your believe it got a second that year in the Traditional category so Mum had an added present.

The Moral to the story is don’t be too scared to give something a go and don’t underrate your work. Obviously this quilt wanted to shine as it was never meant to be a back.

The Photos are not the best as these were taken a long time a go with the old camera.

Have a Great Day All Cheers Lynne

Roses for Mother’s Day

2010-05-09T21:51:00.001+09:30

We went to the Botanical Gardens in Adelaide for Mother’s Day. The Roses were all out in Bloom and just gorgeous. I just had to share some of my favourites.

The photos will enlarge only part I cannot provide is the smell :-)

Mum was meant to come with us but she had problems with her knee unexpectedly. I decided the next best thing was to take lots of photos for her to see. Made her favourite Roast for dinner too. So she did feel special. Hope you all had a lovely day Cheers Lynne

Wheeler + Wilson 9 Treadle

2010-05-02T20:00:00.002+09:30

Wheeler and Wilson 9 Treadle.
I just love the pressed pattern in the wood. Made around 1900. Although Common in America it is quite rare in Australia. When we received this treadle it was covered in thick black grime and you could not tell that the handles were brass until we started cleaning and then amazingly the pressed wood was also visible.
Elsewhere on the blog there is also a W+W9 Handcrank and a W+W4 Treadle.
Singer bought out Wheeler and Wilson in 1905, however they kept making this model for a couple of years after this and called it a Singer 9W. As always click on the photos to enlarge for Closeups
Hopefully I can post a couple of Quilting blocks soon. Am sewing slowly but have not been well. Getting there.
Cheers Lynne and Rob

Kate McKenzie :-)

2010-03-27T19:31:00.007+10:30

This a very special Singer model 12 which is absolutely covered in Mother of Pearl Inlay and Gold decals.

Everywhere you look there are decals and inlay even around the edge of the bed. If you enlarge the photos you will see that even the plates have designs etched onto them.

I do see where George Ross McKenzie was one of Singers Presidents in 1882. Maybe? The Kate McKenzie name is a name which seems to have been lost in history. If anyone has any theories or documented information of the Kate McKenzie,the owners of this machine as well as many sewing machine enthusiasts would be thrilled to hear.

Even the flywheel and treadle plate are covered in decals.
This Gorgeous Machine is a Singer 12K. In the Centre of the Bed are the words Kate McKenzie 1879. The Mother of Pearl is absolutely Stunning and her decals are rich and glorious. Every part of her is heavily decaled as you can see. Her Walnut Veneer is stunning. She is a truly Stunning machine and like I said a privilege to see in real life.
Cheers Rob and Lynne

Block 51 and a Teaser

2010-03-27T18:06:00.002+10:30

Block 51 is finished :-) I managed to insert the gorgeous scissors which were part of a fabric piece won on Bemuseds blog. I love them. The gorgeous red was compliments of my good friend Rosemary and that Apricot is one of my good friend Nancys signature fabrics. A Special block for my Nearly Insane Quilt.

Sometimes you have the privilege to see a Machine that just leaves you speechless – a one off Special. This machine is one of those. Click on her photos for the larger image. Will post her photos later on tonight.
Cheers Lynne

Block 46 Nearly Insane

2010-03-22T12:21:00.002+10:30

This Block did not work. I tried Jan to put the button in the centre as a feature but it was not going to work and I then made an error and had a row a holes. Those gorgeous fabrics of yours will get used but I will have to wait til the right Nearly Insane week.

Has anyone any secrets to photographing straight. This block is square, It is me who is the problem. The centre is a gorgeous flower. The gorgeous dotty fabric was a purchase during our recent holiday to Tasmania. An Early Elly S Baltimore Beauties range. Just Love it.
Will post a few photos of our holiday soon. Have a great Day Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 54

2010-02-22T10:42:00.002+10:30

There are Cherries in the middle of this block. I am not normally a brown person but they work perfectly with Pewter, Indigo and Honey. Love that Poison Green and the Double Pink too. The Double Pink was part of Christine's scrapbag :-) Thankyou. She by the way is having a giveaway :-)
Enjoy your week everyone Cheers Lynne

Thankyou Just Love it

2010-02-20T10:41:00.001+10:30

I was so lucky to win this fabric pack from Jan at Bemused. I just Love it. Of course I am going to sneak some of it in to my Nearly insane. There is also a Vintage sewing machine and the most gorgeous scissors and thimbles on one piece. Perfect. Thankyou so much Jan.

I am being plagued by headaches or their after effects at the moment and you made my day :-)

Roll on Autumn and cooler weather. Enjoy your weekend everyone.Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 41 and 60

2010-02-16T11:55:00.002+10:30

B41 Look Carefully and you can see the little Birds in the black and grey. Enlarge to have a clearer picture.B60 There is a little girl playing with her doll and the bottom has a little bird. The Green is a New Zealand Fern fabric given me to my good friend Rosemary. That is 43 blocks now :-)
Cheers Lynne

Pfaff Model L Treadle

2010-02-14T21:22:00.002+10:30

Finding machines in this condition is difficult no matter what the brand. Finding Pfaff’s in this condition is almost impossible. This one is in extremely fine condition. Click on the photos to enlarge for more detail.

The Red Felts on the Spool Pins are the original ones cut in a Flower Shape.
The endplate has a beautiful etched design.The Woodwork was cleaned but other than taht the finish was original. See the inlaid ruler along the edge.

The paint and goldwork on the treadle frame is all original. All Rob did was polish it with extra cut car polish which cleaned it up and gave it a fine finish. Look Carefully and you can see the pincushion that slides around from underneath. and at the back near the Pfaff name is where Oil Cans sat.

Even the drawer has the has the Pfaff name on the Keyhole Plate Cheers Rob and Lynne

Mrs. Teddy

2010-02-09T17:58:00.002+10:30

Isn’t my Sister-in-law Jay just so clever. Look what she made me for my birthday. Mrs Teddy. She has pins in her hat. (All the photo’s can be enlarged if you click on them)

I have inserted two old Glass Headed pins into her shoulders to make sure she does not lose her bags.

In her bag she has a $2.00 coin for emergencies :-) and in the other bag one of my Thimbles.

If you look carefully she has a Needle Threader in her Pinny and two pockets for just in case. Her carrier has a pocket for Scissors. The scissors are just lovely.

The insides of the bags are a gorgeous pink with heritage green outside and lovely fine embroidered bees and flowers. Mrs Bear is Felt as is her hat and bags. Her Pinny and Carrier are made of Quilting cotton

I love the Beehive on the back of her Pinny and she carries a Tape Measure tied up with a button.

If you undo the sweet Glass buttons of her Pinny she has a Needle book of flannel as a petticoat embroidered with lovely flowers and leaves.

Oh my goodness and underneath her petticoats she has lovely lace knickers with pink bows.
Jay is so clever and I just love all the embroidery. I count myself as pretty special and privileged to have such a wonderful Sister-in-Law and to own Mrs. Bear. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 21

2010-02-09T17:28:00.002+10:30

My First Nearly Insane block for the year. It misbehaved! Don’t know why I decided I needed 4 strips of red-should have all been green. Not concerned about that but one of the Triangles I discovered on the last seam was not where it should be. Because of the piecing units it was not a matter of a quick flip either. Oh well it is all fixed and it has personality.
I used Carol Doakes Paper-piecing papers bought from Hancocks. Printer likes them and so do I.Hope to get next weeks block 53 done on time too. So fingers crossed.
Cheers Lynne

Wheeler and Wilson 4

2010-02-03T22:23:00.002+10:30

I just love the gorgeous grain in the woodwork.

One of Wheeler and Wilsons earlier style machine. It sews from the side and you know I have trouble getting my head around that Treadling from the front and feeding from the side. I have enormous respect for women who managed to insert sleeves into clothing from the side :-)
It also uses a curved needle because of the motion of the arm. It has a round bobbin.
They were the company which patented the four motion feed . The feeddogs move up back then down and then forward.
The drawers are the wrong size and are on our hunt list. We do not have a belt either.
Wheeler and Wilson were eventually bought by Singer in 1905. This is the number 4 Model and it dates to 1871.
Cheers Lynne and Rob

First Kaffe Fabric Block with a couple of Ring-In Fabrics ;-)

2010-01-31T10:31:00.002+10:30

Hi Everyone :-) I know I have been a bit quiet but a lot has been happening and it has been school holidays. I have finally got to trial my Kaffe for the new Blue Sofa Bed Quilt. Did not know if the pattern was going to work at first as I thought it would be too busy with all those little connector corners. Block size is 24 inches. Click on the photo and get a Big Look. Two of the fabrics I found in New Zealand. I do have another that will fit in just nicely too. The connector corners are being resewn a half inch away to become half square triangles. Easier to do before the cut. Now I do not know if they are going to be used in this quilt or not. The small ones end up being an inch square. Little splashes of colour.
I have been slowly working on my Civil War Bride but just doing stems on various blocks as I plan to take the blocks away with me and just the green threads and leaves in baggies. Still need to get back to Nearly Insane. Have the new Blocks of the Week printed off just have not managed to get to them yet! It will Happen.
Rob has just photographed the Wheeler and Wilson 4 so will Blog that soon :-)
Stay Tune Cheers Lynne

Sock Blockers

2010-01-13T22:23:00.001+10:30

Look what my friend Rosemary made. Isn’t she just so clever. Just love the Celtic design. They are a perfect fit too :-). Nearly finished the socks. Just need to Kitchener Stitch the toe and it has been too hot to get to it and do it.

Yarn is Mountain Bearfoot Meadow. Just love the colours which of course are much richer than in the photo. When they are finally finished will take a closeup photo.

Cheers Lynne

Crown Fluting Iron c1890’s

2010-01-13T22:03:00.001+10:30

This machine is a fluting iron and is designed to put the ruffles/pleats on the collars and cuffs of clothing of that era. There was two pieces of metal heated in the fire and then put into heat the brass rollers. It was made to clamp onto a table. This one is in particularly good condition. Cheers Rob and Lynne

Howe Treadle

2010-01-02T21:21:00.002+10:30

What a wonderful find Rob had and local too. She is not completely restored yet . There are still a few parts to be polished on the head. Believe it or not this machine has been stuck away in a shed for the last 30 years- well covered and protected.
We are only the third owners since new. The machine was made in 1872 and came with a range of parts including 2 little earspoons for collecting wax and even part of the original manual. I will get him to take a photo of the parts to show you all. See the brass badge of Elias Howe on the bed of the machine. The slide cover plates are brass too. She is in remarkable condition for her age.

Rob has just cleaned the wood and polished it. It has not been refinished. There is a little drawer not visible to the side and if you look carefully you can see the bobbin winder.

Look at the decals visible on the frame. All Rob has done is shellaced the frame to protect the finish.
This is the machine he has wanted to add to his collection since the beginning. Needless to say he is very pleased and proud to be the owner and protector of this wonderful machine.
Wishing you all a great productive New Year 2010
Cheers Rob and Lynne

After photos Singer 30

2009-12-13T21:53:00.002+10:30

Rob managed to get most of the pitting out of the plate using a combination of sanding filing and polishing. It took a while but the end results were well worth it.
There is still a few parts the he needs to find (minor).
She turns over beautifully. Have not had her sewing yet though. Rob is very happy with the final result.
CheersLynne and Rob

Rob’s Early Christmas Present ‘Before Photos

2009-12-09T22:08:00.001+10:30

Rob’s latest Treasure which he is meant to get for Christmas but the old itchy fingers could not wait to pull her apart and polish :-)

She came in the mail today. It took all his restraint to take before photos.

She is a Singer Model 30 Serial Number 3669684 made in 1913. She is a chain stitch machine and although it looks very similar to the Singer toy it is about twice the size. A reasonably uncommon machine, Rob has been trying to get one for ages. Stay Tune for her photo finish.

He managed to pick up another gorgeous machine this week too. No Before shots as he just could not wait. Stay tune for that one. Isn’t it amazing how you can wait all year and then just when you least expect it you have a find or in this case two :-)

Cheers Lynne and Rob

Scrappy Heaven

2009-11-17T17:02:00.001+10:30

My Surprise parcel from Christine arrived. Lots of wonderful repro scraps- so many they would not fit in the photo. There was also the latest Fons and Porter Magazine with a great article on nine patches and a Pattern from Miss Rosies Pattern Co. called December Rose and some needles to try out. Love all the baskets in the quilt. I can see some of these scraps making their way into my Civil War bride quilt. So much colour. I love it. :-)

I have finished the Civil War Bride Quilt Block 2 and am making good progress on block 5. Slowly but surely I am getting there :-) Off to fabric Fondle :-)

Cheers Lynne

Craft and Quilt Fair Adelaide

2009-11-04T12:23:00.002+10:30

The Craft and Quilt Fair is on in Adelaide 5th 6th 7th and 8th November – that is from tomorrow. We are going to have a Vintage Sewing Machine Display like we had last year :-) Lots of Fun. I am also going to be making a baby’s throw quilt for the floor for a Family member. We live down by the beach so the Quilt is to have a sea/beach theme. No Repro’s in this quilt. It is all cut out and ready to sew. My Friend Rosemary is going to help.                       Rob has a phone interview with ABC Radio at 6.30am tomorrow morning. Just as well he can bounce out of bed and be alive because I certainly could not. Need the big cup of strong coffee before I can do that.

This Lovely Red Eye 66 Treadle will be part of the display. If you live in Adelaide, make sure you come along and say '”Hello”. I think we are next door to the girls from the Knitters Guild. I am certainly looking forward to seeing all the quilts on display. Just need to remember to take the camera!
On another note can say I have nearly finished B2 of the Civil War Bride Quilt. Am a little slow I know but this quilt is being made from stolen moments of time. Exams are happening in our household in a big way. Both Year 11 and 12 so the tension is high! Those stolen moments are my sanity. Couple of weeks behind on the Nearly Insane quilt too but I just received a delivery of all this luscious fabric from AutumnRoseQuilting. She is wonderful and cuts F8ths and F16ths of full ranges Perfect for Nearly Insane and the CWBQ. I do shop locally too but these were just too much temptation for me ;-)
           Cheers Lynne

German Handcrank with Angels

2009-10-18T21:24:00.002+10:30

If you look closely in the centre of the bed and in the corners(the pictures can be enlarged-just click on them) you can see Angels on this beautiful German Saxonia Handcrank Machine. Machines with the large handwheels and internal gears are often called Saxonia machines as most of them were made in this part of Germany. This particular machine was made by Stoewer and would date to around 1900. Notice the porcelain Handle on the crank. Cheers Rob

Challenge 7 Red Items

2009-10-18T20:01:00.001+10:30

Painted Fans of Japan on my Japanese sewing box called a Haribako 1920’s. Notice the ruler at the rear of the top photo. My little pincushion has a cat button turned up for you to see. The mechanism inside is to act as the third hand for holding the kimono fabric as you handsew them together and also to hold the threads.

The red of the Sturt Peas (South Australia’s flower) in the stained glass at our front door.

Don’t you love Humpty Dumpty. He is a pincushion. My Sister-in-Law made him for me :-) The sweet little needlecase with the little ladybird pin for goodluck was made by my Dear Friend Nancy. One side has Strawberries in the centre and the other a bird. We collect bird fabrics :-)

A Red Toy Sewing Machine. Had to have one of those didn’t we :-) This is a little Vulcan from the 50’s.

Red flowers from the garden A rose and a Pelagonium :-)

“Spring Radiance” A predominately Red Quilt made in a Judy Hooworth workshop quite a number of years ago.

I do have bright fabrics too :-)

My Kaffe Fassett Bag :-) Now I would like to Challenge Lurline to join in the fun and find 7 pink things from her home. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 64

2009-10-14T14:13:00.002+10:30

Do you like the Wattle and Waratah together. Think I have made 40 blocks and only 58 to go. No Rush I am still enjoying the journey. Am going to do a little more on B2 of my CWBQ tonight, more leaves :-). Different colours. Hope to post a pic of a sewing machine on soon. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane B65

2009-10-13T21:46:00.002+10:30

B65 is a few weeks late but is is done :-) The Centre is the Waratah – the floral emblem of New South Wales. Not a repro but a symbol. Next weeks block 64 has fabrics chosen and it will have some wattle and waratah. Just little scraps that give my quilt an identity :-)Love the Pink in this one. I only have the tiniest piece left but that is the beauty of this quilt. You only need little bits. Still Having Fun Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 20

2009-10-11T21:36:00.002+10:30

Well I finished B20. If you want a confession it is not meant to look like this. The top two triangles are meant to look like the bottom two. I don’t mind that they don’t. Did not want to make another and it is not a simple task undoing the errant ones. Mine simply have a mind of their own. Original blocks colours were nothing like this either. Mine definitely has a personality of its own just like its owner ;-) I am halfway through last weeks block too so stay tune. Have been busy appliquéing leaves on Block two of the CWBQ. I know it is slow going but it is also soothing too. Hope everyone has a Good Eventful Week. Cheers Lynne

Finished Block 1 :-)) Started B2 and 5

2009-10-05T21:20:00.003+10:30

Block 1 is finally finished :-) (Still have to do the black embroidery on the apples) and I have washed and pressed it. I am happy with it but I am at slow applique.
Still having fun

I do have all the leaves and flowers cut and prepared so I am much further than it looks. Had such Fun choosing all the greens.

I did not want to make the Bride block yet and so opted for B5 as I just wanted to choose another vase. Love the apples too. Have not chosen any of the other fabrics yet.
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block19

2009-10-05T21:04:00.002+10:30

Well I actually got to turn the machine on :-)
Love this block. The Bird fabric is a remnant sleeve from a Liberty Country cotton shirt picked up somewhere on my travels a long time ago. Quite fitting for Spring really and we have had a wonderful Spring weekend. I have been out in the garden talking to the tomatoes and planting Mint and Basil. We even bought two Blueberry Bushes as they are a favourite and we thought it would be fun to see if we could grow them. Fingers Crossed
Cheers Lynne

Wertheim Triplex Handcrank c1895

2009-09-14T22:33:00.002+09:30

Close Up of the centre bed decal showing the lovely Mother of Pearl. If you look closely near the stitch length adjusting knob you will see a second knob. This was for changing the machine from a lockstitch to a chain stitch. Pretty Fancy considering the age of the machine. It is called a Triplex because it also does another fancy embroidery stitch. As we do not have a manual to this machine we do not know much about this last stitch.

If you look carefully at the bobbin winder you will see an extension beyond the wheel which the grinding stone fits on. This was for sharpening needles. Replacement needles were quite expensive and one made sure that the needle lasted as long as possible.

The holes in the wooden base are because this handcrank has come out of a combination treadle base and the machine could be used as either a handcrank or a treadle. We do have the rest of the treadle but it is not in these photographs,
Cheers Rob and Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 58

2009-09-14T14:09:00.002+09:30

Have managed to make another block. This one is a bit of a hodge podge but I like it. Just love those spots and the gold and yellow. Actually it is a bit like the Aussie Green and gold. Hope to get a few more made this week. Hopefully time will permit.
Have a Great Day :-) Cheers Lynne

Block one is well on the way :-)

2009-09-12T13:31:00.002+09:30

After a few hiccups I have block one of my Civil War Bride Quilt well on the way. I am using Stitch N Wash Fusible Water soluble tearaway a Floriani Product. This is the technique used by Mariya Waters. Here is the explanation in a PDF document Turned edge Applique . I am finding it a lot quicker. I adapted various applique methods I have read about incorporating this product. It does wash nice and soft. I do plan to wash each block as I go along before I put the quilt together. I am usually a non washer of fabrics and have been a good girl and washed all the fabrics before starting my applique.
I have used a washable pencil and a lightbox to draw pattern on the other side of my muslin.

Stay Tune for the hopefully completed block by the end of the weekend. I need to make My Nearly Insane block for this week too. Am a little behind the 8 ball but will get there :-)
Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 16

2009-08-24T19:16:00.002+09:30

Hi All
Sorry for the Bad Photo Was trying to take it so that you could see the hen, butterflies, cat’s head little baby blueberry and leaves forgot to make sure the camera was straight. Lots of little scraps. I had fun making this one :-)
Cheers Lynne

Mockery Socks are finished :-)

2009-08-23T21:08:00.002+09:30

I have finished my Mockery socks :-) Just love the pattern and it was just so easy. It is available here as a free PDF download thanks to Live to Knit . Pattern was easy to remember and relaxing to do. I needed something that I could just sit and do without too much thought. Yarn was bought from Stranded in OZ Melissa has a stall at the local Port markets. BTW she did tell me the dyelots were not from the same batch.

I know the 2 socks are different. They were bought as hand-dyed 50gm balls. I love the way each ball knit up uniquely and am not at all fussed that they are so different. They are socks with personality.
I have nearly finished another sock too and just love this one. Still have to make its mate though

Thank goodness I am starting to feel a whole lot better. It has taken a while and there were a couple of days last week that I missed altogether. Sometimes you do have to slow down to get better.
I have also made block 16 of Nearly Insane but have not taken a photograph of it yet so stay tune. It is simple but sweet.
Cheers Lynne

A Pears New Home

2009-08-06T17:38:00.002+09:30

Photographs of My Lovely Pear Pin cushion and Needlecase in their new home. The rich red felt is just beautiful and I just love the toile.

Thankyou so much Jean from Linen and Raspberry

There was not quite enough room here to photograph My Lovely Pear Pin cushion and Needlecase. I have quite a few old pairs of scissors now. They are not all necessarily collectable but they all have a unique personality.

If you click on the photographs you will get a much larger look. I am discovering more about how to present better all the time :-)

Cheers Lynne who is feeling better every day :-)

Block 68 Nearly Insane

2009-08-04T21:32:00.002+09:30

Still Behind but I have made a block :-)

If you look carefully you will see the hare and the tortoise, the chicken and the egg, a chick hatching out of an egg and a little yellow kitten :-) this was a fun block to make.

I am starting to feel better. Jean your gorgeous Pear and needlecase arrived yesterday :-) thankyou so much. I did photograph ithem in their new home but am not happy with the photograph ( blame it on the flu) so will do it again tomorrow Cheers Lynne

Mueller N15 Toy Sewing Machine c1910

2009-08-04T21:02:00.002+09:30

Made in Germany This little Machine is 7 inches high and long and 5 inches wide. It is a beautifully made Cast-iron Machine was available in Black, red and blue. In recent years the machine has been reproduced in Asia but these do not carry decals on the base of the machine

Cheers Rob and Lynne

Hellebore for Me

2009-08-02T11:17:00.002+09:30

My Friend Marilyn gave me this wonderful flower to cheer me up when I was sick last week.My little Virus joined up with another and I then discovered my little Virus was actually Swine Flu! Managed to get Tamiflu for the rest of the family who are asthmatic and showed all the symptoms. They have recovered with remarkable speed.

Poor Me has not and lets just say I am sick of myself and am suffering sewing machine withdrawals.

Heaven forbid at one stage I was actually really worried about living long enough to use my stash. Thankfully I have sufficiently recovered that those thoughts are over!

Could just do with a whole load of energy and would gladly give away this bark of mine!

I am taking things slow. The boys are learning cooking skills and are being very caring. I never normally catch colds etc, it is usually them. All you have to do is catch a couple in succession and Boy! Keep Well everybody. If you are asthmatic and get the Tamiflu quickly enough it makes an amazing difference.

I am going out to say hello to the sewing machine today. Even if I get just a little sewing done or even a little fabric selection :-) Cheers Lynne

Mueller No 2 Daisy Decals

2009-07-19T22:05:00.002+09:30

Another Lovely little Toy sewing machine Maker F.W. Mueller, Berlin. Model No.2 Available in a number of different background colours including red, aqua and of course black as per our photo. Don’t you just love those little red Daisies :-)
Cheers Rob and Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 24

2009-07-19T21:54:00.002+09:30

If you look closely at this block you will see the little girl in the centre fishing. I just love my wonderful roses too so this was a feel good block as a winter cold has me at the moment.
Well I am a week late on this one.
More than a few hiccups happening at the moment and I have not sewn for a week :-( I swear it is not because this weeks block which should be finished tomorrow is the demon 44. Will try and start it soon. Promise.
Have a Great week all Cheers Lynne

Casige No 5 Poppies Toy Sewing Machine

2009-07-12T19:27:00.001+09:30

I love Poppies. This Casige Toy is Post WW2 , possibly a No 5. It has a chain stitch mechanism . The decals are in lovely condition. On the stitch plate it has the Trademark Eagle and Made in Germany.

Cheers Rob and Lynne

Singer Model 13 Treadle Sewing Machine

2009-07-05T18:27:00.002+09:30

Isn’t she a Beauty. Rob has not done anything to her. Looks like her woodwork could do with a light finish. This machine was for the Dressmaker who worked from home. She dates to 1888. She has a nice big Throat to accommodate the bulkiest of items or even that Double or Queen size quilt :-) Her shuttle is a boat shuttle and the bottom tension is achieved by threading under a bar and through a series of holes on the other side. To me this would be the most frustrating exercise.

Her decorations are the Acanthus Decals. On our Wishlist for this machine is a Manual.

The Wooden dome instead of locking from the bottom has a lock and a hinge from the top so that it opens like a lid and there is a bar inside the box to click around the arm of the machine to lock the dome in place. The Logo on the side of the treadle is the about double the size of the normal Singer Logo. Cheers Rob and Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 15

2009-07-05T15:50:00.002+09:30

Here is Block 15. I remembered I had bought some of the Liberty Patchwork range years ago before Repro fabric had officially entered my life. Last weeks bird block reminded me and I went on a hunt. Sometimes I just wish I was not such a scrap quilter and had let myself blow the budget and had bought more of this one . Love the Dark Jo Morton. It adds intensity to the other colours. The red is part of the Baltimore Album range. Are you like me and feel sad when you have used the last of a piece of scrap?? I even feel the need to have to buy more of it only by that time there is usually no more to be had! The Centre red is a part of Block 90. Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 90

2009-06-29T23:05:00.002+09:30

Well Block 90 was an easy one :-) Nice little Birds. Do you know how hard it is to buy repro fabric with birds. The light Fabric is an old piece if Liberty Country Cotton a Strawberry Thief type bird. Only have a very little bit and it is so perfect to use here. Have not even looked at next weeks block. Have been sock knitting :-)

Cheers Lynne

Baby Reborn - Yes it is the same machine

2009-06-28T11:21:00.002+09:30

Photos taken with the new camera. This Baby was made in Japan. She looks more like the Federation, foreign in Glenda Thomas book P121 Plate 2-322 than the machine on P141 Plate2-383.

You can see the lettering made in Japan very clearly on the plate.

Amazing how much you can now see of the gold lettering

The Woodwork has cleaned up beautifully and Rob has reshellaced just like it would have been.

The Blue of the case did not photograph well. It is a more deeper blue than this and I cannot get it quite right. Notice how you can see the word Baby now which was not visible before. Will try and take the photo again but the tone of the colour is more like the before shot. Maybe it is just the quilter in me being fussy ;~0

Have a Great Day Cheers Lynne

Pattern for sock and wonderful blog

2009-06-28T09:01:00.002+09:30

I like this sock so much because I find it easier to join the circle at the toe. I use the crochet cast on and my sock just seemed to go together so much quicker. There is also no picking up of stitches at the heel. Little things that you put off doing and delaying the finish. You know I have two different socks on the go. It depends on my mood as to what part I feel like knitting. Usually knit two jumpers like that too.

Instructions for sock from the toe up
http://wendyjohnson.net/blog/sockpattern.htm

Sunrise socks (Caterpillar) Scroll down and you will see the picture and the PDF format for the pattern
http://wendyknits.net/archives/3756
Wendy has the most amazing blog so Inspirational and one to save and have a look at when you have spare moments. Cheers Lynne

Caterpillar Sock 1 Finished

2009-06-27T23:12:00.002+09:30

Hi All Here is the first sock and the second is started and on its way :-) We have a new camera so I am getting used to that also. Like the definition. It does much better close ups. Have taken a close up of the stitch and the top as I knitted this sock from the toe up. A first for me and I think that I am a convert ! The other thing I also do is use double yarn for the Cast on or in this instance the last row and the cast off.

Now That I have the camera and the software sorted Rob will be taking pictures of the finished Baby tomorrow.

Stay Tune Cheers Lynne

Baby Sewing Machine is stripped down

2009-06-24T21:11:00.003+09:30

Here is the Baby Stripped and ready to roll. Rob is out in the shed at the moment :-) polishing her. He has probably stripped her down even further as I am sure he will remove the cotton reel and all the springs but probably does that when he gets to each section so parts do not get lost. Her plates will look totally different when you see them next. Stay Tune Cheers Lynne

1930's Baby Toy Sewing Machine Before Shots

2009-06-20T20:34:00.003+09:30

Front

Front Notice all the markings on the plate and the surface rust

Woodwork is stained too

Finally managed to get Rob to take before shots of a toy . Usually he gets them home and before you know has them stripped and cleaned and put back together. It is an amazing transformation. This time I thought I would share it with you so you can see the transformation :-)

Stay Tune Cheers Lynne

Block 37 Nearly Insane

2009-06-20T20:25:00.002+09:30

Sorry the photo is a bit blurred. I like the block though. Bit busy but you can still see the pattern clearly. Next weeks is an easy one. Might be able to get something else made too. I have finished sock 1 just need to sew the toe then I will show you a picture. Have a good weekend :-)

Cheers Lynne

Block 69 Nearly Insane

2009-06-14T22:36:00.002+09:30

Block 69 I had some fun and fussy cut a lovely Fabric from my Friend Nancy. There is a 2 little birds, 2 of my favourite-Roses a vase of flowers and a Fan. Had fun making this block. Took a while to do but am pleased with the result. Wish I could say I managed lots of sewing this weekend but I only managed to finish this off.

Have nearly finished knitting a sock too so it is not all bad. My first from the toe up. Catepiller colours. Stay tune for the photo. Rob has not taken his photos this week yet. He is still thinking ;-)

Have a good week everyone :-) Cheers Lynne

Frister and Rossmann Chainstitch Sewing Machine

2009-06-07T20:52:00.002+09:30

This lovely little chainstitch machine was obviously based on the American made Willcox and Gibbs and except for some minor differences is almost identical. Although I have no proof I believe they were made under licence and I believe would date to c1900. Its serial number is 3640.

Although the serial number is quite low I would think that the numbers only relate to this model which were definately made in very small numbers.

Unfortunately I do not have the cover for it. It would be wonderful to get one :-)
Cheers Rob

Block23 finished in time

2009-06-05T19:24:00.002+09:30

Don’t you love that poison green and the yummy cheddar.

The Background is a from the Jo Morton Cinnamon and Spice range. Photography colour is not quite right it is a softer colour than that but nice and warm. Quite a dramatic block with personality :-) I like that.

We have some lovely rain here tonight. Music on our tin roof.

Rob is off choosing the sewing machine for the week.

Stay Tune :-)) Cheers Lynne

Adler Wheeler and Wilson 9 Copy c1900

2009-05-31T22:20:00.002+09:30

Yet another copy of the very successful Wheeler and Wilson 9 design with a few modifications, this beautiful German Adler is extremely well made and very heavy. It has a lovely Art Nouveau influenced design and came complete with its amazingly decorative wooden Dome.

Kochs Adler were based in Bielefeld and continued making sewing machines up until the 1970’s

Cheers Rob and Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 31

2009-05-30T11:00:00.003+09:30

This Block means I am up to date :-) Love the Dots. They sparkle. Fabric is from the Courtney Range. The red/pink is from Sweet Geranium. This was a quick easy block. Next Weeks block is 23 and sane too <bg> I might just get ahead. I have made 27 blocks so far. 71 to go!

I have found a really nice pattern for a Fold and Go Tote in May/June McCalls Quilting. http://www.mccallsquilting.com/articles/fold_go_tote

Mum’s Birthday soon so I want to make her one and of course at least one for me!

Have a good Weekend Cheers Lynne

Slow cooked Baked Beans

2009-05-28T09:21:00.001+09:30

Here is the recipe. Serves 6

Smoked Paprika adds a similar taste to bacon

1 1/2 cups haricot (Navy, Borlotti, or cannelini ) Beans or try a mix soaked overnight
1 (20ml) tablespoon Olive Oil
1 Brown Onion Finely Chopped
1 teaspoon smoked Paprika
large Can 810g of Crushed tomatoes
250ml ( 1 cup ) Water
2 tablespoons (40ml) Molasses or Treacle actually I have seen some use maple syrup and plan to give that a try one day
1/2 bunch fresh dill or I added a teaspoon dried you can always adjust next time
1 tablespoon (20ml) worcestershire sauce

Drain the soaked beans and replace with 2 litres of fresh water and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer and par cook for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Heat the Olive Oil in a pan and add Chopped Onion and Smoked Paprika. Saute until the onions are soft.
Add the tomatoes, water molasses worcestershire sauce and dill and cook for a further 3 minutes.
Place the beans and tomato sauce in a slow cooker (crock pot) and cook overnight.
Serve on toast :-)

Note: If you do not have a slow cooker cook in a covered casserole dish for 6 hours checking at regular intervals to ensure there is enough liquid to cover the beans.

There are other recipe variations on this site using different variations and different beans. Haven’t tried them yet but I do like adapting recipes. http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/search.php?keywords=baked+beans&publication=

Let me know how you go. I like cooking my own as you cannot compare the difference in taste.

Have Fun :-) Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 71

2009-05-27T19:44:00.004+09:30

I am only a couple of days late with this block and thank goodness it was a much saner block to do.

Love the red – present from my friend Rosemary. I enjoyed making this block. Have chosen the fabrics for the next block and it is another simple block :-)

Stay Tune Cheers Lynne

New Home Coffin Top Treadle

2009-05-24T21:46:00.002+09:30

One of our better finds which currently resides in the bedroom :-) Her serial number is 2846171 which dates her to around 1908. The decals and woodwork are all in lovely condition and she came with a complete set of Boxed parts and manual. The Centre Bed decal was also featured on one of their tradecards.

New Home was bought out in 1957 by the Japanese Janome Corporation.

Cheers Rob and Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 61- those triangles!

2009-05-24T21:25:00.005+09:30

Those triangles really tested my patience!! I had fun with with the little kittens. Compliments of Nancy :-) who finds the best Conversationals. Remember this block is only 6 inches finished. This block is a little late and I have not done this weeks which is an easy one. Will try to get to it tomorrow. Stay Tune.

It was son number 1’s 18th birthday and we survived - a little frayed around the edges but intact.

Cheers Lynne

Nearly Insane Block 93

2009-05-17T21:46:00.002+09:30

I have finally finished another block :-) Mind you I have only half finished last weeks and stopped to finish this weeks so that I did not feel quite as behind. When you see last weeks block you will understand why I skipped to finish this weeks. There are 16 snowballs in a 6 inch block! Hope to have it finished soon.

Cheers Lynne

The Socks are Finished :-))))

2009-05-13T10:45:00.004+09:30

Hi All

I can officially say that I finished and wore my socks for Mother's Day :-)) and yes I have started the next pair. They are a great portable project.

The Boys took me out for breakfast for Mother’s Day and it was lovely.

Have finished my Jumper and just need to sew it up. After all that lovely rain last night and with the weather starting to come in cooler I can smell winter my favourite time of the year.

It is a big day today as Rowan is 18 - a milestone! 6 foot 2 inches and he looks a striking young man. Needless to say he towers over both Rob and I!

I cooked them Baked Beans in the Crock pot overnight so they woke up to a nice hot breakfast. There is nothing like your own homemade Baked Beans. It was well appreciated.

Hopefully I will get some sewing done this week as those Nearly Insane blocks are now a week behind. There is only so much time in the day.

Rob is away in Tasmania til tomorrow and I am feeling very pleased with myself as I managed to win for him a “LITTLE BABY” Toy sewing machine with its case. Stay Tune for photos. I know as soon as it arrives he will pull it all to pieces, polish it and put it back together again! Now if only I can stop him long enough to take before photos. It is always amazing the transformation after he has cleaned and polished a machine and it never ceases to amaze me.

Thought you might like to see a photo of the Decal on the bed of our New Home Treadle Sewing Machine. Amazing how much was fitted into one Decal.

Cheers Lynne

Wheeler and Wilson 9

2009-05-03T21:40:00.002+09:30

The Wheeler and Wilson Model D-9 Dates from around 1900 and was obviously a very successful design as it was copied by many companies.

These machines did not have decals on the beds which was one way of overcoming them wearing off ;-)
This particular base is the short-version making it a fairly light and compact machine. The longer version was about 3 inches (7.5cm longer)

It seems that Wheeler and Wilson were never quite happy with the handcrank design as I have seen at least 4 different versions.
Cheers Rob and Lynne

Jones Spool

2009-04-27T21:18:00.002+09:30

The Spool was Jones Top of the Range Rotary Sewing machine based on the Wheeler and Wilson No9. These were made from around 1900 to the 1930’s and although not rare are certainly less common than the Jones Family CS model.

Near Perfect Decals

This particular machine was made around 1929 and came to us complete with Instruction Book and a few parts

These Machines are extremely heavy and weigh around 22KG. Certainly not something that you would want to carry to far.

Stay Tune for the Wheeler and Wilson 9

Cheers Lynne and Rob

Block 89

2009-04-26T09:53:00.002+09:30

This block or actually there are two half blocks are for the sides of the quilt. I have snuck a piece of aboriginal fabric in one of the squares on each side. It is called Bush Tomato. I think it fits in quite well. My Friend Rosemary found it on her travels along with the lovely burnt orange repro. Thankyou :-)

We have had lots of rain and it is wonderful. There is even enough water in the gutters out the front in the street for the ducks from down the park to go for a swim and yes that did happen once.

Everything out side smells nice and fresh and wonderful.

I planted my garlic yesterday (in the rain) as the soil was nice and damp. Nothing like nice fresh garlic picked from you garden.

Now must choose the sewing machine for the week :-)

Will post it later

Have a good Day all Lynne