After working on my new block of the month patterns all week, it was lovely to do some sewing for a change. My work area is like a conservatory with lots of glassed windows and I enjoyed soaking up the winter sun as I stitched to my heart's content.
It was also wonderful seeking out my fabrics.
Visiting the local patchwork and quilting shops is always a treat and my recent visit was no exception. Here's a few of the treasures I found.
When I arrived home with my new purchases I felt just like an excited school girl.
As I made myself a cuppa and pondered over the possibilities in front of me I decided to antique some of my fabrics.
I thought I would share the process with you.
Here's my trusty companion. As you can see it is well used. I prefer to use Parisian essence for dyeing my fabrics. It gives a warm brown tone. A solution of tea can also be used although this will give a yellow/brown effect.
Wet your fabrics first so that they take up the dye evenly. Make up the solution by adding a few cups of boiling water and a cap full of Parisian essence.
Here's my fabrics soaking, every now and again give them a stir.
Here they are drying on my old timber clothes horse.
I guess you're wondering by now what I have designed for Country Threads Magazine. Truth is I shouldn't really tell you until the magazine is released, in November. Although I don't think it would do any harm if I gave you a glimpse.
Here's a closeup, as usual I have included some panels of hand embroidery.
I also raided my hubby's leather making tin and found some leather cord, it matched perfectly with
some buttons out of my button jar.
And so another design is finished. You'll have to grab a copy of Australian Country Threads Magazine (November issue) to see more.
Until next time happy creating!
Warmly Lenna
Little Green Cottage
http://www.stitchingcow.com
