Tales from the Mouse House

An English Mouse.

2012-01-29T07:19:00.000-08:00

Meet Minnie, she lives below stairs at Downton Abbey. As a ladies maid she loves all the finery that her mistress wears so, on Sunday, her day off, she dresses in her own best outfit to go to the village church.

She hopes to see her young man, the blacksmiths son, and spend the afternoon sitting by the river with a picnic.

I've made this young lady especially for Patti, I hope she is as you hoped.

She is the first of my English Mice and I've loved making her and telling you a bit about her life.

Look out for more and meanwhile pop over to The English Romantic to see the progress on
Ediths House.

Have a great week.
xox Angela.

A new life for a piano.

2012-01-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

I paid a visit to my brother who is working restoring a grand piano for Dartington Hall.

He is a true master craftsman who can totally transform both the case and the sound of these beautiful instruments.

This piano was completely covered in black paint. He has taken the whole action out and stripped back the wood to reveal this glorious veneer.

The metalwork get a new layer of gold paint and each string is painstakingly replaced.

This is the felt being woven through to stop any unwanted sound.

I'm going to follow the progress of this piano and I'll be showing you more in later posts.

The workshop is part of the beautiful Dartington Estate.

It is my favourite place for winter walks.

As I went into the garden there was the beautiful scent of Myrtle, famous for being part of Queen Victorias wedding bouquet and which has also been part if every Royal brides wedding flowers ever since.

Here's some more of the flowers that were out today...

Snowdrops....

Primroses.............

Camellias.....

.......with huge buds

and over head with the winter sunshine sparkling through.

then my favourite winter flower, Witch hazel.

A really lovely day out.

Hope you enjoy your winter walks.

xox Angela.

Bed room turnaround so Sleep tight.

2011-11-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

I'm showing you some more of my cottage today as I have finally got round to giving my bedroom a new look. I can't show you before as I forgot to take pictures, but here it is now.

My bed sits between these two tables, remember my cottage is 500 years old so all the floors are sloping in different directions, I'm lucky that these are almost level.
This is the quilt that I always use in winter. It has organic cotton wadding, so is a lovely weight.

I love needle turn applique and designed this cushion a few years ago. I finished quilting it sitting in the garden of a holiday villa in Crete, it always reminds me of sitting under a lemon tree.

This little picture is a left over pansy from the cushion.

I love heart shaped cushions, this one is scented with French Lavender from Provence.

This is one of a series of '' Nine of Hearts '' quilts that I made several years ago, each embroidered heart has it's own quote.

Every girl needs a space to make herself ready to face the day.

This is mine!!

I found this pretty bowl for a £1 at a garage sale and filled it with Lavender and Roses. It smells divine.

Next to it is a picture of my Mum when she was in the Wrens in WW2.

Aren't these colours so pretty, Point shoes, roses and gorgeous scarves.

My pretty little chest, covered in roses, ( you realise now, I love anything with roses, ) above it a picture that was my Mothers favourite.

and finally the window seat with its view over my neighbours lovely garden.

Well thats my bedroom, my sanctuary at the end of the day, I can snuggle under my quilt with a good book and dream of tomorrows creations.

I'm working on a Christmas quilt so pop over to my other blog for a peak at my progress.

xox Angela.

A Foggy Day in London.

2011-11-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

My feet ache as I've walked for miles .............
Yesterday I met my daughter at London Bridge so that we could wander around Borough Market. It is a twice weekly market that is full of fabulous food from wonderful Artisans who travel from all over the UK and even from France with their wonderful wares.

Fabulous breads......

Wonderful chocolate.................

Yummy cakes...............

I bought lots of bread and cheese, for my supper and Oh! just a small piece of cake.............

Then back out of the market with a delicious hot duck sandwich and more walking.

It was a very mild day but quite gloomy.

The Shard was lost in the fog...........

and Tower bridge was was just visible.

We walked along the Embankment and had a glass of wine sitting watching the Thames and all it's river traffic, then home with tired and sore feet.

Today was just for shopping!!!!!

I caught a bus to Stratford, home of the 2012 Olympic Village.

and also the biggest shopping centre I have ever seen, the amazing Westfield.

I felt a little overwhelmed by the sheer size of it so had to sit and have a Latte before I started shopping.

I've bought clothes,
had my eyebrows threaded,
had my nails buffed,
bought shoes,
and had some makeup applied.( bought some too,)

I had some fabulous Indian Street Food for lunch, followed later with two scoops of Italian Gelato for desert.

I'm home now with all my purchases, I'll be a new woman!!!

Time to sit and watch 'Strictly Come Dancing',
What a great Saturday, hope yours was too.
xox, Angela.

Walk around Walthamstow.

2011-11-10T05:19:00.000-08:00

My son and his family live in Walthamstow in Londons East End.
There are lots of fabulous Victorian buildings mixed into a modern, vibrant, busy community. I love to walk and see the different cultures going about there daily lives amongst the very English streets.
One of my favourite walks goes past a wonderful old church.
Part of it's graveyard is modern and well kept and the rest is decaying beautifully.

It is a quiet and peaceful place in the midst of the city hubbub.

Ancient stones and modern transport.

Aging and tilting....not quite ready to fall over!!

This impressive family tomb dates from the 1700's, the words have nearly been worn away by the passage of time.

Round the corner is a great bakery that sells my favourite custard tarts, so I'm of for one of those and a coffee.
I'll show you more of London tomorrow.

xox Angela.

A peek at the Mouse House.

2011-10-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

After weeks of stitching and making I'm taking a little time to do some jobs at home.....

Today it was a lovely mild Autumn morning with blue skies and a breeze.

My winter neighbours are up and about.

My whites are on the line....

                                                  and I've pruned the Wisteria.

                This is  a very neglected garden so I'll be getting some ground work done over the winter.
                                        I'll keep you in touch with my progress.
                     I'm also working on the inside of the cottage to really make it home.
                     I hope you'll keep me company as I go so watch out for more posts.

                                                        Happy weekend,
                                                          xox Angela.

The Mice are back!

2011-10-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

You may have been wondering where I have been hiding lately. I haven't forgotten my blogging friends but I have been so busy with teaching and making that my poor blog has been badly neglected.

In a few weeks time I will be able to spend some time on my house and garden, I can't wait!!!

But, first I have to be ready for 'Christmas Crafts@Cowslip' I'll be taking lots of prim makes and also a selection of my Mice.
I made my first mouse some time ago from a pattern from the fabulous Pamela at 'Soft in the Head'. I am truly awed by her amazing talent and her wonderful humour. You may know that she is ill at the moment and I am wishing her a speedy recovery. Check out her blog too, you'll love it.

Here are my girls.

They have yet to be named, suggestions please!!!

Heres Mrs Christmouse and two little Angels.

and three little maids in blue.

They are such fun to make and I'm not sure I want to part with them.

I promise not to neglect my Mouse House for too much longer.

I'll be showing you the work on my house and garden as I go along but first more work to do that fair is only four weeks away!!!!!

xox Angela.

Cinnamon Sisters.

2011-08-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Here come the girls!

I've worked on these today ready for my winter fairs. A girl likes to get ahead!!!!

These sweet little Cinnamon Sisters are quick and easy to make.

I've put them to bed now in a pretty box layered with Orange peel slices and Cinnamon.

They are warm and snug in my airing cupboard ready to be packed as scented bowl fillers.

I finished the other candlestick with a pumpkin shaped Pin keep, well it started out as an apple but got lost along the way. I like it though and will be making more.

Just need more candlesticks.

I've had an idea for a covered box, if it works I'll show you next time.

Have a great day.
xox Angela.

Little bird.

2011-08-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

Just a short distance from my home is a company that weaves the most beautiful wool and flannel fabrics. I have driven past many timed since moving here and thought I should pop in and see the fabric.

Today was the day and it was amazing.

The company Fox Brothers has been making cloth since 1772.

There were shelves groaning with the most beautiful designs,soft and so touchable. It is sooo... expensive but I bought a small piece. pity you can't feel it.

Earlier I found two candlesticks for 50 pence each, a bit too shiny for me so I gave them a coat of Annie Sloan paint.

I carefully cut out a little bird from the wool and here she is. A little pin keep!

The history of Fox Brothers is really interesting so have a look on there website. meanwhile I have a little more fabric to play with.

Have a great weekend.
xox Angela.

The Chimney Sweep

2011-08-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

My cottage dates back to the 1500's and is still primitive in some ways. I have an open fire in my sitting room so, preparing for next winter I got the Chimney Sweep to call.

My daughter and my grandsons were visiting so it was a new experience for these 'modern' boys.

We waited in anticipation for the brush to appear out of the top of the chimney and when it finally poked through, along with tradition, we all made a wish.

Can't tell you what I wished for or it won't come true!!!!

On one of our days out we visited Coldharbour Mill which is near my home, It is a working museum showing how wool was spun into yarn and then woven into fabric. We learnt alot from the very knowledgeable volunteers who work the old machines.

Upstair is an exhibition shows rooms from the Second World War era. Having being born shortly after the end of the war it was nostalgic for me as my home as a child was very similar.

In one of the other rooms, set out as a small operations room was this blackboard. September the 19th is my grandsons birthday.

Finally, I loved this little girl with her gas mask.

Her face says it all!!

Have a great weekend,
xox Angela.

Sewing box makeover.

2011-07-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

I found this little sewing table in a charity shop and could see it would look great with a few tweeks.

The first thing to do was to treat the woodworm, then give the whole thing a good clean.

Next two coats of my favourite Annie Sloane paint in Country Grey. I like this colour as it has a lovely vintage look when it is rubbed down and waxed.

I found some pretty floral fabrics for inside. A padded pinboard on the lid and linings for the inside.

All finished and ready to put in my Christmas fair at Cowslip.

I've got a couple more to finish, can't resist an old sewing box!!!

Enjoy the rest of your week.

xox Angela.

New makes and junk shop finds.

2011-07-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

I been out looking in the local junk shops looking for country style pieces for my kitchen.
Here's what I found.

I love the look of these early Stainless steel teapot and milk jug. The hammered teapot pours like a dream. They both have a look of pewter, all tarnished, and grey.
They're sitting on my table which has a quilt on top made with 'Prairie Moon' fabrics and with a Churn Dash block.

This little brown jug was nearby in the same shop, don't you just love it!! It will look so pretty with some wild flowers in it.

I finished a little pin keep and a 'Keepsafe' pouch today, I'm trying to use all my own designs at the moment so these were just an experiment.

Tomorrow I need to finish curtains, very boring, I'd rather be creating.

Keep busy and thanks for dropping by.
Hugs,
Angela.x

Take a peek at my Mouse House.

2011-07-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

I've been here for nearly three weeks and it's been busy, busy, busy. So much to do!
This is a very old cottage with thick walls and low ceilings. I love to imagine all the different people who may have lived here.

This is a small hallway between the sitting room and the kitchen. It seems to be a very old door with lots of old locks and catches. It needed dressing so I made this door curtain from a quilt that I made at with Jo Colwill at Cowslip Workshops in Cornwall. The Ikea bookshelf holds my collection of Quilting books ,recipe books and gardening books. All ready for easy reference.
The afternoon tea stand was my Grandma's.

It will keep out the chill in Winter and stop any draughts.

This door leads to the stairs, you can see Pansy sitting there.

The other door leads to the sitting room, if you are over 6ft tall you have to duck so you don't hit your head.

Here's one of my appliqued pictures from 2004, this is called The Potting Shed.

and another in country style.

My little painted desk sits in the corner with Pandora the sewing angel sitting on top and my willow tree waiting for some decoration. The picture is called 'Under the Apple Tree'.

I love this little corner. It will be a while until I am finished properly unpacking.

Some things are 'lost' since the move but I'm sure they will reappear as I sort each room.

It's fun rearranging, I'll show you more soon!

XOX Angela.

Prim Needlekeeps.

2011-07-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

I'm all moved house still in a bit of a muddle but needed to do some stitching.

Here are two Prim needlekeeps going in my Etsy shop today.

You can see a bit more of my new home on my other blog where I've joined Karen Valentine for her third annual blogparty 'Where Bloggers Create'.

Lots more flowers on my Etsy too.
You'll find the link on my side bar.

Have fun today.
xox Angela.

Moving to my own little 'Mouse House'.

2011-06-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

I'm all packed up and almost ready to go.

Now that my grandson has left home to have an independent life I have decided to make a move myself.

I've been sorting out rubbish and filling boxes, why oh why do I have so much stuff.

When it's all hidden away in cupboards it doesn't seem so much. Now all is revealed!!!

I live in an apartment which is lovely but I really miss having a garden.
I am limited to a pot of Sweet Peas on the balcony and a hanging basket with a tomato plant in it.

Now is the time to make a choice just for me so when I found this delightful cottage in Somerset I was so excited.

Isn't it lovely, Wisteria around the door with lovely flower borders and a garden round the back. I can't wait to move in. It will be my very own' Mouse House'.

I've just a couple of weeks to wait.
As soon as I arrive I need to sort out my workspace for Karens blog party on July 14th, don't miss it.
I'll be showing you the inside as soon as I can.

Meanwhile I'm off to London for a week to help look after my grandaughter during the birth of her new baby sister.(pop over to my other blog for news on that).

I'm certainly busy for the next few weeks but I'll keep posting to keep you up to date.

xox Angela.

All at sea.

2011-06-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

The coastline where I live is very beautiful, so at the beginning of the summer, I like to take a boat trip so that I can see it from the sea.

Yesterday was hot and sunny, the perfect day to board 'The Fairmile'. She was built in 1942 as a Royal Navy World War Two gun boat and served throughout the war, however, she never needed to fire her guns in anger.
At the end of the war she was de-commissioned and along with many other similar boats was auctioned off and turned into a pleasure boat.

It was all aboard for the hour and fifteen minute trip along the South Devon Coastline to Dartmouth.

This is the mouth of the Dart with its ancient Medieval Castles guarding the entrance.

The colourful houses sit in layers on the sides of the river while the car ferries ply backwards and forwards all day.

I spent a lovely day browsing round the shops on pretty cobbled streets

and walking along the waterfront which is overlooked by The Britania Royal Naval College.

Then it was back to the boat for a leisurely cruise home.

I got back tired and hungry and a little sunburned on my nose and find a parcel by my door.

Forget being tired,,,, forget the sunburn,,,, eat later,,,, but first open the parcel!

I knew who it was from and it arrived at the end of a perfect day. Thank you so very much Julia.

I had admired a beautiful tag that she had made and was delighted and honoured when I received an email asking for my address so she could send it to me.

I guess you want to see inside the box,,,, like me you can't wait!

Well here's what was inside.

A beautiful card in Julias' wonderful style with a hand written note,

Inside the little parcel was this exquisite tag, I am amazed at all the little details, a real treasure and one that I will keep special.

It doesn't end there......

inside two organza bags were a selection of creamy white laces and a pile of the prettiest buttons.

I feel really spoiled. Julia, you'll never know how much your gift has meant to me. I've had a few ups and downs lately and your gift has cheered me up so much. Thank you.

Check out Julias blog Vintage with Laces you'll love it!

Hope you all, have a great week,

xox Angela.

Coffee time.

2011-05-28T05:33:00.000-07:00

It's a cloudy Saturday, so what nicer than a days stitching. But to stitch sucessfully a girl needs refreshment. Today was just the day to bake some apple and sultana scones.

Mixed and ready to roll with my Great Grandmothers' rolling pin.

Baked and ready to eat whilst still warm from the oven. All I need now is a pretty china cup and saucer..........

and a pot of coffee on a tray.

Fabrics ready to cut and piece but I'm going to enjoy a quiet five minutes first.

Hope you all get your own quiet five minutes too.

XOX Angela.

Tough Love.

2011-05-26T01:10:00.000-07:00

My posting has been sporadic lately as I have been struggling with myself over which way to go.

I have brought up my Grandson since he was a baby. He was diagnosed with ADHD when he was seven years old and has always been a challenge.

We have had some wonderful experiences as he is a talented dancer and has appeared in many Ballet productions over the years and has even danced in Londons' West end.

As he has moved into adulthood he seems to have lost his way and has been very difficult to live with.

It's heartbreaking to watch someone you love very much as they make decisions that hold them back so I have had to give some .........

I am both sad and at the same time it's great not to feel stressed all the time. I can't believe I've done it, it's taken alot of heartache to get here.

I have been supported by my blogging which has sent me to visit you all. Your comments have given me strength without you even knowing so I thank you all.

It's a new start for my Grandson and a new start for me, I'm in the process of making some changes so watch this space.

xox Angela.

Two new friends at the Mouse House.

2011-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

I've been looking for a pattern for some prim mice for the Mouse House and found just the thing at http://www.softinthehead.blogspot.com/. Pamela sent me the e-pattern and here are my new friends.

I made a few minor changes and added a little book.

I really enjoyed making her.

For my next mouse I reduced the pattern down to make a smaller mouse to stand on a cotton reel.

She's pretty don't you think.

Wrapped around the painted cotton reel is a message,

We are fulfilling that wish here in Great Britain today as our handsome Prince William marries his beautiful bride.

Have a great weekend,

xox Angela.

More prims from the Mouse House.

2011-04-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

Here's the two dolls I finished today.

This is 'Jentle Jane'.

She lives in a small cottage in the hamlet and loves all the wild creatures and in return they love her.

You'll find her talking to them every day.

                                            And this is Matilda known to her friends as 'Tilly'.

                                             She works hard as a housemaid all week.
                     Tilly loves to wear her Sunday best it makes her feel so special, like a real lady.

                        Creating dolls. A nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

                                                                 xox Angela,

Mouse House Prims.

2011-04-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

I've been blog hopping and discovered so many amazing Prim Dolls. They are such characterful little ladies so I really wanted to make my own.

Thank you to Pamela at Our Pioneer Homestead for her free doll pattern which has given me a good start. Thank you Pamela, I hope you like her.

I've stuffed her with rags and aged her body and her clothes.
I made the little cushion several years ago.

I am a huge fan of Flora Thompsons memiors of her childhood in Oxfordshire in the late 19th century. It has been a really successful series on the BBC and such a lovely story of life in the English countryside.

My Prim dolls are based on this evocative story and so are 'English Prims'.

This is 'Emma'. She lives in the hamlet with her family, she works hard but it's often hard to make ends meet.

These are the things she makes to sell in the town, Peg dolls, pin cushions and sewing boxes.

I'm busy now creating her friends and I'll show you soon.

xox Angela.

Fibre fever book page.

2011-03-24T09:59:00.000-07:00

I belong to a Yahoo group called Fibre Fever. I'm quite a new member and this is the first swap I have joined. Each member makes a fabric page for a book. It can be any type of stitching but has to be in the theme chosen by each recipient.
This month I am sending a page to Anne in Germany, her theme is '' anything oriental- Persian or Indian.

Oh goody! I thought as it has given me a chance to practice some more 'Sheesha Embroidery'. You may have read in a previous post from last summer, that I went to a workshop with Surjeet Husain. I bought her book but haven't done much embroidery since. after a frantic search I found the mirrors and racked my brain to remember the rhythm of the stitch. Heres how it turned out!
I have tryed to keep the Indian theme but with a modern look.
It's in the post and heading to Anne, I hope it's ok and she likes it.

I hope you are all enjoying your week out there in blog land.
I would like to give all my followers new and old a big THANK- YOU.
Thank you for all your kind comments, you always make my day and you will never know how much you have all helped me when things get tough.
Warm HUGS to you all.
xox Angela,

A Mothers love.

2011-03-18T11:56:00.000-07:00

I found this picture postcard when I was shopping in Spitalfields market in London's Eastend. It's one of my favourite places to buy vintage.

These two are so pretty so I had to give them a shabby feminine look with coffee dyed fabrics and lace.

Hope you like them.

xox Angela.

Escape to the sun.

2011-03-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

England in late Februay, cold, wet and gloomy. So what do you do for some warm sunshine?

Answer! you book a late deal and fly off to the sun.

We did just that and after a four hour flight from London we arrived in the beautiful island of Madeira.

What a delight, warm sunshine, blue skies and Delicious Portuguese Custard tarts.

Anyone who knows me will be aware that I 'LOVE' these little sweet creations but I can only usually eat them on my trips to London. These were enjoyed sitting outside in a pavement cafe in the old town in Funchal near to the beautiful cathedral.

This was on Sunday morning when the bells were ringing.

Next day I went inside.

What a lovely calm space and stunning with gold everywhere.
The island is full of amazing flowers, lizards basking on the rocks and warm sunshine.

Flowering trees.

Bird of paradise by the road side.

Isn't this so pretty?

We took a bus tour to see more of the island up to 1600 metres above sea level where you can stand and look down on the clouds.

This is the view from the highest sea cliff in Europe, the second highest in the world.

Pretty scary standing at the top.

We loved the Atlantic Oceon on the north side of the island.

The colour of the sea reminds me of our own North Cornish coastline.

Our last stop on the tour was in a pretty village with this stunning church in a beautiful courtyard.

Another highlight was the trip on the cable car. I have to admit my legs felt very strange hanging up in the air in a small box!

I feel wobbly just looking at these pictures, but it was a great experience. At the top a visit to the famous botanical gardens.

A patchwork of succulents.

and Joes favourite an 'upside down Christmas tree'

On our way back to our hotel we just managed to get a picture of 'Columbuses ship' this is a replica built by a local man in the 1990's. it takes people for dolphin and whale watching trips .

We had a wonderful holiday and Madreira is a must visit destination. I will be going back again when I need some winter sun.
It was one degree on landing at Gatwick' mmm... lovely'
Nevertheless I'm glad to be home and looking forward to an English summer.

xox Angela.

My Exciting News

2011-02-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

This was a very special week for me. I had a visit from Judi who is deputy editor of Patchwork and Quilting Magazine. We met last November at the Cowslip Christmas Fair. She saw some of my work and asked if she could interview me for the magazine. I really was overwhelmed.

I love making my books and boxes and made up some new designs to show her.

A little fabric book just for a quilter to keep by her side.

With pockets for her special things.

A lovely box to hold her quilting needs.

Another book for a Lady gardener with a box to keep her seeds.

What a joy to make these things. I hope to be teaching classes throughout this year and I am loving every minute.

I think the article will be in the April edition. I wait in anticipation!

xox Angela.

Winter sunshine and spring flowers.

2011-02-01T09:22:00.000-08:00

The first day of February and what a change from the last day of January. Yesterday was bitterly cold, down to -8 degrees C in the morning but today has been warm and sunny around 10 degrees C. Just the day to walk along the River Dart and visit my favourite gardens.

The Dart is a beautiful river that has its source high up on Dartmoor and flows through the Devon countryside to meet the sea in the historic town of Dartmouth. I love to walk beside it.

I don't have my own garden so I regularly walk in the gardens of Dartington Hall. Today the sun was warm and carried the scent of the winter flowering shrubs all over the garden.

Here's some of todays blooms.

Deliciously scented Myrtle.

Banks of Snowdrops and Crocuses.

Citrusy scented Mahonia.

This is a walled avenue of Witch hazel, smells divine.

I love those spidery flowers.

The first Camellias and Rhododendrons.

Near the end of my walk a stunning view across the fields and a magnificent church standing in the afternoon sunshine. What a great day. Hope yours was too.
xox Angela.

Decision made.

2011-01-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

I finally made my mind up to paint the duet stool and here it is.

I'm really pleased with how it turned out.

I used Annie Sloan's wonderful paint. There is no need to do any preparation and it goes on like a dream. I've rubbed it back for a distressed look and waxed it.

Now I've got the painting bug and as I badly need more storage when I saw this sideboard in a charity shop I snapped it up.

This is how it looked before painting.

....and here it is after a coat of Country Grey Paint rubbed back for a distressed look and waxed.

I'm so pleased with the results. My room is looking so nice.

Oh! here's the sofa that was next to the sideboard in the shop, of course that had to come home with me too.

I'll be painting some more pieces of furniture soon, I'll show you the results!

xox Angela.

and.the winner is.

2011-01-15T01:51:00.000-08:00

I want to thank everyone who left a comment or became a follower or even sent me an email. It's been a joy to read all your comments every morning. I've visited all your blogs all around the world. a fabulous trip discovering all you great people.

My daughter has picked the winners, she is here from London for a couple of days.

The winner of the pretty pocket is... Jody at Home and Heart. Congratulations Jody, please email me your address and I'll get your gift in the post on Monday.

I'll be having a Valentines giveaway so watch this space.

XOX Angela.

A New Year Giveaway.

2010-12-27T07:59:00.000-08:00

I'm busy making some new designs for the coming year and have been playing with some velvet flowers.
These are so pretty and in such beautiful vintage colours.
Here's a pretty pocket which I have made to give away in January.

It's just the right size for a small camera, your plastic cards or even a few of your favourite sweeties.
It is decorated with my velvet flowers, some ribbon roses and hand embroidery.
You can buy some velvet flowers in my etsy shop to try for yourself.
Meanwhile to enter my giveaway all you need to do is;

                              Leave me a comment.
                            Be a follower and
                              mention my giveaway on your blog.

I'll be drawing the winner on the 15th of January. Good Luck everyone and don't forget to visit http://www.theenglishromantic.blogspot.com/ for another giveaway.

xox Angela.

Thoughts.

2010-12-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

I found this on my grandsons facebook page, I don't know where it originally came from but I found it very moving.

' Remember this Christmas when you are eating your dinner,smiling and laughing, that in another house there's an empty chair where a hero should be sitting.
They gave up there lives so you could sit with your family, so light a candle for the heros who did not make it back and for those still serving out in Afghanistan and Iraq.'

I leave you with this, best wishes,
xox Angela.

A White Christmas inside and out.

2010-12-18T03:09:00.000-08:00

I promised you a tour of my Christmas home but first just look what happened outside.
I woke up to a winter wonderland (along with the rest of the UK).

         This is the view from my window. It's so beautiful especially from my cosy warm home looking out!

                                                               Now for that tour!

                                       Come in through the front door and look inside.

My hallway is warm and cosy with just a peek at my white Christmas inside.

This little quilt always goes up at Halloween to welcome the festive winter season.

This is Mr Gander to welcome you, his wife will meet you later

                                                 Another little quilt covers the picture.
                              Come on in and see my favourite room.

A cosy space to sit and relax with a good book and a cup of coffee.

A comfy chair with some of my favourite things

I just love my white Christmas tree, I'll give you a closer look.

Lots of white baubles and vintage cream makes.

A peaceful display on a tarnished silver platter.

Here she is Mrs Goose watching over us.

A glass of winter cheer.

Lovely white cyclamen, a promise of Spring.

                                                          A pretty chair to rest awhile.
       My home is dressed and ready for Christmas, my shoppings nearly done and all is well in my world .

                                                      Hope you enjoyed the tour,

                                                     Merry Christmas everyone.

                                                            XoX   Angela.
                            PS. Do you know why I'm Angela, I was born on Christmas Day!

To paint or not to paint?

2010-12-10T02:16:00.000-08:00

Well I ummed and ahhed. should I or shouldn't I, shall I paint or not?

This is the duet stool that I have re-covered, I just can't decid whether I like the contrast of this dark wood against the creamy whites or should I paint it to match the blanket box behind?

These are the two little Edwardian Bedroom chairs that have had there seats covered, again shall I paint or shall I not?

I won't be painting this chair, it's too pretty with those inlaid legs and back.

Please let me know whay you think about the painting. Meanwhile I'm going to dress my room for Christmas ready to give you a tour.

It's crazy in the shops but I need to be brave and face the crowds to do some shopping. Wish me luck!!!

xox Angela.

Room makeover. Day Two.

2010-12-01T09:48:00.000-08:00

It's absolutely freezing here today!
I walked along the sea front this morning watching the sea pounding in on an easterly wind coming straight from Siberia, I was warm as I was walking so fast but my face was so numb it felt as if I'd been in the dentists.
Still it was a great walk and I really enjoyed my coffee when I got home.

I've spent the rest of the day sewing, lucky me!

I'm giving my sitting room a new look with some beautiful Japanese fabric from a company called quiltgate. Check out the link and find some divine vintage rose fabrics. You will have to click on the English site when you get there.

Today I made cushions.

I used some vintage French linen along with the jacquard roses as the colours were so lovely together. This linen is very a very heavy weight so it has given a lovely firm feel. Just to finish I made some rolled roses and added a tassel.

On the next one I've added some free machine embroidery and three covered buttons.

This is the last one and it's reversable . I'd run short of the darker linen so used a lighter piece as well as this pretty lace.

That was a good days work and I enjoyed every minute.

Tomorrow I'm starting on an old piano stool that badly needs some loving care. It's going to get a lick of paint and a new seat. Can't wait to start!

Don't forget to drop by and see the results.

I'll give you a tour of the new room when I'm all done.

Hugs, Angela.

Box makeover.

2010-11-30T09:04:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting to spend some time on my sitting room and am working on it now before those Christmas decorations come out so I'm showing you as I go along.

I love anything that I can makeover to make a sewing box so when I found this little round stool in a charity shop for only £1.50 I was really excited. It was covered in green velvet, not very nice so just the thing to play with.

I've just searched for my' before' pictures but it seems that the laptop gremlins have been up to their tricks and my pics have '''gone....'''

So here is the finished thing you'll have to imagine how it was.

I've added a handle so that it is easy to pick up, this is upholstery webbing which is stapled underneath and on the sides. I've added some blue velvet delphiniums to cover the staples on the side.

The sides of the box I have covered in linen and inside there are pretty pockets to hold my bits and pieces.

         The top is padded in the beautiful fabric which I am using on lots of other things in my sitting room.

                                             I love the look of these vintage style blue roses.

                                                    Tomorrow I shall be making cushions.

     xox
    Angela.

White roses for White Wednesday.

2010-11-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

I love roses, you can tell from my blogs. I especially love white roses so when I collected some lichen covered branches and twigs whilst walking I knew that they would look so pretty together.

These branches are covered in silvery blue lichens. Lots of branches here in Devon are covered in these amazing colours, I think its our damp clean air. that encourages them to grow.

These were my inspiration.

So I bought these.

Found these baskets, lined them with cellophane and added wet floral foam.

I arranged the roses and the twigs into this little display.

White roses for White Wednesday.
Enjoy, xox Angela.

A tour of The Dartington Estate

2010-11-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

I promised you all a walk around the gardens of The Dartington Estate near Totnes in Devon.

It's a calm and peaceful place which I love.

This is the entrance to the gardens. The arch leads to a beautiful quadrangle with The Great Hall at the end.

I love this building, it looks like something from a Harry Potter film.

This is the long border as you walk into the garden. Those conifers are kept well clipped I think there are twelve. They look like a row of fat ladies sitting on the grass. The colour scheme on the herbacious border is yellow and blue. It is a really nice place to sit when the sun is shining.

The colours on trees are so pretty, the leaves made a wonderful frilly carpet underfoot.

Aren't Cyclamen great, they start to flower when all around is starting to sleep for the winter.

There are even signs of some things waking up, amongst the lichens are the buds of the witchhazel waiting to open and send out there amazing perfume on those bare winter branches.

This hydrangea flower is a gorgeous shade of lilac, I so wanted to bring it home.

The last bit of the walk takes you past these fabulous old trees, hollow inside but carefully maintained and still majestic. They stand next to a Henry Moore sculpture.

This lady has her back to those twelve fat ladies sitting on the grass.

I collected some lichen covered branches and twigs on my walk. Check in on White Wednesday and I'll show you how I used them.

Best of all there's a pub in the grounds, it's a good place to sit and enjoy a coffee before the drive home.

Hope you enjoyed a glimpse of autumn in Devon!

xox Angela.

Autumn Smiles.

2010-11-04T01:17:00.000-07:00

I love Autumn. the colours, the leaves crunchy underfoot, walks along the coast with chiily winds and sunshine. Yes that's all for me!

I had a heart attack 16 months ago and since then have really discovered the pleasures of walking.
Every morning I walk along the 'Downs' which is only a couple of minutes from my apartment.

Heres the view, it looks different everyday depending on the light.

You can see there was a big cliff fall last summer the house above is very precarious. Our soil is this amazing red, it even gives us 'pink' sheep.
The trees here are quite late changing colour as we had plenty of rain in the summer and a mild October without many frosts.
I saw this tree on my way home, isn't it just glorious, looks like butter melting on hot toast. Can't eat that nowadays. never mind this is better.

I'm nearly home now ready to enjoy a Latte, skimmed milk of course.
These leaves covered in rain drops were shining on the path.

Aren't they beautiful, I have an idea for a necklace based on these. I'll start it in the New Year!

The weather is great for walking today so I'm going to the Dartington Estate to walk around there gardens. I'll take my camera and give you a tour.

Have a great day,
xox Angela.

My Wednesday Whites.

2010-11-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

I'm joining Kathleen at Faded Charm for White Wednesday.

I found this chippy enamel shovel at our local recycling centre. People were rummaging around looking for bargains and not giving this a second look. I picked it up and smiled, what a treasure!

I have had this exquisite ladies handkerchief in my drawer wondering whether to use it in my work. I have decided it's much too beautiful to cut up or sew with.

These Roses are really white and look so lovely alongside the Alstomerias with their centres that almost look as if they've been painted on by a clever artist.

Finally in todays tablescape is this rather ornate Grand Piano. My brother is a piano tuner and restorer trained by Steinway in London. He has spent over forty years looking after the pianos of famous musicians, pop stars and even Royalty. My mother was very proud of him and had a big collection of decorative pianos, this was her favourite. I don't know anything about it but maybe someone out there in blog land can tell me.
Meanwhile if you have a piano that needs a little 'Magic' working on it , I know just the man.

Have a great White Wednesday everyone.
xox Angela.

Moses Peter.

2010-10-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

I would like to tell you about a cheery white haired gentleman who has become famous in the Bay.

He sits all day on a bench between Torquay and Paignton smiling and waving at all the passing traffic. He carrys a staff and dons a headband and beads to spread happiness and good will. He has been featured in our local paper and has even hit the nationals.

Now he even has his own facebook page and has become world famous. Rumour has it that he will be switching on the Christmas lights.

He makes everyone smile and we miss him when hes not around.

Check out Moses Peter on facebook.

This lovely chap prefers to remain a mystery and will only say ' I want to spread love joy and happiness. Well he's certainly doing that!

One amazing woman.

2010-10-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

Since joining KC Willis Collage Camp I have been planning more work and thinking about all the inspiring women who could feature in my future work.

As I pondered on such women,'Florence Nightingale', 'Marie Curie'And even 'Coco Chanel' I also thought about what a great woman my mother was.

She was born one of nine children and her early life was hard. She told tales of being sent to a home because she was so underweight and being given spoonfuls of cod liver oil and malt extract. Eeuk!

Here she is aged sixteen. This would have been in 1940.

She worked for various wealthy families in her home city of Sheffield, all of whom seemed to be fond of her. She talked about these people often and had many memories.

When WW2 broke out she joined the Wrens. Some of her training was in Scotland, she was then stationed in Southhampton and drove launches.

She recounted tales of being alongside American ships to collect the crew and being given lots of luxuries(soft white bread) that wasn't seen in war torn Britain.

On one occasion she was reprimanded for giggling when she took part in a march past the King.

Here she is happy and smiling, my favourite picture of her.

This picture was taken aboard a Polish Destroyer.

She was very proud of her Navy days and treasured her badges, beret and service medal.

I think these days were some of her happiest if her stories are anything to go by.

After the war she met and married my Dad, I was born on Christmas Day 1948 at 11.55pm by C Section and my brother was born in 1951.

I always remember her as a hard working lady , who's favourite phrase was to hurry up and do the work so that we could sit and do nothing .

Unfortunately she got her wish as she was diagnosed with Dementia and spent the last years of her life in a nursing home sitting doing nothing and being beautifully cared for.

A brave woman to the end suffering the indignity of dementia but also leaving her brain to Medical Science so that research could be done to discover more.

Eventually we found out that she had a rare form of dementia and the scientists were so grateful for her donation.

So that was my Mum, a great lady who would be the first to say she didn't always get it right but she loved her children, she loved her dogs and she loved life!

Lilla's Noel Banner.

2010-10-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

I've been watching Lillas fabulous tutorial and look what I made.

It's a pretty Christmas banner in just the right colours to match my room.

Lilla posted a video tutorial which was so easy to follow, it was in three parts and really well explained. It was great to see her work space and hear her voice. I think I could hear the birds outside her house too, all the way here in England.

I liked my first attempt so much I made another one for my friend Liz in Winchester.

I made little ribbon roses to stitch on the letters then added some buttons and pearls. I just walked to the Post Office and sent it. I'm sure she will have a nice surprise when she opens it.

So, a big 'THANK YOU' Lilla and please can you do a similar tutorial on your beautiful Tussie Mussies.

xox

Angela.

It's quiet as I'm moving house.

2010-09-28T00:55:00.000-07:00

I may be quiet for a few days as I am moving house. I want to sit and work but everything is in boxes.

I have one outstanding job to do as I'm going on a three day workshop with Patti Medaris Culea to make one of her fabulous art dolls.

I still have to make the doll body in preparation for the class and find all the things I need to take with me.

I've only made Raggedys before, this was for my grandaughter, she looks a bit 'wild'.

This is where she sleeps. A little rocking cradle with it's own quilt and pillow. I enjoyed making all these but now is the time to try some grown up dolls with 'attitude'.

The class is Friday, Saturday and Sunday then moving on Monday. EEeeekkk!!!.

I've had lots of help from my grandson, here he is in Cornwall last summer.

I'll catch up with all my news soon. Have a great week everyone!

Votes for Women.

2010-09-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

I am really enjoying the pieces that I am making after joining KC Willis Collage Camp. I am working on inspirational British women. This is a piece that I have just finished featuring Emmiline Pankhurst, a leader of the Suffragette movement who fought for Votes for Women here in England.

I have used shades of Purple and green,( the Suffragette colours) with some aged lace and ribbon. She is an elegant Edwardian lady and I hope I've captured that.

I am working now until I can have enough pieces for an Exhibition. I'll just need to find a venue.

I've also added some things that I've made to my blog shop so please pop over and look.

My Cuff Swap has arrived.

2010-09-19T00:13:00.000-07:00

I joined in theVictorian Cuff Swap hosted by Honey Lamb and I and yesterday my package arrived. It was so exciting to open and I was sooo.... delighted with what I received.

Inside the envelope was a a card from Virginie, and a red bag with my cuff. When I opened it I was so delighted,she has worked so hard to learn some new sewing skills to make this for me.

See how beautifully she made the fastening and covered the button.

She even put in her own label.

On the card was a lovely message and a surprise, a gift voucher to spend with her.

You made my day Virginie, so many' THANKS', I'm shouting in case you can hear me across the Irish Sea.

Here's what I sent to Virginie.

I put it in a little bag.

I made a little box to put it in.

The cuff has a rolled rose made from coffee stained ribbon and stitched either side with pearls and pink seed beads over pink lace roses. It is all on some pretty lace that I had in my box.

I covered the box with some of my grandma's crochet then added another rose and some ribbon.

I have really enjoyed making all these things and hope Virginie likes them.

I'm off to Cornwall now to see my friend at Cowslip and for my grandson to audition for a part in the Duchy Ballets new production of The Nutcracker.

Have a good Sunday everyone!

The Lady Gardener.

2010-09-14T08:01:00.000-07:00

I love books with a purpose so I really enjoyed designing this keepsake journal for a Lady Gardener. I am still working with the inspiration from KC Willis Collage Camp. This is the front cover.

The first page has a pocket on each side, one for little reminders and one for seeds.

Here is another pocket for treasures and a page with her thoughts.

This page has a little notebook and the 'Ladies' pride and joy, her Sunday School prize.

This is the back cover.

I've really enjoyed making this and hope to be making more. I've got lots of ideas!!

Let me know what you think.

xox Angela.

Cuff swap ready to post.

2010-09-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

I joined the hungry Hippie in a Victorian Cuff Swap, my partner is Virginie at Vivibijoux.

Ok It's finished but I'm only going to give you a sneek peek of the fastening.

You can just about see the packaging too. I don't want to spoil the surprise when she opens it so you'll all have to wait for the big reveal.

Meanwhile I do have something else to show you. I joined KC Willis Collage Camp and I've just finished my first collage. I love Anne of Green Gables and re read it often. Annes innocence is so special. I designed this piece for her.

I'm pleased with my first attempt and can't wait to start on my next piece. It has been totally absorbing working through Collage Camp so Thank you KC.

Hope you all have a great weekend.

At last my new blogshop and my First Giveaway.

2010-09-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

At Last! My new blog shop is here. Pop across to the English Romantic for my first Giveaway.

I've had lots of help from Karen Valentine who has come up with a fantastic design.

You will be able to buy some really pretty things if only I could work a little faster. I have a few more things to do before I open for business,so I thought I'd give something away first.

Just click on the English romantic button on the sidebar and join the fun, good luck.

Stitching and shopping.

2010-09-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

I started last weekend at a workshop with Stef Francis. She is a talented lady who hand dyes beautiful threads and fabrics. You can find her online just by googling in her name.

This little bag is made with silk rods which are dyed the most beautiful colours, I chose this pretty pink. Each rod is peeled into layers then stitched to a felt base with different stitches and threads.

The flowers were made with silk cocoons,again hand dyed then cut to fit together and embellished with beads and sequins.

I've just finished some little inspiration needle cases, each one has a felt square for needles and pins and some little pocket for keeping sewing treasures. I love this quote, it somes me up!

I have several of these copies of 'Needlewoman', I love to read them but also I will be using them as pages in my needlework' Keepsake Journals' this autumn

I been on a junk shop fest for the last two days and have found some great bits and pieces.

I loved this old trunk belonging to' MJ Lloyd' it's leather handles are both intact although the inside looks a bit sad. I've left it at my workshop to dry out then it will be cleaned and I am going to re-line it with some great fabric. It will make good storage and a coffee table too.

I also found these three bits, the frame has already had a coat of paint and I'm waiting for it to dry, the metal door plate I just liked the shape and will find a use for it I'm sure and the wooden rolling pin just followed me home.

Isn't this a pretty bedspread it's cotton and you may not like that I'm going to cut it up eeek!. The lady in the charity shop was horrified, but its going to be great!!

Last is this pretty pillowslip, It's been made by hand and in lovely white cotton and no, I'm not cutting this one , it will be washed and starched and ironed for me to use.

Enjoy your day.

Pictures to inspire.

2010-08-26T02:13:00.000-07:00

I have been busy finishing the Quilt for Grace, it's been such a pleasure to work on. The fabric is so pretty and has such lovely soft colours. The flowers and butterflies are some silk pieces that I had in my stash just waiting for this fabric, the colours blend so well. I used free machine embroidery as quilting then finished with some hand embroidery. The quilt has a label on the back giving all her birth details.

I wanted to have a nice way of presenting this quilt so I made a 'carrier bag' in matching fabric then copied a image that was a present from a fellow blogger. I stamped the babies name , painted it with acrylic wax then stitched it on to the bag and gave it a 'Welcome' tag.

Finally I made a little birth keepsake just right for a little girl named Grace Alice.

After all that work I had a day off yesterday and went out for a walk around Ashburton, a small village on the edge of Dartmoor. It never fails to please. I spent a while browsing around the antique and vintage shops and had a delicious lunch. These old photos were a must have, those three little boys dressed as girls and a pretty little girl too.

My next find were these initial post cards, I bought a letter 'A' for myself and a 'F' for my lovely grandaughter. I can see something special being made with these.

Finally,

I opened my piano stool the other day and saw another of my Grandads pencil drawings, I must do something with this beautiful lady, she should not be hidden away in the dark.

Have a great day,

xox Angela.

My poor little car.

2010-08-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Just look what happened to my poor little car!

I just left it a little while and came back to THIS !!

And a note of profuse apology from the culprit.

Seems he was reversing his van in a hurry and

felt a bump and heard the breaking glass.

Must have been a shock but thankfully he must be a

nice honest chap and didn't just drive away.

My car will be home tomorrow fit and well just in time

for me to drive to Birmingham to the Festival of Quilts.

And finally here's a sneek preview of 'Graces' Quilt.

She was born in Dublin on August 8th to my daughter in law's friends

so this has been ordered for her.

I love these soft colours and it's nearly finished.

Watch this space!

Flowers flowers everywhere

2010-08-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

I've been busy sorting out my Velvet flowers to put in my Esty shop.

I had forgotten how pretty they are.

These Hydrangeas are one of my favourites as they are so versatile. They look pretty just as they are laying on a vintage shelf or next to a mirror. They can be separated and made into brooches or hair accessories but I love to take out the centre of the flower, iron them gently then stitch them into my crazy patchwork or embroidery.

They come in really gorgeous colours all really vintage looking.

These are a couple of the Headbands that I make for bridesmaids. The band is covered in silk to match the dress then decorated with flowers and beads. Little girls just love them!

I'll show you more next time.

Got to go as the 'teen taxi' has been summoned!!( yes,thats my role in life,) .

Back soon.

xox Angela.

Sharing my Vintage Flowers.

2010-08-08T01:34:00.000-07:00

I love everything that is old and vintage and have worked with these pretty flowers and bead fringing since 2006. I had a very bad experience with my Australian supplier who charged me 100% over the actual price and blamed the shipping. All this left a sour taste and left me very stressed, However they are so beautiful that I am letting you see them and also starting to use my Etsy shop to sell them The bead fringe looks amazing around an old lampshade. I found this one in a skip, my grandson ran and hid as I asked the builders if I could take it away. It had water marks on the fabric so I covered them with lace motifs, then glued the bead fringes around the bottom, finally I added the Velvet pansies and leaves, I found the base at our local recycling centre and put a new bulb holder in then I had light!!

This is a mirror topper easily made by just twisting together two rose sprigs and adding a cabbage rose in the centre. It sits on this pretty mirror in my bedroom. You can see a flower pin below it, These pins look great on a plain jacket or scarf. I wear mine on the lovely cashmere pashmina that my son and daughter in law bought me last Christmas.

I love this Victorian Teacup and Saucer. The soft shades of these flowers are so nice with the pale green of the china don't you think!

Some of my best sellers when I go to fairs are these Viola Hairclips and Pins. They sell just as fast as I can make them. They can be worn in your hair or clipped to a scarf of tee shirt.

If you like these flowers and trims visit my Etsy shop and browse. I will be showing you more soon but now the sun is shining and I'm off to have a long walk by the sea!

xox Angela.

Lazy and busy.

2010-08-06T00:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I've been so busy enjoying myself that I have become a lazy blogger. I have so many good intentions to blog more often and then fall by the wayside,

I'm back from a fabulous few days in London with a new haircut and some new goodies from the Mac shop to make me feel good.

The Grace Kelly exhibition at the V&A was so lovely and then I expl0red the rest of the museum looking at some amazing things that will inspire me as I work.

I must have walked millons of miles round shops and galleries, along the South Bank, around Hyde Park and in lots of markets, (ok, maybe not quite so many miles but my feet ached) now I'm home and recovered but still out and about.

I had a visit to Cowslip to see the Charlotte Yde Exhibition with was amazing but what I loved the most was seeing the Rounneries Quilts made by the Cowslips students.

I'm sure you'll agree this work is great and Jo is so clever at staging it just makes you want to go home and start stitching.
Hope you all have a great weekend.

XOX Angela.

Wear those pretty flowers.

2010-07-19T01:37:00.000-07:00

I have really enjoyed making these felt flowers.

I space dyed the felt before before making up the individual flowers, then I made the centres and stitched on the seed beads.

The velvet leaves I have been selling for a couple of years and have used them alot in other flower pieces.

Heres a closer look I made a few different designs in different colours. These are velvet delphinium millinery flowers from my collection combined with felt balls stitched with yellow seed beads, I love this antique blue. This is such a rich shade of purple, I cut out some organza flowers with my soldering iron to give them more texture then added centres made with space dyed cotton velvet.

I learnt this technique to make these fab flowers at a workshop I did a couple of weeks ago, although they are felt they feel like ceramic, I can't stop making them. I've made necklaces bracelets and a brooch.

All this industry has to stop as I am off to London for a few days. My grandson is going to a Street Dance Summer school at Pineapple Studios in Covent Garden. We have booked some economy rooms in University Halls.

He will be dancing for 5 hours a day and I'm going to see loads of Exhibitions and Museums. I'm especially looking forward to seeing Grace Kelly's Clothes at the V&A.

Writng this post has been great as I have a new internet provider, Its so fast, what a treat, I'll be posting more often now I can do it In 30 minutes instead an hour and a half.

Hope you all have a great weekend.

Sweet Devon Violets Keepsake Journal.

2010-07-05T08:45:00.001-07:00

I just love an afternoon creating. When I'm feeling stressed it's a sure way to move into the calm.

I've been thinking for sometime about using Violets as a theme for a Keepsake Journal. They are so beautiful and smell so lovely. I often see them on my walks in early spring although before I see them I can smell that delicious perfume. I've heard that if you eat a sweet violet,(they are a herb) they taste of those little parma violet sweets

I embroidered over this velvet leaf and flowers sometime ago so decided to put the piece to work as part of the front cover. I made the book cover using heavy vintage french linen which I bought from Lizzie and Linda at CowslipInside the pages have all got a pocket and are trimmed with space dyed Vintage Lace. I have included some little quotes and sayings.
I have also included a tag to go in the green pocket.
This page has a small pocket for a pen and pencil.

and on the last two pages are a needle case for those little emergencies and a jotter for keeping lists.

At last the back cover, a little piece of really pretty vintage lace and all about me.

I'm hoping to open my Etsy shop soon, just need to make a couple more things. I'm going to a workshop on Wednesday making a very pretty flower necklace so watch this space!

Meet Jumble, new to the Mouse House.

2010-07-02T11:55:00.001-07:00

Sadly my grandsons hamster 'Jimmy' died recently after 3 long years, very good for a hamster.

We decided to replace him as Joe really missed him. So, meet ' Jumble', a blue rat.

He's a bit camera shy!

I guess its tough being the new kid and the house already has resident guardians, my trusty mice.

He is feeling more at home and starting to explore his 'Home Sweet Home'.

What a handsome chap he is.

In between buying Rats, trying to ignore the football, going to fairs and walking in this lovely weather we're having this summer I have been working on my Crazy Patchwork so I'm giving you a progress report.

I am trying to use the same colours throughout, keeping to the red, cream and faded browns that are in the fabrics.

I've more to do on this block,I'm looking for interesting threads. If you have any ideas on what I should add next please tell me.

Hope you are all enjoying the summer!

Have a great weekend,

Creating in the Mouse House

2010-06-19T02:25:00.000-07:00

These little fellows are guardians of the Mouse House. They watch over me during my creative outbursts.
Oh, how I long for an organised space, I look at some fab -u -lous studios on so many blogs and can only dream of being so sorted!

I bought this Arts and Crafts dresser a couple of years ago for £100, it is far too big for my room but I love it. The top holds my collection of china but hidden away in the cupboards and drawers are my creative bits and pieces, paints, beads, threads, all those little things. Can you spot those darling mice?

My Dining table is my workspace, I fold fabric for workshops and fairs.

It is my main creative space and can get rather busy.

The chairs belonged to my Great grandmother, I remember them being in her bedroom they were made by her husband. The pencil drawings on the wall were done by my grandad in the 1950's.

Those ladies are so elegant.

It's so nice to be surrounded by my families creative efforts.

I love making patchwork quilts and have recently been machine quilting.

When I am using my glue gun I settle down on my sofa and really make a mess.

Every New Year I resolve to be more organised and less messy.

I honestly do keep trying, I manage to create in all this mess which is a miracle.

Those mice must really be my guardian angels!

When I finish my work I can walk by the beach and gets lots more inspiration or go on a blog hop and dream of a tidy workspace.

I'm actually having a good time in my tiny messy creative space. I'm full of ideas so if you don't hear from me for a while I'm buried in a muddle making beautiful things.

Gifts for a special friend.

2010-06-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

Its my second post this weekend as I wanted to show you the goodies I made for my friend in Winchester who I am going to visit on Tuesday.

My friend is a Quilter who has been so busy with house renovation and work that she hasn't done any stitching. I put together a little book with the hope of inspiring her.

I've put a few goodies inside that I think will be useful. A tape measure, a pack of quilting needles, a notebook for jotting down ideas and instructions for the clam shell piecing she liked so much at the exhibition at the V&A in London.

Finally a couple of piece of fabric to stitch!

My friends Mum has been under the weather since being stuck in her car for several hours in

last winters snow, she has been not feeling herself for a long time. She is a talented embroiderer so I made her a book too,

I hope these little books will cheer them up, I spent a couple of pleasant

hours making them and I'm really looking forward to my day out!!

A taste of Italy.

2010-06-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

A little taste of Italy has come to Babbacombe Festival with an Italian Market in St Marychurch shopping precinct. Lots of lovely stalls selling all things Italian, fabulous cheeses and salamis, parma ham and olives, delicious wines and wonderful olive oils.

Along with breads and cakes there were scrumptious soft nougats and gorgeous chocolate.

What a great time I had shopping for supper. A bottle of smooth red wine, some creamy gorgonzola, parma ham, salami and olives. What a treat!

Finished off with some dark Italian chocolate.

I am not a World cup fan so I enjoyed my Italian supper watching an English film about gardeners.

Enjoy your weekend my bloggy friends,

xox Angela.

French General goes Crazy.

2010-06-02T01:05:00.000-07:00

I bought these beautiful fabrics last Christmas. They are Rounneries by French General for Moda. I love the soft reds and faded browns. They have been sitting in there bag with a bar of French soap and every time I get them out to look at they smell divine.

I have been looking at them regularly since January waiting for inspiration. I want to use them in my sitting room which is also my studio. ( remember this apartment is a Mouse House so has tiny proportions, every room is dual purpose.)

Following Pats progress on her crazy quilting http://patwintergatherings/ gave me the idea of Crazy Quilting .

I love to have some hand stitching with me when I sit on the beach and usually get lots more done during my summer expeditions than in the winter. Outdoor light is so good to stitch in.

So out came the fabrics once again and this time I have made the first of my cushions.

Here's the pieced fabrics, I have kept the pieces quite large so that I can enjoy the fabric designs.

Having collected some threads and trims I'm ready to start stitching.

I haven't done much Crazy patchwork before but it combines my love of hand stitching with a passion for fabrics so here goes. I need to get these done to give my room a makeover for next winter. These lovely colours will warm up a dreary English winter. I've started on the first seams keeping to the colour theme. I'm of for a long walk today and my stitching is coming with me so that I can sit on the beach and sew for an hour, I think I am suited to 'Crazy' quilting, I'll update you on my progress.

Lookout,White Rabbits in London Market.

2010-05-25T08:54:00.000-07:00

I came across these three foot high white rabbits sitting around at the entrance to Spitalfields Market in Londons East end and I thought 'Aha' just the thing to put in my white wednesday post. I looked very carefully but did not see Alice. However these guys must have been drinking something of hers as they were 'big'.

Great I've got a theme going here, now I need more ceramics along the same lines to carry on with the post. Well my luck was in the very next day What did I find in an Essex garden centre not rabbits but ducks and sheep.

I love the sheep just sitting patiently on the shelf waiting to find a home.

The ducks look as if they are 'Quack Quack Quacking'

Have a fun white Wednesday!!

Shopping in London

2010-05-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone and please forgive me for leaving so long between posts. I have only 'lame' excuses so I won't make any.

I really enjoyed my visit to Spitalfields. This Victorian Market Hall is one of the finest surviving in London and provides fashio, antiques and food to suit all tastes.

http://www.oldspitalfieldsmarket.com/

Friday was fashion day and I particularly liked Lucys' collection at http://www.neverfullydressed.com/

These were beautiful feminine pieces at great prices and a bit different from the High Street and its mass production!

Next stop Brick Lane and what a great shop I found. It was stacked from floor to ceiling with rolls of fabric, it went back for what looked like miles. The wonderful lady who runs it was so helpful and scared us to death as she climbed a rickety ladder to reach just the one I wanted.

I bought some lovely sari fabrics and soft cottons for making scarves to be part of my 2010 collection.

We finished our shopping with a scumptious Greek lunch. What a treat!!

My Soul is Fed by Needle and Thread

2010-05-13T04:20:00.000-07:00

I have been making Tags ready for my fair in Exeter next week. This is a first for me and I really enjoyed a couple of hours creating these. Its a learning curve using distress inks, I either used too much or too little. I think I have just about got it right!

I love this Quote, don't know where it came from but it suits me. I need to stitch every day!!

Hope you all have a good weekend, I'm off up to London for a couple of days, I need a regular London fix of shops,markets and exhibitions.

Linen and Lace.

2010-05-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

What a treat, I spent yesterday visiting my favourite Quilt Shop and Country Store in Cornwall. You can visit yourself, just click on the link http://www.cowslipworkshops.co.uk/ I always get a warm welcome and feel like I've had a holiday when I get home.

This was the pretty display in the porch, I had to stop and admire all the lovely things.

Then into the house to see Linda and Liz with all thier beautiful antique textiles.

I would love to have all of this at home with me!

Find Liz athttp://www.oldfashionedstuff.co.uk/ and Linda athttp://www.antiquequiltsandtextiles.co.uk/

be sure and take a look at all thier goodies.

I treated myself to some French linen and some gorgeous lace, Cant wait to get them out and make something, meanwhile they are being stroked often!

If you are in Cornwall be sure to visit Jo at Cowslip you'll be glad you did!

I'm of now to think about Linen and Lace.

Inspired by Whites this Wednesday

2010-05-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

I am nearly ready for my next fair and this time, inspired by all you White Wednesday people out in blogland, I have been working on a white collection. I have to say I am so pleased.

Thank you all for your help along the way!

I found these lovely baskets yesterday while I was out shopping. so white and so pretty.

Heres some of my collection waiting to go.

These are little notebooks, I've used my embellisher to make the fabric then machine embroidered on the top . The lace motif and the pearls are stitched on by hand. Finally I made the cord to tie around.

I have been making some hearts today and thought they would have to be decorated with the roses I made on rainy Sunday.

I was in the charity shops browsing this morning and found this delightful doily with a hand crocheted edge which is really fine thread. Its exquisite!

These napkins, a set of four in fresh white cotton just had to be mine I'm going to give them all a napkin ring and put them in my sale.

Thats my whites for this week hope you like them.

Have a great week! Angela.

Things that make a rainy Sunday special.

2010-05-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

It's been raining for most of the night and I've woken up to grey skies, a cold wind and rain. But, it's a holiday weekend and I'm gonna enjoy it!

I had a leisurely breakfast, a hot shower, and finished with a spray of my favourite Chanel perfume, guaranteed to keep me feeling good.

I've had a whim to make cupcakes. Blame 'Mary Beth' often has them on her blog although she tends to have the decorative kind not the calorific kind

These little darlings are orange flavour

with a chocolate bottom. I just put a square of really dark chocolate in the case along with the mix. I've topped them with orange icing and grated chocolate. yum yum!

I know they will disappear overnight when the 16 year old fridge raider comes home!

For more indulgence with less calories I've spent the afternoon making fabric roses. Two kinds. one with stitching and one with glue. ( Don't you just love a glue gun-- so fast!!)

I made this pretty cuff yesterday and finished it today with a dupoin silk rose and three little pearls. I have a whole load more roses to hand finish later.

The rain has stopped and tomorrows weather is looking promising, Hurray!

Hope you all had a good weekend!

Indian Embroidery

2010-04-25T07:39:00.000-07:00

I promised to tell you about the workshop with Surjeet Hussain. I belong to the Embroiderers Guild we meet once a month and the meetings are very inspiring.

It's nice to get together with like minded people. just like blogging eh!

This was a two day workshop covering 'Sheesha', 'Kantha' and 'Pulkari'

Surjeet was the most inspiring teacher. She combined stories of her life in India to give us an insight into the geography, history and culture of her country.

We all felt that life would not be complete without visiting this amazing place.

We spent the first day applying 'Sheesha' mirrors to fabric. Let me tell you it is quite fiddly and Surjeet made it look so easy!

Finally I managed, and as she said 'the penny needs to drop'.

The rest of the time we worked on Kantha And Pulkari. I'll show you some of that another time.

I so wanted to play with the mirrors using some cream dupion silk and matching threads.

I've had some little notebooks for a while waiting to have a nice cover made, so heres what I did.

I had a lovely couple of hours stitching and thought it was pretty enough to keep your secrets in so you'll find it in my Folksy shop.

Altered Bottles and Collages for my White Collection

2010-04-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

Remember the bottles I found in my local charity shop, I spent a couple of great days making them pretty. This could become addictive!

I really enjoyed fiddling about trying out all the bits and pieces. In the picture on the left I have used old vinegar bottles with lovely stoppers They are covered in a mixture of Italian corded lace and some vintage lace scraps. I raided my mums old jewellery box for the trinkets.

I have also used the same lace to make make these hearts.

This one I bought at a floristry suppliers and has been sitting around waiting for me to find the right thing to do with it.

I'm pleased with the result.

These were wooden Christmas decorations, I painted them with a creamy white paint then made them as pretty as I could, Do you think I should add more?

Finally I made these three small collages using photos from my family collection, guess who is smiling!

Hope you like my bits and pieces, I'm off now to buy some silk to embroider on as I spent the weekend at a workshop on Indian embroidery with Surjeet Husain, a truly insiprational teacher, but more of that on my next post!

Happy WW to you all!

My Great Escape.

2010-04-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

I have been working quite hard for the last few weeks preparing for this summers fairs. So, on the spur of the moment we decided to 'escape, for a couple of days. The weather has been so nice, lots of spring sunshine to bring out the leaves on the trees.

First stop Port Isaac on the north Cornish coast, we arrived in the late afternoon and walked around the narrow streets before sitting by the sea and enjoying a Pimms.

Most of these white cottages and indeed most of Port Isaac dates back to the 16th and 17th century. Its so nice that it remains unspoilt by modern development and retains all the charm of an old Cornish fishing village.

We spent the next day on hired bikes cycling the Camel Trail to Padstow with its pretty harbour and narrow streets before heading of to walk some of the South West coast path. This is the longest of our National paths stretching for 630 miles around the south west coast of England.

This is where the Atlantic touches our shores.These spectacular views are from my favourite part of the coast path, starting at Porthcothan beach, no surfers today, so different from high summer when you can't see the sand for people, picnics and surf boards.

It's a 90 minute walk to Bedruthan Steps where the cafe serves the best scones I have ever tasted, they are freshly made throughout the day and are so delicious that I just had to indulge, no cream or butter though with makes me feel saintly! Anyhow theres always the walk back to undo the sins. A truly memorable day.

On my last day I had to find something white to complete the post. I was so pleased to find this beautiful 'Blackthorn', the blossom is truly white and looking its best in the sunshine.

I,m home now, I cycled 12 miles and walked over 12 miles of coast path in my three day break and I'm going to be at my sewing machine in the morning.

Happy WW to you all!

Tales of a white wednesday

2010-04-07T02:31:00.001-07:00

I would like to say a big thank you to Karen at Valentine Design for giving my blog a fabulous make over. I am delighted with the result, so if you need help she is sooo... clever
This week is my second white wednesday and I am loving being part of it.

My inspiration this week comes from this beautiful Italian Corded lace, I have several metres of this and am now using it in my designs.

I have used it to embellish this bolster cushion, it

looks so pretty over the natural linen. I have stitched small white pearls to highlight the edges of the lace. The ends of the bolster are finished with a rolled linen rose.

I'm using up lots of my lace collection in these pictures, the photograph is of my grandparents dancing on Blackpool Pier I think possibly in the early 1930's. Grandma has a white dress and white sunglasses and grandad is in his Oxford bags. Fancy wearing a suit to visit the seaside.

Talking of seaside, on my walk on Easter Sunday I found some white pebbles on the beach, I have put them with some pearly shells given to me by a friend and with a big shell from the beach in Cuba. They sit on a shelf in my bathroom.

Hope you like my whites this week , thanks so much for your comments last week.

Happy WW.

Tea for two.

2010-04-03T07:09:00.002-07:00

I love to wander around the charity shops looking for treasures from yesteryear. As I have been longing to try my hand at Altered Bottles I snapped these up. This is the 'before' picture I'll let you know how I get on.

There is nothing the English like better than a cup of tea! and tea tastes so nice from a china cup. On todays wander around the charity shops I came across these beautiful vintage china trios. I couldn't resist, would you? They seem to be hand painted and the plate is such a lovely shape.These will be just the thing for Easter Sunday Cream Tea!

Happy Easter to you all!

and don't forget, recent research proves that chocolate is good for you , well we knew that all along didn't we??

My first White Wednesday

2010-03-31T02:07:00.000-07:00

Hi there, I am so excited to be joining white wednesday at Faded Charms. These linens belonged to my grandma, she lived to be 102 years old.

I remember her sitting crocheting this tablecloth when I was a child. Her whole house was full of what she called her 'fancy work'.

Everything in her home she made herself, curtains, cushions, soft furnishings and all her clothes. I remember her sitting at her Singer treadle sewing machine, I was always fasinated, so began my love of fabrics.

The pillowslips belonged to her mother and though the fabric is getting thin I treasure them.

I loved Karens cushions at mydesertcottage and it has inspired my spring and summer collection. I found the gloves in a charity shop and the mice are in charge of mouse house tales.

I made the sparkly hair comb for The Swan Queen in a dance school production. I also made 16 white feather headresses fo the corp de ballet, I found feathers in my house for months afterwards. Never mind I am told white feathers are sent by the angels watching over us.

Thanks to all the white wednesdays it cheers up the midweek!

Quilts at the Victoria and Albert Museum

2010-03-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

Phew! what a busy Friday!

I started out on the 6-30 train to London, arriving at 9am. An early start I know but that means I get lots of time in town. It seems in London at least spring has arrived. It was warm and sunny with the first early blossom on the trees in the parks.

First stop, the Aveda salon for a long overdue appointment with my lovely hairdresser Liene, she turns up the glamour in me every time I see her. I always leave a relaxed new woman. Thank you Liene!

Its a great treat to meet my friend Liz, we don't meet very often but always seem to carry on the conversation where we last left off. She and I both have a love of quilting so a visit to the exhibition at the V&A was a must.

The quilts were a real inspiration, I particularly loved the bed hangings that are the first thing you see as you go in. The patience needed to piece all those clam shells for such a large piece is amazing.

I was moved by two of the exhibits, the grandmothers flower garden quilt made by young women and girls, prisoners of war in the Changi camp and the male prisoners at Wandsworth prison in London who found peace and calm through there quilting.

If you can get to London to see this exhibit you won't be disappointed, I will certainly be going back for another visit before it closes in the summer.

You can get more info at the Victoria and Albert Museum web site.

After a pot of Earl Grey tea in Harrods we enjoyed a very late lunch and lots of memories before going off to catch my train home, which I nearly missed buying these beautiful Peaony Roses.

I jumped on the train just as the guard was blowing his whistle, again phew!!!

The Mermaid of Zennor.

2010-03-23T03:21:00.000-07:00

What a treat we had on Saturday evening watching the Duchy Ballets new production of the Cornish folktale 'The Mermaid of Zennor'.

Zennor is a village on the north Cornish coast, The mermaid was said to have fallen in love with Matthew, a choir boy and lured him into the sea after hearing his beautiful singing. You can see the image of the mermaid carved in the church at Zennor.

The Duchy ballet whose home is in Cornwall http://www.duchyballet.co.uk/ this tale and created a visual feast for the senses, the music, the set, the lighting and most of all the dancing and characterisation were wonderful.

The second part of the programme was an adaptation of Sleeping Beauty, this finished the evening before the after show party and a long drive home.

My grandson Joe has danced for the last two seasons with Duchy ballet and missed dancing this year, he hopes to be dancing in next years production of the Nutcracker.

A real mouse tale

2010-03-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

My brother who is a piano tuner and restorer came for his usual cup of coffee this morning before going of to collect a damaged piano part to work on.

A mouse had used the inside of a large victorian upright Bluthner piano as a winter residence to shelter from the cold of a Dartmoor winter. The musical rascal had chewed various areas to make his home more comfortable.

Now the weather is milder he has moved back outside to his summer quarters!

Sorry no pictures!!!

2010-03-17T06:05:00.000-07:00

As the weather was so lovely and as it was Mothers day I took myself for a walk round the beautiful gardens at Dartington Hall. They were a favourite with my mother.

The crocuses are late this year but the spring sunshine has brought them out. Crocus lawns are spectacular.

This one forms a circle around this wonderful old tree. The purples and white and yellows of the crocuses with the sunshine coming trough the branches of the tree was quite magical.

The trees in this part of England are decorated with lichens in amazing colours ranging from soft blue greens to vibrant yellows.

Its great to capture pictures of the garden but impossible for you to smell the scents of these spring shrubs. this Daphne odorata sends its perfume all around the garden encouraging you to find the source of its heady fragrance.

Walking along the small enclosed area of witchhazels is a feast for the senses. These pretty feathery flowers are a joy to see and smell.

I'm really excited to be going to London next week to the Victoria and Albert Museum to see the exhibition of quilts in the collection. I catch the 6.30am train so I can enjoy a long day in the capital. I just love it!

Keep watch for a full report on the day!

Tales of the Easter Bunny

2010-03-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

Hey, the sun is still shining and I've been busy at my sewing machine. I made my first rabbit with Jo Colwill at Cowslip Workshops and she has been a firm favourite. As where ever you shop is deep in Easter eggs I was inspired to make another rabbit to deliver eggs to all those chocolate lovers.

Why oh why are easter eggs on sale so early. I think its to tempt us to buy early and be prepared. In truth we eat those early buys ourselves and then have to rush out and buy some more. Go on tell me you have never done that!

If you would like this rabbit for yourself or for someone really special you can find her for sale in my Folksy shop.

My Mouse House

2010-03-09T05:23:00.001-08:00

Hurray, the sun is shining and spring is round the corner (hopefully). My tiny apartment is full of light.

Pandora, is my favourite angel, she sits and watches over me as I stitch and sew. I wish she could grant a wish at the end of the day and as if by magic my room is tidy.

This is my workspace before tidying, I have lots of work in progress and my head is always one step ahead, I am working on a baby collection, as you can see I just love Patchwork quilts. I have just started using machine embroidery on my quilts, it rather like eating peanuts, once you start you can't stop. Its great and takes up less of my precious time.

See this quilt in my folksy shop soon, It's called Dragonflies. I made it as a Tummy Time quilt for baby. It would be nice to snuggle under for a story or just as a bed topper.

I always keep a quilt in the car. Mine is usually covering slumbering teenagers.

My sewing corner has great light for hand quilting. My chair is comfy and I can watch the world go by from the window.

My bedroom is my santuary at the end of the day. I can relax with a good book then sleep under a beautiful quilt and dream of tomorrows designs.

Sweet dreams to you all and remember,

'Quilters turn scraps into Treasures'